This was started by another fine handsome anon with unusually large genitals. I Pick up after the ~~~~~
>You were a huge nerd back on earth
>Ogres and Oubliettes sounded like DnD back home, so you were eager to give it a try
>Twilight seemed pretty happy to have you join in, but the others weren't so eager
>Rainbow was actually pretty hostile, and she's acting really grumpy as Twilight sets up the game
>No boards or character sheets or anything, she's just asking everybody what class they want to play as
>"What do you want to be, Anon?"
>You scratch your head
"Well, what kind of classes are there? Can I be a thief? A mage? A-"
>Rainbow's frustrated groan cuts you off
>"Just make him a healer! He isn't going to know what he's doing anyway!"
>Twilight laughs nervously
>"D-don't let her bad attitude spoil your fun, Anon! Although playing a healer would probably be for the best, at least until you learn the game."
>She's writes something directly into the pages of the game manual, which is kind of odd
>If it's anything like DnD, that book probably costs a fortune
>Twilight turns to the others
>"Is everyone all set?"
>They all agree, and Twilight sets the book in the middle of the table
"Aren't we going to need some dice it some-"
>Suddenly the book flies open, and a blinding light erupts from the pages as they rapidly flip from cover to cover
>You shield your eyes, and after a few seconds the cacophony ceases
>You move your hand out of the way, and gasp
>You're no longer in Twilight's castle playset
>Instead, you're in the middle of a ruddy village, straight from the middle ages
>Humans, elves, and dwarves mill about the streets alongside ponies, griffons, and minotaurs
>"What do you think? I drew on some of your memories from back home to help create this setting."
>You whip back around to Twilight, who's decked out in shining white knight armor
"W-what is this? I thought this was going to be a pen-and-paper game! You know, dice rolls, math, storytelling!"
>"That sounds really boring."
>Rainbow is some kind of archer
>Looking at the rest of the group, you guessed that AJ was a barbarian, Fluttershy was a beastmaster, Rarity was a mage, and Pinkie was a bard or something
>Rainbow comes in closer, rubbing her chin and smirking
>"Hey, you're looking pretty good Anon! Maybe you'll be more fun to have around than I thought!"
>What is she talking about?
>Glancing down, you see that you were dressed like a slutty belly dancer
>There was more skin showing than clothes on top of it
"What the fuck!? Where are my clothes?"
>Rarity circles around you, nodding with approval
>"This is the traditional garb worn by stallion healers! I must say, you do wear it quite well, darling."
"I thought I would be wearing a robe or something!"
>She frowns
>"No, no, Anonymous, only the mare healers wear robes."
>Of fucking course
>Twilight hugs your leg reassuringly
>"Don't worry Anon, you look really nice. More importantly though, we're going to have a lot of fun on our adventure! Right girls?"
>They all agree on unison
"Yeah, but-"
>"C'mon, let's hit the tavern and I'll elaborate on the details of our quest."
>You begrudgingly follow as she leads the way
>Twilight leans over and whispers
>"I'll protect you, okay? Just stick by me, and I'll keep you safe from monsters."
>You sigh wearily
>Rainbow covertly nudges Applejack and lowers her voice
>"Anon looks pretty hot in that getup, huh?"
>"I'll say. That colt's always dressed so formally, it's nice to finally see that freaky alien body up close."
>Rainbow grins conspiratorially
>"I bet you twenty bits I can fuck him before we get back home."
>Applejack chuckles
>"Yer on."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>You follow the mares towards the tavern, desperately trying to pull your thin chest wrap down to cover more of your stomach.
>Unfortunately all you manage to achieve is fussing it loose and revealing your shoulders.
>You can hear Dash start to snicker behind you.
"Little early to be undressing Anon. You could at least wait until we find some monsters before you start to tease everypony".
>"She's right pardner. Ya gonna get us locked up fer indecen' behaviour". Applejack chuckles out after her.
>Their words made you realise just how naked you looked and felt right now, they also cause a light blush to graze your cheeks.
"Sh- shut up. I didn't ask for this outfit" you state quickly.
>Applejacks smile falters for a moment "Naw, ya didn't ask fer it sugarcube". But her mouth quickly curls to a grin." But yer wearin' it"
>You sigh and continue walking, trying to ignore the snickers from behind you and the more and more obvious stares you're getting from the mares of the town.
>Twilight pipes up from your side.
>"Girls, please. Anon isn't used to stallion clothes and just needs some time to let them adjust."
>"Indeed darlings, he looks very traditional and pulls it off immaculately. Does your fur toga come in anything from the current century Applejack, or is troglodyte the only color they had in stock?" Rarity smiles smugly.
>"You'd best be watching yer words little miss magic creampuff".
>Dash decides to chime in. "Yeah Rarity I thought you were a witch, not a white knight".
Applejack and Dash share a laugh as even Pinkie tries not to snicker.
>"I'm a Sorcerer, you-"
>"Um... Girls, were here". Fluttershy interrupts as loud as she can. That being, a meek shout.
>In front of you stands a building roughly ten feet tall made entirely out of wood.
>The windows are fine colored glass arranged in diamond patterns, the wood is old and refined and carries an earthly.
>As Twilight opens the oaken door with her magic a light warms seeps out along with the smell of fresh bread and the sounds of laughter and chatting.
>Honestly its hard to imagine a more welcoming place to be.
>You take a quick moment to collect yourself and remember that you're in a whole other world, withing another world of talking horses. You can't help but feel indescribably small at that thought."
>The moment is promptly ruined as Applejack barges in shouting loudly.
>"Round for the whole bar, on our wizard".
>Twilight looks to you, sighs, motions for you to follow and walks through the door.
>Dash, Pinkie and Rarity follow after too. But not before Dash slaps your thinly veiled ass, causing you to flinch your crotch toward.
>You swear you hear her whisper " This is gonna be easy".
>You cover your behind with your hand and glare daggers at the back of Dash's head.
>However you feel you anger dissipate as you feel a hoof come to rest on your side. You turn to see >Fluttershy looking at you with a apologetic expression.
>"Sorry about Dash, Anon. She can be a little rough around stallions. She doesn't mean to, she's just never been around many..."
>You think you hear a faint "Just like me...".
If it makes you feel better, I think you look very d-dashing in that outfit... N-not that I think you're only worth is your looks or anything... I just-".
>Her sweet mumbling and her adorable voice cause you to smile.

"It's fine Fluttershy, I know what you meant. And thank you".
>Fluttershy's worried frown slowly changes and shapes into a light smile at the same time as a small blush touches her cheeks. 
>Her smile grows more bashful as she looks at your own until she finally breaks from her stupor looking embarrassed.
>She quickly turns her head and rushes into tavern and hastily makes a sentence?.
>"We'dbettergoinsideIthinkTwilightscallingus".
>These silly ponies never stop entertaining you.
>You bend down slightly and shuffle through the door.
>All around you there are tables filled with creatures of all different types.
>One table has a group of tough looking ponies. 
>Their armor impeccably polished and their weapons hanging securely at hoofs reach.
>Hooded figures sit and stand sparingly. Some you assume are rouges, vagabonds or maybe just lost souls come to drink their memories away.
>Brightly colored ponies sit beside gryphons and even a large dog creature. Some have long ears and some seem shorter yet carry large , impressively kept hair.
>The occupants of the room almost ll seem to be mares however. The few stallions ate waiters or tag along side some adventures clad in thin revealing armor or barely clothing robes.
>The room itself carries not only people but history. too. The walls are lined with trophies, maps, weapons from old hero's and plaques to lost friends.
>The rooms fills you with spirit. Is this what a real adventure would feel like? It feels... neat.
>It is now you realise your lower body wrapping is slipping and you catch it before you expose yourself.
>Your lower body feels light and unencumbered.
 >Wait... Did she not give you underwear!?
>You look up to see the whole room of rough and tough mares has gone silent. And all their eyes are pointed at you.
"Uh, hi".

>You're beginning to think that maybe this was a bad idea.
>Looking over at the bar you spot the girls talking to the bartender. Well, Twilight's talking to the bartender. 
>Rarity and Fluttershy talk off by the side, no doubt discussing the upcoming campaign and almost completely oblivious to the room around them.
>Dash's cheeks actually show signs of a blush. Applejack refuses to remove her smug expression however.
>Pinkie is- Where is Pinkie?
>You start to approach the bar; steely faced and determined not to be dissuaded by the lack of complete clothing you are currently putting up with.
>Passing by the tables causes some ponies to go back to their chatting, albeit in more hushed tones.
>The heads of some tables seem to follow you on a swivel however. You only feel a small part less watched when you finally reach the bar and start to overhear Twilight.
>"-just for taking on a bunch of thieves?"
>The bartender's cream coat and homely chestnut hair give of a kind and social air. Her voice is soft yet accented with a calm mid-western vibe.
>"They've caused the town a mighty hurting, miss. Some merchants don't want to stay open past sundown no more, ain't safe any longer."
>"Couldn't one of the other parties here handle it? I mean, you asked them right" Twilight inquires.
>"Of course, miss. But most'a the other adventurers here are all big mares with more brawn than brains. They either end up gettin' completely outrun by the thieves or outsmarted and robbed themselves."
>Pinkie seems to pop up from underneath Twilight's robe.
>You recoil back from her sudden appearance and yelp. None of the other girls did though. Maybe they're just used to this by now?
>"Really!? What type of big meanies would steal from these gals?"

>Pinkie points to one of the groups of adventures to the left, the mares wearing brighly polished and prim armor.
"Wait, how do you know it was them who got robbed?"
>"I asked them silly. That one's Aegis and that one's Steely Pauldrons and that one's..."
>You tone pinkies rambling out to listen to the bartender again.
>She chuckles softly.
>"Seems you have a few magic ponies in your party, and one that can teleport too! Surely some thieves wouldn't be a challenge for ya."
>Her smile turns more sultry as she scans her eyes over your upper body, slowly making her way down.
>"Especially with a pretty little stallion giving you moral support." She winks at you playfully, with her eyes thankfully.
>You grumble under your breath. The ogling is a pretty common thing living here. 
>It's nice to be so desired you guess. But the clothes don't make it any easier to deal with.
"Spectacular" You say without any enthusiasm.
"Just give us the details and we'll be on our way to the first tailor."
>"Not keeping the garb? I think you could be veeery effective at distracting baddies in a pinch hon~"
>You would ask if all the inhabitants of this world are this flirty and thirsty, but they you remember that you're essentially the equivalent of a gamer grill from earth and that is pretty much the norm.
"Yeah, thanks. But I'll take my chances with some actual armor."
>"Assless pants though. If you're not gonna give the enemy a show ya may as well give me one Anon." Dash chimes in, graceful as always.
>You ignore her and try to keep focus.
>"Shame hon." The bartender changes topic quickly and turns back to Twilight.
>"You're gonna want to start by asking the shops that got robbed most recently. I hear the tanner had one of his prized slings stolen yesterday, you could start with him, just turn left outside the tavern and ask for directions from there."
Applejack finishes her mug of cider and pats Twilight on her wither.
>"C'mon then sugercubes, let's git movin' before sundown hits."

"Hell no. Not before I replace-" you motion to your chest frustrated, "this".
>Dash makes her presence know once more.
>"Heh, want one with a fly big guy? I'd say you've already got pretty easy access."
>This pony was really starting to get to you now; normally she was brash but kept it short. What caused her to get all aggressive? Maybe what Fluttershy said was true?
>"He's actually right Dash." Twilight, your saviour. "We should get some weapons and some armor too, this basic equipment isn't great and we started with some bits."
>"Then c'mon, talking here's not gonna get it done." Applejack is as eloquent as always as she barges back out the door and into town.
"Damn, she's really impulsive."
>"You don't know the half of it Anon"
>You turn around to face the bartender.
"Thanks for the job. Miss..."
>"Tender Hooves, but you can just call me Tender~."
"Uh, thanks Tender, wouldn't happen to have a blanket of some sort would you?"
>Tender laughs and grabs a fur blanket from under the bar. Guess they store them there for when people sleep at the heath.
>"Don't worry about payment. You already agreed to take out the thieves for me. Good luck and stay safe."
>You thank Tender again and wrap the blanket around yourself.
>The rest of the girls start to leave, and as you trail them you feel as if at least some of the eyes have given up staring. Tender still blows you a kiss as you leave.
>"-and that big gal over there is called Garrugamesh"
>Oh, guess Pinkie never finished talking.
>You look over to see a minotaur female with ridiculously oversized mino-breasts peeking out from under her banded mail. She sees you looking and waves while wearing a cocky smile.
>Pinkie shuffles up to you and whispers in your ear. "She said if you need some armor. You can get in hers".
>You grab Pinkie by the hoof and drag her with you out of the building. She is extremely light and hangs from your hand like a flag as she giggles and waves bye to her new friends.
>"Byeeeeeeee everypony."

>You rush after the mares and put Pinkie down next to them as you continue to walk along.
>It's only now you get to see the landscape with some detail. The town looks positively medieval. >Thatch and tiled roofs, wooden and brick houses... not too different from Ponyville now that you think about it.
>Towards the western half of the town you see a rapidly climbing mountain. A lone path looks to lead all the way up to the top, where an old run down building lies. You can't quite make out the details from down here.
>The sky is bright, dimmed only by the occasional cloud cover. Breathing in slowly reveals the air to be clean and light. This seems like a pretty nice town.
>Fillies and colts play off in a corner of the square, playing hide and seek as one hides underneath a produce cart. Guess it's a good incentive as any to help this town you guess.
>Other than that the town is quite active, ponies milling about in a central market, trading with mostly other ponies. There is the sporadic gryphon or minotaur, but the population is nowhere near as diverse as the tavern.
>Twilight is in the meantime talking with a local about directions to a weapon store. After a brief chat she leads the party off southward through some of the winding cobblestone streets.
>You make it to the store rather quickly with the apt directions provided by the pony. The outside looks like many other buildings here, plain and homely.
>You wouldn't think it were even a store were it not for the racks of weapons hung on display in the windows and the large wooden sign that sticks out from above the door with the image of a large axe carved into the wood.

>You all shuffle inside the store; Rarity opens the door to let you in first. You think you hear Applejack say "Mi'lord" as she starts to giggle with Dash.
>The bell chimes as the door is opened and... sweet Moradin what is that thing?
>Behind the counter a large creature sits. It uses its large clawed talon to run a cloth along a bastard sword, cleaning specks of dust off of it.
>You notice a tail coming out from around the counter... how long is it anyway? It's mottled green and brown scales seem to shift as it looks up from its work towards you.
>Its small eyes are a bright yellow; the pupils are tiny read slits that stare into your soul. You feel your body becoming heavy from the feet upwards.
>"Oh my, ever so sorry, friend."
>The creature's voice is brittle yet... friendly. Its eyes defocus and turn to more regular black circle pupils. The heavy feeling sinks back into the ground.
>"Sorry about that man, I find it hard not to focus when I work, and then I forget to turn it off. You ok?"
>His voice is male, yet gentle all the same.
"Yeah, no problem." You say rubbing your head and shaking the feeling away. "What did you do exactly?"
>"Well I'm-"
>"He's a basilisk if my knowledge serves me right, and I assure you, it does." Twilight cuts in. "It's gaze can turn you to stone if you look at it for too long."
"Him" You correct.
>"Uh yes, I suppose." Twilight wears an unsure expression around the basilisk.
>He, however smiles brightly at you. "Well thanks for that Stanger. Most ponies that come in here tend to run away immediately. The ones who stay do so because I forgot to stop my focus, heh."
>"Anyway what can I get a fine group of adventurers like yourselves?"
>Finally someone who doesn't act like a pervert or an ass.
"We were hoping-"

>Dash enters the store last and flies straight towards the basilisk shouting. "Get away from the eye candy, monster". Apparently not getting the memo that he's not an enemy.
>You grab her out of the air and berate her.
>"Dash, he's the owner of the store. Please stop being an ass."
>The basilisk looks unimpressed, Dash just looks indignant. She lightly whinnies but doesn't say anything.
>Twilight facehoofs and sighs. "Anyyyway."
>"We need to equip ourselves for an upcoming adventure, you wouldn't be able to help with that would you."
>He cheers up immediately. "Sure as rain, name's Oculus by the way. What are you looking for?"
>After a few minutes of arguing and testing some edges on a training dummy Oculus keeps in the back and your party is nearly ready to roll.
"So you all have to use the weapons designated for your class huh?"
>Blue Fast quips in. "Don't worry Anon I'm sure we can find some whips and chains for you.
"If it didn't murder you, I'd stab you right now.
>"Yes Anon, we can only use our class weapons. And don't worry, this game isn't too violent, if somepony gets hit, they lose hit points and only feel some of the pain of the impact."
"You don't say."
>You quickly grab a long sword off of the shelf and swing it at Dash hard and fast. Your arm seems to swerve at the last minute and miss her completely however.
>"Whoa, nice try monkey-boy~."
>You try stabbing and bashing her with it but she nimbly dodges and your blows seem to curve away from her automatically.
>Twilight tries to explain. "Anon, you can't use weapons that aren't part of your class; you are not proficient in short swords."
>Dash stops dodging and sticks her tongue out at you.
"God damn D&D rules"
>"O&O rules."

>After much grumbling and missed swings on Dash you finally take Twilights suggestion and tie the short spear to your back as well as tying the sling to your pack.
>A short-spear is better than nothing you guess. Or to: "Make sure you keep your distance and don't get hurt." As Twilight put it.
>Still. You wonder what class you really are anyway. What type of healer uses a spear?
>Whatever. For now you bid your new bro Oculus farewell and try to make your way to the tailor.
>You quickly make your way to the tailor following the advice of another pony. The store is much more decorated than many of the other buildings that surround it. The walls are painted in carnival colors mimicking a fair from earth.
>"What a travesty of a boutique!" Rarity utters in a shrill voice, putting her hoof over her forehead motioning she wants to faint.
>The party enters the building into a large centre room. Much of the room is covered in ponykins wearing whimsical and intricate fantasy armor. I guess this tailor was also an armorsmith?
>You're quickly assailed by the silky laughter of a pony standing in the back of the room. Or more accurately, balancing on a large ball with one hoof.
>Damn, for a pony that's pretty damn impressive.
>"Good day, my name's Harlequin and how may I help youuuuuuu"
>Harlequin is knocked off balance when Pinkie joins her on the ball.
>"Rooooom for one more?"
>The two face opposite directions repositioning their hooves trying to keep stable.
>"Sooooo, what can I do for you?" Harlequin hops off the ball and lands square on four hooves. >Pinkie actually manages to keep her footing and balances without a hitch. Honestly pony agility never ceases to amaze you.

>Fluttershy decides to pipe up. "Um, we were hoping to buy some armor for out adventures."
>In short order you had got everyone's armor set out. Once again it came to you.
"So what do I get to wear this time? A bikini? A ball-gag? Full on bdsm gear?
>Harlequin sounds confused. "Uh, but dear cleric of The Sun, would you not prefer some armor?
>You double take.
"Wait a minute, I'm a cleric!?"
>"Uh, yeah Anon. A cleric of The Sun, why?
"Why? I know exactly what clerics can use."
>"Yeah, what's that? Slutty clothing and-"
>You grab the heavy mace from Applejacks wither, circle round around and smash Dash over the head with it.
"Maces."
>Dash looks dazed and hurt and rubs her head with a hoof. Be a damn shame if you did permanent damage you guess, might not be able to notice the difference though.
"And armor. Suit me up."
>Half an Hour later and your party stands at the tanner's store. You turn and look at all the equipment you bought from the weapon store and tailor.
>Rarity chose to carry a dagger and nothing else but a finely crafted blue robe.
>"I'm a sorcerer darling. I already have everything I need." She added with a confident smile.
>Twilight took a quarterstaff and a light crossbow. Guess she knows what she's doing. She also dressed in a traditional purple wizards robe. It looks like she has an Owl as a familiar too, he rests on her hat.
>Applejack has a very large sword. Probably won't be too fast with it and it's too big to strap a shield to the hand guard without unbalancing it but it'll kill things hard enough you guess. She also has a heavy mace strapped to her side for backup and within mouth grabbing range. She wears a chain shirt over her abdomen.

>Pinkie took a thin rapier and a short bow. You don't see her carrying any instruments buy you don't doubt she has them. She's already a ball of cocaine coated in sugar. You dread to think of how fast and from how many different directions she can stab an enemy in combat with that rapier. The only thing that slows her down is her studded leather armor.
>Dash now has an actual longbow (by pony standards), it's not composite but heck, you don't even know how she can fire a normal one. She also has a longsword in case she forgets she has 'range' in her class name. She refused to wear studded leather since she claimed it was too heavy so she agreed on a decently thick leather set.
"Nice bow Dash. It has a DEEP curve, you're not compensating for something are you?"
>"Yeah, weak allies."
>... Well fuck you Dash.
>Fluttershy delicately sheaths her scimitar in her wither sheath and hangs her sling from her sadlebag. Much like dash and Applejack she carries a pack of ammo. Sling bullets in one of her pouches hung from her saddlebag. She refused to wear any armor made of metal and stuck with some thick hide armor to give her protection. A small squirrel titters as it rests on her back eating a nut.
>Now you wielded the heavy mace you acquired from Applejack and kept the shortspear for backup. >You also wore actual banded mail. It was heavy as sin, but thick and made you harder to penetrate than everyone else. 
>Shame you have no shield but it's too late to go back now. You have an adventure to experience.
>Honestly you were surprised the mare could make the mail fit as well as it does. Most of the designs in the store were made exclusively for ponies; maybe another quadruped could have fit in them with a little work.
>You however, are no quadruped. Harlequin was by no means an amateur however and within 10 or so minutes she had modified a banded mail to fit your longer torso.
>It hugs your torso closely, lying on top of a padded layer. You insisted it be broad enough to protect you from strikes but Harlequin insisted it "Kept the lithe form of your body visible." You really hope you don't look like the equivalent of a cosplaying weaboo girl.
>You asked for a full helmet with a visor - purely for the crusader aesthetics. However your dream was cut short when you noticed just how little you could see with it on. Open helmet it is you guess.
>The fore-greaves were modified into a rerebrace and a vambrace pretty easily.
>Disappointingly the only gauntlets that were available were made for far thicker Minotaur hands and only had 4 holes for fingers. Harlequin was kind enough to sew an extra finger-cover onto a pair of leather gloves; you also got some thick leather boots. Not the best you guess, but they'll do for now.
>The rear-greaves needed the least modifying and fit on quite snugly now. Much like the armor covering your arms they are strapped on using thick leather straps.
>Unlike your banded mail cuirass they didn't protect your rear too well.
"Guess I just gotta keep my enemies in front of me."
>"I can barely tell were your front is anymore Anon" Twilight says unsure.
>You stare down at the party of mares walking along side you; their faces show differing levels of acceptance.

>Pinkie searches you in 360 degrees popping in and around you to inspect all of the various joints and straps... You really hope you never piss her off, she moves far faster than your eyes can track.
>Applejack actually looks impressed. She lets out an enthusiastic whistle. "Well I'll be sugarcube, you sure you can carry all that? Sure you don't want me to take yer pack fer ya?"
>While your armor is heavy, your pack, much like everyone- everypony else's is rather light. It contains rations for the week and water for the day as well as rope and a small tinderbox. Twilight carries a hooded lantern that hangs from her side, currently unlit.
"I'm fine Applejack."
>You strap your mace to your side using the binding attached to the bottom of your cuirass.
"These human muscles were made for heaving heavy armor."
>As a cruel twist of fate you topple sideward after trying to pose like a strongman and land in a small cloud of dust on the ground.
>"Completely ruined it for me, I'm dry as a desert."
>Well at least Dash likes it.
>Twilight helps you off of the ground and you wobble slightly adjusting to the weight and gaining some balance.
>"Enough wasting time girls, we have thieves to deal with. Oh and Anon. If it ever becomes too much to handle, just ask and I'll help carry it. I know colts can tire quickly when doing heavy labor."
>You roll your eyes. But her smile is genuine, maybe she really doesn't realise how unencouraging she sounds.
>You make your way over to the various tanning racks situated outside of what looks like the store Tender told you about.
>A slim Pegasus goes about strapping a recently sliced hide on one of the racks to dry out in the sun. >Looks like she covers it in some sort of preservation liquid before strapping it down to protect from rot, you're not sure what's in the liquid but you can smell it from over here, it smells like alkaline and chemicals.

>As you approach you notice Fluttershy take the lead and flutter over to the mare (poorly, with her decently heavy hide armor) as she goes about her job.
>"Um miss. Shouldn't you soak those hides for a couple days before tanning? Applying the preservative now might not be effective. Especially if you leave it to sun-dry."
>Woah. There are many questions you want to ask about this situation. The most pressing of them being why the hell does Fluttershy know how to tan leather?
>The Pegasus tanner mare has a sweet voice. Were it not for the short bow she wears around her back you would assume she was the tanner's daughter.
>"Oh another of the craft" She smiles knowingly. "I would love to soak these hides for about a week or so, I even have an area with a draft to hang them to let them dry slowly."
>Her face changes quickly to an annoyed frown. "I would be using it were it not for the little vagabond problem we're having in town."
>Rarity steps forward to address the mare. "That is what we're here for dear. The Elements of Harmony. At your service."
>She does a small curtsy.
>"You're sure about that? I'd hate to see you end up like the last pack of adventurers that tired taking them down. Stripped of everything but the clothes on their flanks."
>Twilight picks up where Rarity left off. "I assure you ma'am we're no ordinary group of adventurers. >We'll find these thieves and give them justice. We just need your help to deliver it."
>The mare seems impressed by Twilights confidence. Maybe she has a higher charisma score than you though.
>"Hmm. Ok, if you're sure then I'll try to help however I can. What do ya want to know?"
"How about what the thieves stole from you?"
>The mare turns to you surprised. Almost shocked to see you aren't just an armor rack the party bought with them.
>"Oh, well I guess the main things they stole are my hides." She motions you to come closer, so you move your ear to her mouth."

>She whispers "I have a secret spot up the river a short ways I use to dry my skins" She pauses, looking sadly at the ground. "Or at least, it was secret."
>"I doubt you'd find much there though. The river varies in height and swept through recently in a river flood. Most traces of they would have gone downstream with it."
>You notice Twilight jotting down notes off to your side.
>"Other than that, they managed to make off with one of my prized slings. Specially master crafted and enchanted by a magic gal up in Canterlot."
>Canterlot exists here? Guess this place has a lot of resemblance to Equestria in a way. But you can't help but wonder, how much resemblance?
>"I kept it locked up in the workshop over there."
>She points over to a small wooden building connected to the main shop.
>"I can let ya in and give you some time to look around if ya want?"
>"That would be great" Twilight answers.
>The mare nods curtly and leads you over to the conjoined workshop. She unlocks the oaken door.
 >It creeks as it swings open, revealing a typical workshop you'd expect of a tanner. Barrels of preserving liquid, benches for hammering and skinning and hung hides adorn the room.
>"I'll be getting back to work, tell me if you find something hon."
"Will do."
>"Okay girls split up and look for any clues as to where the robbers could have gotten to."
>The mares spread out around the room, filling it quickly.
>You took it upon yourself to follow Twilight and search to western wall.
>Twilight notices and pulls out a chair with her magic.
>"Don't worry about searching Anon. You must be tired with all that armor on. Just take a rest and let us handle this."
>If she didn't always sound so sincere you'd smack her.
>"After all, I know colts can get bored of all this mystery, adventuring stuff anyway."
>With your mace.
>You sigh.

"C'mon Twilight, I loved experiencing adventures and investigating mysteries back home. It's why I played to begin with."
>"I know Anon. And I'm sure you were great player, I'm just saying game is probably a lot more marely than what you're used to back home. There is no stopping when were in battle and it can hurt a lot too!"
>You are about to reply when you realise that she's not going to be easily convinced by your words. It would be pointless to argue. You're just going to have to prove you're capable at this game with your actions.
>The second you see those thieves you're gonna introduce them to missus Smashy.
>Applejacks voice rings out to your right. "Uh gals, think ah found something.
>The whole party moves to surround what Applejack is looking at.
>A small ovular object lies underneath a workbench.
>You bend down to pick it up and bring it closer to your face for inspection.
>It feels smooth, hard and metallic. A closer look reveals it to be made out of a precious metal. You twirl the object in your hand and watch it shine when it catches the sun.
>"What /is/ that?" Dash comments hovering close to your head.
>You notice a small ridge jutting out on the side and flick it with your thumb.
>Now it becomes abundantly clear that this is a locket as it folds open to reveal a small painting inside.
>It looks like it is of 2 ponies. A mare and a stallion, the mare has a dark coat, her hair a stunning amethyst. The stallion is almost the complete opposite, his fur a pearly while and his mane a dusty blonde.
>They look happy, wearing serene smiles and carrying something between their collective hooves. It looks like a bundle of something, but you can't quite make out what.
>Twilight levitates the locket out of your hand to inspect it closer herself.
>"A pendant? What is this doing here? And why is it missing its chain?"

>Twilight wears an inquisitive look as she scrutinises the outer shell for any markings. She then turns the locket around and looks at the small work of art within.
>"Neither of these ponies looks like the leatherworker..."
>"Keep searching the room girls and see if you can find anything else. Anon, come with me, we'll ask her about this pendant."
>You nod and lightly step out of the workshop with Twilight and over to the mare now taking a drink from a small leather waterskin.
>The mare's ears flick up and turn to you. She puts the waterskin down on the bench she rested on and stood to greet you.
>"Sooo. Any luck in there?"
"Yeah we-"
>"Sort of. We found this pendant and were wondering if it belonged to you or someone you know maybe?"
>Twilight levitates the locket over to the tanner and lets her scrutinise it.
>The mare looks at the locket confused for a moment before letting out a quick chuckle.
>"Heh, if I owned anything half as valuable as this I'd have hired a cute colt to mare the shop while I'm hunting."
>She plays with the locket, turning it as it glitters in the afternoon glow. A look of surprise crosses her muzzle as the centrepiece flips open however.
>"Woah. Well would you look at that?"
"What's so interesting, they not have many flip-lockets here?" 
>"Well for starters no. These are pretty rare finds, usually only ever created on commission. But that's not what I'm referring to."
>"These two ponies in here are Fleethoof and Sweetberry."
>"Uh, and they are?" Twilight asks curiously, flipping open her notebook once more.
>"Local folks. Nicest ponies you'd meet for miles, some of my best customers. Uh, or /were/ some of my best customers."
>You smile.
"Ha, they buy you dry and then skip town?"
>She doesn't share your enthusiasm and keeps a stoic face never taking her eyes off the locket.

>"Nah. They had a mansion on the south side of town, used to make wine from the orchard in the garden. Even gave some to the town every year for heaths warming. Something about 'giving back to the community'. Great ponies. Great parents too, they had 3 fillies."
>You smile falters.
"So what happened?"
>"'Bout a year ago the whole towns in a fuss one night because there's smoke bellowing out of the south side. Everypony tried to get there as fast as they could. But it was far too late. Since it was so late, we didn't notice the fire 'till it had eaten half the house."
>"We put it out as fast as we could. But without proper equipment the pegasi could only do so much. >It was ashes by morning. No one over saw anypony leave the house. And we've never seen any of them since."
>The air hangs a little more thick in you nostrils and your armor seems to slog you down a little more after she spoke.
>The effect on Twilight is similar, expect she looks devastated. She turns to you and quickly flinches, putting on a stern face. The slight crack in her voice betrays her feelings however.
>"S- so do you have any idea how this pendant ended up in your workshop?"
>"'fraid not. I knew them but not enough for them to gift me /this/."
>It's not the best lead but at least it's something.
"Err, you wouldn't happen to know where they lived exactly would you? Enough to give us directions?"
>She tilts her head and nods curtly.

>An hour and many wrong turns later and you're all lined up by a ruin of a house. It stands a few hundred meters off from the edge of town; most of the surrounding area is comprised of broken fences defending looted, burned and weedy crops.
>The clouds have really started to pick up; they appear to getting darker too. Is there rain scheduled for tonight? Speaking of which it's getting pretty dark in general. How long have you been playing this, When do you go home?
>"She wasn't lying when she said this place was burned to the ground. It doesn't even look like anyone's been here since the incident."
>Twilight takes the lead and directs the party once more.
>"Alright girls. We're looking for any traces of recent activity here. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash takes the upstairs. The stairs have most likely collapsed and we have no chance at getting up there.
>The two mares salute and flap their way up the building.
>"Applejack, Pinkie, check to see if any of these crops were grown recently or if there are any campsites out there."
>Both mares nod and make their way around the back of the house... Well Applejack walks, Pinkie bounces beside her chatting about becoming the world's next Sherlock Hooves.
>"Rarity you come with me inside the house, we'll check the lower floor. Anon you stay-"
"Don't even try it. I'm going in there too."
>"But what if it's trapped Anon?"
>"Then my human wits will have to save me. I'm here to adventure Twilight, not to sit around while you girls do everything."
>Twilight looks guilty for a moment as her ears fall to cover her face. She nods.
>"Fine, but stay close Anon. This world may not be able to kill you. But it can still hurt you."
>You swallow and put on a hard look.
"Let's go"

>The large burnt wooden doorway creaks lightly as it is pushed open. When it is mostly open Twilight releases it from her magic. It falls forward onto the ground kicking up soot and dust into the air.
>You all start to cough as the soot enters your airway and pull your inner padding over your mouth like a scarf to protect yourself.
>After you all finish choking you continue into the building slowly, watching your step for any squatting animals. The main hallway in front of you is mostly destroyed; you can see light pouring down from the top of the stairs... Guess there's a hole that goes through the entire house.
>This entire place is darkened with sitting ash. The walls black are coal like, the smell of burnt wood still hangs in the air, bleeding from the walls.
>You see a 2 doors close by, one heavily seared and darkened by flame on the left and one partly covered by debris on the right.
>The hallway continues further past the stairs, but you can see the garden at the end. Honestly you're not sure staying in this house is that good of an idea, it doesn't seem the most structurally sound.
>The tell tale rumble of thunder in the distance and the pitter-patter of rain on the house alert you to the quickly intensifying rain outside.
>Rarity takes the left doorway, nodding at you and Twilight to take the right.
>Rarity tip-toes lightly on her hooves as to avoid smearing soot on her dyed boots as she quietly opens the door with her magic and slides in, closing it behind her.
>You and Twilight take the door on the left. You turn handle in an attempt to open it but find it locked or jammed.
>"Hmmm, I suppose we could-"
>*CRASH*
>You interrupt Twilight as you smash your foot into the lock.

>You turn to smile cockily at her when you notice something to your right.
>A large pole of wood is coming rapidly towards you from inside the door.
>Twilight ducks quickly and you try to dodge to the side but are sideswiped by the wood and knocked on your back.
"Ah, shit, fuck ass"
>The area the wood grazed stings and throbs. God damn, she wasn't lying when she said this place could hurt.
>"Anon are you okay!"
>Twilight clambers to her hooves and rushes over to you.
"Heh... yeah... peachy, fine.
>You climb slowly to your feet holding your side. As you reach full height you pull your hands away and shake the pain off.
"But whoever set that won't be."
>"Just be careful and stay behind me from now on Anon. I can't just have you getting hurt here."
>You let out the breath you were holding in.
>"C'mon, let's go."
>You poke your head through the door, unable to spot any other traps you step lightly through the door and into the room within.
>Twilight looks unsure but quickly tries to step through when you turn to look at her. You grab her and help her over the rubble covering lower half of the doorway, putting her down next to you.
>"Th- thanks."
>Her face is red and she coughs lightly.
>You think you hear something in the distance but can't quite make it out? Sounded like someone shouting.
>You turn to examine the room you are currently standing in.
>Huh, looks like a main living room. A wooden coffee table lays split in the centre of the room, a huge piece of debris still covering it.
>What is strange is that the room has 2 makeshift beds setup, one large and one rather pitifully small. Simply some sheets- most likely pilfered from somewhere else in the house, setup with some bundled sheets to make a pillow.
>You are about to continue looking around the room when you spot Twilight staring at the beds. Her face looks shocked and saddened.

>Quickly however you see her eyes twitch and narrow, her teeth show themselves and grind and her eyes light with fire. Gears are grinding in her head, but net pleasantly.
>"They're staying here... Theses ponies- these animals are staying in this house. They must have stolen the pendant from here and dropped it..."
>"How DARE they steal from the dead and lie on their bodies!"
>Holy crap you don't think you've ever seen Twilight this angry.
>But you're inclined to agree. Who would steal from this place wilfully?
>... What if they started the fire too? What if this was just a way of lining their pockets at the cost of these ponies lives. You feel your rage building but calm once you see Twilight ready to turn the planet into a sun. Someone has to keep calm.
>The rain outside has picked up, you can hear the thunder close now and the storm heightens outside.
>You look around the room again. It has little in the way of ornaments. Looks like most were stripped after the fire. Except for a single painting that hangs above what's left of a fireplace at the end of the room.
>It is discoloured by heat and covered in ash and soot but you can just barely make out a family. The two ponies from the locket are in the middle and beneath them-
>"EUGHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA"
>You hear a glass shattering scream come from behind you that Rarity entered.
>Twilight turns and hops through the door quickly, you follow suit as twilight bashes open the door Rarity entered.
>The room is almost barren. You notice a huge dining table that runs along the length of the room but much like the coffee table it's shattered by debris.
>You notice Rarity breathing heavily against the far wall and both of you rush over to her to check what's wrong with her.
>You kneel next to her and hold her head in your hand as you try to shake her awake.
"Rarity!"

>A hoof feels its way onto your right shoulder and you jolt to the left as your hand shoots to your weapon.
"AHHH"
>Both you and Twilight stare at Fluttershy, her mane is a mess and her fur is matted with ash.
>"Oh, I- I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you."
>She says that, yet her own face betrays how scared she is.
>"W- We heard shouting in the garden. Dash went to go check it out. She told me to come get you b- but it was so dark down here and then I heard Rarity scream so I came-"
>You hold a hand to Fluttershy's mouth.
"Shh, calm down."
>She breaths deeply and opens her eyes slowly. She then turns to Rarity.
>"Wh- what's wrong with her."
>Twilight turns back to Rarity to closer examine her.
>She turns her over and pulls 2 small needle-head darts out from her back, a small amount of blood begins to drip out of the wounds down Rarities back.
"Shit, is she okay?"
>"Don't worry Anonymous. Like I said, we're not in danger, she's just passed out. If her vitals were bad the game would immediately eject her."
>Holy shit. How serious of a game are you playing here anyway? The ponies seem so real and all seem to act independently. Ponies live and die here. Where even /are/ you?
>"I can h- help."
>Fluttershy closes her eyes as she lays her hoof on Rarities side. After a moment she starts to chant some unknown words.
>Or are they? They sound so familiar, bright and heavenly. Like a conversation between angels, heard only in snippets from somebody listening from earth.
>The wounds on Rarities back closes and the blood stops flowing. Her breathing seems to pick up and her eyes slowly drift open.
>"Wha- who."
>Fluttershy tries to calm Rarity as she awakens.
>"Shhhh. You're fine."
>Rarity looks confused and dazed as she scans your faces.
>Twilight interjects.
>"You were hit by a trap; looks like it knocked you hit-points to 0 and knocked you unconscious."
>You look amazed at Rarity and then turn to Fluttershy.

"Holy crap Fluttershy, since when can you use magic?"
>She smiles shyly and looks away.
>"I'm a druid anon, I can cast spells a lot like the ones you do."
>"Holy damn, I forgot cleric could cast spells."
>You turn quickly to Rarity and put your hand on her belly.
>...
>Huh.
>You kind of just expected the words would come to you.
>Fluttershy giggles sweetly.
>"Oh Anon, you need to prepare them first. That was the only healing spell I prepared and it was only meant to cure minor wounds."
>You scratch your chin.
>"I don't remember preparing any? Don't we do that early in the morning anyway?"
>Twilight pipes up.
>"You should start with a basic set prepared when you first start playing. Sorry Anon, I don't remember what was prepared for you."
"Damn."
>"As wonderful as your hand feels darling I do believe Dash and the others may need our help"
>"Oh shoot, you're right."
>Twilight takes off through the door.
"Aww, damn."
>You turn to see an uneasy Fluttershy and Rarity barely able to keep on four legs.
>A loud jolt of thunder causes you all to flinch.
>Well, guess if you're going to prove yourself to the party at some point it may as well be now.
>You put on a strong expression and turn to address the two mares.
"Fluttershy stay here and help Rarity up."
>You turn and stand up, ready to leave.
>Fluttershy shouts out behind you.
>"Anon please wait, where are you going?!"
>You turn one last time before you leave the room.
"To teach some thieves how to praise the Sun."