Dainty Blaze

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

<Snipped quote by Monochromatic Rainbow> Yay! :) I also finally got a new entry up with Snow Tail's response. I've got work today, so I'll have to work on Sweeper's reaction to the duel latter. <Snipped quote by Bright_Ops> Hope it works out. Sorry that I couldn't get back sooner with a reply, but I'm feeling much better now. <Snipped quote by Dainty Blaze> Neat stuff. I recently added a bit with the Scholarship wondering about Lore and Glory. After all, they have a eccentric alicorn to watch over.

@Tai Falkenburg

Thanks. Sorry it took me a bit to reply any who. I like Sweeper she seems like a fun character. Can't wait to see how Glory's going to react

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

The Undercity was a dark, dank husk of it once possibly was. The streets were narrow, filthy, and filled to the brim with those afflicted by the poverty brought by this Whitegold. Glory was disgusted by the state of things here. Sure poverty was no new idea to her; as a soldier with the Free Army she had walked through areas that had once been war zones but ponies actively strived to make the situation better for those impoverished by the wars. Here crime set in to make up for it, a natural effect to the rampant poverty. More than once Glory had to scare off the occasional thief or thug. The flashing of her blade or menacing thrum of her magic sent most scurrying. There was one or two desperate enough to lash out with a rusty shiv or dagger; the loss of a hoof was the cost of their lesson. Finding the Ugly Duckling-- at first-- had been a chore but the abundance of beggars and orphans. The jingling of a coin purse set them in agreeable moods—that and a few sweet words. Glory trotted down a die alleyway. Her eyes stayed focused on the door way at the end of the way. A single crimson door with a dark grey duckling embroidered on it. Glory’s eyes narrowed as a pair of Earth Ponies walked out in front of the doorway. They looked menacing but the effect was lost on Glory. She stopped a few feet before them. “Stand aside,” she said calmly. “Ain’t that sweet eh,” one said to his companion, who snickered in reply. “Yep filly lookin’ fer a spot ‘side’s the boss.” The second on stepped forward and licked his lips. “But you’ll have to pay th’ entrance fee, one good fu-“The loss of his tongue stopped his words short. The first Earth Pony swore and made to rush Glory. The Unicorn walked calmly past as he skewered himself on a spear of light. Unwashed brutes. Glory sniffed as she bucked the flailing Earth Pony through the door bodily. She followed the body down the stairs. Glory noted the pictures, some of a handsome green Pegasus stallion, a skinny yellow pony always at his side. His eyes sparked with a darkness she was all too familiar with, that of a calculated killer. The same look she witnessed every time she sat before a mirror. She came into a dark bar that stank of cigar smoke and whiskey. The same green Pegasus from the photos stared at her, wide eyed before smiling broadly. Relief settled Glory’s pulse for the first time in hours, his back was to her but that shaggy black mane only belonged to one stallion she knew of. “Welcome,” he said merrily. “I see Ms. Mirror did see to your coming. Please sit, have a glass, and let’s get down to business.” Glory carefully stepped forward, blade level at her side. Why was Glory staring forward like that? His eyes were unfocused and he was mumbling to himself. The Unicorn scowled and hissed through clenched teeth, “What did you do to him?” “Just some vocal persuasion,” the Pegasus said, his voice hinting malice. “Please sit.” Glory didn’t move. The stallion’s smile faded. “Very well, stand. I have a proposition for you.” “Whatever you want no deal,” Glory said. “Now allow me to walk out of here with Lore or I’ll paint these walls with your blood.” The Pegasus tapped a hoof against the marble tabletop. Glory barely registered a yellow form out of her right. She whirled but was too late. A pair of strikes sent her right leg crumbling under her. She was pitched forward but lashed out with her sword only to have it deflected by a short length of metal that her assailant held in his mouth. A leg wrapped around her neck as a hoof flicked painfully against her horn. White, hot pain lanced through her skull, turning her vision white as her magic flicked. Her blade fell to the ground with a clatter. A wheezing breathe inches from her ear sent shivers down her spine. A cool length of steel pressed up against her throat as a yellow Earth Pony kept her pinned to the wooden floor. One wrong move and her life’s blood would flow. “Easy Spook.” The metal was pulled away a fraction of an inch. “Now then Ms. Glory shall we start our business or do you want to fight some more. Believe me my friend here would love to slight your throat. Unfortunately I need you alive not bleeding out onto my floor. Besides cleaning up bodies on my abodes floor is a hassle.” Glory glared up at him, her silver eyes alight with fury as he continued. “I need your help, ironic here I am asking when you’re the one at a position to beg for your life. Ah well. Now then my associate wants you alive so she can just kill you. Revenge is such pointless business, no profit in it. I, however, see your use. You’re going to kill my associate. When the dust settles everyone will think it was he need for revenge that did her in and no one will think the wiser as I step up and take her territories. “Normally I’d just off her and be done with it, that is after all how I’ve come to control the Undercity. But my associate holds power among these aristocrats. She’s part of the Inner Circles you see and simply killing her will turn attention on me, and well they may have a skewed justice system but it’s still there. I would be locked up but if you kill her all they would have are suspicions, can’t lock someone up on suspicion alone. What do you say?” Glory glared at him, defiant. As if she would agree with such swill. He could kill her. Death wasn’t something she feared. The Pegasus stood up and walked to her. He knelt before her, his eyes locking on hers. “I know you don’t fear death, I see it in your eyes. But what of your friend.” Glory’s heart nearly stopped. “How much pain can he endure before he dies? And they’ve come forward with wonderful innovations in medicine. I guarantee a week before he croaks.” He scowled at her. “Bet your ass on that.” Glory had never felt more helpless. Her instincts roared for her lash out, go down fighting take as many with her as possible. But the sincerity at his words struck her. There was only one choice. “I’ll do it<” she said quietly, hating herself for giving in. His smile returned. “I’m sorry what was that?” “I’ll do it,” she hissed. “Wonderful!” He clapped his hooves together. He then went into explaining the plan. The first chance Glory got this M would bleed out at her hooves, begging for his miserable life. This Glory swore.

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Things are heating up! Now for Glory's scene.

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Consciousness came back to Lore slowly. He sat in a plush red couch that curled around a black marble table. He was in some kind of underground bar. His memory of how he got there was nonexistent. Last he recalled he was walking out of the library with… someone. Who had he walked out of the library with? He couldn’t remember what she—it was a she he was sure—even looked like. Though her voice had been so beautiful. The Pegasus shook his head. Now was not the time for that. He got a better bearing of the bar. It had a gothic feel to it, the tables had a sickly looking gray duckling—at least he thought it was a duckling—decorated the marble table tops. A lone Griffin sat eyeing him from under a derby behind the counter. He held a mug in his talons, sipping form it every now and then. Lore shivered as the Griffin’s eyes scanned his form not unlike a lion does in sizing up a gazelle. A thousand questions raced through Lore’s mind. Why was he here? Who had nabbed him without his remembering it? This was looking like those shady mystery crime novels his mother fancied, after all this place screamed criminal headquarters. He was about to get wacked, or at the very least ransomed off! Yep he was dead. A Scholar wasn’t worth much. Lore’s teeth chattered at the idea. At the very least “Ah look who’s awake!” Lore looked to the staircase that acted as the bar’s entrance. A large teal Pegasus walked in flanked by a gaunt Earth Pony. The Pegasus had a cheery grin on his muzzle, and there was a bounce to his step. He gave off a jovial demeanor. He wore a sleek black suit that hugged his body just enough to let his muscle tone show through. His black mane was combed over to the side sharply. Lore found himself disarmed by this pony’s disposition. As for the Earth Pony, just looking at him sent shivers down Lore’s spine, and he’d spent many a dark night deep in crypt’s, tombs, and graves. The stallion was a dark yellow, a pair of eyes a few shades lighter than the Earth Pony’s coat stared out from under a wild mass of crimson hair. His eyes were unblinking and seemed to stare into Lore’s mind. He wore nothing save black band holding a dagger to his right fore-hoof. His cutie mark further unnerved the perplexed Lore. It was a cloud of smoke the same color as his mane with a manic grinning face peering out menacingly. “How’s the head?” the other Pegasus inquired as he sat down across from Lore. “Manipulation via voice magic mixed with a cocktail of sedatives can be rather intense I’m told. “ Voice magic? Lore pushed yet another question to the back of his mind, deciding to go with the most obvious of the bunch. “Where am I?” “My place of business and pleasure,” the jovial stallion said with a wink. “The Ugly Duckling.” His eyes widened. “Oh where are my manners. My name is M. The quiet fellow to my right is Spook.” M laughed as Lore’s eyes gravitated warily to the stallion. “Don’t mind him my good lad. Spook’s bark is far worse than his bite.” He turned to his friend. “No pun intended my friend.” The Earth Pony shrugged. Lore saw the exchange as peculiar. M seemed to notice. “He can’t talk if it isn’t obvious.” That caught Lore off guard. Spook opened his mouth. He had no tongue! “Used to be part of the Inquisition. Then he got captured for asking too many questions in dark tunnels.” M shuddered. “Never get involved with the Cult of Laughter my good lad. Dark things creep behind those bright smiles.” Lore looked over at the Earth Pony once more, this time feeling pity toward the stallion. The feeling quickly faded as Spook’s pale yellow eyes fixed on him, cold malice resided there. “Pity,” M said his tone losing all of its chipper timbre. “Is not something he likes being the foci of. A feeling I share. Before you is a weapon pure and simple. Granted there is no one I trust more than he, but then every warrior puts their absolute trust in their blade don’t they?” “Why am I here?” Lore chanced to steer the conversation toward a subject that didn’t make him wonder if they would kill him on spot or not. To Lore’s great relief, or absolute terror—couldn’t quite pick which—M’s jovial demeanor returned as he laughed. “Finally the question that needed to be asked,” he said. “We are waiting for your friend. I’m afraid you are a means to an end.” Lore blanched. M laughed, again. “Oh nothing so gruesome. Once Glory arrives I shall invite her to join me to a soirée my associate is hosting you will be free to go, I’ll even give you a life time pass past my front door. In the mean time we shall have a drink. Ignatius, a bottle of merlot any year beyond eight hundred will do. “ The Griffin nodded and hurried into the backroom, behind the bar. “What does your associate want with Glory?” “Revenge I gather,” M said in a bored tone. “A fruitless venture. No profit whatsoever but my associate is prickly about his honor.” The Griffin—Ignatius—set down two glasses of a rich scarlet liquid. It smelled faintly of rose and raspberry. Lore looked at the glass then back at M, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Why would someone be after Glory?” Lore asked “That is the question,” M took a sip of his drink. He pulled the glass back with a satisfied sigh. “Mmmm. Damn good year. You know wine is scarce where I’m from. Dare say there’s a bit of an inhibition going on. Drink my boy the wine won’t kill you. Scouts honor.” “Somehow I doubt you were a scout.” “Oh but I was.” M shrugged. “For three years. Now then. Onto more important business. What is a scholar from the Freelands doing in Equestria?” “Sightseeing,” Lore snorted. His mood had soured as the wine once had. “Oh yes,” M said, playing along. “We have a wonderful array of sights. War, bigotry, famine. Yes quite the plethora of depraved beauty. Sick is what it is. No I believe you’re here to see for yourself if these Alicorns that have been floating around in fact exist.” Lore made to speak but M cut him off. “And don’t dare deny it. I’ve my set of spies in the Freelands. How else would I track down Ms. Glory?” “Fine. Yes I’m here to discover if the rumors are true. What’s it to you?” “My, such a tongue, sharp for a noble.” “What can I say? I never took to matters of etiquette. Now why is your associate after Glory?” “That I can see.” M drained his glass. “As to why I care, I am simply curious. These Alicorns are of no consequence to myself of my dealings. Unless they wish to have a hoof in it then I say have at. I would enjoy having some long term partners.” He laughed at that for reasons Lore couldn’t understand. “Forgive me, sometimes I just can’t help myself.” M’s eyes flashed a subtle green. Lore didn’t notice. “How about I tell you a little story?”

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

“A pretty name.” She giggled. “Thank you.” Lore could listen to that giggle for eternity. He had to admit she had his attention. He felt nervousness fill him. It was odd he normally didn’t get flustered around pretty mares. “So Mr. Lore what bring you to Equestria?” “Pursuing an old fascination of mine is all.” He then realized it was late as his eyes fell on a nearby clock. Lore stretched his wings of the dull ache they had accumulated. “I’m sorry to cut this short but I need to head back. I have quite the journey ahead of me. I bid oyu goodnight Ms. Mirror.” As he stood up the mare did as well. “Do you mind if I walk out with you?’ She asked her vice captivated him. He found it hard to say no to her. He didn’t want to say no. “Uh sure,” he answered dumbly. A pleasant haze settled in his mind as all he could think about was the sound of this mare’s voice. She was talking about…something as they walked out into the cool night. Glory ran through the streets of the Inner City toward the Stockhoof Academy. She weaved through the crowds with ease, her eye fixed ahead of her. She tore over the marble steps of the main hall. She saw Professor Crypt and rushed toward him. Her heart was thumping in her chest, and not from the physical exertion. “Crypt!” she shouted as she skidded to a halt. “Where’s Lore? This is urgent!” “Umm last we talked he wished to see the Quill Library,” the old stallion said, shocked by her appearance. “What’s happened? Are you alright?” “His life is in danger,” she said in a clipped tone,” Where is this library? Quickly now!” “It’s three blocks from here to the east. Now what’s going-” She turned on her heel. “Thank you.” She galloped away, leaving a bewildered stallion in her wake. The library was an easy find, large with a row of pillars before the double doors. She burst through them, shocking the receptionist behind the book checkout counter. The young mare regained her senses quickly as Glory ran up to the counter. “What’s your rush?!” she said sharply, a disapproving scowl on her features. “Have you seen a white Pegasus stallion?” Glory asked. “Black mane, grey robe.” “Lower your voice!’ the mare hissed. “This is a library. Now why are you running through those doors like a maniac?” Very well then. Glory set her jaw and her features darkened ever further. “White Pegasus, black mane, grey robe,” A length of steel slid form its sheath. “Where is he?” Glory’s tone and the look in her eye promised punishment most cruel if she didn’t get an answer she liked. The young mare shook, her eyes fixed on the blade. She gulped and said,” H-he just l-left with some mare.” She pressed her back to the file cabinets behind her. “P-please don’t hurt me!” All eyes were on the Unicorn, most were wide with shock. Glory sheathed her blade. “Thank you.” She set the small pouch of gems on the counter. “For your troubles.” She left and scanned the streets. She barely caught a Lore walk around a corner down the street. Glory broke into a gallop straight for him. She tore around the corner and…Gone?! Glory’s head whipped around, looking for any trace. She found none. Where the hell was he!? “Nice to meet you.” Glory jumped out of the way just as a pair of hooves clacked down where she had been not a moment before. Cracks appeared in the stone below her. The mare sauntered forward in a sultry manner her eyes closed. Glory drew her sword, the tip pointed at the Pegasus. “Where’s Lore?” she hissed as her horn blazed silver. “Oh the cutie,” she giggled, tilting her head cutely. “He’s safe.” Her eyes opened, red eyes alight with malice. “For now.” The mare was a blue of movement. Glory could barely keep up with the mare, her blade blocking swift strikes. Five spears of light erupted out of the ground. The Pegasus flew back, then flared her wings stopping her momentum. Ponies scattered form the battle, some calling for guards. A rivulet of blood slid down the Pegasus’ check. She licked at the blood and grinned manically. “You killed Twitter didn’t you?” “She died well,” Glory said simply. Her features became neutral. The manic joy was gone replaced by rage. “Screw bringing you back alive!” she screeched and rushed the Unicorn. “I’m bringing M back your head!” Anger was good. Anger made her sloppy, unfocused. Glory felt a similar rage as well for the danger she knew Lore was in but she squashed it with practiced ease. It would cost her. She blocked the strikes with her blade. The enchanted gauntlets the other mare wore made engaging her in a hoof-to-hoof manner impossible. The Pegasus- Mirror, Glory remembered- broke through her guard forcing Glory to disappear in a flash of silver. She appeared at the top of a building. The guards appeared in the street below. This fight needed to take place without interference. Mirror flew up over the building. Glory sent her bade flying after the Pegasus. The mare batted the blade away. Damn. Glory’s eyes narrowed as she jumped away, recalling her sword to her side. The pair regarded each other. Eyes flicking. This mare was good. She had training. Advantage she had was Glory’s inability to see on her right. Glory’s advantage, the mare’s rage. Mobility was a moot point. Glory’s teleportation and the mare’s skill with her wings. Far better than any flying Lore could hope to accomplish. The plan was simple, split the mare’s focus. Again the mare attacked first. Glory waited until the last moment to sidestep. A teleport landed her on the Pegasus’ other side. A spear of light erupted where Glory had been a half a second later. The Pegasus’ impaled a wing on Glory’s blade. The Unicorn’s hoof lashed out, catching the other mare under her wing, right in the bundle off sensitive nerves and muscles that resided there. Mirror’s wings seized up and she fell to the ground. Glory placed the blade above the mare’s jugular. One flicker of magic would open the vein. The Pegasus was breathing heavily. Glory wasn’t even winded. “Where is Lore?” “Fuck you!” the mare hissed from her place on the ground. A spear of light ran her other wing through. To Mirror’s extreme credit she didn’t’ scream from the apparent pain. The wings were rather sensitive. But her face scrunched up in agony. “Where is Lore?” Glory’s voice was even, dull. The Pegasus refused to answer. “If I have to ask one more time I’ll take your wings.” Still no answer but there was fear in her eyes. “Very well.” Glory’s horn glowed brightly as she prepared the spell. “Wait!” Mirror shouted, realizing Glory was not bluffing. “He’s with M. A couple of other ponies took him in a carriage. They’re taking him to the Ugly Duckling.” “Thank you.” Steel opened flesh. The Pegasus pawed at the gushing wound in vain to try and stop the bleeding. Glory sheathed her blade and walked away. A teleport put her below in an alleyway. Now to find this Ugly Duckling.

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Glory clipped the latch on the last saddlebag. They were all packed. All their supplies ready for their journey to the Palace of the Ivory Shores ready to go. The Unicorn sat back with a sigh. They’d spent the entire day getting ready, acquiring supplies, well she did at least. Many supplies she needed could only be required in the market district in the Outer City. She couldn’t shake the feeling she had been watched though, but every time she had turned to look she simple saw a crowd. Lore had spent the day perusing the many book stores, for what he was searching for was beyond her but it gave her respite. After last night’s episode Glory was sure Lore would try and bring it up again but thankfully he had left her to her own thoughts. She looked down at her wrapped hoof. A small smile spread across her muzzle unbidden. A knock on the door pulled Glory from her thoughts. That must be Lore. About time. Glory walked over to the door and opened it. “Have fun with th-“Glory barely ducked the swipe of a blade as it whistled through the air. Its wielder struck her in the chest with a hoof and tripped her with a whirl of a black wing. Instinct kicked in, years of fighting coming to bare. She rolled out of the way as steel sliced through air where she had been not a second before. Glory jumped back to her hooves, pulling her blade from its sheath as she did so. She deflected two daggers as they flew through the air. She caught both in her magic and sent them flying back. Her assailant, a Pegasus clad in full body armor and hood and cowl, flipped over them in a feat of avian grace. A burst of silver magic pushed Glory’s would be assassin into her blade. The steel pierced the Pegasus through the chest, fixing it in place before falling to the ground like a puppet with its strings cut. The Unicorn remained in a battle stance for a few more minutes, her ears perked and eyes flicking, waiting for another attacker. When none came she flicked the blood off her blade and sheathed it. She pulled the cowl of the Pegasus down revealing a pretty young mare. She look barely into her seventeenth year. Her face was frozen in shock. Glory closed the mare’s dull, vacant eyes, and searched her. She found a small bag of gems, no doubt her payment, and a note. The target is a red Unicorn mare with a white mane. She will more than likely be with a white Pegasus, have Mirror secure him. As for the Unicorn, I want her alive. Use the blade's I've provided they have a unique poison that will make transport much easier. As for your payment. Half now and the other half upon your success. I will not tolerate failure. M Who was M and why did he want her? She had made no enemies in Manehatten save those guards the other day but that wasn‘t worth a death sentence. Besides they were cowards, she could tell. The pouch of gems was a small fortune on its own. Wait! Her eyes flew back to the note. Lore! Glory grabbed her barding, pulled it on, secured her blade to her side and galloped out of the room. An angry scowl darkened her face as she cleared the hotel lobby. She hoped she wasn’t too late. The wonders of philosophy. Lore closed the book gently and sat back in his chair. All around were ponies sitting at other tables, stacks of books surrounding some. The smell of ink and parchment permeated the air, comforting Lore greatly. He loved this calm quiet atmosphere. The symphony of minds being expanded was exhilarating. He had decided to do some light reading before heading back to the hotel. He had spent the day charting their path to the Palace of Ivory Shores with Crypt. It was quite the elusive little landmark but it had been done. He quite liked the old Unicorn. He was insightful, clever, and kept his own pace. Though he seemed annoyed for some reason when Lore asked if he could return with him to Canterlot to see the great libraries the city of legendary for. He recalled the conversation they had. “You wouldn’t be allowed there my friend,” he had said. “They don’t take kindly to anyone not bearing a horn.” “Why is that?” Lore asked with a chuckle. “Would my wings get in the way?” “They think Unicorns are the species that can ascend past the mortal coil. Really Moon and Stars is made up of a bunch of supremacists” “Then why are you with them? You don’t seem bothered by my being a Pegasus.” “Because for all their flaws Moon and Stars holds the pursuit of knowledge above all else. Anywhere else Knowledge is scorned. Here if it’s not turning a profit it isn’t worth the effort. The only reason I’m here in Manehatten is as a favor to the Dean.” The old stallion sighed heavily. “I wish we could go back to that time when it didn’t matter what you had on your back or forehead but I doubt that will happen.” “Why not go to the Freelands then? Sireleaf is a city dedicated to its academies, schools, and colleges. I think you would love it there.” “I’ve considered it my friend. By Celestia I’ve considered it but I’ve grandfoals who can’t go a month without seeing their Pappy. And my son is loyal to the Moon and Stars cause, fiercely so. I can’t up and leave.” He leaned forward in his chair, his eyes intense as they locked onto Lore’s. “Let me tell you one thing. Be careful. Equestria is nothing like your home. Here what tribe you are will get you killed. Steer clear of the northern territories. Moon and Stars will see you a slave, but the Stormwings will kill any Pegasus not affiliated with them outright. And if you value your Unicorn companion you’ll steer clear of Earthborn’s borders too. They’ll either kill her or saw her horn off.” The old stallion’s words did not sit well with Lore. Who would be so cruel as to saw off any Unicorn’s horn? It was like slicing a Pegasus’ wings off or amputating an Earth Pony’s legs. Could such cruelty be so widespread here in Equestria? The idea that it could sent shivers down the Pegasus’ back. He felt as if he had stepped into an ant’s nest of violence. Maybe he should have listened to his father’s warnings of this place. “Zeth Oar’s Lie of Harmony. Good read.” Shaken of his thoughts, Lore looked over at a beautiful dark blue Pegasus mare with a pale green mane pulled back in a tight bun. Her lavender eyes were fixing on him from her place at the other end of the table. “You’re familiar with Zeth Oar uh?” he asked. “And it is the ideal of Loyalty we see ourselves bound,” she recited flawlessly, the sound of her voice was oddly captivating. “Honesty only asks for the obliteration of secrets. Generosity forces to give all you are.” “Our minds no longer our own through n this lie of Harmony. It is through Chaos we see the beauty of Freedom,” Lore finished. He grinned at the pretty mare. “That’s quite good. It’s a bit tight fisted a philosophy but I can see the validity of some of his arguments.” She giggled. Lore felt his wings twitch. “True. I quite like his view that one day we will are own god.” She closed the book she had been reading. Lore noted it was a copy of Sol Tzu’s Art of War. A philosophy buff. “I’d rather not be a god,” Lore said with a chuckle. She tilted her head. “Oh? Why not? The master of your own destiny, creator of your own world.” She looked at the chandelier above. It cast a soft yellow glow on the ceiling. “Knowing none can tell you what to do.” “True, the idea does sound appealing,” Lore admitted,” but throughout the mythos of every culture, well save this one here in Equestria, all gods and goddesses are often times cruel or have sorrow filled existences. I wouldn’t want that.” “You look into it rather deeply. Where are you from? I’ve never heard your accent before.” Accent? Lore didn’t have an accent. If anyone had one it was this mare. “The Freelands, across the Sea of Harmony.” Her eyes sparked with wonder and with a flutter of her supple wings she was in the seat in front of him. Lore felt his face go warm as he watched her wings extend to full length for the briefest of moments. “Across the sea!? What’s it like over there?” She all but yelled as she leaned forward. “From what I’ve learned much different from here. For one things there is really no legit government. The Freelands is really just a collection of city-states, each ruled by a different Noble family. I came from Lavidport and my family is actually one of these ruling families.” “So you get to do anything you want?” “Oh no. I’ve responsibilities sure enough and it’s only a matter of time before father passes the position of Governor to me. I’ve no real interest in it mind and I would much rather pursue my carries as a Scholar but it’s my duty to take up the mantle. Oh yeah,” he extend his hoof,” Epic Lore.” She took it and daintily shook his hoof. “Mirror.”

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Alright first post up and ready.

@Dainty Blaze

Welcome to the Party :D Excellent entries, btw. Can't wait to see more.

@Tai Falkenburg

Thanks. Been a while since I've done anything like this.

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Glroy strode out onto the battlefield, her blade gleaming in the firelight. Her steps were even, calculated. A dark smirk played on her lips as a soldier rand toward her. Silver magic lashed out catching him mid-stride. Poor fool fell on her blade. She walked on. Why…? Blood danced in the light, crimson streams, as her blade lashed out, keen and deadly. Another throat opened. A faceless soldier, intent on avenging the fallen, lunged skillfully and danced around her blade. She licked her lips and struck out with quick hooves, opening holes in his defense then in his chest. Another fallen she walked on, head held high. Why did I do it? The fires lashed out, licking at her hooves from behind. Three spears of light skewered another soldier. Another faceless corpse. She sneered as she teleported inside a soldier’s guard, no shock, no fear. Silver steel opened his throat. He fell. She walked on blade out, horn aglow. No fear. None. They kept pushing forward. Two more fell before her, scarlet slid down her blade in rivulets. Her brow darkened with a scowl. Why did I kill him? Three more fell thinking they could overpower her. No. Fear! She screamed as her blade sang, swift through flesh and bone. A macabre dance she performed around the three. A flash and she was at another’s side, a spear of light erupting under him. He allies charged with her, many falling to the enemy. “Fight!” She shouted to her fellows. “For glory!” [/i]I did it.[/i] Her allies pushed forward but to no avail. They fell to enemy steel. Glory end two, three, four more. She stepped over the corpse of an ally. Weakness. She snorted and ran another enemy through. Another sally fell before her. Such weakness. “Glory.” She stopped and looked down. Her heart stopped. She had stepped over her brother’s body. Blood turned his coat a ruddy brown. “Why?” She looked down, her blade was in his chest. Time froze as he turned to ash in her hooves. “I killed him.” Glory woke in a start, sweat had plastered her mane to her forehead and her chest heaved. She was back in the hotel room, in her covers. It was night, the pale light of the moon offering little light against the suffocating darkness. Her head pounded like her magic was bursting to get out. Tears stung the edges of her eyes. Rage bubbled up inside her belly and she lashed out. The table lamp shattered spraying glass all over the floor. Pain flared in her hoof, blood seeping out. She stared at it, only growing angrier. And the damn tears wouldn’t stop. There was a pounding on the door. IN a blur of movement she teleported, a shard of glass in her magic and ripped open the door. Lore flinched back. Glory stopped just before she opened him. “Damn it Lore!” she exclaimed,” I almost killed you!” Lore tried in vain to stop his heart from pounding in his chest. “I heard a crash.” He loked around the room, noticing the bits of glass on the carpet. “What happened?” “Just a nightmare.” “Are you-“ “I’m fine!” she snapped, cutting him off. She gathered her nightgown around herself. “Now if you’re done banging on my door. Get out.” She winced at his hurt expression. “Please.” He noticed the blood on the floor and pointed to her hoof. “Oh Geez you’re bleeding.” He rushed out and in a flurry of white feathers and appeared a moment later with a small box. “Sit,” he commanded, pointing to a small stool in front of the vanity. “Really, I’m fine. Now please-“ No buts missy. Sit.” Glory sighed. There was no arguing with the feather-brain when his dander was up. She sat down with a huff. Lore pulled out the contents: rubbing alcohol, gauze, medical tape. He tended to her cut in silence. She huffed and let him. So you want to talk about it?” Lore asked, his eyes on the cut. He pressed a strip of gauze dipped in the alcohol to the deep laceration. She didn’t even flinch. Pain was no stranger to her. “The nightmare I mean.” “Not really.” “I see.” Lore looked back at his work. “It was about Gambit wasn’t it?” She looked up in shock. “How’d you…?” “I heard you crying out a week ago in your sleep when you finally got more than a few hours,” he looked up at her. A wings brushed a stray tears from her cheek. “That and I’ve only ever seen you cry after his death.” Lore flicked his wings and began wrapping the cut. “I’m here if you need to talk alright.” “Thank you,” she whispered, pulling her hoof away. Lore looked at the clock on the wall. It was late and they had a big day tomorrow. “Hey, we can talk in the morning. For now let’s get some sleep. Do you need any-“Glory’s horn glowed and the glass was swept into a nearby trash bin in a flash of silver. “…help?” he finished. “I’ll be fine.” Glory smiled weakly,” And thank you. I mean it.” Glory watched him leave in silence. When he was gone she said one thing before laying down in bed again. “Goodnight.”

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Alright first post up and ready.

Equestria Divided: In Nominé - MLP RP

Two weeks. May as well have been two months. Glory was slumped over the ship’s side. The discomfort of the rail’s rough surface, scraping her chest was lost to her as she fought the wave of nausea. Ever since she had gotten on board the damn ship she had been wracked with sea-sickness and insomnia most fierce. The ever present rolling of the deck, and the salty air did not sit well with the unicorn mare. She had hardly eaten anything and when she thought sleep would bring her relief she found the constant movement of the ship across the waves of the ocean wouldn’t allow her respite. She would lie awake fighting off wave after wave, only catching an hour or two a night. It never ended! What’s worse she knew she looked the fright but frankly her ability to care was nonexistent. Her coat was horribly matted, her mane was a shambles of knots and kinks, and dark circles framed her eyes. Her face was tinged a pale green, the color of pus. She was thankful the blue-green water of the sea held no reflection. A flutter of feathers and the light thud of hooves hitting the wooden planks of the deck sounded behind her. Glory didn’t bother looking to see who it was, she knew full well. Epic Lore walked up beside her and took a deep breathe, relishing the salty sea air. Glory clamped a hoof over her mouth as bile threatened to rise once more. A warm, gentle breeze tussled his unkempt mane and he allowed his wings to hang freely, catching the breeze between sensitive feathers. The sun was just starting to set as they approached Manehatten Bay. The journey was nearly over and he was sad to see it end. “I’m going to miss that ocean breeze,” I said, contently. He glanced at his friend. “Aren’t you?” Her response came in the form of her retching her lunch over the side into the water below. “Still sick?” he asked. A cheeky grin threatened to form at the corners of his mouth. She turned a glare at the stallion, her silver eye gleaming dangerously. The effect was lessened though thanks to her inability to act on any threats, implied or otherwise, and Lore knew it. As far as he was concerned it was open season on the mare. He knew she would be fine, as did she. So there was room for teasing. Finally she croaked: “Of course not. I’ve just fallen in love with the feeling of sea sickness and self-induced myself.” Another wave of nausea forced bile to once again climb her sore throat. “Girl has yet to get her sea legs under her eh,” spoke a thickly accented voice. Lore looked back at the Captain as he approached. He was a burly bronze Nhorse, standing head and shoulders above even Glory. His grey mane hung freely while his long beard was kept in two thick ropes by a pair of brass tubes. Glory vomited, again. “That’d be a no,” Lore chuckled as he rubbed her back. She’d have brushed him off but the sensation felt so good. It gave her a little respite. The ship sailed through the bays entrance, a thin strip of water three large galleons across between the tips two curved peninsulas. Lore looked up in wonder at the ivory towers that stood watch over the bay like silent guardians. Innumerable docks and wharves lined the stone edges of the harbor, hugging the body of water life two massive white arms. He noticed and named off the many types of ships he saw in the harbor. Skips, schooners, galleons, even a buck-of-war or two. Most bore a single white diamond proudly across their white sails. “Whitegold Armada,” the Captain snorted, pulling Lore’s attention away from the sights. “Bunch of pirates the lot of ‘em.” He pulled out a stout bulbous pipe and lit one end with a match. Glory chanced a glance at one of the passing ships that bore the sails of Whitegold. Ponies clad in immaculate navy blue military uniforms walked along the deck, securing lines and rigging. “I doubt pirates would wear military dress.” “Put a fancy suit n a rat it’s still a rat.” The stallion took a puff of his pipe then walked toward the upper deck, where the wheel resided. “Come on lad,” he said to Lore,” You can help the crew secure the rigging.” “Will do Captain.” Lore gave Glory a meaningful look, asking if she was alright. A simple nod sent him on his way as the Captain began bellowing orders. The Unicorn’s eyes scanned the city-scape of Manehatten. From her vantage point the city was massive with a titanic white tower standing in the distance. Skyscrapers of stone rose like weeds, threatening to choke their neighbors. The ship was successfully docked some two hours ago. The sun had barely drifted below the horizon, casting the world in a deep dusk. Glory sat on the dock, awaiting Lore as he packed up his belongings in the cabin they’d shared. He was no doubt saying his good-byes. Lore’s belongings were all packed since the trip began. She had jumped ship the second the ship had moored. She tapped her hoof impatiently on the wooden planks. Finally. Lore came walking down the gangplank, hoisting bags weighed down with tomes, parchments, and quills. “I’d have thought you’d gotten lost,” she said with an edge to her voice. “I was about to come find you.” It went unnoticed as he regarded her with a grin. “Just making sure I had everything.” The pair walked the streets. Lanterns burned brightly from atop metal poles. The smell of burning oil reminded them of Lavidport. The decided to stay the night in the Blue Gull, a small hotel that resided at the middle city edge, just outside the harbor district. Lore paid for separate rooms. They said their goodnights as they slipped inside their respective rooms. He’s requested the rooms be close together. Once inside Glory shed her bags and collapsed on the fluffy, firm bed. She was asleep seconds after her head hit the pillow. Lore stayed up that night studying his latest tome, an account of noble lineages of Canterlot. He looked out at the starlit sky from his room window, a small smile crossing his lips. Their journey had begun. From here on out they were on their own. He blew out his candle and steeled into bed. He would get his answers, he was sure. Soon… Glory awoke with a start. She was in a hotel room, she half remembered how she got here. Despite the small pool of drool that had accumulated under her cheek she felt rather good, energized. She stretched coiled muscles and yawned. Glory hopped off her bed and made a beeline for the bathroom. She stepped out of her room an hour later in the immaculate dress uniform of the Free Army. Her mane was styled in its signature wave over her right eye, hiding the gristly scar. She checked her time piece. Seven thirty two. Good. She snapped the watch shut and made for the lobby. Glory found the dining area and ordered her breakfast. Some minutes later two plates bearing dried apple slices, croissants dribbled in honey, and a crisp, fresh pear slices were set before her and the seat across from her as well as two tall glasses of fresh orange juice. She curtly thanked the waitress and set to eating her meal. Lore arrived in the dining area sometime later clad in his grey robes, his mane pulled back in a rough ponytail. “I took the liberty of ordering you meal,” she said as she dabbed her lips with her napkin. She had finished her meal not seconds before. “What is our next move?” She set her plate aside as Lore began eating. “Well,” he said between bites,” I need to meet with Professor Crypt at the Stockhoof Academy in the Inner City. It’s in the artisan’s district. I have papers so we can gain entry. If you want you can explore the districts while I see to the old stallion. Just keep your papers on you.” “Thank you,” she said in an even tone,” But I shall go with you.” She wanted to know exactly what was going on and why they were seeing this Crypt. He more than likely had information on these Alicorns. “Don’t say I didn’t’ warn you,” he said as he swallowed another mouthful of food. “From what I read in his letters guy’s duller than a rusty plow.” “I shall endure,” she said simply. After he was done she paid their bill. The streets were horribly narrow up into the Inner City filled to the brims with other people going about errands in the morning sun. Glory caught more than one pickpocket start to target them but they were deterred quickly as she exposed the steel of her blade. The glinting metal and glare deterred the would-be thieves. She heated thieves, and would enjoy beheading one or two but in these narrow streets she held back. They came to a check point, an entrance into the Inner City. One of the armor clad guards slammed his halberd in front of them, cracking the stone. “Your papers,” he said forcefully. Such disregard for his weapon. Glory noticed the cuts in the stone. The ax blade was no doubt dull due to this treatment. Glory’s eyes narrowed but she held her tongue. Lore pulled out the necessary papers and handed them to the guard. “Here you are.” He overlooked them after snatching them from Lore’s grasp. Glory took a menacing step forward. The other guard noticed and took a single step forward. The guard that had the papers looked them over before giving them back rather harshly. “Stay out of trouble.” They allowed access through the gate for Lore and Glory. Lore stepped through but Glory stayed back. Before either could speak she whipped her blade out in a flash of silver, the tip touching one’s throat. The one that had been rude to Lore to be exact. Both froze. “Be aware of who you disrespect,” she said in a chilled, even tone. “Or next time you’ll find yourselves relieved of your tongues.” As quick as the blade had been out it was sheathed again, hidden under her coat. She walked into the gate. The guards contemplated running after her for threatening to assault an officer but thought it wiser to leave her be. “You ok?” Lore asked as she fell into step beside him once again. “They didn’t give you trouble did they?” “No,” she said with a small smile. “I simply coached them in etiquette.” She left it at that. They traveled in silence as Lore gazed up at the architecture. It was intricate, bright and wide in the Inner City. Fountains dotted the many squares. Ponies in rich, elaborate dress walked the streets. Glory felt eyes on her and Lore. She ignored the stares she knew she and her friend were receiving. Few saw the dress uniform of the Free Armies. It was an odd sight. The Academy was a large circular building adorned with pillars and wide open halls. The architecture Lore noted was inspired by pre-Equestrian Pegasi structures no doubt. They walked in, maneuvering through the slew of students carrying scrolls and tomes. They found Professor Crypt in the middle of a lecture in one of the lecture-halls. He was telling the students about the beginning of the Celestial Age, a time when Equestria was fraught with war, within and without. The pair settled in for the lecture. Lore listened intently. Crypt was a dark silver Unicorn of about fifty years of age. He was short but carried himself well, dignified even. He wore the dark blue robes of the Moon and Stars Scholar about his slim frame. His tine was monotone, dull during the entirety of the lecture. Discipline kept Glory from nodding off. Near the end of the lesson Crypt had noticed their arrival. “Ah yes Scholar Lore,” he drawled,” Class, this is an associate of mine and valued colleague of mine.” The class room regarded Lore with respect as he stepped down to greet Crypt. The stallions shook hooves. “Tell me my friend what is your take on the wars of that time.” “Well I would admit they are grand form the accounts I’ve read.” Lore looked at the young faces, many not yet in their twentieth year. “But what of the losers. Alas history is written by the winners and is always biased.” He chuckled and clapped his colleague on the back. “But that’s what Scholars such as us are for, discerning truth from fiction. To follow up one the account of the Cloudsdale uprising was what started the need for a legit Royal Army as I recall. Ah to have lived in those times.” “I don’t doubt they were much harder back then.” “Depends on which side of the world you hail from.” Crypt chuckled fondly. ”Indeed.” He turned to his class and dismissed them. “And don’t forget to bring a copy of the Rift Inquiries tomorrow.” Once the hall was empty Crypt gathered his things and they walked to his office. Glory walked a step behind them. “Now how was your venture across the sea?” “It was grand. Though I think I was the only one who enjoyed it.” Glory snorted at that. “Who is your friend here?” “I am Glory, formally of the Free Armies,” Glory said introducing herself. “I am acting as Epic Lore’s bodyguard during the duration of his stay here in Equestria.” “You speak well Lady Glory.” Crypt looked her up and down. “You wouldn’t by chance be of Noble birth from Canterlot would you? Your accent reminds me of there.” “My father was,” she said curtly. “I picked it up from him.” “I see. Ah hear we are.” They followed him inside a small study brimming with scholarly tools and artifacts. He took a seat behind a large desk and Lore took a seat in front of it. Glory opted to stand. “As to your request. From what I’ve gathered the rumors are true.” Lore’s eyes widened and a grin broke out on his muzzle. “Now before you get too excited you should know they are hard to track down. I don’t know where they roost as it were but I’ll tell you one thing death follows them. I’ve on good authority there have been a good many bloody encounters.” “Where did you get this information?” Glory asked her eyes cold as ice, locked on his. Lore gave her a look that said ‘easy’. “From a reliable source I assure you.” “Then how do you know it to be true?” “Because I’ve seen one of them myself.” He sat back. “The Palace of Ivory Shores houses one. I’ll warn you she’s an odd ball but she can restore anything to pristine condition. A service she provides freely I might add.” “One you took full advantage of I’m guessing?” Lore asked with a knowing smile. Crypt matched his smile,” Bet your best quills I did. Three first editions on sealing techniques of the dead by Void Gaze restored to perfect condition. Ponies can come and go as they please. Another scholar wouldn’t be of any consequence.” “Wonderful!” Lore shot up his wings twitching in anticipation. Glory chanced a smile. ‘Finally.