open The Town That Friendship Forgot

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @PawelS

"I suppose you could say that I'd be like your guardian. Not so certain about the whole knight concept. I'm not much of a fighter, but I will get my hooves dirty if I must. You definitely fit the impervious stone castle. Especially with a vast intellect such as yourself. That'd be a castle that will be almost impenetrable. So long as our intellects mesh well together, then nothing can stop us." Frozen explained, listening on as the yak continued to list off different ways to describe the pegasus. He wouldn't exactly call himself trustworthy as he was planning to use the yaks strength and intelligence to his advantage. Using whoever to gain any necessary advantage. However, it was strange to Frozen. He couldn't exactly explain it, but a part of him would be glad to have the yak by his side. It helped as he heard the last phrase that Calhoun had said. "Your raison d'être. I didn't know that you could speak Prench. Have you studied the language or have you been to Prance before?" He asks, finding it interesting to discuss with the yak sitting beside him. Upon the mention of Calhoun fighting Wrath, Frozen nodded in agreement. "You can say that again. He was always so powerful even as a young colt. I admired his leadership and ruling with an iron hoof. He always knew how to get into someone's mind, but have a way with words, as well. He had a whole class or two of students that followed his words. To Cheap and I, he was a natural born leader." He would say, remembering the times that Cosmic would stop other students from getting close to Dynamo, or any other students that were deemed as a threat.

Upon hearing Calhoun's bet, Frozen's neutral expression had cracked a little. His eyes shrank slightly, blinking as if he had misheard the yak. "Seriously? Just like that? I guess I'm slightly taken aback as I didn't expect to hear that from you, Calhoun." It was true for the pegasus as he was going to tell Calhoun to withdraw. He did enjoy the talk they've been having, but he had to admit that he didn't want the yak to get hurt. Considering how ruthless Cosmic could be, but it seemed that this would be a sort of test for the yak and the group. Thinking over the pros and cons briefly, the ebony pegasus had adjusted his glassed as he nodded. "Okay, then. If you're sure, then I'll make sure to let Cosmic know. You know something? You kind of remind me of someone in some anime I used to watch. It was called Naruto, but in the Shippuden series that had that time skip. There was a character that followed someone special as that special someone was almost like a reincarnation of someone that person knew of in the past. That person that you remind of me of Jugo. One who had power, but was kind and clever. Following Sasuke Uchiha as he was considered to be the reincarnation of Kimimaro Kaguya. It's almost like a repeat of history as I wouldn't say I'm Sasuke. More along the lines of Itachi Uchiha or Pain, but it's nice to know of a possibility of you working together with us. Unless you are mentioning the phrase to be something else." Noticing the smirk yet thinking nothing of it, Frozen had looked Calhoun up and down. Thinking of the codenames given to him. "Envy could be a possible choice, but the only question is what would you be envious about? I could see Pride as you take a lot of pride in your strength of a yak, as well as your vast knowledge. What would you say?"

Relaxing his muscles as he tapped his back right hoof, Cheap decided to take it easy and wait. "That sounds good enough to me, but make it snappy! I don't have time to wait around all day and I want to win. If he's too chicken to show up, then that's on that lame copycat." As if hearing his choice of words, Cheap gasped as Tarsal had revealed himself. However, he transformed once again as a set of chains. Tying themselves around the earth pony, who nearly fell to the ground. He felt his knees buckle and give up on him as he tried to keep his front hooves afloat. With the chains hanging around his neck like a pendant, the weight was trying to pull and crush Cheap. Almost wanting to meet the ring floor for the first time. "What the!? Are you kidding? Can changelings do something like this!?" He asks, rolling his eyes at the idea of being surprised. "Caught off guard is more like it. You trying to make me think that I'm some sort of magician? Come on, dude. I'm not a unicorn or like those crazy magicians you see on TV. You know, David Blaine or Criss Angel." He felt his front hooves were starting to buckle, while listening as he was told how the chains worked.

As he heard the option to stay or give up, it was as if something had snapped within the burgundy earth pony. "Admit defeat?" Those words echoed in his mind as he felt a chuckle tickling his throat. "Oh, that's just rich. The day I give up is the moment that I admit that Drool Pad is the greatest gamer Equestria has ever seen. So, you can take that offer and toss it aside!" As his voice grew louder in anger, his once blue eyes had flashed red, before taking their place in his pupils. "Okay.~ If you want to play that game, then let's see how this goes. You said it might get a little heavier, right~? Let's see if I can call your bluff." Cheap smirked, before slowly standing back up as if he was just messing around. All at once, the trembling in his hooves had all, but ceased. Without any warning, the earth pony began to pull with force against the chains. Applying pressure to the chains that bound to him as he tried to break them apart. "You think this weight is going to stop me? I don't care if it's over a hundred times. Nobody is beating me in power! So, let me reverse the option and throw it back at you." He chuckled as he thought he could hear creaking occurring from the tension of the chain. "You can either give up and I'll loosen the tension of the chain. If not, then you can stay. Let's just hope the tension and pressure get to you."

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 12, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant

"Ugh...Gohan got absolutely shafted. I really wish that he kept up with his training because then, he could be on Goku's level with his skill, especially with the mystic power." Thundy stated as he continued to watch the fight between Cheap and Tarsal. "Boy that Cheap is persistent." Thundy commented.

Dynamo Pad · September 12, 2021

"I see what you mean, bro. I guess it depends on certain things. I actually forgot how much time has passed since the Kid Buu arc where Super begins. That and after the Cell Games and Kid Buu sagas, Gohan had toned down the training and fighting. I guess with no danger or threat to their home, Gohan didn't really need to worry about fighting. Since he wanted to try and be a scholar and all. I know that after the Resurrection F arc, Gohan took his training more seriously. Especially after training with Piccolo to regain his mystic form. He really did put up a good fight against Goku after regaining his power, as well as doing a great performance during the last arc." Dynamo responded, while keeping some information about the Super anime a secret. Since Sam hadn't seen Super, the gaming unicorn thought it would be unfair to spoil anything that would be in regards to the anime. That, and he never liked to spoil stuff for others as it would ruin the fun, in a way. Looking towards the fight, Dynamo sighed as he saw Cheap and Tarsal in a deadlocked stalemate. "You can say that again, bro. Cheap's always been like that. Whenever it came to deals or battling others in video game tournaments. He's always been persistent and doesn't know the word 'no'. If someone refuses to give up against him or rejects his offers, then he just forces that deal upon them. That, or he makes it so they can't refuse." He explains, watching as the earth pony continued to apply pressure in order to make the changeling surrender.

Edited September 12, 2021 by Dynamo Pad

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 12, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad

"Gah, I just hope that Tarsal could hold on and take Cheap down, but it won't be easy. Tarsal just has to keep calm and not give up." Thundy stated as he continued to watch the struggle between Tarsal and Cheap.

Samurai Equine · September 12, 2021

Samurai simply crosses his arms and nods. "I should show you both my favorite manga some time. It was a short-run series, but the characters really left an impression on me. Reminds me of myself, in many ways." Samurai says.

Meanwhile,

"I saw the phrase in a book once." Calhoun explains. He listens to Calhoun's story. "I've never seen Naruto, but if you like it, then it must have some interesting qualities. I don't know if I'm like this Jugo person, but maybe if I see it, I'll agree." Calhoun says. He is glad that Frozen seems to like his idea of joining the group. "Then I guess it's settled. It all depends on what happens in the ring. And if Cosmic approves of the codename, then I'll gladly wear the name with pride. Ooh, double meaning!" Calhoun says. He is about to go back to his books, but he looks at Frozen one more time. "...Would... Would you read to me, if I asked you politely? Noone's ever done that for me."

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@Samurai Equine @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant

"!! Hey, stop that!! You're giving me a kink in my joints~!" Tarsal struggles to Cheap tied up, but he can feel it's clearly not working. And so the weighted pendant increases in both size and weight! But it doesn't change anything. Cheap is still able to rattle and shake loose the chains. "What?! HOW?! I'm currently twice of weight of the average pony! You should be squirming on the ground, begging to be cut loose! Why won't you submit?!" Tarsal argues. And yet, the way Cheap is breaking through, he might even be able to grab and toss the chains out the ring, weighted pendant and all!

For once, the judges are speechless, just watching in awe. Mayor White attempts to eat a bag of his favorite chips while he watches, but notices a kid in the stands eyeing his treat. Smiling, the mayor begins to hand the food over to the kid, who seems to be happy to be getting it. However, White's personal nurse comes out of nowhere to slap his hoof and tell him no; because the Mayor is still thin and needs to get as much nourishment as possible.

Dynamo Pad · September 12, 2021

Dynamo's eyes glanced over, before craning his neck towards the asian pony. "I didn't know you had any manga, onii-san. I know we've been to your house before and I remember Pastel and I were watching your house, while you were gone. However, I don't recall ever seeing any manga, but I think that's still really awesome. I'd honestly be happy to check your favorite manga out. I think it's always nice to find characters you can relate to in a story. What manga is that, if you don't mind me asking." He says, his eyes widening as he watched Cheap was starting to give Tarsal some trouble in regards to the weighted chain and pendant. "With how it was before, it's like Cheap made a role reversal. How in Equestria is he doing that?" He shook his head, shaking slightly as he had never seen the earth pony being that strong before. With a shaky sigh, Dynamo could only watch as it looked like the fight was going to reach a conclusion soon. "He needs to hold on, or make the chains durable or heavier. There has to be some sort of limit to make Cheap surrender, right?" He asks, unsure of the correct answer.

Meanwhile,

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @PawelS

"I suppose I may have to look into this book. I actually haven't had the chance to look into anything that has any different language. Some I've seen of old Ponish, but that's besides the point." Frozen responds, barely lifting an eyebrow at Calhoun's remark. "Some of the choreography and sakuga is handled well. The parts that we mentioned before are what relate you to Jugo. He has anger impulses to where he goes on a rampage because of a power he has. However, I don't relate that to you as I meant more of his good qualities." He didn't know yak's all that well as he had never met a yak in his hometown. Meeting Calhoun was a bit different as he wasn't a barbarian like he was initially taught in school. "I'll make sure to let Wrath know about you joining. Maybe that will help him from going overboard in his fight. He won't hold back, but I meant more on the idea of him toning down taking things too far." He knew Cosmic to utterly humiliate or hurt his opponents beyond the norm of fighting. Even if Calhoun was a combination of brain and brawn, he still didn't want his leader to hurt a potential new friend. Frozen froze, his mind trying to comprehend what he had just thought. 'Did I think of the word friend? No! I meant ally! Ugh...I've been in this town for not that long and it's already getting to me.' He mentally shook his head as he didn't know why he had thought of such a word as 'friend.' He was nearly lost in thought that he almost didn't catch the last part of Calhoun's response. "Hmm? Oh, uh...sure thing. If you want to, then I guess it's fine. Very nice use of the double meaning, by the way. Might I add very clever to boot." As soon as Calhoun was ready, the ebony pegasus would begin reading to him.

"I know! That's the point of it all, right!?" Cheap rolled his eyes as he could hear the chains clinking and clanging from his continuous breakthroughs. The increased size and weight of the pendant was instantaneous as he felt his hooves were starting to feel the burn. However, he simply ignored the pain as it wasn't bothering him all that much. What mattered was matching the pressure he felt towards his opponent. As he heard Tarsal argue and yell in frustration, Cheap chuckled as he was getting to the changeling. His teeth clenching, but still retaining a toothy smirk. "Aww, what's wrong? You were so confident when you were acting like me, weren't you!? I must admit that it's good to know that you weren't bluffing on the increased weight, but this is nothing. If you added a hundred times weight, then maybe I'd be in trouble. Just a double? I don't even feel it!" If he didn't have the gift, then he'd really be in trouble. As much as the earth pony knew he wanted to stall the fight to make Tarsal surrender. He knew that this charade has gone on long enough. Eying the outside of the ring, he knew what he needed to do. "You made a compromising deal before, but you made an error." He stated, using his enhanced strength to begin lifting the chains off of his body. Even the weighted pendant was starting to be lifted off of him. "You should have just added even more weight or tried to wear me down. Now you're just an easy target."

After a moment, the burgundy earth pony had managed to lift the weighted chain and pendant off of his body. Holding the chains and pendant in his front hooves, Cheap could feel his hooves beginning to tremble slightly from the weight pressure from being in on spot. Instead of the chain being spread around with distributed weight. Turning around, the earth pony began to spin the chain as if trying to spin a heavy shot put ball. After spinning three times, Cheap had throw the weighted chain and pendant out of the ring like an Olympic contestant. With how heavy the changeling had made himself, Cheap felt that this win was in the bag as he made sure to give the weighted chains a good toss.

Edited September 12, 2021 by Dynamo Pad

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 12, 2021

@Dynamo Pad @Courageous Thunder Dash @Samurai Equine @Ragland Tiger @PawelS

”There’s still a way for Tarsal to win.” Thundy said as he watched the events unfold. He saw as Cheap used his strength to toss the chains away. “Tarsal’s gotta reverse out of the transformation and strike Cheap with a sneak attack, like the curved flight of a boomerang. I mean, look at it, Cheap just swung Tarsal around like the hammer throw in the Olympics. Tarsal is spinning around like the blades of a helicopter. He could use the momentum and transform into a spinning boomerang that could come back and give Cheap quite the wallop. Of course, there’s the downside of getting dizzy, which would leave Tarsal completely open.” Thundy explained.

ExplosionMare · September 12, 2021

Pencil took Final’s popcorn and quirked an eyebrow as he chanted a series of strange words. Once he vanished, Pencil sampled some of the popcorn. She thought a moment, then set the box down beside her in case anyone else wanted it. She’d rather have kettle or chocolate popcorn, regular was just too bland for her.

When Final re-emerged, Pencil sighed defeatedly. She had hoped he would have at least a little information about Opia. It seemed that Opia was very selective and quiet and didn’t socialize much.

Oh well, no sense in provoking her if she doesn’t wanna be bothered Pencil reasoned. She quietly watched the tournament while Sparkly idly chatted with her. Habitually, Pencil folded her arms and bobbed one of her legs up and down as it was crossed. Sparkly sat perfectly still since she never had the need to fidget around.

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 12, 2021

@ExplosionMare @Samurai Equine @Starforce @Ragland Tiger @PawelS

Chelsea turned and saw Pencil. "So Pencil, enjoying the tournament so far? It looks as though that earth pony is pretty strong. At least they aren't arguing with each other like they were during the first half of their match." Chelsea stated.

ExplosionMare · September 12, 2021

@Courageous Thunder Dash

Pencil turned and smiled at Chelsea. Cordially, she responded,

“Yeah, I am enjoying it, thanks! I don’t know much about fighting, but it looks like the earth pony might win if his mind is as good as his strength.”

Sparkly looked over and listened passively. She remained in her ever still posture before turning to look at the tournament. She was not completely invested in it, but it was interesting to watch, nonetheless.

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 12, 2021

@ExplosionMare @Samurai Equine @Starforce @PawelS

"It all depends if that changeling can get it together. Sadly, Dynamo told me that the earth pony is part of the group that caused all of that craziness, including...what happened to Dynamo. That's why I hope he loses so he could learn his lesson." Chelsea expxlained.

Samurai Equine · September 13, 2021

"It's called Buso Renkin. The main character is Kazuki Muto, and I enjoy both his amazing sword and his honorable spirit. Some have called it FullMetal Alchemist, but in modern times and with a super hero theme. The anime and the manga are mostly the same, but the manga is a little funnier." Samurai starts to explain.

Meanwhile,

Calhoun waves. "No, it's fine. I don't want him giving me special treatment. I think I'll do a better job of proving myself if I can take as much as he can dish out; plus I came here to prove myself." Calhoun listens happily as Frozen begins to read to him. He sits a little closer to Frozen, but not too close. Wouldn't want to accidentally hit him or anything with his big horns, but he does smile and enjoy this.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

@Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Ragland Tiger

Tarsal does his best to increase the weight even more, but it's too late! He's been tossed!

As the chains and weight go flying out, Tarsal turns back into himself! He's upside and down and a little disoriented, but he flaps his wings and turns over, recovering in mid-air. "That does it! With this next transformation, I'm gonna--!!", "And the match is OVER! YOU'RE OUT!" Elusive commentates, interrupting Tarsal.

To which, Tarsal nearly anime-falls over. "What?! But why?! I didn't land outside of the ring!" Tarsal says. A staff member comes by and gives the judges an extra large polaroid photo, which Elusive shares with the audience. "As you can see... Photographic proof! When Tarsal was upside down in the air, he extended his wings, and his wing tip brushed against the grassy knoll outside the arena." Elusive explains. "Which means, Tarsal is eliminated! Greed, or I guess I should say Cheap, advances to the next round!" Straightaway says.

Tarsal hangs his head. "Shoot... I didn't even feel it." He begins to walk out of the ring and walks away. Elusive gets on the arena with her microphone. "Interview time! So which is it really, Cheap or Greed? And how does it feel to make it through the first round of the finals? I bet many want to know what your secret is." She says before holding the mic up to Cheap.

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@Starforce

Mayor Black points at the performance with his cigar. "See? What'd I tell you? As soon I chose him, he lost. Bet he wouldn't have lost if it was my dime he was wasting. Not that I hire losers. I'm very selective."

--------------------------------------------------------------------

"You may call it a fight, but it feels more like an epic presentation of talents and what these contestants are best at." Final adds to the conversation. "Haven't had this much fun since I saw a professional comedian pony from a few years back."

Edited September 13, 2021 by Samurai Equine

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 13, 2021

@ExplosionMare @Samurai Equine @Ragland Tiger @PawelS

”That’s a shame…” Thundy said with a snarl, angry that Cheap pulled it off. He hoped that some way, somehow these two could get eliminated soon.

”Awww…” Chelsea said sadly as she saw that the changeling had lost. “That’s just too bad. He was spinning outta control and he had to recover someway somehow.” Chelsea commented with a sigh.

ExplosionMare · September 13, 2021

@Courageous Thunder Dash @Samurai Equine

“Yeah, it’s too bad he lost. Just taking a look at the skill set here, it seemed like he had a fair chance.” Pencil commented.

“It is odd how many fighters lose by just barely stepping out of the ring, but if the rules were lenient, then these matches would go on forever.” Sparkly added.

Dynamo Pad · September 13, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash

As he continued watching the fight unfold, Dynamo had made sure to listen to Thundy's spoken thoughts. "That does sound possible, but are changelings able to transform quickly from one transformation to the next? I guess it would take concentration and focus to turn into that object or individual. With that spin, it must be making Tarsal extremely dizzy." He would say, before Cheap had let go of the changeling turned weighted chains. "I hope he can use that momentum to change back or to change into something he needs to turn this around." He would say, his ears perking as he heard Samurai mentioning the manga. "I don't know why, but the name of the manga does sound familiar. The name Muto sounds close to Yugi Muto from the Yu-Gi-Oh series. Guess it's kind of ironic that the creator of that series name is Kazuki Takahashi." Dynamo smiled as he found the irony in the name. "I've heard of Full Metal Alchemist, but I haven't had the chance to see it. Hearing that Buso Renkin in a modern times version of that does sound interesting and very promising." He says, surprised to learn that the manga is funnier than the anime. "I might have to look into this sometime. I hope you can show me the manga collection sometime. I must have missed it when we all hung out at your house."

Meanwhile,

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @PawelS

As he read to Calhoun, Frozen hummed at the mention of not giving the yak special treatment from Cosmic. "Very well, then. I'll still make sure to let him know. He won't give special treatment, but I think he'll like to see what you've got. Sure would be a surprise to see that you're not like the rest, after all." He gave a sly wink, "Oh, don't worry about Cosmic, or Wrath, in this case. He'll be able to handle much of what you can dish out. Perhaps even dish it right back at you. However, he's got a good mind like I do, but he's a bit childish. So, he'll be a mixed bag at times. That's all I'll say as I wouldn't want to ruin the fun." he responded, slowly going back to reading to Calhoun. He felt the yak's fur brush up against him as he sat closer to the ebony pegasus. However, he didn't say anything of it as it might have been better for Calhoun to hear the pegasus speak.

Once Tarsal was launched out of the ring, Cheap had slowed his spin to a stop. All the while, his eyes were spinning from feeling slightly dizzy. Shaking his head to clear away any confusion, he tilted his head in confusion towards the announcement. 'The copycat got eliminated? How? I tossed him, but he used his wings to fly up. I was at least expecting him to come back so I could toy with him some more.' He thought, watching as a photo was presented to both him and the audience. Upon being crowned the winner of the match, Cheap grinned as he danced around the ring. "AH YEAH! LET'S GO, BABY!" He exclaimed, cheering and hollering at his successful win. He was met with boos and jeers, but he took it in stride as if he was in front of a cheering audience. With Elusive in the ring, the burgundy earth pony had stopped his celebratory dance. In order to give the news reporter an interview she wouldn't soon forget. "Greed is usually a codename I use whenever I enter tournaments. The name I do go by is Cheap Shot, or just Cheap. Eh, that copycat wasn't much of a threat, so it feels good to make it to the next round. Was there any ever doubt? I know I was sure of winning that one." He chuckled, humming at the mention of idea of his secret.

While it would be a bad idea to reveal the secret, he knew he could play along. "I don't know. A good business pony never reveals his secrets." He started, before shrugging his shoulders. "Ah, sure! Why not? So, you see. Why once I knew this guy. Who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy. Who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy. Who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy. Who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy, who knew this guy's cousin." He spoke, taking a taking a huge breath after going through his explanation. All before realizing he was forgetting what the main point of it he was trying to say. "Well...let's just say that I knew some guy." He grinned widely as he gave another chuckle. Leaving it at that, he decided to speak once more into the mic. "So, is there anything else you'd like to know, or is that everything you have to say?"

Edited September 13, 2021 by Dynamo Pad

Samurai Equine · September 13, 2021

"It's just as well. I don't carry manga with me when I travel. But I can have it sent here, if you like." Samurai tells his gamer brother. It seems another round is over and a new fighter will soon be stepping up.

Meanwhile,

It's so soothing~ Could this be what it feels like for a parent to read to their kid? Calhoun could almost snuggle up close to Frozen, when suddenly he hears something!

"Will Wrath and Calhoun please report to the arena?"

Calhoun gets up and collects his things. "Thank you, Frozen. Wish me luck out there. Or, I guess, wish Cosmic luck. See ya." Calhoun winks and goes off before any judges get impatient.

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@Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Ragland Tiger

Elusive seems a little lost at his explanation, but quickly recovers. "Uhh... Sounds good to us! Thank you, and we'll see you in the next round." Elusive says, dismissing him so they can set up for the next bout. "Who knew a jazz singer could also be an accomplished fighter?" Elusive says to the crowd, getting Cheap's occupation wrong.

Elusive takes a moment to consult the chart. "The next matchup is Calhoun VS. Wrath! Will Wrath and Calhoun please report to the arena?" Elusive comments before taking her place with the judges again. Calhoun, with his satchel and all, steps onto the arena and makes plenty of room for his opponent.

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@Starforce

Mayor Black just huffs. "These interviews could really be better... You know, I hear yaks are like overgrown neanderthal ponies."

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"I guess that is true. I mean, eventually somepony has to be the winner... I guess even the best disguise from a Changeling will still have its flaws somewhere." Final surmises. "...Oh, hey! A yak is taking the arena this time."

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 13, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad

”I see. I prefer to watch the anime than read the manga.” Thundy stated. Upon hearing it was Cosmic’s turn to fight, he sighed. “I just hope he’s not ruthless, but if he is, a serving of disqualification is waiting for him.” Thundy thought out loud, loud enough for Dynamo to hear.

@ExplosionMare @Ragland Tiger @PawelS @Samurai Equine

Chelsea heard the next fighters’ names. “Oh great. It’s this guy. Let’s hope he doesn’t pummel his opponent down too hard.” Chelsea commented.

ExplosionMare · September 13, 2021

@Courageous Thunder Dash @Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad

“A yak? That’s pretty cool! And yeah, I second what Chelsea said, let’s hope the yak doesn’t go through the floor or anything! I’m sure if they know all the rules, though, then they’ll be fine.” Pencil responded to Final and Chelsea. She sat up in order to see the next contestants heading towards the ring.

“Most fighters have been fairly decent thus far, let us hope the next match continues in a similar manner.” Sparkly commented. She also hoped that the yak and the other contestant wouldn’t exhibit such haughtiness like Greed or “Cheap Shot” did. It was quite aggravating, to say the least.

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 13, 2021

@ExplosionMare @Samurai Equine @PawelS @Starforce

"Yaks are really powerful, but this Wrath guy, AKA Cosmic as Dynamo said, has both brains and brawns. Let's see how this yak will fare. As I said before, I really hope it's a good and clean fight, but knowing Wrath..." Chelsea said with a sigh.

Dynamo Pad · September 13, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Courageous Thunder Dash

"I can understand that. I'd be worried if I brought my manga along anywhere I go. I'd be upset if the book was bent or damaged at random. So, it's better manga to be in a bookshelf or somewhere that's considered safe." Dynamo responded, thinking about the offer Samurai made, before shaking his head with a smile. "Thanks for the offer, but that's okay. I really do appreciate it though, onii-san. Maybe after the tournament, we can see the manga collection." He says, nodding in understanding to his griffon brother's opinion. "That's fair as I like to mostly watch anime, as well. Sometimes if I become curious and the anime isn't caught up yet, then I'll read the manga. It's pretty interesting to see what's different in comparison to the anime and the manga." He would say as the next round was about to get set up and underway.

Meanwhile,

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @PawelS

Even though reading the book in his hooves to Calhoun. Frozen had to wonder if Calhoun was acting like a child, or if he enjoyed hearing stories or passages of reading from others. To Frozen, it was like a parent to read to their kid. Frozen had never admitted it to anyone besides Cosmic and Cheap, but the pegasus despised his own father. Just the thought had almost caused the pegasus to scoff and huff out loud, but thankfully he was stopped from the sudden announcement. "Oh, well. I guess our reading will have to continue after the match. That's if you can defeat Cosmic. I don't think the probability if possible of allowing those who are defeated to be allowed back here. It would be entertaining to read together some more." He adjusted his glasses as the yak gave his thanks. "No problem, I guess. You don't need luck as you have all that you need up there." He lifted a front hoof as he pointed towards where Calhoun's brain would be. "Brain and brawn go hoof in hoof, so you're a shoe-in." He'd say just as Calhoun made his way off towards the ring. 'Even though I dislike my father in many ways. I have to admit that it's comforting when reading together with Calhoun. It was surprising, but a friend...no. An ally was a lot better than I thought it would be.' He thought, trying to suppress the urge to call someone a friend. He had never had a friend as they never shared the intelligence he was looking for. That is, until he had met the unlikeliest of yaks.

Hearing his name being called, Cosmic had momentarily stretched his front and back hooves. Just before turning his attention back to Fold. "Well, my fine legged ally. It was nice having this little chat, but I must be going. Don't worry though as this won't take very long." He chuckled, making his way towards the exit of the room. "Just a moment, Cosmic!" Frozen called out, the neon green unicorn stopping at the sudden shout. "Something you need to tell me, Frozen? If so, then make it quick." He said, turning his head to the ebony pegasus, who seemed to have been in some difficult contemplation. "J...Just don't break Calhoun, okay?" He asks, almost as if trembling at the fear of asking such a question. "Huh? Now why would I do such a thing? Are you saying that you might have a friend!? Is that it!?" Cosmic's tone deepened as he narrowed his eyes into a hateful glare. "What? No, of course not. I just wanted you to not hurt him because he might be an ally of ours after this. He doesn't want you to take it easy on him, but we shouldn't break him, you know? If you defeat him, then he said he'd join us. No questions asked." Upon hearing this, Cosmic hummed at the possibility placed before him. "Hmm...now that does sound rather intriguing. I might take you up on that little offer, then. Alright! Let's see what this Calhoun is capable of. If he really wants to join, then I'm not going to break our new toy. I just want to see how durable this toy is to see its uses." Turning around and offering a wave, Cosmic started to make his way out of the room and towards the exit. Frozen had let out a sigh he didn't know he was holding. Sitting down momentarily as the rage he accumulated from Cosmic had surprised the calm, yet collected pegasus.

Once Cheap started making his way off of the stage, he nearly tripped over his hooves as he heard Elusive calling him a jazz singer. "HEY!" He exclaimed, his neck turning a breakneck pace. "Didn't you hear what I said before!? I'm a business pony and not some fancy pants jazz singer! Stop spreading false information!" He huffed, nostrils flaring as he turned his body around. Craning his neck to look upwards, while making his exit. "The nerve of some ponies." He says, just loud enough for Elusive and those around her to hear. Just as the burgundy earth pony had entered the waiting area, Cosmic had just began making his way towards the exit. "Did you see that!? That fight was way too easy. I put that copycat in his place!" He chuckled, Cosmic smirking with a shake of his head. "I didn't have any doubt. We're not going to lose to those small fry, after all." Upon passing each other, Cheap had decided to find Frozen to fill him in on the details. He didn't need to know who was going to win as it didn't take a genius who was going to win. Cosmic, on the other hoof, had started making his way out towards the arena. Not before passing Dynamo and the others, while shooting a fearsome glance at the blue unicorn.

Dynamo couldn't help in flinching as Cosmic had looked ready to put Calhoun in his place. He stood still for a moment as Cosmic kept on walking. Just before blinking and breaking out of his frozen position as he heard Thundy calling out to him. "If what we had seen from his preliminary matches, then Cosmic is definitely going to be ruthless. Knowing him, he might tone it down to where it blurs the lines between ruthless, while also being what's considered within the rules of a fight." He would say with a sigh. All the while, recalling Cosmic's earlier battles, as well as the battles they had in video games.

Edited September 13, 2021 by Dynamo Pad

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 14, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad

"Ugh..and with ruthlessness comes disrespect..." Thundy said with a sigh as he waited for the fight begin. "I hope the Yak gives Cosmic a hard time though." Thundy commented, hoping that this fight would be more than a minute.

Samurai Equine · September 14, 2021

Samurai just stays silent and stoic as he watches Cosmic walk by them to get to the arena, ready to defend Dynamo if necessary. Though, it's clearly not, since Cosmic wants to stay in the tournament for now. When he finishes passing, Samurai sighs in relief a little. "Let's be on guard, everyone. Just in case this Cosmic is planning to fight dirty..."

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@Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Ragland Tiger

Once Cosmic is in the arena, Calhoun looks his way. "You must the one I've heard about. The one called Cosmic." At first, a pause. Then, Calhoun raises and anchors each of his four hooves firmly on the arena floor. "I'll let you attack first. Don't hold back on my account."

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@Starforce

"Huh. Well that's new. I expected the yak to make the first move." Mayor Black observes.

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"On a side note, do you think any of these fighters will be staying in Friendshire? They all seem like good candidates for citizens." Final asks as he watches the match about to begin.

Dynamo Pad · September 14, 2021

@Samurai Equine @Courageous Thunder Dash
After Cosmic passed by the group with little trouble, Dynamo nodded as he heard both of his brother's responses. "I guess ruthlessness and disrespect go hoof in hoof. Unless there's a difference, then I'm not entirely sure. However, you're right about that, Thundy. From what I learned about yaks in history class, they are known to be very strong. So, if Calhoun can keep some sort of pressure on Cosmic, then there might be a chance." He would say, his eyes glancing over towards Samurai. "What do you mean, Onii-san? Do you mean we should jump in to save Calhoun in case things go wrong? Or do you mean we should call him out to the judges in case Cosmic fights unfairly?" He asks, wondering what the asian pony had meant, while making sure that he was on guard.

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @PawelS
Upon making his way towards the arena, Cosmic had taken a look at the distance between him and the ring. Trying to be fancy, the neon green unicorn leaped and performed a flip. Landing in the ring with grace, before posing as if he had done a trick. Taking a bow before the stage as he knew he’d receive no applause or cheers, the unicorn had turned to face his opponent. “That’s right. If that’s the case, then you must be Calhoun. The yak that Frozen had been telling me about. He said that you might be interested in joining our group.” He started, looking the yak up and down as if inspecting him. “I might bwe interested, but it depends. We have some muscle and a little more muscle could be good, but what would you have to offer?” He asks, hearing that yaks weren’t all too bright. Using power and no mind power, but Cosmic would soon learn that this yak was different.

“Me? Attacking first, eh?” That comment caught the unicorn’s attention. He hadn’t expected to be told to attack first. If it was the yak, then he’d be charging ahead with no hesitation. “Alright, then. If you want me to attack first, then I’ll be happy to oblige.” He thought as he didn’t think a laser spell could be enough until the time was right. He could always use his constellation magic, but he knew it would be predictable with what he used before. So, he would try and go with something different. Without warning his horn began to glow as something was being called upon. After a moment, Cosmic was able to summon what appeared to be a lion. “You like it? This is one of the constellations known as Leo. Very powerful of my summons, but very loyal and proud.” Looking back at who summoned him, Leo had nodded with a purr. Quickly turning back as he soon rushed forward. Reeling a front paw back to strike. Whether the attack succeeds or failed, Leo would try to use its teeth to attack and immobilize Calhoun.

Courageous Thunder Dash · September 14, 2021