>25712987
>25712998
>You pick off the straggling Parasprites by slamming down with your hooves.
>It's a bit messy, but it works for the first two.
>That's before you hear something behind you.
>Animalistic grunts come from a large black bear, as it eats one of the parasprite bodies.
>Nothing can ever be easy, can it?
>Spark continues to march along, unable to hear the beast over the sound of his own horn, literally.
What does Mango do?

>>25715896
It can't fly so get it's attention and keep stay out of striking range until Spark notices.

>>25715896
Get in the air and try giving it the special eyes.

>>25716019
Spark might notice.

>>25716137
Not right now he won't, and it's better than fighting a bear unarmed.

>>25716165
When he turns around and notices a bear asleep out in the open he'll notice and even if we come up with a story it would make him suspicious.

>>25716352
and that's still better than fighting it.

>>25716402
Did I ever say anything about fighting it?

>>25716439
So you want to not hypnotize it and not fight it.
Great plan. Lets hope it gets full before we run out of sprites.

>>25716474
All we'd have to do is keep it's attention on us until Spark notices it and helps us. Flying out of it's reach isn't the same as fighting (attacking) it. If it doesn't pay attention to us then it will leave it's back wide open and we'd be able to fly away before it can retaliate.

>>25716521
Or we could just put it to sleep.

>>25716537
And then have to answer the resulting questions that have no believable answer. Yours is actually the more dangerous idea.

>>25715928
>>25716019
>>25716137
>You fly up out of the bear's reach, but it doesn't seem to care.
>It just grabs the next fallen Parasprite and begins eating it.
>You debate hypnotizing it before it becomes hostile, but you're worried about Spark noticing your powers...
Since we can't come to a consensus, I'm going with what I think Mango would do.
>You ultimately decide that it's not worth the risk and try to get Spark's attention instead.
"Spark, we got company!"
>"Who?"
>He notices the bear chomping on the fallen sprite.
>"Huh, I always wondered what eats the buggers. Just scare him off, they aren't that aggressive usually."

>>25716561
We could have just said we knocked it out, but fuck me I guess.

>>25716593
Pounce on it.

>>25716593
Man, if it wasn't for fluttershy probably giving us shit for it. I would totally say we should dive bomb this fucker and break its neck.

>>25716631
>>25716726
>You lunge down at the bear, who by all accounts is simply enjoying a meal.
>With a swift kick to the nose from above, the beast scampers back, growling.
>With Spark's bugling interrupted, the remaining Parasprites scatter, but not before several vomit up a brown sludge that forms into three new parasprites.
>The rest go for the crops.
>The bear starts to circle around, clearly avoiding you.

>>25716969
Fly out of it's reach and try to lead/chase it back to the forest.

>>25717019
>You fly at the bear again, hoping to drive it off.
>It growls deeply, but sulks back into the forest.
>Meanwhile you hear a distinct lack of horn noises from the fields.
>It looks like some Parasprites got a hold of his instrument, and are keeping it just out of his reach.
>And of course, more are multiplying from the abundance of carrots.
>There are now at least a dozen of the things buzzing around.

>>25717271
Grab a carrot and trade it for the horn.

>>25717271
Dive at it.

>>25717271
just fly in and snatch the horn back and give it back to spark.

>>25717396
>>25717495
>>25717533
>You go to scoop up a carrot.
>Maybe you can 'trade' the sprites that for the horn.
>As you come up you see Spark leap for the horn, a good 10 feet high and almost as far infront of him, grab it and land rolling in the dirt.
>You drop the carrot, which is eaten before it hits the ground.
>"Got it, heh." He begins to 'play' the bugle again.

>Once the slaughter of the insects is done, you count up 18 pairs of wings.
>"Guess we owe that bear for this windfall, though I suspect we might owe that farmer more..."
>A none too small portion of the farm was uprooted.
>"We should probably go tell them what happened Mango. See what the damage is."
>The farmhouse was pretty far away though, the ponies there certainly didn't notice your scuffle.

>>25717570
Tell them. We shouldn't have done this on their farm anyway.

>>25717570
It'll just have to come out of our earnings if we caused any major damage.

>>25717602
>>25717719
>The farmhouse is a good distance away.
"I hope we didn't cause too much damage..."
>"Even if we did these pairs are worth 25 bits each. That's, what almost 500 right here? We can't have done THAT much damage."
"It's 450 total, and produce can be expensive."

>The farmer is pleased enough when he initially spots Spark.
>"Howdy there. Did you take care of those bug things I saw?"
>"I did, I did. Had some complications though, some of your crop might have been, well, consumed. I'm hoping the bounty money can help repay that, but I'm not sure of the damage."
>You're relieved to see that the farmer isn't upset.
>"That's mighty kind of you, Mr. Spark. I'm sure it's not too bad."
"It was pretty bad..."

>The farmer is a good bit more upset looking at uprooted carrots in the dark.
>"Luckily carrots aren't worth all that much, but darn if it isn't disheartening to see."
>"300 bits should cover this, but I don't think that's totally fair to you two. You were just trying to help after all."
>Spark looks to you, and considers for a second.
>"Well me and Mango here were planning to split the 450 bits from the bounty. I'll give you my half, that sound fair?"

>>25718216
Don't be silly Spark, that's not how a partnership works.

>>25718216
It's very kind, but it's incredibly unfair for you.

>>25718216
Meh let's just give him the 300 and split the 150 that's left.

>>25718289
>>25718318
>>25718416
"Spark, don't be silly, that's not how it works. We can just split the 150 that's left over."
>"Hey, I'm just trying to help the new girl out, you know."
>"We'll be back with the money, sir."
>The farmer smiles.
>"I'm glad the adventurer's guild has ponies like you two. And y'all are might quicker than the guards. Thank you."

>You return with the money, and the farmer takes the 300, leaving you with a profit of 75 bits for the night's work.
>"Well, I'm tuckered out. I'm gonna head back to the guild and see if I can't turn these bits into a few hundred at the card tables. You're welcome to join me of course."

>>25718510
No thank you. Relying on luck has never gotten me anywhere good.

>>25718510
Nah, I'm trying to save up.

>>25718510
nope we have to go.

>>25718531
>>25718577
>>25718658
"I've never been a lucky mare, and besides I'm trying to save up. You go ahead."
>"Really now, whatcha saving up for?"

>>25718840
Furniture.

>>25718840
Everything I'll need after moving to a new town.

>>25718840
Better living conditions and medical stuff.

>>25718840
Im kinda going on a soul searchy trip thing.
I'll be gone for a while.

>>25718858
>>25718862
>>25718864
>>25718949
"Mostly just stuff for my new place. Furniture, boring stuff like that. Also some medical stuff, for the sunlight thing."
>"Ah, Alright then. See you soon I guess?"
>You're not sure how much you want to tell him. Twilight never said that your mission is secret, and you don't want to leave a friend wondering where you are.
"Uh, well probably not..."

How specific should Mango be?

>>25719194
Not at all. We shouldn't even tell him where we're going.

>>25719216
I concur

>>25719194
Going to see some family. Not sure ho long I'll be gone.

>>25719194
He's not my friend he's a co-worker looking for tail.

Don't be specific at all.

>>25719277
I agree, I wouldn't call him a friend. Acquaintance at best.

>>25719194
Just say we'll be out of town for a couple days taking care of some business, but we'll be back later.

>>25719216
>>25719252
>>25719277
>>25719301
>>25719335
>Maybe it's best not to get attached.
>After all, from what Gail said he's just after tail.
"I've just gotta leave town for a few days. I'll be back soon enough."
>"Oh, where are you going?"
"Uh, just to see some family..."
>"Sooo, back west then?"
"Uh..."
>"I don't mean to pry, if you don't want to tell me, I was just making conversation."
"Ok then."
>He shakes his head, a bit confused.
>Maybe you really shouldn't get attached to anypony. After all unless you're brutally murdered you're probably going to outlive them.
>And of course if they knew the truth they'd fear you for just existing.
>Sobering thoughts.
>When you get back into town you split up.
>Spark seems a bit puzzled by your sudden cold shoulder, but he still gives a polite goodbye.
>"See you in a few days, I guess. Hope your trip goes well."
>What does Mango do?

>>25719611
Thanks I'll be fine
We go home now I guess?
Not really sure

>>25719611
Thanks. I'll see you.

>>25719611
Any way to take that test tonight?

>>25719611
I guess we could go read up some more. Maybe just relax.

>>25719611
Lets practice our vampiric abilities for once.

>>25719692
This.

>>25719692
This tbqh f.am

>>25719692
>>25719728
>>25719828
>You really haven't tried practicing with your powers.
>You know you can hypnotise ponies, you can turn into mist, your raw strength is vastly improved, and you can hide your fangs.
>Did you want to try new things?
>You're also starting to feel somewhat peckish, though all your blood is back home.

>>25719846
Let's learn the limits of our strength.

>>25719846
I've heard of vampires that can control elements. Usually ice, occasionally fire.

>>25719846
Maybe we can animate objects, like fierce fang.
It would be nice if we could get those suits of armor to clean up the castle.

Testing our strength would be good too.
Then we can celebrate with a drink.

>>25719846
I'd like to try hypnotism but I have clue what we could use it on.

>>25719894
I like this idea

>>25719864
>>25719894
>>25719955
>You think back to Fang's skeleton servant.
>Maybe you could animate those suits of armor back in the castle
>Hopefully they don't try to kill you again.
>You wonder if Twilight ever figured the one that did attack out.

>As a non unicorn you're not exactly sure how to focus your magic.
>You know your eyes have something to do with it...
>You try staring at various bits of armor, but nothing seems to happen.
>You have no idea what you're doing, you might want to look for a book on the subject, or ask somepony who would know how to animate things.

>As for strength, it's not an easy thing to just test, but you can easily lift any of the armor suits with their stands, but two at once proves too difficult. Of course that's just lifting with your forelegs.

>>25720255
See how much we can carry while flying.

>>25720255
Castle has library lets check it for books on it

>>25720318
I'm up for this but i'm just worried twilight stole all the books like the book thief she is.

>>25720381
Sacrifices must be made for the book fort.

>>25720381
Dirty purple book thief

>>25720283
>>25720318
>Trying to fly while lugging anything is a good bit harder.
>You can still carry the armor while flying, but its bulk prevents you from really testing your limits.
>Still you were never a great flyer anyway, preferring to glide whenever possible.

>You go back to the library in the castle to look for more books. You find one on animating inanimate objects, but the description is very much written for unicorns, and it sounds very primitive compared to what Fang had.
>The book describes animated items as "only good for very simple short and repetitive tasks, like opening doors via passwords, or serving tea from one spot."
>It adds that these items need a permanent source of magic. Ponies work well enough and binding the item to the caster is common. It can then be dispelled at any time.
>But anytime it moves there is a drain on the source.
>The book recommends procuring ethically sourced magic gems and warns that unethically sourced gems might contain the entire soul of an unwilling pony, comparing such a fate as worse than death.
>You doubt Fang had any compulsion against that sort of thing...

>>25720600
Since he is rather cruel and amoral be didn't care
Well it talked about gems I wonder where could we find these
Check time if daylight is nearing lets sleep

>>25720600
Take a break, then try out that smoke trick again. See how long we can hold it. After that have some blood.

>>25720685
>>25720905
>The book makes no mention of where one can get those gems, unfortunately.
>You check the time. It's 1:30 AM, so you still have a good bit of night left.
>As for the smoke, you can hold it about 20 to 30 seconds before you gasp for air and re-coalesce.

>You grab a blood bag from the cooler, and begin to drain it.
>You're overwhelmed for a moment by just how good it tastes.
>After nothing but rotting animal blood you only want more of this ambrosia.
>You breathing becomes heavy and you only barely keep yourself from tearing open another pack by biting into your own foreleg.
>You sit there, shivering for a while, your leg turning pale before you feel comfortable releasing it.

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>>25721165
Guess nothing beats the real thing. Hopefully that'll be easier in the future.
I think we can just relax for the rest of the night, maybe do some reading.
We're going to be busy tomorrow.

>>25721165
Yup take it easy tonight

>>25721189
>>25721261
>You try to calm down a bit.
>This is the first time you've felt out of control since...
>Since you murdered that maid.
>Guilt grips your heart, but you can't change the past.
>You just need to relax.
>You still have those other gun books you could read, or look for something else in the library.

>>25721294
See if the library has anything about mangoes. If not, gun books.
Or singing. Not like there's anyone around to hear how bad it is.

>>25721308
Ha-ha mango books genius
But yea gun books sound alright

>>25721308
>>25721369
>You don't see any books about mangoes, though you're fairly certain you'd already know anything in them.

>You were never a great singer.
>Or at least no better than anyone you knew, and especially not compared to some ponies with singing talents, but you can carry a tune.
>You tap your hoof and softly sing along to a song you remember your family had on vinyl as you pull out a book.
https://youtu.be/CiwbabGKwjM

>You pull out the Military manual, since it's the only one you haven't read yet.
>It's by far the driest of the books you have, and is specifically written for the use of the Guard's bolt action rifle and tactics requiring groups of at least 5 ponies.
>It's still informative, but at least half of the book is devoted to the maintenance and care of the single weapon.
>You're not sure how much is applicable to any other situations.

>>25721422
Hm hm what can a horsie who is also a vampire do
We read most books worth reading and I'm quite sure we have a lot of time left

>>25721422
I think its time for bed.

>>25721949

>>25721422
Be a lazy horse.

>>25721949

>>25724001

>>25725246

>>25725927

>>25727266

Bump simulator 2015

>>25728414

>>25728925

>>25729302

>>25729892

>>25730374
Bump

>>25730773
>Vampony CYOA #8

Time for some early morning questing. I thought FA might come back, but I have time now.
>>25721437
>>25722307
>>25723174
>It's only 3:00 AM, though you are feeling pretty tired.
>Twilight said your train for Canterlot leaves tomorrow at 9:00 PM.
>It might do well to get packed now, though you're not sure what you should bring.
>You also never got to take that gun licensing test.
>Since the normal time is during the day you'd need to either wait until this inside the guild, and the be stuck there the rest of the day.
>Or find somepony willing to administer the test during the night. And, according to the guild, that service wasn't cheap.
>Of course there's an adventurer's guild in Canterlot too, so you don't have to do that now.

>>25731386
I'm afraid you won't get lot of players now in fact i might be the only player awake right now
as i'm from europe 16:38 here
Well screw those guild freaks let's go over and check if we can find a willing guy
Staying in guild all day just to take test would be rather tedious eh?

>>25731386
Meh, if we're that tired, it's probably best just to sleep. We do have a big few days ahead.

>>25731386
Napping.

>>25731386
We can just get our licence in Canterlot.

>>25732544
Go away shiny srlys

>>25732544
You've been active lately you little rascal.

>>25733792

>>25731499
I like to sleep

>>25733792

>>25731300
what will you bump

bop

>>25737439
This thread

>>25733792

>>25740914

>>25741451

>>25715786
>This CYOA is only popular because it has a shitload of autistic batmemes and a ton of batfags who inhabits it

>>25742082
Don't you get tired of posting shiny
Don't you have anything BETTER to do?

>>25742259
Wow that was embarrasing as I'm not really nips

>>25742259
>>25742269
>replying to Shiny
>not just reporting for spam and moving on

>>25742259
>Everyone who doesn't love my retarded headcanons about Luna's guards is just one single faggot in the entire world
Don't you batfags have anything better to do?

>>25733792

>>25742965

>>25742082
It's funny because this cyoa specifically doesn't include any of the bat fanon

>>25742965

>>25743489
>You are a batpony
>Named Mango
>etc
>This doesn't include any of the bat fanon
Ladies and genlemen; a genuine batfag.

>>25744008
She's just a batpony who just so happened to have a store that sells produce.

Thinking she likes mangoes just because she's a batpony is racist, anon.

>>25744008
Mango likes mangoes, but most horses like fruit. She didn't have fangs until she became a Vampony, and she even sleeps like a normal horse.

>>25744008

>>25744038
>>25744063

Refer to what theese anons have to say they are right aside from being a vampony mango isn't that different from other ponies she doesn't do batmeme specific thing

>talking to shiny

>>25742965

>>25744647

>>25744063
mangoes are good

>>25731440
>>25731499
>>25732191
>>25732527
>It’s better to get some rest, you feel.
>No sense heading out to that mission all tired out.
>After shutting the curtains tightly, you curl up on your bed, wrapping yourself in the covers like a mango burrito before falling asleep on your cushiony mattress.
>While considering how you could make a mango burrito work (probably by incorporating it into a salsa) you drift off to sleep.

>After some sporadic dreaming, a firm rapping at the door catches your attention, rousing you from slumber.
>”It’s me. Can I come in?”
>You stretch and push yourself up, recognizing Twilight’s voice.
“Mm. Yeah, sure c’mon.”
>Your eyes adjust quickly when you open them, seeing Twilight with perfect clarity as she enters the room holding a pair of train tickets and a small notecard.
>”I thought I’d come give you these when the sun went down. It’s about 6:00 right now, so you’ve got a few hours before the train leaves at 9:00.”
>She floats them over to you for inspection.
>”I also wrote down the time and place for the meeting you’ll be trying to attend. It’s going to be 11:30 tomorrow night at this street in Canter Hill. The westernmost district of Canterlot.”
“Canter Hill, got it.”
>”It’s got a bit of a seedy reputation, but it’s not that bad. Still, watch your back. Once you get there, you’ll have to convince the other Vampires you’re trustworthy. I’m thinking maybe if you take credit for killing our agent, they’ll agree to let you sit in.”
>”If not, well… you’ve got a way with words when you really put your mind to it. You’ll have to figure things out.”
>”Any questions about your mission?”

>>25747741
Seedy for Canterlot or just seedy in general?

>>25747741
How are we reporting back, and what is our goal past getting friendly with this group?

>>25747741
Bring up the other peaceful vampires fierce fang told us about. What should we do if we end up meeting with those guys. Because apparently they're set up in Canterlot.

Also they might not take well to us saying we killed that agent.

>>25747870
>>25747839
>>25747838
“About Canter Hill, you’re saying it’s seedy? By what standards exactly?”
>Twilight thinks deeply with her hoof to her chin.
>”It’s the kind of place my parents told me to stay away from at night. It’s probably not that bad on a larger scale. I don’t think it’d stack up to the bad neighborhoods of Manehattan or Las Pegasus.”
>”But… considering it has a secret cabal of Vampires running around there, it’s probably not great.”
“Fang kept talking about how he hated the Vampires that wanted peace. I think he was talking about ones in Canterlot. What should we do if we end up meeting with those guys?”
>”Well, considering they’ve managed to live in Canterlot without being noticed too much, I think it’s likely they’re the same ones. If you do meet with them, I’d like you to find out what their plans are, what they want, who’s in charge, that sort of thing. If you can find out where else they’re meeting, we’d appreciate that too.”
>”All in all, this is an information gathering mission. Try to avoid any conflict if you can.”
“So how will I be reporting back?”
>”Just take the train back and meet with me here at the castle. If I’m in Canterlot, ponies will notice and start asking questions. So I’ll have to remain here for the time being.”
“And are you sure about telling them we killed that agent? If they’re peaceful, they might not take kindly to that.”
>”They don’t seem to be the type to kill indiscriminately, but I think one less hunter is something they’d appreciate. If you say it was him or you, they’ll probably understand. Still, it’s up to your discretion. Do whatever you think will get you in, Mango. Anything else?

>>25748138
Whereabouts is the guild hall in Canterlot?

>>25748138
Not much...unless you can get somepony to clean the castle while i'm gone.

>>25748439
Clean a whole castle? That's asking a bit much.

>>25748517
Well I was joking really but if somebody could just take care off the main room and bedroom that would be cool.

>>25748314
>>25748439
“So where’s the guild hall in Canterlot?”
>”For the Adventurer’s Guild? Sorry, I don’t know exactly where it is. But if you’re looking for a place to sleep, I already booked you a room at the Pillow Talk Hotel. Just tell them who you are, and they’ll take care of everything.”
>”But I bet if you ask down at the Guild Hall in Ponyville, they’d know where the Canterlot branch was.”
“Probably. Anyway, guess that’s it. Unless you want to arrange to get me a maid to clean this place up while I’m gone.”
>Twilight glances around. “I won’t deny that it could use it, but that’s a pretty tall order. And uh, speaking of cleaning…”
>The princess smiles awkwardly, “Heh, Mango, do you mind if I… just say something honestly as your friend?”
“I… guess not?”
>Twilight leans in, lowering her voice as if she’s worried the dust mites might overhear.
>”I… I know this castle doesn’t have a shower, but maybe you should see if the guild hall does. I’m sure Fluttershy would let you use her’s if you asked nicely too.”
>You hang your head as a sinking feeling of shame fills your chest.
>”It’s okay, I know you’ve been busy!” Twilight says hurriedly, backing away with sympathetic embarrassment.
>”I mean, I know I’ve spent a few too many nights studying until I fell asleep myself! One time Celestia even… uh… I think I’ll go back now.”
>You catch Twilight’s halfhearted goodbye wave before she vanishes in a flash of magenta light.
>Having now been informed that you are a smelly pony, you’ve got a few hours before your train ride to Canterlot.
>What will you do?

>>25748719
This is really funny for me because at one point I was about to say we should ask twilight if we could borrow her shower.

Anyway...let's go borrow fluttershy's shower.

>>25748719
Flight of shame to Flutter's house.

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>>25748719

>>25749042
fug

>>25749042
>>25748869
>>25748809
>Even your vampire regeneration won’t be able to easily heal this deep wound to your pride.
>Shamefully you gather your belongings and jump out the window.
>You spread your wings and swoop back up into the air, flapping them quickly to propel you to Fluttershy’s house.
>It’s a good thing she lives near the edge of the forest. You don’t want to be seen, or smelled rather, by anyone else right now.
>As you’re flying, it occurs to you that Spark made no mention of your smelliness, even when he was getting up close to you and showing you how to breathe.
>Perhaps he didn’t want to upset you.
>Or perhaps he likes it that way.
>Both options seem equally shameful, so you try to put it out of your mind when you touch down in front of Fluttershy’s cottage.
>Glancing around conspiratorially, spying only birds judging at you with their tweets, you knock a few times on the door.
>Fluttershy answers with a warm smile. “Good evening, Mango. How are you tonight?”
>Your initial thought is “smelly”.
“Fluttershy, can I… please use your shower? I don’t have one back at the castle.”
>”Oh, well of course you may! Come on in.”
“Thanks…” you speak quietly, entering her home with your head held low.

>>25749325

>”I was just considering taking one myself, actually. If you like, we could even take one together.”
“Together?”
>”I think it’d be a great way to catch up and hear how you’ve been doing. And I have a rather large bath since I use it to clean some of the larger wildlife sometimes. So what do you say?”
>It certainly wouldn’t be the first time.
>But a cold feeling makes you shudder when you think about your last time.
>It felt so good having her at your mercy.
>Playing with your food before making your strike and filling yourself with her lifeblood.
>For once you were the one in control, and it excited you.
>It still excites you.
>”Mango?”
“Huh? Yeah, I… lemme think.”
>You try to push those thoughts out of your mind.
>That isn’t who you are.
>You’re not a killer.
>It was just your thirst taking control.
>Right?
>That’s what you need to tell yourself.
>Either way, Fluttershy needs an answer.
>What will you say?

>>25749334
It's not like before. We're in control now. We can share if she wants.

>>25749334
It's ok, we already ate anyway. So we should be fine.

All we have to do is not start kissing on her neck. ...but anywhere else is ok if she's into it.

>>25749334
Just do it, Mang(o). It'll be fine.

>>25749334
I think we can stay in control, long as she doesn't try anything romantic or anything to tempt us.

My power just surged and now it's flickering. Might mean a blackout is coming given the winds outside. I'll know for sure once the storm dies down, but for now I'll play it safe.

>>25749334
It'll be a bonding experience
And we did eat should be fine

>>25750535

>>25750535

>>25750535

>>25753244

>>25753244

>>25753244

>>25755516

>>25756192

>>25755516

>>25755516

>>25755516

>>25715786

>>25715786

>>25763416

>>25764522

>>25765268

>>25765775

>>25766320

>>25766922

>>25767607

>>25749574
don't die

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>>25751707
>>25749447
>>25749443
>>25749421
>>25749399
“That sounds perfect, Fluttershy. I’d love to take a bath with you.”
>”Oh that’s wonderful! I’ll go get it started. I should have some extra towels too…” she trails off excitedly as she heads into the back.
>You calm yourself down, remembering that you’re in control this time.
>Though you might want to keep things chaste in case you do something you regret while lost in passion like last time.
>But since you ate before you went to bed last night, you should be just fine.
>After a few short minutes, Fluttershy has drawn up a steaming hot bath.
>From the size of it, you’d dare to call this a hot tub rather than an actual bath.
>Or maybe a small heated pool.
>The yellow-coated pegasus dips a hoof into the warm water, then sinks in with a soft squeal of delight.
>”Ahh… just right.” she says slowly, climbing into the bath and letting her wings spread along the surface of the water.
>”Come on in! You can take it slow if it’s a bit too warm for you.”
>Cautiously testing it with your hoof first, you stir the water.
>It prickles you intensely with heat when you sink deeper, but you know you need this too badly to be a foal about the temperature.
>Water splashes against the edges when you slide into the tub, making you tense up and grit your teeth as you adjust to the warmth, wincing a bit when your flank sinks below the surface.
>After the stinging subsides, you get into a comfortable position with your back at the edge of the tub, allowing yourself to soak.
>The other mare dips her face underwater, letting her mane spread out and shaking her head to get it nice and wet before surfacing.
>”Mmm… always good after a long day. How is it for you?” She asks, her mane glistening with moisture.
“I’m warming up to it.” You smile, closing your eyes and enjoying the heat.
>Fluttershy swims over to your side, sidling up close to you.
>”So how’s Ponyville been for you? Did you make any new friends yet?” She asks hopefully.

>>25769761
I met a couple over at the adventurer's guild.

>>25769761
Met a few at the guild. A young girl and a guy.

>>25769761
I met a nice griffon lady who was trying too look out for me. We might become friends hopefuly,

>>25770137
>>25770185
>>25770262
“A couple, actually. A young mare and a stallion I met at the Adventurer’s Guild.”
“There was this Griffoness too. She seemed like she wanted to look out for me, but I don’t know if we’re friends just yet. It could be nice if we became friends though.”
>”Oh that really would be nice! I guess the Adventurer’s Guild isn’t so bad if it’s made you two and a half new friends already.”
>You give her a look of slight concern. “Why would it be bad?”
>She frowns uncomfortably. “Well, it’s just that I don’t much care for the way they solve problems sometimes.”
>”A lot of monsters don’t really want to hurt anypony. But adventurers tend to solve their problems with swords before words.”
>She gazes thoughtfully at the ceiling. “If you just look a little deeper, you might find that you can even defeat dragons with words alone.”
>”Sometimes the things you think are scary or dangerous are just misunderstood.”
>Fluttershy gives you a warm look, gently touching her hoof to your shoulder.
>”Sort of like you. You know?”
“I dunno… I don’t think I could defeat a Timberwolf just by giving it a stern talking to.”
>Fluttershy shakes her head. “Don’t get me wrong. I’m not so naive that I think every problem can be solved just by talking it out. I’ve learned that there’s times when the only option to protect everypony is to fight. But don’t you think it’s better to resolve things peacefully, even if it’s more difficult?”

>>25770593
I guess. Violence tends to come back and find you again.

>>25770593
I think i've kind of grown to like getting in scraps but there's a big difference between roughhousing and fighting for your life.

So settling things peacefully is always nice if possible. But I think sometimes ponies need to let out their frustrations first before they're able to open up and talk.

>>25770824
>>25770638
“Yeah, I think so. Maybe it feels better to have a good fight, but there’s a difference between fighting because you want to and because you have to.”
“Maybe there’s times when you need to fight, but ending it peacefully is nice if it’s possible. Sometimes if you try to end things with violence, it doesn’t really end there.”
>The pegasus smiles sadly upon hearing your answer.
>”There’s a lot of ponies who would agree with that. But somehow, ponies keep making the same mistakes.”
>”When you’re scared, it’s hard to remember to do the right thing. If somepony’s hurting you or somepony else, it’s easy to justify hurting them back. But I still don’t think that’s right.”
>”I think it’s important to look past the pain and forgive somepony if they’ve done something wrong.”
>You avert your eyes uncomfortably as you recall the things you’ve done.
>It’s easy to say that, but if anypony had heard about the things you did...
>Fluttershy stares dreamily at the wall ”If we could all do that, maybe we could really have peace.”
>You notice her smile falter a bit as she mutters, “Maybe...” her voice holding an air of cynical resignation.
>The mare turns back to you. “Sorry I went off like that. I’ve had a bit of an… interesting life.”
>”We’d better get ourselves clean. Would you like me to wash your back for you?”

>>25771020
Don't worry fluttershy I'll always try to do the right thing even if I don't want to. And I'll take that back scrub please.

>>25771020
Sure, thanks.

>>25771284
>>25771210
>You smile at Fluttershy reassuringly.
“Don’t worry. I’ll always try to do the right thing. Even if it’s not what I want.”
>She smiles back, seeming to believe your words. “Thank you, Mango.”
>You mean it too.
>You’ve got to prove yourself to be better than your urges.
“And I’ll take that back scrub if you don’t mind.”
>”Sure thing!” Fluttershy says, pulling some soap and a brush off of a stool sitting by the bath.
>She’s certainly serious about getting you clean.
>Her brushing is so vigorous, you feel more like you’re getting groomed than washed.
>But the tickling of the bristles as she works the soap deep into your coat does feel strangely comforting.
>Fluttershy tries to make good conversation while you’re bathing together.
>She tells you about her day, shares an entertaining anecdote about oatmeal Pinkie told her that morning, and considers picking up some mango-scented shampoo if you want to do this again some time.
>You don’t think twice about returning the favor for her. Scrubbing her back while her wings twitch and stretch, helping smooth the shampoo through her long pink locks, and sharing the story of how you helped save Crimson Sash from those Timberwolves.

>>25771874

>After some thorough cleansing, a lull in the conversation hits while you relax and enjoy the warmth around your bodies.
>Fluttershy is leaning up close with her back against you, wings folded neatly against her sides.
>Almost a minute later, she breaks the silence.
>”... You have to go to Canterlot tonight, right?”
“Yeah, the train’s leaving at 9:00.”
>The mare fidgets, her back pressing against you a little harder now.
>”I’m a little worried for you. I know you’re strong but… I just can’t help it.”
“I think I’ll be fine. Twilight said to avoid getting in any fights. And I think these vampires might just want to live peacefully.”
>”But if something does happen, maybe it’s better if you’re… prepared.”
“What do you mean?”
>Fluttershy looks up at you through her dripping mane.
>”Well… maybe you’ll do better if you’re not on an empty stomach.”
>”I know Twilight might not approve, but… just in case something goes wrong, would you like to drink some of my blood before you go?”
>You feel your body flush with excitement hearing her offer.
>What will you do?

>>25771885
No thank you. Twilight's packed us plenty of blood for the trip.

>>25771885
I'm pretty sure there's a way to do that without killing a pony but I don't feel comfortable practicing on fluttershy.

So unless she can get it in a blood bag no.

Give Fluttershy a deep hug and say thanks for the offer.

>>25771885
Thanks Fluttershy, I wouldn't want to hurt you.

>>25771885
Drinking blood directly is fatal and the only survivor we've heard of is ourself.

>>25772292
>>25772282
>>25772114
>>25771936
>You want it bad, but you know the consequences of doing that.
“Fluttershy, I don’t think you’ll survive if I drink your blood. There’s no way I’m going to take a risk like that on a friend.”
>Fluttershy gasps lightly, “Oh gosh, I didn’t realize it was like that! I know there’s bloodsucking animals that don’t kill their hosts… but I guess a vampire is a lot bigger, isn’t it? I’m such a dummy.” Fluttershy tuts.
“It’s okay, Fluttershy.”
>You pull her close and hold her in a tight friendly hug.
“It’s really nice that you offered. But I’d never want to hurt you. Besides, Twilight packed me plenty of blood for the road. I’ll be fine.”
>She returns your embrace, her cheek brushing against yours lightly.
>”Thanks, Mango. I bet you will be fine. You’re a good pony.”
>You feel a little pride lifting up in your chest when she says that.
>Hearing it from someone else really helps you to believe it yourself.
>Once you’re thoroughly cleaned and relaxed, you leave the bath with Fluttershy, dring yourselves off and saying your goodbyes.
>Taking that bath with Fluttershy ate up more time than you thought it would, but you’re not in danger of missing your train just yet.
>If there’s anything you need to do before you leave for Canterlot, you should do it now.
>Otherwise, you should head to the train station and get ready to board.

>>25772634
Lets pick up some spiked knuckles!
We've been working with our hooves a lot lately so why not.
Maybe someone at the guild knows where we can get some.

>>25772634
I think we're just about set.

>>25772634
Just grab our cooler of blood and get ready to go.

>>25772731
This if we'll have to fight
And obvs blood

>>25773866

>>25774398

>>25774908

>>25775342

>>25775820

>>25776437

>>25776437

>>25776437

bloomp

the numbers of bump

fuggin bats n shiet

>>25778248

>>25782902
Bump for update and shit

>>25784797

>>25785292

>>25785919

>>25786290

>>25787016

>>25787440

>>25788211

>>25789271

>>25789942

>>25773232
>>25772819
>>25772807
>>25772731
>It’d be good to pick up some protection before you go.
>Even if you can’t have a gun just yet, perhaps some spiked hoofguards could serve you well.
>You’d prefer to get through this mission without fighting. But it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
>Speaking of which, you made sure to pack a few bloodbags for the road.
>It’d be suspicious to carry around the whole cooler, but you can fit more than enough to last you for the whole mission in your saddlebags.
>You headed down to the guild hall to see if anyone knows where to pick up a good melee weapon.
>When you arrive, it seems like a quiet night for the guild.
>Master guild member ‘Cookie’ is manning the front desk tonight, giving you a quick look before sternly focusing on some unimportant papers on his desk.
>Spark and Crimson seem to be absent tonight.
>Gail isn’t at the card table either, her usual spot now occupied by a Diamond Dog you’ve seen around before cleaning out a sour-faced crystal pony and pegasus.
>If Georgie is around, he’s even more well-camouflaged than usual, as you only spot four others in the hall tonight.
>A yellow earth pony with a flushed face is lounging on the bench with a pink pegasus resting on his right side while a rifle rests on his left.
>That pegasus you saw last night with the Katana is sitting in the back with white bandages wrapped around her neck and wings, wincing as a blue unicorn touches a shining horn to her injuries with a reassuring smile.
>A fifth joins the room as they return from the bathroom, the pony you recall Wild Spark calling “River” approaches the front desk, striking up a conversation with Cookie about some rumors going around regarding a sea serpent in the Everfree.
>Looks like there isn't anyone you know too well in the main hall tonight.
>What will you do?

>>25791371
We wanted some kind of weapon, right?

>>25791371
Ask whoever's nearest where you might get some hoofguards.

>>25791915
>>25791558
>You figure it doesn’t really matter who you ask.
>Those ponies on the bench are pretty close, so you might as well check with the earth pony.
>You approach him as he stares lovingly between his rifle and his marefriend.
”Excuse me. Do you know where I can pick up some hoofguards?”
>His emerald eyes lazily drift up to meet you. “Huh? Oh… Mango, right?” He says unsteadily.
>You nod. “I think Gail called you Cog?”
>”Iron Cog pleastomeecha.” he slurs together, extending his hoof with a heavy exhale of whisky breath. “Expert Class.”
>You wrinkle your nose slightly, but accept his hoofshake.
“Nice to meet you too. My train’s leaving pretty soon, so if you could let me know where I can find them, I’d really appreciate it.”
>”Hoofguards…” he mutters in thought, scratching his frizzy red mane. “What fer?”
“I was hoping to find the spiked kind, you know. For fighting with. Since I can’t have a gun yet.”
>”Yeah, yeah I think I remember hearing something about… something anyway.”
“Can you tell me where to buy them?” You ask, hoping to keep his mind on track.
>”Buy ‘em? Tell you what, how’sbout I do you somethin’ a little nicer.”
“Nicer?” You ask nervously, unsure where he’s going with this.
>”S’cuse me Shelly.” He grumbles to the pink pegasus sleeping against his cutie mark of several gray gears as he slips away from her.
>Her soft blue eyes flutter open, looking up at you and cog. “Hm? Who… who’s this?” She yawns.

>>25792858

>”This is Mango. I was gonna give her the thing.” Cog explains cryptically.
>The mare rises and frowns. “Are you sure you should be giving her a thing? This thing works, right?”
>”Did last time I checked.”
“What thing?”
>”Didn’t give it a name yet.”
>”Oh, that thing!” Shelly realizes. “Are you sure?”
>”It’s up to her.” Cog shrugs, digging through his bag before retrieving a pair of metal hoofguards.
>They seem a bit thicker than normal, but otherwise they look like regular hoofguards.
“Right, but… I was hoping for the spiked kind, you know? For fighting?”
>”Heh, that’s the thing.” Cog says knowingly. “I’m a bit of an inventor, see? So what this thing does, is it does it so that if you hit somethin’ real hard with ‘em, the spikes come out. Otherwise they just look like normal, see?”
>”Been lookin’ fer someone to test them for a while now. So how’s about this? I give you the things fer free right now, an’ you come back an’ tell me how good they work. Deal?”
>You examine them a bit more closely.
“Is it safe?”
>”Yeah, sure. Maybe. I dunno, that’s why they need to be tested.”
>”I wouldn’t say it’s 100% safe.” Shelly warns you, readjusting herself to snuggle next to cog. “But he does this kind of thing all the time, and nopony’s died yet. Not everypony is up to helping him work out the kinks, but at least he doesn’t charge to test them. So what do you say?”

>>25792875
Better than nothing. Sure, take them.

>>25792875
Yes.

>>25792875
How hard we talking? I presume you've done a little personal testing and they won't come out just from me walking or using my hooves in everyday life?

>>25792875
Well it sounds like it's spring loaded so I doubt it will take our hoof off or something, so why not.

>>25792875
Might as well.

>>25792988
>>25792985
>>25792984
>>25792974
>>25792966
“Sounds good to me.” You agree quickly.
>”Here ya go then, kid. Enjoy.” He says, passing the hoofguards off to you.
>You turn them over, inspecting them more closely now. “So they’re spring loaded or something?”
>”Something like that.” Cog says unhelpfully.
>”How hard do I need to hit with them? They won’t just come out while I’m walking, will they?”
>”Yer gonna have to hit somethin’ hard enough to be sure it’s somethin’ you wanna hit. If they come out any time else, lemme know.”
>”Maybe don’t salute anything, just to be safe.” Shelly suggests, not sounding all too worried. “And be careful how you shake somepony’s hoof.”
>”It’s fiiine. She’ll be fiiine. But if yer not, lemme know so I can fix it.”
“I will, thanks.”
>”I’m Seashell, by the way.” The pink pegasus introduces herself with a smile. “Novice Class.” She adds.
“Mango, same.”
>”Good luck, Mango.” Seashell says playfully, waving goodbye.
“Thanks.” you say as you fit the metal over your hooves, slipping them on firmly before heading out to the train station.
>The thickness makes them a bit difficult to walk in, but you adjust enough to give them your ticket and board the train without incident.
>In a way they’re kind of nice.
>Plenty of ponies wear hoofguards as a fashion choice, though those are usually a lot nicer looking, and impractical for actually guarding the hooves.
>And while you won’t be walking the catwalk up in manehattan anytime soon, at least you know you don’t smell like garbage anymore.
>There aren’t many ponies traveling to Canterlot this late, so it’s easy to find a spot where you can sit by yourself and be alone with your thoughts.
>It’s maybe half an hour before you hear something other than the rhythmic chugging of the train.
>”Food and beverages, coming through~” A crimson-coated earth pony sings softly as she comes along pulling a cart. “Newspaper, hot towels, blankets, pillows…” anything for you, ma’am?” the Stewardess asks politely.

>>25793418
Newspaper. Living in the forest doesn't allow us to know what's going on in the world.

>>25793418
Just a paper, thank you.

>>25793418
Paper ya

>>25793593
>>25794202
>>25793486
“Could I get the paper please?
>”Sure thing, Ma’am. Canterlot Gazette?”
“That’s fine.”
>She grabs a paper in her mouth and tosses it to the seat.
>You fork over a handful of bits as payment and unfold the paper to start reading.
>Scanning the front page, you immediately find what you were looking for.
>It’s not front and center, but it’s there
>SUSPECTED MAFIA VIOLENCE CLAIMS TWO MORE IN LAS PEGASUS
>The subtitle reads: “Guard claims new deaths believed to be retaliation.”
>Curious, you quickly scan the article for relevant information.
>It looks like the Ponatti family killed two members of a rival group, probably believing they were responsible for Jack Ponatti’s death.
>There’s nothing in there about bite marks, missing blood, or anything that could link them to you.
>There are concerns about a gang war breaking out, but for the most part, you seem to be in the clear.
>The guards are resolving to increase their patrols around the area, and Celestia is expected to make a statement about this growing trend of violence, but there’s nothing about vampires or mango-loving bat ponies in the article.
>The rest of the news doesn’t interest you much.
>P-Mart’s stock is rising, alfalfa gives you cancer like everything else now, the Chargers lost again, and ponies are still buying shitty pop music.
>There doesn’t seem to be much to do on the train.
>Should you just sleep the rest of the way to Canterlot?

What did we do with those gang files?

>>25795535
Take a snooze.

>>25795535
Maybe we could listen to passing conversation to mill boredom nd learn something

>>25795976
I meant KILL boredom ha ha

>>25796112

>>25796901

>>25797377

>>25797992

>>25798372

>>25798854

>>25799879

>>25796112
you scamp