open The Town That Friendship Forgot

[Chelsea]

@Dynamo Pad @ExplosionMare @Frisk @Ragland Tiger @Oni Equine
 

“Don’t be scared Dynamo…look at the here and now. We all come from different places but look where we’re at now…” Chelsea said picking up Dynamo and putting him on her lap. “The point is…live for today like your life depends on it. The future may be unknown yes, and it can be scary, but let today be a reminder of how far you’ve come Dynamo.” Chelsea said nuzzling Dynamo with her beak. 

[Samurai Equine 51,484]

@Starforce

"Suit yourself." Mayor Black says. But something catches his attention shortly after Opia leaves.

Meanwhile, the outside of the tournament grounds is rather interesting. Some of the defeated fighters are loitering around the outside of the building with nothing better to do.

There are some businesses still open; they can't afford to close just because a Fighting Tournament is happening.

And somewhere in a far off corner of the town, Starlight is exploring why trying to make heads or tails of the town map she has bought. "Huh... Wonder why they got rid of the trolley. Sounds like it could have been fun."

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

@Reality Check, @Frisk, @Ragland Tiger, @Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Dynamo Pad, @Kronos the Revenant

Sledge Hoof stops roaring the crowd up when he hears his opponent entering the ring. He smirks and is about ready to start this fight, when the sound of something fierce catches his attention. He looks over and sees a different kind of battle is starting in the stands?!

(This next part is just to catch up on everything that happened...)

The crowd gasps and lightly screams at the scene folding out. The staff saw what was going on with Necry first and begin activating their magic, ready to protect the audience and isolate the threat, if necessary. "Oh my! What ever could this be?!" Mayor White commentates from the commentator's box. "We made rules to deal with anything the fighters do; not so much what a spectator does!" Elusive adds, also in the same box. "If the situation doesn't resolve itself, we'll have to ask any rowdy members of the audience to please depart." Straightaway adds, also in the same box. "Uhh... Hey now! Is this really necessary?" Final asks, wondering if there is a way to stop all this commotion. He thinks about using his time magic to revert Necry back to a more peaceful state, but... Should he?

Samurai stands up. Magically summoning fire to his feet, he rushes out of the backstage area and zips by practically in a flash! In the span of two seconds, he has zipped by the arena, scaled the stands where the audience is, and joins Dynamo, Chelsea, Final, and everyone else! He has his arms outstretches, making himself a living shield between Necry and the rest of the audience. "Woah! Woah! Let's calm it all down, okay? Whatever's going on, I'm here to help." Samurai asks, ready to act in case things get out of hand. For a moment, when Necry goes Ultra, it looks like a battle might commence. But thankfully, with some intervention, things calm down. "It seems things are going back to normal. Sorry for the inconvenience folks, but we do encourage everyone in the audience to remember to keep things peaceful and civilized." Straightaway commentates.

Samurai calms down as things wind back down.

(All right, caught up!)

Seems everything is better now, and there is now active conversations about Pokemon of all things. He waves back at the three judges of the fight, letting the staff know everything is okay. "It seems we have some new faces in town. Sorry I couldn't be here sooner. Hi there. I'm Samurai Equine. Welcome to Friendshire. It's usually calm around here." Samurai extends a hoof. At the same time, a cloaked Mayor Black comes up from behind. "Is everything okay here? I was just about to start evacuation procedures."

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@Dynamo Pad

Back in the arena, Sledge Hoof turns to face Frozen once more. "Wells I guess youze gots lucky dis time. If'n dat sitch'iation hadn'tah fixed itself, I wouldah been ditchin' dis here fight to go fix the damages. Now personally speakin', I'd rather be fightin' dat-dere leader youze got. Cosmic, was it? Wrath? Whatevah. You'll have tah do for now, palooka." He lets Frozen make the first move.

[Reality Check 632]

@Frisk @Ragland Tiger @Courageous Thunder Dash @ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Kronos the Revenant

Reality looked at Samurai hoof, then at him. He didn't say anything, but just slowly reached for his hoof in return and shook.

Edited October 8, 2021 by Reality Check

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Courageous Thunder Dash @Reality Check @Kronos the Revenant @Starforce

As Chelsea spoke, Dynamo yelped in surprise as the female griffon picked him up, before placing him in her lap. Eventually, he calmed down as he listened to what Chelsea had to say. "I understand and you're right, Chelsea. I guess Friendshire has that sort of effect of sorts. We all come from different places, but Friendshire feels like we can all be together as friends and family." He says, feeling the female griffon nuzzling him. "Live for today, huh? I think there's a word that relates to that, right? Carpe Diem, or to seize the day. I think...I might try to do that. To be honest, there is a reason to being scared, but it's like I mentioned before. Once this tournament is over, I hope it's okay for me to explain everything. Just in case everyone has any questions they'd like to ask." He responds with a nod in understanding.

Once the crowd began to quiet down from everything that had happened, Dynamo had looked over towards where the judges were seated. "S-Sorry about that." He would say with an apologetic expression upon his face. It wasn't too loud for the judges to hear him. Given with the distance between the spectator seating and the judges table, but he still wanted to apologize. The gaming unicorn couldn't help with blinking in surprise as Samurai had rushed up to their location. Hooves covered in flames as he stood between Necry and the audience, but thankfully it was unnecessary. As everything seemed to have quieted down and became normal once more. "Hey Onii-san. Sorry I didn't show up after my fight as some things happened. I wanted to make sure everything was okay. It's still good to see you though." He smiled as his friend and brother greeted the newcomers. 

@Oni Equine

Back in the arena, Frozen had begun making his way out of the ring, before heading towards the arena. His expression stayed neutral, but it almost had a hint of being lost. Once he entered the arena, he looked over to see Sledge Hoof, who turned to face the pegasus. "Why's that? Did Pad do something to endanger others again? Guess I should be lucky that you'd even think of wasting your time trying to save someone like him." Frozen rolled his eyes as he didn't know what was going on, but it didn't bother him in the slightest. Upon hearing that Sledge wanted to fight Cosmic, he shook his head with a small, yet invisible smirk. "It's always Cosmic this and Cosmic that. He tends to have that effect on others in terms of making some enemies. It's only logical that he shows his true colors, after all. Also, palooka? It seems your more of a Donald instead of a Hagrid. You even sound like a mix between the two as it's a little troubling to understand you, motor mouth." He says, while starting to pace around the ring in a circle. It seemed like Sledge wanted Frozen to make the first move, so he'd take the time to analyze on how to proceed.

[Pencil Pouch]

@Dynamo Pad @Courageous Thunder Dash @Oni Equine @Ragland Tiger @Starforce 

Pencil looked at Dynamo Pad with a sympathetic smile. She knew exactly what he was talking about.

“I know what that’s like, actually. I always convince myself that I’m not good enough to do something or to have friends but here I am, with all of you guys. At least a part of my thinking is no longer valid.” she said in a slightly quieter tone than normal. She had not meant to change tones but talking about self-image was always a bit tricky for her.

“Is everything alright, Pencil Pouch?” Sparkly asked with concern.

“Oh, yeah! Fine! Just having conversation, really.” Pencil responded.

Sparkly simply nodded and remained silent. She only spoke when Chelsea reminded Dynamo that he had to live his life to the fullest each day. Sparkly couldn’t agree more.

“I spend each day learning and sharing as much information as possible. My purpose is to use what I know to increase the knowledge of others. My goal is that they may challenge their brains in a way they never thought possible. Everyone much search outside of themselves and what they already know to begin to fully understand life.” Sparkly responded with a glint in her eye.

“I could practice that theory of living more often, actually. I often get caught up in my work or my emotions so much that I forget why I’m doing anything in the first place. Usually I just have to refocus, and everything will be fine.” Pencil responded.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Oni Equine @ExplosionMare @Ragland Tiger @Kronos the Revenant @Frisk

"Of course there will be time." Chelsea stated. 

Suddenly, Thundy's phone rang. 

"Excuse me one sec. I gotta take this call." Thundy said gathering some electricity and disappearing with a poof. He reappeared just outside of the arena. 

"Hello?" Thundy asked. 

"Yo Thundy it's me! Nitro!"

Thundy almost squawked, but saved. 

"No way! How is my favorite King of the Streets?"

"Livin' it! How about you?" 

"Well, Chelsea and I found our way into this town we've never even heard of called Friendshire." 

"Friendshire? I've never even heard of such place...and oh my goodness! Chelsea is with you?! Why, I haven't seen her since like the time you two just met!"

"Yea...that long...Well you won't find it on the map...you'll just have to find it by taking the rural dirt roads. So how's Striker and Co?"

"Oh, they're awesome. We're actually on our yearly band road trip. You could say it's a mini tour."

"Oh Sweet! Think you could make it to Friendshire? We'd love to have you guys come. In fact, we're in the middle of a fighting tournament and could use some entertainment after." 

"Well it's a deal. We have setlists ready...but I guess we could do whatever you'd want Thundy."

"Awesome! Well I can't wait to see all of you again. It's gonna be a spectacle. 

"It's settled! Friendshire, here we come!"

"Oh yea! See ya soon bud!" Thundy said. The two hung up. Thundy reappeared with a poof and a huge grin on his face. "Prepare for an epic surprise tonight..." He said rubbing his talons toether. Chelsea sensed that Nitro and the band would returned. She had always wanted to sing with Thundy and them again. She squealed excitedly, wiggling cutely and wagging her tail with Dynamo still on her lap.

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Reality Check @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant @Starforce

As he listened to Pencil, Dynamo had taken notice of the sympathetic smile. Almost as if she was reflecting on what he had admitted to the group. "I hope it's okay to ask, but what do you mean, Pencil? What did you mean by a part of your thinking is no longer valid?" He asks, hoping that he wasn't intruding on something that seemed personal to the purple unicorn mare. When it came time to talk to everyone about his life outside of Frinedshire, Dynamo felt that he should talk to Pencil about what she had meant. Even as she said she that everything was fine, it seemed as if both he and Pencil had something similar happen to them, in a way. As much as he wanted to question that it might not be just having conversation, Dynamo had opted to let go. He didn't understand Pencil or some of the others all that well. So, he didn't want to interfere in something he might not understand. "O-Okay. If there's anything going on that you want to talk about, then we're here for you, Pencil. Just like when you all heard me out, I'm here for you as your friend."

Upon hearing why Sparkly spent each day learning and sharing information, Dynamo gave a nod in understanding. "I think that's a fine goal to work towards. It reminds me of a movie I watched before called Big Hero 6. In the movie, there were two characters that had a saying. To look at things from a different angle and to find a different way to solve a situation. So, the way you said to challenge their brains in a way they never thought possible reminded me of that." He smiled, before his ears perked as there was a poof-like noise. Looking around, he had noticed that Thundy had suddenly disappeared, before reappearing a few moments later. "Hey, bro and welcome back? Is everything okay? You just suddenly vanished out of nowhere." He says, thinking he had heard the sound of something ringing.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Frisk @Oni Equine

"Well, as I said, there's gonna be a huge surprise, and you can tell it's something big by Chelsea's reaction." Thundy stated. Chelsea clapped her talons together excitedly. "And did I hear you mention Big Hero 6? That movie is a work of art." Thundy commented. 

[Reality Check 632]

@Oni Equine @Frisk@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Kronos the Revenant @Starforce @Dynamo Pad

Feeling a bit bored, Reality dug through his saddlebags and pulled out a sketchbook and pencil. He then scanned the arena for a short while before proceeding to draw it out on his sketchbook.

[Samurai Equine 51,484]

@Starforce

Starlight looks up from her map to see who is talking to her. Opia's appearance doesn't even phase her. "Oh, hi there. I'm Starlight Glimmer, and I'm trying to make my way through this town. Could you maybe assist me?" She asks.

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

@Reality Check, @Frisk, @Ragland Tiger, @Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Dynamo Pad, @Kronos the Revenant

With the situation under control, Samurai no longer needs his fire power. "Oh, it's okay Dynamo-otoutosan. Besides, the drinks probably got warm anyways." Samurai looks over his shoulder to see who else was talking to them. "Eh?! Mayor Black-sama?!" To which, the mayor shushes the asian pony. "Not so loud! I'm undercover. Can't you see this cloak? No pony is hurt, I take it." The mayor asks. "Well, that seems to be the case." Samurai reports.

He looks around. Everyone seems to be having their own conversations. Samurai's presence no longer feels necessary. "I suppose I'll return to the backstage area. Gomen nasai. Everyone, be sure to cheer for me when it's my turn." Samurai bows before quietly walking away.

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

@Dynamo Pad

Sledge Hoof stays silent and waits, like a cowboy waiting for high noon. Even the judges look on intently. "...Who will make a move first?!" Mayor White commentates. "Seems we have an old fashion stand off again; everyone." Straightaway adds.

[Pencil Pouch]

@Dynamo Pad @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @Oni Equine @Reality Check

“You were in a band, Thundy?” Pencil asked curiously as he returned after making a call.

“That means you are musically inclined, then? I have not known many around here who have expressed an interest in music. It would be most interesting to see how your music compares to what I have heard back home.” Sparkly commented.

Pencil bit her lip and clung slightly to the rim of her seat as she listened to Dynamo’s reply. She hadn’t meant to get into her own problems—or perhaps she did, since that is just her nature when it comes to having more serious discussions. Part of her really wanted to explain to Dynamo what she was referring to earlier but another part of her wanted to remain silent. He had enough to worry about, why add one more thing?

Sparkly gave her a look of both concern and encouragement. Pencil tried to fight against it but it was just too powerful for her to put a wall up against. She knew she had to express what was bothering her, even if it was something that seemed way less important than Dynamo’s situation. Sighing and putting a hoof behind her head, Pencil said,

“It’s kinda silly, but, it’s about this stupid commission thing. The whole reason I was sent here is to draw something ‘never seen before’ by the pony who I’m commissioning before. I’ve tried for days to find something he likes. I’ve used all the cool events, new materials, all sorts of things…but it’s never enough…it never seems to be.”

She let her eyes wander and noticed that the new colt had pulled out a sketch pad. She couldn’t see what he was drawing, but from the looks of things he appeared to be drawing whatever was around him. Pencil wished she had that ability right now. She wished she had even a little of his motivation.

[Thundy]

@ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Ragland Tiger @Reality Check @Frisk @Oni Equine

Thundy gathered some electricity and made his portable keyboard appear. He then plugged in some earphones. "Here Pencil. Listen." He said. He started to play a very beautiful classical piece he had learned from a CD. It also played from the speakers, loud enough for Sparkly and the others around Thundy to hear. Thundy hoped this would give Pencil some inspiration. 

 

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Reality Check @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant @Starforce

"You can say that again, bro. I didn't get a chance to see the film for quite a while, but I actually enjoyed it after getting the opportunity. The animation is definitely a work of art and the characters are very enjoyable to watch." Dynamo would say, nodding in understanding that the surprise was after all a surprise. "I'm actually rather curious about the surprise, but I guess I'll wait until the surprise comes." He responded, raising an eyebrow as he craned his neck to take notice of Chelsea's reaction from the news/surprise. Jumping out of his lap, Dynamo bowed his head quickly as if he had done something wrong. "I'm really sorry about that, Chelsea! I forgot that I was in your lap and I hope I didn't do anything wrong. Again, I'm really sorry." Looking up slightly from his bow, Dynamo had taken notice of Reality, who pulled out a sketchbook and pencil. "I hope you don't mind me asking, but what are you drawing, Reality? Is drawing something you like to do in your spare time?" He asks, genuine curiosity in his expression as he wished to learn more about Necry and Reality.

Upon hearing Pencil's explanation of how she was feeling before, Dynamo had gained a look of concern. As he listened to his friend, he shook his head as he heard Pencil mention that the problem was silly. "I don't think it's silly, Pencil. No situation or problem one goes through is ever silly. In fact, I'm glad you said something as it's always good to ask for advice or for others to hear someone out." He explains, giving a caring smile to show that he understood. "I'm not sure if I can help you there though. Unless you count being in a video game as that's never been seen before. I still think there might be something in this town that's never been seen or done before. Something that can give you that inspiration for your commission." He says, looking disheartened at her comment of it never being enough. "I know how you feel though, Pencil. I've been in tournaments before when it came to video games. When I said I'm still an up and coming gamer, I meant that I'm not winning many tournaments. I know it still takes times as it's good to get fair placements like second or third. However, I sometimes struggle against others to where I question if I'm good enough. Times where I beat myself up in my mind that I'm a screw up that won't amount to anything. There are times I still think like that, but I know thinking like that won't ever get me anywhere." He sighed, recalling times where he could have given up with that train of thought.

"What I mean is that it'll be more than enough with whatever you decide to draw. That you're more than good enough and I remember seeing your art. You've made some amazing drawings and you even helped me with your drawings in the game world. If it wasn't for you, then I don't know if I would have been able to do what I did in that transformation. I think whatever drawing you make for the commission will knock the commissioner's socks off." He says, giving the purple unicorn mare a reassuring smile. As his ears perked from his name being called, the gaming unicorn looked over towards his friend and brother. "That's good to know and that's okay, Onii-san. I usually drink soda beverages either hot or cold." He says, raising an eyebrow at the mention of the mayor. "Mayor Black? Where is he?" He asks, looking around, before hearing the sound of shushing. Looking towards the raised hoof being lowed, Dynamo had thought he could see the facial features of Mayor Black being hidden behind a cloak. "It's nice to see you, Mayor. However, what are you doing here? Is everything okay?" He asks, nodding at the mention of nobody being hurt.

As Samurai bows, Dynamo had noticed the asian pony was beginning to make his way bak to the backstage area. "Are you sure you have to go, Onii-san? You can always stay and chat with us and watch the fights up here. Unless we're all taking up space from the other spectators who might be watching." He mentions, looking around as he crouched down to make sure everyone could still watch. As he looked back towards the fight, Dynamo had noticed Frozen circling Sledge Hoof like a predator stalking their prey. However, he noticed that the pegasus had an odd look on his face. "T-That's weird." He muttered softly to himself, but it was loud enough for his friends to hear him.

@Oni Equine

Back to the fight, Frozen knew that walking around would get him nowhere. Sledge looked as if he was frozen as a statue, while waiting to draw like a cowboy in an old western. Training his eyes on his opponent, the pegasus had taken notice of a few things. The muscle tone of the construction pony. The way he held the wrench-like weapon like it was nothing. He either had a good foundation to not fall from an attack, or was sturdy to take a hit, before retaliating. Either way, Frozen knew he had find an opening. "Oh, well. I guess it's time to get this over with, then." Uncurling his wings, the pegasus kicked off from the ground, before flying in. Making sure he was still close enough to the ground to look as if he was gliding. Pulling a forearm back, he raised a fist to punch his opponent. If it connected, then it would deal some damage. If not, then he'd make sure to fly away or keep a trained eye on his opponent's moves/movements.

 

[Reality Check 632]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant @Dynamo Pad @Starforce

Reality perked up his ear and turned, facing Dynamo Pad. 

"Hmm?... Oh, uh, it just something I tend to do when I'm bored." Reality replied. "As for what I'm drawing..." He points his hoof at the stage.

[Samurai Equine 51,484]

@Starforce

Starlight offers her an understanding glance. "So you're new here too, huh? That's fine. I'm almost done with what I need to do here. Maybe you could keep me company while I finish up." She states. As she begins to walk around, she is about to say something more when Starlight hears the faint sound of something collapsing. She looks over and sees a small house that was still in construction topple over. The property was taped off, and the lone pony working on it managed to get away from it in time. "...I'm okay!" He calls out. Whatever that was about, it was clearly of no consequence. No one was hurt, and the area around it was clear. At most, Opia and Starlight would have only felt a light draft from that incident. "...Huh. I hope stuff like that doesn't happen often here. I've seen underground houses that were more stable then that."

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

@Reality Check, @Frisk, @Ragland Tiger, @Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Dynamo Pad, @Kronos the Revenant

The mayor looks back at Dynamo. "Me? Well, I was here the entire time, and... Well, I'm not a monster, you know. I might be greedy and selfish, but I still care about the citizens. In my own way. ...And if you start saying anything about it publicly, I'll deny it up and down. ... What? I've still got a reputation to uphold." Mayor Black says.

He takes a moment to look at Thundy, Chelsea, Reality Check, Necry, Pencil, Sparkly, and Bluebell. He turns away. "Well, I guess I should go back to my seat. Pretend I wasn't here."

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

@Dynamo Pad

Sledge Hoof was ready for anything. As soon as Frozen begins to glide towards him, Sledge Hoof dodges to the side and pulls something out of his tool belt. "Electrical wire!" He uses it to lasso Frozen. "Fascinating! Sledge Hoof is using electrical wire to lasso his opponent like a cowboy in one of those old spaghetti westerns!" Mayor White announces. All the while, Sledge reaches into his tool belt yet again. "Now I gotta be real carefuls-like with da way I use my tools, but I thinks I can at least ties you down wit dis! Duct tape!" Pulling out said tape, he quickly unravels it in an attempt to immobilize Frozen.

Edited October 10, 2021 by Oni Equine

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Reality Check @Frisk @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant 

Upon hearing Reality's explanation, Dynamo smiled and nodded in understanding. "I can relate to that as I'm not the best at drawing. However, I tend to draw from time to time whenever there's free time." He explains, before looking towards where Reality's hoof was pointing at. As he looked to the stage and back at the drawing, Dynamo was impressed with the mint green unicorn. "Are you able to draw the fight as it's going on? I actually didn't know that was possible as the fight can be constantly moving. That's actually really impressive, in my opinion." He says, before Mayor Black had gained his attention. Looking towards the cloaked figure that was the mayor, Dynamo nodded upon learning that the mayor was there the entire time. Upon hearing the word monster, Dynamo gasped as he shook his head quickly to deny any mention of the word. "Monster? I don't think you're a monster, sir. I hope I didn't say anything like that. If I did, then I'm really sorry and I didn't mean anything like that." He felt his heart quicken as he tried to apologize. He didn't recall saying any kind of slander, but he still wanted to apologize if he had said anything wrong.

@Oni Equine

Back to the fight, Frozen watched as Sledge had dodged to the side to avoid the punch. The pegasus' trained eyes noticed the construction pony had pulled something out of his tool belt. Seeing and hearing the attack, Frozen's eyes flashed red for a moment, before turning back to their original color. Ducking and rolling to the side to avoid the lasso, the ebony pegasus soon saw another attack being used. This time, being duct tape being unraveled to immobilize Frozen. "So, you want to try and make it impossible for me to move, huh? Well, good luck with that." Looking at the tape and back at Sledge, Frozen had gained an idea. Gliding around the arena, Frozen had quickly turned to diving at the construction pony. It looked like he was trying to slam into him like a battering ram of sorts. If the attack connected, then he'd bring the both of them into a tumble. However, he hoped to miss as he was aiming for Sledge's legs with the unraveled tape in mind.

[Ragland Tiger 3,392]

18 hours ago, Thundy said:

@ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Ragland Tiger @Reality Check @Frisk @Oni Equine

Thundy gathered some electricity and made his portable keyboard appear. He then plugged in some earphones. "Here Pencil. Listen." He said. He started to play a very beautiful classical piece he had learned from a CD. It also played from the speakers, loud enough for Sparkly and the others around Thundy to hear. Thundy hoped this would give Pencil some inspiration. 

 

"Th-that's really p-p-pretty, Thundy," said Bluebell.  "Y-y-you play w-wonderfully."

Edited October 10, 2021 by Ragland Tiger

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Reality Check @Dynamo Pad @Oni Equine

”Thanks Bluebell.” Thundy said smiling at the blue mare. He then made his keyboard disappear and looked at the fight. “Sheesh, who’s gonna make the first hit…?” Thundy asked. 
 

“I didn’t get a spectators ticket just to wait for days until one of the fighters makes a move…” Chelsea commented. 

[Pencil Pouch]

@Dynamo Pad @Courageous Thunder Dash @Starforce @Oni Equine @Ragland Tiger @Reality Check

Pencil felt something strange in her ears, then realized Thundy had put some headphones in her ears. He played some relaxing classical music to help get her inspired. She took her time listening to it, closing her eyes briefly to see if she could form a picture in her head. Nothing came up yet, but she was sure it would soon.

“Thanks, Thundy. I’m sure this’ll help.” she told him.

She then turned to Dynamo to continue their conversation.

“W-well, considering all the other difficult things that have happened to everyone here, my problem really shouldn’t be a problem,” Pencil replied, her tone unsteady. “I, um, probably shouldn’t have even taken the commission if I knew it was going to be this difficult. Then again, I wouldn’t have met all of you otherwise. It’s a bit complicated.” She put a hoof to her chin before continuing.

“I actually drew things from our time in the game world. I sketched some of our powerups and even did a few boss battles. Those didn’t work out. I don’t think the commissionee thinks travelling to a game world is as cool as we thought it was.

You should know though that all the video game stuff you do is really cool! Like you said, you’re still learning, so it’s okay you don’t win first place each time. I think you actually have an advantage over everyone else, though, because of your belt. You can practice your moves outside of the arcade. Correct me if I’m wrong on that, though, cause I’m not completely familiar on your belt’s capabilities. Point in case, you shouldn’t beat yourself up cause I think you’re a pretty good gamer.”

She paused a moment when Dynamo brought up her drawing powers in the game world. Her ears perked up when he mentioned how they helped him become strong enough to defeat the enemies. Pencil was torn for a moment. She still struggled with feeling like she was a side character the whole time. However, when someone told her she was actually helpful, it forced her to rethink.

“T-thank you, Dynamo. I never would’ve thought about it that way, really. I think I have a tendency to think of my efforts as unhelpful, even though they aren’t in some cases such as this one. That might be a big part of what’s holding me back on this commission, now that I think about it…” she replied, giving off a slight smile.

“If you need inspiration or motivation, Pencil Pouch, I will be more than happy to provide it to you. My world has much that I believe your client does not know. There is much you can take from there and implement into your drawings. I can also say that you can do this, you can complete that commission and give that pony the best piece of art they have ever seen!” Sparkly replied enthusiastically. She wanted to help Pencil in any way she could.

Pencil smiled a little more at that.

“Heh, that’s pretty fair, Chelsea!” she chuckled as Chelsea mentioned how she wouldn’t pay for a fight if it was slow enough for an artist to properly sketch.

Edited October 10, 2021 by ExplosionMare
Missed a part again :|

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Kronos the Revenant @Frisk @Oni Equine @Ragland Tiger

”See, here’s how I see it. I see everything I do as one giant symphony. A symphony has parts called movements. Each movement has a character and/or emotion. There will be ups and there will be downs. It’s all how you make it. The one thing, don’t let it stay down for too long. Make a resolution. Make a proclamation. Let the brass section within your heart sound, signifying that you’re strong and you can overcome this.” Thundy proclaimed sounding like a motivational speaker. 
 

Chelsea nodded. “As a witness, I’ve had my share of downs…but I wasn’t gonna let that…get to me.” Chelsea said managing to hold back a sniffle. 

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Reality Check @Courageous Thunder Dash @Kronos the Revenant

As he looked over towards his friend and brother, Dynamo watched as Thundy had made what appeared to be a keyboard appear. As the same time, he made some headphones for Pencil to use, before he began to play a song. As he listened, the gaming unicorn had felt a calming, yet soothing sense of peace from each key being played. Given that he didn't hear the song at first, but soon heard the song being played through the speakers. As the song came to an end, Dynamo smiled as he gave a light applause at the male griffon's performance. "That was a pretty good song, bro and Bluebell's right. You played very well, in my opinion." He responded, before looking towards the ring as he heard the griffon duo's comments. "That's pretty much how Frozen is, to be honest. He mostly tries to come up with a plan, or had a plan in mind for when he goes into a battle. Whether it's this tournament, card games, or some video games, he's always trying to plan things ahead. It's why he's tiptoeing around his opponent. He wants to see how Sledge Hoof acts, before reacting accordingly. Although, it's weird, you know?" He asks, hoping someone would ask for him to continue on his thought.

Turning towards Pencil, Dynamo listened intently as the purple unicorn mare spoke her thoughts. "I think I understand what you're trying to say, but I'm still glad that you told us. Even if it's a tiny problem, then it's always good to get a second opinion. It's always good to hear what your friends think to try and give you advice, encouragement or a spark of inspiration. I think it's good that you did take the commission, in a way. As I was able to meet a really friend when coming to Friendshire. I get that it's all a bit complicated, but I think it's worth it as it's all about going on that journey. I guess it depends if the commissionee is a fan of video games or not. If not, then I can understand being unsure of traveling to the video game world." He says, being caught off guard at the mention that what he did was cool. With how he had trouble with regular magic, being a fan of video games and other forms of media such as anime and such. Dynamo never really considered anything he did was cool. However, here was someone, along with others, who thought otherwise about the blue unicorn. 

Pausing a moment to allow her words to sink in, Dynamo gave a soft sigh as a small smile graced his face. Almost as if a part of his doubts were slowly slipping away. "Thank you Pencil and that really means a lot, you know? I know that some of it was from learning, but I guess there were moments I doubted myself. Getting so far and only to let it slip away and fail. Whenever that happened, there was always a voice that brought up what Cosmic and the others said. Making me feel like I was pathetic and a failure in their eyes and in the eyes of others." He didn't want to sound like he was bringing down the mood for the others, but he felt it was helpful to talk about this in his heart to heart with Pencil. "I know that it's a form of doubt that gets to me, but I guess it's always going to be there. The only thing I probably should do is to ignore it and to do the best like I always do. I'm still figuring things out as time goes on, but I know I have everyone's support in all of this. You're definitely correct in your way of thinking as I have discovered a small amount with the belt so far. However, there were a few times I did gaming moves without using the belt. I'm starting to wonder if the gaming abilities are merging together with me, in a way."

As he heard Pencil thanking him, Dynamo smiled as he shook his heard upon her continued train of thought. "You're welcome and it's no problem, Pencil. I only say it because it's true. We all played our parts in order to work together to complete each game world. Your efforts, as well as everyone else's efforts go a long way." He says, nodding in understanding as it seemed Pencil had found some sort of mental block towards her commission. As he heard Sparkly's remark, Dynamo turned towards the duo as a thought came to mind. "Hey, Sparkly? You said that you were also from Earth too, right? I think Thundy had mentioned that he was planning a trip there sometime. Maybe we should all go together and we can see what Earth is like. Maybe that will help give Pencil some more inspiration for her commission." He says, while being in agreement with Sparkly's assistance. He wasn't sure if he'd be much help, but he wanted to help his friend out in any way that he could. As he heard Thundy's speech, Dynamo felt as if he was inspired. At the same time, he felt he could learn from it.

"Now those are some words to live by. You make a really good point, bro. I guess there will always be good days and bad days, as well as the ups and downs. I remember hearing about a speech from Toonami about having to sit there and cry if you're failing or feeling frustrated. However, the main point is to keep getting up despite being knocked down. Fall down seven and then get up eight. I think I get what you mean though. You got to find that resolution, or the goal or even the promise within to keep going despite the hardships. That way, you can and eventually overcome whatever obstacle is standing right in front of you, right?" He asks, remembering a time where Thundy's speech had felt relatable to the gaming unicorn.

 

Edited October 11, 2021 by Dynamo Pad

[Thundy]

@Dynamo Pad @Frisk @ExplosionMare @Ragland Tiger @Reality Check @Oni Equine

"Exactly. It's like the game of American Football, a game all about strategy and learning from your mistakes. I've led my team to quite a few comebacks, and each one of them got harder and harder. There were so many times where I felt that I couldn't do it. But the whole team depended on me, their quarterback, the leader of the team to lead them to victory." Thundy said as he gathered some electricity and made his Carolina Panthers Jersey appear on him. It had the number "1" on the front and the back, and the name "Thundy" on the back. 

[Samurai Equine 51,484]

@Starforce

Starlight nods. "I don't think that will be a problem right now. This town is crazy big! And yet, about half or so of it feels abandoned. There are some businesses still open, but most of the citizens that remain seem to be focused on that tournament right now. It's almost like we have the majority of this town to ourselves. I've all ready placed some magic beacons around the outer parameter of this town, but I still want to place a few more, maybe in the places where traffic and town gatherings are the biggest." She explains as they walk together.

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@Reality Check, @Frisk, @Ragland Tiger, @Courageous Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @Dynamo Pad, @Kronos the Revenant

Mayor Black gives an annoyed wave. "No, no. Not you, Dynamo. It's just... What with my brother being the goodie-two-shoes mayor that everypony seems to love, it's given me a negative reputation. Honestly, I kind of like it... But that doesn't mean I don't care about this town nor its citizens. Perish the thought. I'm greedy, but not heartless." Mayor Black explains, trying to reassure Dynamo before he leaves.

Final nods, listening to Thundy's story. "Is football anything like buckball? Oh, and by the way, that was a nice song you played. I prefer symphonic metal, but that was pretty good too. ...Are we creating any kind of disturbance by playing music?" Final asks. Mayor Black looks at Final and hesitates. "...I guess it should be fine. As long as you aren't louder than the crowd or the fight." Mayor Black says in passing, though he does get in last look around.

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@Dynamo Pad

"Oh my! Is Brain, erh, Frozen moving at a super sonic speed?!" Mayor White commentates. "With that burst of speed, you would almost think so." Straightaway adds. But as Frozen gets closer and closer to the earth pony, he can hear Sledge muttering something to himself. "...calculate da angle, speed, and velocity; input pythagorean theorem; adjust for error..." It's as if he's making dozens of calculations all at once! By the time Frozen get close enough to ram him, Sledge Hoof uses his giant wrench to launch himself up in the air above Frozen only to come down towards him with a mighty kick. If he doesn't use more of that incredible speed, it'll be a rough kick to Frozen's backside. "...What? Jus' cause I'm a ruffian an' a construction pony, youze thought I'd be a dummy too? I do maths like dis everyday!"

However, somewhere in the mix of the fight, some pony calls out from the stands. He looks like a fellow construction worker, though he is much skinnier. "SLEDGE HOOF! YOU GOTTA QUIT THE FIGHT!!!" He calls out to him.

Edited October 11, 2021 by Oni Equine

[Thundy]

@Oni Equine @Dynamo Pad @Frisk @Ragland Tiger @Reality Check @ExplosionMare

"American Football is way different different than buckball. Here's how it works." Thundy said as he gathered some electricity and made a medium sized hologram of a football field appear. There were 22 players on the field, each on either a red team or blue team. The red team was offense and the blue team was defense. The ball was on the red team's own 25 yard line. "The goal of the game is to score as many points before the time runs out. The game is made up of 4 quarters, each lasting fifteen minutes. Now, here's how the gameflow goes. American football is a non-continuous sport. This means, that there are breaks in between what are called plays. Let's watch a play. The ball is on the 25 yard line and the red team has the ball." Thundy said as he snapped his finger. The play began. The center for the red team snapped the ball to the quarterback. The receivers ran their routes. There was a wide open receiver beyond the first down marker. The quarterback threw the ball to the receiver, who caught it and ran for extra yardage, until one of the blue team defenders tackled him on the 50 yard line. "That was a 25 yard gain, and the end of the play." Thundy explained. "Let's watch the next play. It is first and ten at midfield." Thundy said. The red team tried a running play, where the runner started behind the quarterback. The defense read the play and a defensive lineman tackled the runner behind the line of scrimmage. "Ooh, looks like the defense got to the running back causing a loss of yards. It is now 2nd and 12. Two more chances to get a first down or more." Thundy said. On the next play, the quarterback pulled a play action pass and found one of his receivers for a long touchdown. "And that's a touchdown for the red team with a sweet play action pass." Thundy explained. "And that's how American Football works. There is so much more but you gotta see it really happen. This hologram doesn't do it justice." Thundy said making the hologram of the football field and everything disappear. 

[Dynamo Pad 11,316]

@Ragland Tiger @ExplosionMare @Oni Equine @Frisk @Courageous Thunder Dash @Reality Check @Kronos the Revenant

Upon hearing that Dynamo wasn't the one who said anything, the gaming unicorn breathed a sigh of relief. "That's reassuring to know and I hope you can forgive me, sir. I tend to worry a lot if I said or did anything wrong to make someone angry or upset." He explains, nodding in understanding as he heard the mayor's explanation. "I've heard about buckball and it's a pretty fun sport. I guess this American Football could be something like hoofball, something else entirely. Maybe there would be an Equestrian Football if there isn't one already." He says, wondering alongside Final's thoughts. Once the male griffon brought up a hologram of the game, Dynamo watched as he listened to Thundy's explanation. "I think I understand the rules, somewhat. It's all about making it to one end of the field in the amount of plays given to both teams. If they can't, then I guess control of the ball goes to the other team to repeat the process. Ending with scoring or something else along those lines. It also looks like there's one particular player who always has the ball, before passing or throwing the ball to someone else." He explained, noticing that there might have been a lot of rules to the game. "It kind of seems confusing, but it does look like fun. I guess it goes to show how you were able to lead your team to victory as you said. That's pretty cool and admirable, bro." Dynamo smiled as he saw his friend and brother in what appeared to be the same kind of uniform from in the hologram.

@Oni Equine

Just as Frozen was closing the distance, his ears perked at the sudden muttering that was bombarding his eardrums. 'That can't be.' He thought, narrowing his eyes as he was about to make contact. Only for Sledge to use his wrench to propel himself up into the air, while climbing leagues above the ebony pegasus. Looking up, it looked like the construction worker was diving back at Frozen with a back hoof extended for a kick. "So, he's a thinker too, huh? It seems I miscalculated, but nothing that can't be fixed." Fixing his glasses, Frozen landed as he kept his wings open. Almost as if he was allowing the attack to go through. However, to those not paying attention, Frozen was waiting to anticipate the attack. Throughout the fight, it seemed as if another construction worker was calling out for Sledge Hoof. If his opponent was distracted, then it would be time for Frozen to strike. "That's one distraction that's going to cost you dearly." Just as Sledge was about to make contact, Frozen contorted his body to dodge the attack, but was still in close range. Pulling back his hind legs, he launched a dual kick at Sledge as an attempt to send his opponent soaring.