The Road to Royaltyby RemareShadowsChaptersLet’s Load up a Lag-less gameOnce Upon a Time in OakvailCh.3-Bit HunterLet’s Load up a Lag-less gameThe Road to Royalty Chapter 1 - Let’s Load up a Lag-less Game The dawn of virtual reality had finally arrived. Every stallion, mare, colt, and filly had attended to hear the grand opening speech. It was given not by Princess Celestia, but her sister, Princess Luna. What a glorious speech it was. “We welcome thee, my little ponies, to the grand opening of new gaming technology. ‘Unicorn Co.’ has worked diligently and given us a new world of gaming to explore. May we present to you, ‘The Road to Royalty’.” Cheering rang out from the crowd that rocked the plaza as many hooves hit the ground in applause. Now you might be wondering, why Luna, a royal princess, was announcing a game… surely you jest. Gamer Luna, who has beaten ‘Forward Unto Dawn’ in record time, topped the rankings in ‘Haylo’, is a champion racer in ‘MareioKart’, beaten ‘Touhou’ on lunatic without dying once, and beaten every ‘I Wanna Be the Mare’, out there! How could you not- The crowd settled down as she held up a hoof to continue. “Now as thou hath heard, the game’s day is three times longer than our own and your body will receive a full rest while you partake in this thrilling adventure.” The crowd let out a few shouts of happiness as Luna continued, “With this thou has time to partake in many things in your natural eight hours of rest, let my nights bring joy and comfort to spur your new days along with a well rested body.” The crowd was about to rile back up and- “But, as it is a game, remember to play in moderation.” Princess Luna warned. Parents in the crowd looked at their foals with a knowing eye. Yeah, that right there, I’m definitely not following that one. Princess Luna’s smile edged up slightly as she scaned over my section of the silent crowd… did she just? Her regal eyes locked in on my location, like an eagle and its’ prey, one thousand miles away. ... … … … Her smile transformed into a smug grin. Well folks, see you on the moon. She then looked away, as if to let me stew in my fate. A small drop of liquid pride formed on my left eye and I'm happy to report, there are no yellow puddles outside today. After that moment of silence she speaks up again. "Now, ‘Unicorn Co.’ has a special surprise for everypony." Luna proceeded to motion her hoof over the crowd. "Anypony, who is able to ascend to royalty, as there may only be one, will receive ten-percent of the company royalties from the game." The whole crowd gasped. Just think of all the bits! As the announcement sunk in, a few worried faces appeared when they thought of a certain competitor. "Not to worry, my little ponies, for this fun competition is for you to enjoy and prosper in, thus, let the game begin." The cheering from the crowd was deafening. Ugh, I think I need new ears. Even the filly next to me was shrieking in excitement. Every pony was moving in mass to get started. The race was on and I was ready... right? ☼ Three years later ☼ Ugh,I wasn't ready at all. Knock, Knock, Knock. "Hello? I have a delivery for a Mr. Arctic Wind, is there anypony home?" Announced a cute muffled voice from the other side of my door. "Hold on a sec." I replied, as I went to open the door. "Okay." returned a cheery reply. When I opened the door a bubbly gray pegasus mail mare greeted me. "Are you Mr. Arctic?" She said looking at her clip board, with one steady eye. "Yes, that is correct." "Sign here please," she hoofed me the board "To receive your package and complementary muffin." I quickly signed my name with a wing. "I’ve been waiting three years for this." The mare just smiles at me and checks her clipboard. With that done, she points to a pony sized package beside her. "I hope you enjoy your package, Mr. Arctic." "I sure will," I smirked, "thanks for bringing it out here." The mare saluted with a goofy grin, "All in a days work for ‘Derpy Mare Mail Express Delivery’!" She then proceeded to ruffle around her bag and produced a muffin. She placed the muffin in my hooves and gave me one more goofy smile. "Have a nice day and enjoy the, ‘Triple Supreme Splice Banana Slice Split Sundae Muffin’!!" As she turned around to leave, I made a quick deceive decision. "Hey!" I took out four bits, no, three bits, and tossed them. She turned and managed to catch two. The other bit... it bounced off her muzzle. "Thanks again." She scooped up the lost bit. Then she smiled and waved as she flew away. "That was an investment that I can afford." I thought, turning to retrieve the package. Hmmm, this package is big, good thing I already prepared my game room. As I started dragging the package inside, I thought about my situation. It was three years to this day, October tenth, two thousand thirteen, that this game came out. I happened to be there, but couldn't buy it at the time. After the announcement the whole area was hectic. Like avoiding soccer moms on Hearth's Warming Eve. I don't ever wanna re-live that... ever! I stopped in my game room and ripped off the packaging. Standing before me, was the Crescent Moon. A sphere shaped machine that utilized illusion and dream walker magic. It was powered by ‘Wub Thunder’ technology. A combination of unicorn and pegasi work. It was an amazing piece of equipment. “Heh, time to set her up.” I took out the instruction manual and got to work. The set up is a bit complex, enough to make me waste thirty minutes at least. That was extremely annoying. I took a look at the finished product. It was a big sphere, but flat on the bottom. In the middle there was a door to walk into. On the ground around it were a few metallic boxes. They had wires that connected the thunder lines to power the machine. The inside was hollow and only contained a buttons panel. Really now… everypony I know has one of these. It took me three years to get one of them. Namely, I had to save up some bits to buy it. Ten-thousand five-hundred and sixty-nine bits! How did everypony have enough money for this thing?! I know I'm poor, but that’s just too much for a spur of the moment purchase. It’s a life time investment, is what it is. I may be late to the starting line, but I will get those ten-percent royalties. I resolutely step for- “gahh” My wing shoots out to steady me and bangs into the Crescent Moon, which I just setup. Did I really just trip on that? “Gahhhaa,” I dropped to the floor with a thump. I cradled my wing and blew on it. “Bucken Nightmare Moo-” I suddenly stop rolling in pain, as something I missed catches my eye. There, in my discarded packaging, sits a letter with a royal seal. “How did I miss that?” I asked nopony in particular. I limped my way over to the letter and ripped it open. Ahh, stress relief, I think I’m feeling better already. The letter, which was wide open, only had one line of text. “Play in moderation”... all color drained from my muzzle. Yeah that’s right, I’m feeling real gray right now... I raced around my house like a mad stallion and closed all windows. I exhausted every single annoying light and dashed into my Crescent Moon. “Heh, that’s right,” I said into the dark, “you can’t stop me.” A loud clanging noise sounded from right outside, my left window. I grinned madly and pressed the top button on the panel. The Crescent Moon door closed. “Show me the BITS!!” I shouted as the machine hummed to life. I lost feeling in my hooves, as my senses were sucked outta me. I sat like that for a few seconds, until a female voice rang out. “Your ires and vane scan confirms you are a unregistered user. Would you like to create an account?” “I’ve waited three years lady, why would I ever say no?” Out of no-where, a regal alicorn I’ve never seen steps into my vision.“You may call me Selena.” “Sure.” I replied… Feels weird talking without a body. “Now please name your avatar.” “Aang.” I reply smartly “Sex of-” “Course I’d love some.” I quickly interjected… The room got colder all of the sudden… What, when did I get feeling back? “Select your gender, stallion, mare, or other.” she continued, seemingly unfazed. “Do I even dare to ask why they have ‘other’ as a selection? Hmm, may as well pick mare and extort as many stallions as possible. “It’s all about the bits!” I declare. From this day forth, no bit left behind… especially the naughty bits. -Cough- Oh yeah, “Male, Bi-petal hairless creature.” I joked “Okay." “Wait, wha-- WHAT THE BUCK is THAT!?“ I kid you not, a hairless two-legged creature from foals nightmares appeared before me. “Are you sure of your--” “NO, can you even imagine, something that, that ugly? Ugh, no no NOOO.“ “Thank you and enjoy your time in ‘The Road to Roy--” “Cancel, rest, back, return, abort, delete, crush, kill , destroy, swag” “Heh.” The alicorn’s sly grin gleamed menacingly in the room. Really, she just, ugh. I have the worst luck. . “Lets just get this over with.” “As you wish.” That disgusting hairless thing vanished into thin air. “Name you Avatar.” She stated once more. ...Nope “Umm, A-Arc-- Arcadia Skys.” “Select your gender.” She sites with a re-worded statement. Must resist female part and questioning their moral integrity of ‘Other’... It better not be a futa. “Male” I answer finally. An array of creatures appear in-front of me, as she continues her speech. “‘The Road to Royalty’ has twenty seven races currently. You may select your race from the primary ten races, sub races may be found later on. Do you request a summary on them?” “Whoa thats a lot, I wonder about those playable ones though. Hit me with that list." I request. “☾Earth Pony☽- Strong with high endurance. Ten percent resistant to physical attacks. Ground type." “☾Pegasus☽- Very dexterous. High speed and are ten percent resistant to wind magic. Flying type.” “☾Unicorn☽- Weak body, strong magical ability. Ten percent resistant to all magic. Magical Ground type.” “☾Changeling ☽- Has the ability to transform and change name. Stats are taken from form copied, with penalties. Magical Flying type -changes with forms-.” “☾Zebra☽- Alchemy and potion masters. twenty percent self-usage potion effectiveness. Ground type.” “☾Griffin☽- Dextrous warriors. Ten percent more damage when attacking from the air. Flying type.” “☾Minotaur☽- Overwhelming attack damage and little dexterity. Racial skill ☾Overclock☽- Twenty percent more damage for twenty seconds or until a skill is used for one-hundred thirty percent increased damage. Ground type.” “☾Donkey☽- The savvy trader. Passive trade bonus. More bits selling and discount buying starts at ten percent. Increased carrying capacity. Ground type.” “☾Dragon☽- Two subtypes - Flying or Ground- Four leg movement speed increase one-hundred percent. Both fire immune- Except ☾Hellfire☽-pure damage-. Fire breath and ten percent resistant to magic and physical attacks. Flying or Ground type.” “☾Bat Pony☽- The lords of the night. Twenty percent boost to all stats at night- Twenty percent weaker during day time. Night Vision. Flying type.” I sat there, slack jawed. “ Amazing.” Was all I could get out. “Select your race please.” “Ahh, too much for me to think on right now, I’m late enough as it is. I’ll be a pegasus, stick to what I know and experience it through my own eyes.” A model of me appeared before me. Whoa it’s weird looking at your own body from this angle. My cyan coat, wild black mane and tail, all put together with my brown eyes. They stared back out at me… creepy. It’s like I’m not the real me. No mirror could ever do this. “You may alter your appearance” “Oh? I guess I could make myself twenty percent more handsome. I would get all the fillies. Yeah that would probably attract too much attention. Uglier? Why the hay would anypony do that?” “No, just me.” “Please select starting kingdom and city.“ Ohhh, I’ve got this.“Kingdom of Squee, City of Oakvail” “Please enjoy your time in ‘The Road to Royalty’… Oh.” “Huh?” “Luna says ‘Hi’.” My eyes grew wide at this. She’s watching me. “Noooooooooooooooooooooo--” Once Upon a Time in OakvailThe Road to Royalty Chapter 2-Once Upon a Time in Oakvail Hey, I think I remembered what pain feels like now! Not pleasant, not pleasant in the least, really, how can some ponies find it appealing? Ugh, now remember how I was screaming my head off as I finished my character?.. Wellllll that’s not the first thing you want to do when you log in. “Noooooooo-!” I screamed, while I registered that I had unlocked a night stalker whom was watching my every move. The feelings I had lost in character creation suddenly returned in full force. First sense, that returned was sight. I went from being saturated in pure darkness, to staring straight at the sun…. “Gaahhhhaaaa” Needless to say, my eyes were kinda toasty. “What the hay, Celestia, trying to blind me, much?” I complained. The second thing I can remember is the sound… so many sounds. Some mare was screaming her head off, not to mention, she had a opera house lungs. Shattered glass was an understatement. Ohhhh yeah, did I happen to tell you about that speeding carriage? That was getting louder by the second. “-noooooooooo- Ack” -Crack- . I’m hit, pegasus down! I haven’t even started flying yet… Well now I am, right into that tree over there, on course with my muzzle. -Crack- Hhmm, Applewood is tasty. "oww-bonk-, oww-bonk-, oww-bonk-,” Oh look, the apples have joined me, in threes. “A-chievement unlocked, I got lunch!” Well, I hope I did at least. My sweet mistress of darkness greeted me once again. I think she did this on purpose. … … … “Hey” Huh, I heard a voice. “Are you ok?” Why no, I’m not. “Here take this” No thank- -Splash- OOoooOOhhh, that’s so cold. “Ahhhhhhhhh, I’m up, I’m up!” I desperately gasped. It took a few seconds for my vision to return to me. The scene before me reminded me of the day when my Derpy investment went horribly wrong. Broken cart, check, destroyed products… “Oh noo, all of my food is ruined!” Cried out a distressed female voice, check. Now for the pony who has taken all of that damage. I looked around for him and saw a full green health bar, in the left side of my vision. Nope nop-- “oowww, oww, owww.” a sharp pain in my head blindsided me. It hit me after I tried to look around, oh yeah, that pony, was me… Check. Now for the final element of chaos, an explosion, or random flash fire. I sat there, zoning out and waiting for the last element to spark… hmm, nothing happened. “-re you even listening to me?” My eyes drifted over to the voice that was probably addressing me. It was of female nature, and gave off a distressed tone. I looked at her as she tried to assess the damage. Her eyes frantically examined my whole body for any signs of bleeding or fatal damage, I assume. She relaxed as I seemed to be physically okay and looked me in the eyes. I returned her gaze in that bedroom eyes manner. “So, do you like what you see?” I snarked. Her orange eyes widened, as she stepped back once. I looked over and saw a light blush on her brown cheeks, but after a moment, she adopted a smug look. “Yeah,” She said as she came forward and lifted a hoof. “I really like your mane,” She flicked her hoof through it and laughed. I know, I must of really had a goofy look on my muzzle right then. That one combo line made me enter ‘scrunch-off battle mode’. She trotted around behind me and tried to help me get up. “Come on now, don't keep sitting there; you're making the locals nervous.” She informed me, motioning around us. Sure enough, everypony there that I made eye contact with looked like they were going to stare me into submission. Ohh yeah, I think I should go. The mare pulled me up, led me through the crowd, and around a few corners. We trotted around some new area, I didn’t really pay attention to our erratic movements any more. We turned one last corner and she waved me over, before ducking into a bar. I looked up at the sign, ‘The Wooden Harvest Inn’. I trotted inside, wary of any searching eyes. I don’t think I want somepony from that wreck following me, ugh, what a disaster area. “Hello, good traveler.” Hailed a booming voice from behind the counter. “Welcome to the ‘Wooden Harvest’.” I looked at the big red earth pony and nodded in greeting. “The name’s Cliff Hanger, and I own this here Inn.” He slapped the counter and continued. “Come, stay a while for a nice treat, the food service here will really leave you hanging on the edge of your seat.” He let out a hearty laugh and I cringed at his pun. I walked passed him, into the bar area to look around. I noticed my guide had seated herself by a far wall and trotted over. The cringe I had still hadn’t changed in the slightest. As I sat down, the brown pegasus mare- Yes, she has wings.- shot me a questioning glance. “So, I’m guessing you’re new around here?” She mused. “What a way to make a memorable first impression.” I shifted uncomfortably in my seat. “Yeah, it was a doozy.” She smiled, “Well how about we make some new impressions. My name’s Midnight Desire, and you?” She gestured a hoof at me. “Arcadia Skys.” I stated promptly. To me, her name sounded laced with trouble. “Sir Arcadia.. Skys...” she tested it out on her tongue, “I like it, it has a certain high class ring to it.” A orange coated mare suddenly waked up to our table. “Pardon, ‘ahm your waiter, Orange Puzzle, what can I do ya for?” “Fifty bits.” I chirped. She recoiled, “What in tarnation is that spose ta mean?” she said. “Ah, never mind, ughhh.” I picked up a menu. “I’ll have an apple turnover.” “Alright, and you missy?” Orange addressed my companion. “The Pinkie Surprise.”... as soon as Desire got those words out, the whole bar went silent. Orange stated sweating nervously and asked, “Ya sure there missy? I’d honestly recommend something else.” “Why of course, darling, I wish to expand my horizons.” my companion elegantly stated. “Well if’n you say so.” Our orange waitress trotted away, calling out, “Suds! Get the soap en’ mop bucket. It’s about ta get messy!” So, that now leaves us to our previous conversation. “My my, what service.” she stated idly. The rest of the bar’s conversations all turned into hushed whispers. Desire waved a hoof at me, “So tell me, what are your plans for this evening, if you don’t mind me asking?” she inquired. I scrunched up my muzzle, “You’re just going to ignore that, are you?” I made a show of scanning the bar’s crowd. “Ha, everypony would want to share a few words about the most beautiful mare they’ve seen in their lives.” she stated with a flourish of her hooves. The bar crowd let out a chuckle, “Ain’t no pony got time fer dat.” Oranges voice echoed, Which was then drowned out the sound of the crowd’s responding laughter, revamping. “But enough about that,” She continued, oblivious, “What are you going to do? Being so new and all.” I was going to have to get my bearings soon, so I might as well think out loud. “I’m going to beat this race and win those royalties. The first thing I’m going to do is hunt an-” “Hold on Arc, one does not simply trot out of Oakvail!” She looked at me with a fierce look in her eye, “There are procedures that need to take place, you have to stay for one week, in town, until the Goddess, Selene, can finish blessing you and the adventures guild gives you, a adventures license.” “What? But I was gonna- Ah to chaos with it, I don’t want to fall behind anymore than I already have.” I said, crestfallen. “You really should plan for these things, Arc.” She chided me. “Have you at least thought about raising your stats?” I looked up at her and replied, “Of course, I was going to, when... I leveled.” “Tsk, tsk, tsk, you should know that you can raise stats through daily work. Here, let me see your stats.” Really, now she wants to see my personal stats? Meh, I just started, I’ve nothing to hide yet. “Sure, might as well frisk me too.” “Hmpf.” I picked my head up and faced the bar. ☾Status window☽ ☾-----☽ Name- Arcadia Skys Type-Neutral Level - 1 Class - None Title - None Fame - 0 Health - 151 Mana - 229 Strength - 12 Dexterity - 20 Intelligence - 8 Wisdom - 10 Stamina - 10 Leadership - 0 Luck - 0 Offense - 0 Defense - 0 Resistance to Magic - 10% resistance to wind magic ☾-----☽ “Hmm, it seems your intelligence is great, you actually made it to an eight.” She snarked at me. I shoot her a glare,“How witty of you.” I responded deadpanned. “Why of course darling, I’m a perfect ten.” She waved a hoof at me, “But you are so dexterous, you could do wonders with your mane.” Okay, that makes no sense at all. How can being dexterous have anything to do with manes? Right when I was about to voice my thought, Orange decided to return. “Alright y’all, the foods nice and hot.” She said while walking over. “Ah hope you two can handle it.” She placed our plates down, my apple turnover looked gorgeous. It has that flakey crust, a sweet smell wafting off it, and it’s huge. The food takes up the whole plate. Oohh this is gonna be good. I put the loop fork on my hoof and got ready to dig in. “Oh my, that looks wonderful.” Desire compliments. I look up from my plate, about to reply, when I spied her plate. What I saw… to say the least, was pathetic. The plate was dressed up like one of those nobility snobs dinners. The outside ring was a few greens, mostly broccoli, shaped into a smile. A few garnishes were set around it here and there. Then in the middle sat the main dish… A single pink, perfectly square, cube. What? That's not even a full meal! I thought looking around. I took a little more notice to my surroundings. Orange, after setting that plate down, had apparently backed away. “Ya-ya’ll enjoy your meal now, your check’s on that there table.” She informed us. I looked down at the paper check and froze. I don’t have any bits yet. I shot a quick glance at Desire. Screw chivalry, I’m as broke as a rock farm funding parties. My companion took notice of my glance and saw me looking at the check. A few drops of sweat formed on my muzzle, as I waited for her to speak. She blinked, I pointed with my eyes to the offending paper, she blinked again. I let out a groan, she blinked once more, I opened my mou- “OOOooohhhhhh.” She finally responded. I relaxed, figuring she knows I don’t have any bits yet, problem solved. “That’s the cutie mark I’ve been looking for!” she exclaimed in excited revelation. My irises shrunk to pin pricks. You’ve gotta be bucken kidding me! I turn to face her direction, as red veins joined my white eyes. She had trotted over to some random orange unicorn stallion, with a totally unique cutie mark. It was some stupid sword crossed over an hour glass. I almost slammed my hoof on the table in outrage… Wait, why don’t I just do that? I raised my hoof an- The stallion saw my eyes staring into his soul and fled the scene. Desire turned around with a smik. “Why darling, what ever are you doing?” she asked smartly. “What am I doing!? What are you- doing!” I almost screamed. She spun around sideways and tossed some bits at Orange… who was hiding behind that stallion, who had just ran for his life. “Why, paying for dinner of course.” she stated smugly. My anger dissipated, like I was shot with an arrow, and was replaced with embarrassment, as my hoof floated downwards. Desire trotted back over and sat down. “You're hardly a stallion really, if you are getting so angry over nothing.” She picks up her hoof fork and declares. “Let us enjoy this gorgeous meal.” I started poking at my apple-turnover. The crispy flakiness crumbled just right and it stuck to the fork. The first bite was so divine. Eeer, yeah, it was that awesome. A bit of my embarrassment started to fade away. I looked over at my companion's so called ‘dinner’. She was slowly eating her greens with a slight flush to her face. “This dish is absolutely splendid.” she stated a bit short of breath. I shrugged, I don't know why everypony was so worried about it. We both seemed to be enjoying our dinner. I know I really am. I dove right into destroying the outside of my turnover. Due to present company though, I restrained myself to eating with more manners, rather than a wild hungry beast with its’ only prey for the whole week. I haven’t had food this good in a while. I looked over to see Desire slide the pink main cube past her lips. The result was almost instant, as she finished swallowing it. Time stopped, the bar’s crowd gasped. Were they waiting for this? Desire's eyes went wide, her coat changed pink and then swiftly to red, she started sweating bullets the size of Celestia’s fat flank- I mean really that thing’s HUGE-, then her body expanded and contracted. Man, this was definitely weird. This was too weird for me, I had to say something,“Hey, I just met you… But THIS,” I waved a hoof in her direction franticly,“is crazy!” Steam hissed out of her ears and she compressed back to a normal, more flushed state… the floor was drenched. Desire slowly rose up in her seat, mane hanging down, emphasizing her figure, as her coat shone glistening with sweat. She looked at me with fire blazing behind her half-lidded eyes. She opened her mouth and hot breath came out in a huff, all the way across the table. “Theres other ways, that you can pay me for dinner," she licked her lips,"maybe.” -Gulp- “Oh boy, I’m on the edge.” Ch.3-Bit HunterThe Road to Royalty Chapter.3- Bit Hunter All of my muscles ached. My stiff wings were fully spread and over worked. I was drenched in sweat and I couldn’t stop, even if I wanted to. “Darling really, is that all you’ve got?” Desire chided me. My breath came out in a huff, as I redoubled my efforts. Smack, smack, smack, the sound rang out and bounced off the walls. “Come now, you move like an amature, Harder!” She commanded. I felt the zone kick in, as I quickened my pace and let down some heavy blows. I wasn’t about to let her tell me I wasn’t good enough. “Thatssss the spot, right thereeee.” I felt the last of my energy was coming to an end and decided to give it my all, for the last few seconds. Smack,Smack,Smack, SMACK! I knew I was at my breaking point and gave one last good smack. A message popped up before my eyes☾Str +1☽ and then I fell down in exhaustion, like a doll after being used, with his strings cut. “Nooooooooooooooooo,” She Shrieked, almost shattering my ears, Luna, she has some lungs…heh, if she was screaming yesterday at that accident, I will personally kill her. “Don’t stop! You were soooo close!” she cried waving her hooves at me. “Huff,huff, can’t… too tired,” I informed the distressed maiden. She gave me a death glare. “You will get back up this instant, and put that, weapon back to work.” “We have been going at it for hours, my pony body needs a break... but I would be happy to continue later.” “Hmp,” Desire huffed. “Well then you can continue, without me then, as long as I get results.” She then got up and stomped off, tail swaying back and forth high in the air, as well as her nose. Really now? It’s just training. I sat up and flexed my stiff wings, flicking sweat in every direction. How did I let her rope me into this? I looked around my area at the many straw pony shaped dummies. Beyond that was a big open area and stone walls. I looked back to the ground before me, there was the wooden sword I was using to hit the imaginary pressure points on the doll. She tells me of a way to pay, for that dinner, is to get stronger... Yeah, I was already planning to do that, but I don’t really trust that mare. That whole thing with the bill was not, o-k. I hate being put on the spot by so called 'Rich', ponies. Ugh, that leaves a bad taste in my mouth, I’m going to get me something to snack on. "Huff, huff, huff," Taking a few breaths I calmed down a bit, then stood up. My stomach confirmed my idea of getting something to eat, by making a loud growling sound. "Guuurrrrr." Good thing not many ponies come to the training hall. The training instructor on the other hoof… “I just heard some pony with a, weak resolve.” his voice boomed. Yeah, he’s one of those. I tried to slip out the door, but the instructor blocked my way, I let out a groan. “What's this that Iron Will sees? A pony that doesn’t have the fight. To get what's right.” I open my inventory and tried to ignore him. Ten baked breads and one canteen greeted me. Oh, that and a bit counter that has an ominous number zero. I frowned, then taped my hoof on my bread to take one out. It materialized in front of me and I raised a hoof up to catch it. The bread that I had just taken out hit the floor. Five hoofs away from my current position… let me re-play that. Bread in air, I raise my hoof, Bread falls towards my hoof. A blue blur darts past my face, smacking into my food, bread hits floor. My left eye twitches, a minotaurs hand lingers in the air. Oh, Buck No! “You FEATHERING block head! Don’t touch my food,” I stomped up to him, wings flared. “That's the spirit I'm looking for! Get into the zoneeee,” he energetically replies, also stepping forward. “Outta my way, idiot minotaur,” I growled , trotting straight past him. “That's RIGHT, don’t settle for a measly baked bread, get out there and get some reeeaaalll food,” I stomped out of his range before he could say anymore crap. That was one down side to the training hall. A minotaur that thinks he’s Iron Will… I hope he’s not the real thing, that would mean, theres a guy giving bad advice and getting paid for it. Anyway, looking into my inventory and seeing that zero makes me angry. I’m going to fix that right now. I swiped my hoof in the air, re-opening my menu, to grab a new baked bread. This time it actually made it to my hoof. I took my first bite of my reward… “UGH, this is so dry!” The bread was baked to last and not to be tasty at all. Even if my taste buds were not pleased in the slightest, my satisfaction bar was rising to full. “It’s better than starving, no pony deserves that,” I read that you die ingame, if you starve. “Guess I should get some better food and to do that I need bits,” I declared, “I wonder what kinda jobs they have around here.” I started walking away from the training hall and headed south. The streets seemed moderately teeming with ponies, minotaurs, and a few zebras. Yeah, it’s definitely a bit more diverse than home. I normally see only the three pony races on the streets. A few of the ponies I passed gave me a judging eye. What's all that about? I wonder. I walked into my first destination for making bits. Silver Wood Weaponry, I figured that I could make some bits and prepare for battle at the same time. The first thing that hit me, was the heat. The little hairs on my coat curled up, burning the tips. Hmm, thats a bit warm for my tastes, but it’ll have to do. I took a look around to check out my potential work area. There were swords lining the walls in glorious detail. Blades of silver and gray, with handles that had straps of magic weaved leather and dark black bindings. I looked to the counter and noticed a barrel of swords with much less detail and polish, among those sat a lone pata blade. Those must be the beginner swords, I need one soon. “Hold on a second,” a voice calls from the back. I guess that’s the owner, time to make a good impression. I fixed my gaze over at the counter and awaited his arrival. Two minutes had passed before I heard something. “Sorry for the wait, what can I get for you, mister?” I looked over at the space between the counter and the way to the back. Strange, there was no pony there. I assumed they were talking on there way out, so I raised my voice. “I’m here looking for some work, from such a fine place as th-” “Owww OWww, hey, no need to yell mister, I’m right here,” the owner replied, clearly in pain. I looked back to the counter and then to the backroom. Yeah, still no- “Aghhhh” I jumped back as I was kicked in the left fore-leg. “I’m down here, you slowpoke,” the owner huffed. I landed and looked down… shes sooo smallll. It must of been the look on my face that gave it away, because with that I earned yet another kick to my leg. “You must really not want that job,” she snapped at me. That got my wits back to me. I snapped back up and adopted a neutral expression. “Hello boss, I’m Arcadia Skys, nice to meet you.” “Shut up mister, I’m not your boss yet…” she stated while poking me in the chest. I looked down at her and gave the boss a once over. Her coat was bright red, she had a dirty brown mane, and the cutest silver eyes. “The names Silver Frame, and don’t get so close mister,” she said as she pushed off my chest again and made me take a few steps back. She’s strong… but she looks so smalll, Oopss. That slip in thought lead to another glare. Err, let me try to redirect my situation. “So can you hire me?” I finally asked the question that was on my mind. She trotted over and poked me again. “Your real weak, you know that mister?” I winced. She trotted around me and checked my physical appearance. Then she took out a tape measure and made another round. Yeah yeah, I heard that weak line, like twice already. “Ok then, everything else looks good,” she confirmed. “So then I got the job?” I asked her looking hope full. “Buck NO!!, You're a party crasher” she snaps. “What!! I didn’t do anything like that.” I state swiftly, a disbelieving look upon my muzzle. “What do you call screaming at the top of your lungs, making the party cart lose control, standing in the middle of the street, damaging city property, and RUNNING AWAY FROM THE CRIME SCENE!!” Some how she was in the air yelling, but also pushing me back. She landed on her hooves and looked at me. I spent a few seconds staring at her before she opened her mouth again."Well? What do you call it huh?" After all that the only thing I could possibly say was… “Awwwwww” “Ugh, just get outta my shop mister” she spat as she tossed me out the door. I was unceremoniously dumped onto the street. So there I sat… outside on display, there were other ponies looking at me, with those same judging eyes. I realized that all those glares were not curious stares, but they were all looking down on me as a ‘party crasher’. What kind of party would make a whole town that mad at me? I looked back at my first choice for some bits. “It’s just a single party, it can’t be that bad.” I got up and dusted myself off, ignoring the looks of the crowd as best as possible. I decide to just re-start the searching process. I trotted into the crowd, receiving a not too friendly nudge as I passed. Hey, watch it buddy.Arriving across the street I read the sign of my next destination, Bubble Sap Potions. I trotted up to the doorwa- slam, the door closed so fast, I can’t believe it was open. I once again landed on the ground, this time was accompanied by the crowds laughter. I got back up and once more dusted off… “Where did this sap come from?” My left foreleg was covered in fresh sap, anddddd pine needles? "Ugh," I looked up at the closed door and right where it touched me, a outline of my foreleg was embodied into it. The ponies around me apparently thought this new development was worth laughing at even more. My left eye twitched. Say calm, I already have enough heat on me. I looked out and smiled at them. All for the bits. Receiving no other reaction from the crowd. I opened my inventory, to take out my canteen of water. I used it all to wash my fore-hoof off. Most of the crowd was now uninterested in me, as I was back to normal. I looked up the street. "Time to hunt, for a job, " I walked into the crowd, "It's gonna be a bit tougher then I thought." From business to business, I trotted on. The third try, was better then the second. I got in the door, that was about it though. The owner demanded that I leave, so I did. No use making my new reputation worse. Even after the business rejected me I continued, the next stop stalls. "Hey you over there." A voice called out. I turned to see it was another pony, other then the vender I was currently headed to. The dis-heartening fact was, his stall was in a ally way. "Come on over here my good pegasus, we should chat." Couldn't hurt. I trotted over, into the shadow filled ally. "Sooo," The vender started, "Word on the street is, you're looking for a, Job." "Yeah, I am, I need to make some bits." I took a quick look around, then back at the merchant. He was draped in shadows, melting into the scenery and his teeth were a bit crooked, better be on my guard. "Well the names Root Dust, and I have just the job you’re looking for," "Does it pay well?," I lifted a hoof to my chin. "Oh, of course, doing this job, could get you some hefty silver bits, no need to worry about copper bits here. We pay our workers well," Root stuck his hoof out of the shadows and silver bits gleamed in the dark ally. I noticed he was covered head to hoof in a black cloak. My eyes locked on to the precious bits I was searching for. My hoof shot out to grab them, but he pulled back faster then I could even see... taking my prize with him. "Woah there boy, The job always comes before the pay." I squinted at him, "So who is this 'We' and what's the job." "Simple really, you do this job and you get paid. We contact you, not the other way around." He tried to snake his hoof over my shoulder, but I backed out of range. He shrugged, "Suit yourself then, but here's the deal," he leaned in. "There's this smith named Silver, she been getting big deals lately and had a rare, expensive Sword commissioned, All we want you to do is be a distraction. A stallion of your talents should be able to do it easily. 'Party Crasher'." I looked at him and quickly thought about this situation. I just been scouted by some dangerous organization, after only just arriving in this game a day ago. My reputation is already low, due to my entrance and now if I refuse, I could only gain even more enemies.What rotten luck... heh who cares. In this situation, if I play my cards right, bits will be mine. I adopted a neutral expression, as my mask. " So, you require my services as the 'Party Crasher' eh, well i'm gonna need a deposit up front. " I stepped towards him. He laughs, "Ha , are you deaf boy. Work first, pay after." "Now think about this, using a quick flash of coins to entice the naive an greedy Blacksmith to pay attention to me, is better then some haggler off the street with nothing to show right?" "Well of course sh-" "You want a quick success to your mission, and ensure you get the sword." "Why do you think we are telling you this ki-." "Then the best way to handle this is with only half of the bits. Just enough to lure her out. You found me once didn't you. Not like I'm going anywhere soon." Dust ruffled his cloak, with a scowl on his face. He looked pissed, but he clearly was in deep thought. Here we go, if this works I could get my first thing of bits. Dust suddenly stopped and swiped his hoof out at me. I leaned to the side to avoid it, raising my left hoof. Three sliver bits dropped in instead. "I'll be expecting results 'Party Crasher'...." His eyes gleamed , Sending a cold shivering up my back. I grinned at the shiny sliverbits in my hoof. "No worries Dust, there's no party left un crashed." I stepped out of the alleyway with my reward. All about the bits. I continued on my search for a real job. Suckers. After I was farther away from the ally I dropped the 'Party Crasher' mask. Well that went better then I thought. Even If I could not avoid having more enemies I at least made a profit while making them.heh. The rest of my day was uneventful to say the least. Every shop I went to rejected me. Most venders just outright ignored me. I walked around until the sun was about to set on my second day. I ended up walking right back into the area where I caused this mess. I looked out over the area. There was a small brick path way, in the middle of a dirt road. The houses and shops were make of oak wood... Go figure. Painted in very earthy colors of Autumn's brown,red,orange and yellow mixes. They sat along a simi circle path, with a central road. I looked to the right, there a little ways off the road, was the tree that had gave me apples... ohhhh I forgot about lunch. I quickly looked at my hunger bar. It was dangerously low. I decided to go over by that tree, that had given me my lunch.It also provided a nice grove of tress behind it, away from the main city. I sat down beside it and waved my menu hoof. I tapped on the apples that I forgot about. It dropped into my hoof. It's red color looked great as fallen leaves danced around me. I took a bite of the sweet fruit, the flavor was much better then my last meal. The sun dropped down further as I ate. Biting into the last apple was great, but half way thru I felt a tap on my back. I looked over, "hhmmm?" "Um, Could you not steal our apples, mister criminal sucm?" A cute voice said. The apple caught in my throat as my brain processed that.-Cough, cough, cough- "What?" The Violet earthpony mare smiled, " Come on, get up worm~, eating our apples with out paying means you want to work~! Oh this is great, we can get a new worker right when we need one, that aslo solves our theif problem too." My brain rebooted , a few seconds after. " Who are you?" "Oh, me? I'm Melony Lash." Really luck? This is the frist real job you can think of. ". What do you mean your offering me a job, how much does it pay?" "Who said you had a choice? Criminal~. Everypony knows the 'Party Crasher' in this small town. Ex specially when he crashes the party everypony was required to attend." -my let eye twiched- Hmmm, "How much, am I getting paid." She smiled, my background music changed to some slickly sweet country jingle. "Payment varies depending on how much your worth, are you better then dirt criminal? Can you do real work?" I Shot up tossing the apple at her. " What ever work you got is nothing to me. I would work so good, you would toss all your bits at me." The apple flew right at her face, she twiched.... The apple flew through her? Wait, it was now on the ground behind her choped into perfect slices, on a plate... Next to a picnic basket. What? " Oh, mister Criminal, I'm so sorry I think nothing of your great boasting skills," She turns to the farm," I look forward to your services." "Hmp," I slam my hoof down," that's right..." Then it hits me "Hey!"
Let’s Load up a Lag-less gameThe Road to Royalty Chapter 1 - Let’s Load up a Lag-less Game The dawn of virtual reality had finally arrived. Every stallion, mare, colt, and filly had attended to hear the grand opening speech. It was given not by Princess Celestia, but her sister, Princess Luna. What a glorious speech it was. “We welcome thee, my little ponies, to the grand opening of new gaming technology. ‘Unicorn Co.’ has worked diligently and given us a new world of gaming to explore. May we present to you, ‘The Road to Royalty’.” Cheering rang out from the crowd that rocked the plaza as many hooves hit the ground in applause. Now you might be wondering, why Luna, a royal princess, was announcing a game… surely you jest. Gamer Luna, who has beaten ‘Forward Unto Dawn’ in record time, topped the rankings in ‘Haylo’, is a champion racer in ‘MareioKart’, beaten ‘Touhou’ on lunatic without dying once, and beaten every ‘I Wanna Be the Mare’, out there! How could you not- The crowd settled down as she held up a hoof to continue. “Now as thou hath heard, the game’s day is three times longer than our own and your body will receive a full rest while you partake in this thrilling adventure.” The crowd let out a few shouts of happiness as Luna continued, “With this thou has time to partake in many things in your natural eight hours of rest, let my nights bring joy and comfort to spur your new days along with a well rested body.” The crowd was about to rile back up and- “But, as it is a game, remember to play in moderation.” Princess Luna warned. Parents in the crowd looked at their foals with a knowing eye. Yeah, that right there, I’m definitely not following that one. Princess Luna’s smile edged up slightly as she scaned over my section of the silent crowd… did she just? Her regal eyes locked in on my location, like an eagle and its’ prey, one thousand miles away. ... … … … Her smile transformed into a smug grin. Well folks, see you on the moon. She then looked away, as if to let me stew in my fate. A small drop of liquid pride formed on my left eye and I'm happy to report, there are no yellow puddles outside today. After that moment of silence she speaks up again. "Now, ‘Unicorn Co.’ has a special surprise for everypony." Luna proceeded to motion her hoof over the crowd. "Anypony, who is able to ascend to royalty, as there may only be one, will receive ten-percent of the company royalties from the game." The whole crowd gasped. Just think of all the bits! As the announcement sunk in, a few worried faces appeared when they thought of a certain competitor. "Not to worry, my little ponies, for this fun competition is for you to enjoy and prosper in, thus, let the game begin." The cheering from the crowd was deafening. Ugh, I think I need new ears. Even the filly next to me was shrieking in excitement. Every pony was moving in mass to get started. The race was on and I was ready... right? ☼ Three years later ☼ Ugh,I wasn't ready at all. Knock, Knock, Knock. "Hello? I have a delivery for a Mr. Arctic Wind, is there anypony home?" Announced a cute muffled voice from the other side of my door. "Hold on a sec." I replied, as I went to open the door. "Okay." returned a cheery reply. When I opened the door a bubbly gray pegasus mail mare greeted me. "Are you Mr. Arctic?" She said looking at her clip board, with one steady eye. "Yes, that is correct." "Sign here please," she hoofed me the board "To receive your package and complementary muffin." I quickly signed my name with a wing. "I’ve been waiting three years for this." The mare just smiles at me and checks her clipboard. With that done, she points to a pony sized package beside her. "I hope you enjoy your package, Mr. Arctic." "I sure will," I smirked, "thanks for bringing it out here." The mare saluted with a goofy grin, "All in a days work for ‘Derpy Mare Mail Express Delivery’!" She then proceeded to ruffle around her bag and produced a muffin. She placed the muffin in my hooves and gave me one more goofy smile. "Have a nice day and enjoy the, ‘Triple Supreme Splice Banana Slice Split Sundae Muffin’!!" As she turned around to leave, I made a quick deceive decision. "Hey!" I took out four bits, no, three bits, and tossed them. She turned and managed to catch two. The other bit... it bounced off her muzzle. "Thanks again." She scooped up the lost bit. Then she smiled and waved as she flew away. "That was an investment that I can afford." I thought, turning to retrieve the package. Hmmm, this package is big, good thing I already prepared my game room. As I started dragging the package inside, I thought about my situation. It was three years to this day, October tenth, two thousand thirteen, that this game came out. I happened to be there, but couldn't buy it at the time. After the announcement the whole area was hectic. Like avoiding soccer moms on Hearth's Warming Eve. I don't ever wanna re-live that... ever! I stopped in my game room and ripped off the packaging. Standing before me, was the Crescent Moon. A sphere shaped machine that utilized illusion and dream walker magic. It was powered by ‘Wub Thunder’ technology. A combination of unicorn and pegasi work. It was an amazing piece of equipment. “Heh, time to set her up.” I took out the instruction manual and got to work. The set up is a bit complex, enough to make me waste thirty minutes at least. That was extremely annoying. I took a look at the finished product. It was a big sphere, but flat on the bottom. In the middle there was a door to walk into. On the ground around it were a few metallic boxes. They had wires that connected the thunder lines to power the machine. The inside was hollow and only contained a buttons panel. Really now… everypony I know has one of these. It took me three years to get one of them. Namely, I had to save up some bits to buy it. Ten-thousand five-hundred and sixty-nine bits! How did everypony have enough money for this thing?! I know I'm poor, but that’s just too much for a spur of the moment purchase. It’s a life time investment, is what it is. I may be late to the starting line, but I will get those ten-percent royalties. I resolutely step for- “gahh” My wing shoots out to steady me and bangs into the Crescent Moon, which I just setup. Did I really just trip on that? “Gahhhaa,” I dropped to the floor with a thump. I cradled my wing and blew on it. “Bucken Nightmare Moo-” I suddenly stop rolling in pain, as something I missed catches my eye. There, in my discarded packaging, sits a letter with a royal seal. “How did I miss that?” I asked nopony in particular. I limped my way over to the letter and ripped it open. Ahh, stress relief, I think I’m feeling better already. The letter, which was wide open, only had one line of text. “Play in moderation”... all color drained from my muzzle. Yeah that’s right, I’m feeling real gray right now... I raced around my house like a mad stallion and closed all windows. I exhausted every single annoying light and dashed into my Crescent Moon. “Heh, that’s right,” I said into the dark, “you can’t stop me.” A loud clanging noise sounded from right outside, my left window. I grinned madly and pressed the top button on the panel. The Crescent Moon door closed. “Show me the BITS!!” I shouted as the machine hummed to life. I lost feeling in my hooves, as my senses were sucked outta me. I sat like that for a few seconds, until a female voice rang out. “Your ires and vane scan confirms you are a unregistered user. Would you like to create an account?” “I’ve waited three years lady, why would I ever say no?” Out of no-where, a regal alicorn I’ve never seen steps into my vision.“You may call me Selena.” “Sure.” I replied… Feels weird talking without a body. “Now please name your avatar.” “Aang.” I reply smartly “Sex of-” “Course I’d love some.” I quickly interjected… The room got colder all of the sudden… What, when did I get feeling back? “Select your gender, stallion, mare, or other.” she continued, seemingly unfazed. “Do I even dare to ask why they have ‘other’ as a selection? Hmm, may as well pick mare and extort as many stallions as possible. “It’s all about the bits!” I declare. From this day forth, no bit left behind… especially the naughty bits. -Cough- Oh yeah, “Male, Bi-petal hairless creature.” I joked “Okay." “Wait, wha-- WHAT THE BUCK is THAT!?“ I kid you not, a hairless two-legged creature from foals nightmares appeared before me. “Are you sure of your--” “NO, can you even imagine, something that, that ugly? Ugh, no no NOOO.“ “Thank you and enjoy your time in ‘The Road to Roy--” “Cancel, rest, back, return, abort, delete, crush, kill , destroy, swag” “Heh.” The alicorn’s sly grin gleamed menacingly in the room. Really, she just, ugh. I have the worst luck. . “Lets just get this over with.” “As you wish.” That disgusting hairless thing vanished into thin air. “Name you Avatar.” She stated once more. ...Nope “Umm, A-Arc-- Arcadia Skys.” “Select your gender.” She sites with a re-worded statement. Must resist female part and questioning their moral integrity of ‘Other’... It better not be a futa. “Male” I answer finally. An array of creatures appear in-front of me, as she continues her speech. “‘The Road to Royalty’ has twenty seven races currently. You may select your race from the primary ten races, sub races may be found later on. Do you request a summary on them?” “Whoa thats a lot, I wonder about those playable ones though. Hit me with that list." I request. “☾Earth Pony☽- Strong with high endurance. Ten percent resistant to physical attacks. Ground type." “☾Pegasus☽- Very dexterous. High speed and are ten percent resistant to wind magic. Flying type.” “☾Unicorn☽- Weak body, strong magical ability. Ten percent resistant to all magic. Magical Ground type.” “☾Changeling ☽- Has the ability to transform and change name. Stats are taken from form copied, with penalties. Magical Flying type -changes with forms-.” “☾Zebra☽- Alchemy and potion masters. twenty percent self-usage potion effectiveness. Ground type.” “☾Griffin☽- Dextrous warriors. Ten percent more damage when attacking from the air. Flying type.” “☾Minotaur☽- Overwhelming attack damage and little dexterity. Racial skill ☾Overclock☽- Twenty percent more damage for twenty seconds or until a skill is used for one-hundred thirty percent increased damage. Ground type.” “☾Donkey☽- The savvy trader. Passive trade bonus. More bits selling and discount buying starts at ten percent. Increased carrying capacity. Ground type.” “☾Dragon☽- Two subtypes - Flying or Ground- Four leg movement speed increase one-hundred percent. Both fire immune- Except ☾Hellfire☽-pure damage-. Fire breath and ten percent resistant to magic and physical attacks. Flying or Ground type.” “☾Bat Pony☽- The lords of the night. Twenty percent boost to all stats at night- Twenty percent weaker during day time. Night Vision. Flying type.” I sat there, slack jawed. “ Amazing.” Was all I could get out. “Select your race please.” “Ahh, too much for me to think on right now, I’m late enough as it is. I’ll be a pegasus, stick to what I know and experience it through my own eyes.” A model of me appeared before me. Whoa it’s weird looking at your own body from this angle. My cyan coat, wild black mane and tail, all put together with my brown eyes. They stared back out at me… creepy. It’s like I’m not the real me. No mirror could ever do this. “You may alter your appearance” “Oh? I guess I could make myself twenty percent more handsome. I would get all the fillies. Yeah that would probably attract too much attention. Uglier? Why the hay would anypony do that?” “No, just me.” “Please select starting kingdom and city.“ Ohhh, I’ve got this.“Kingdom of Squee, City of Oakvail” “Please enjoy your time in ‘The Road to Royalty’… Oh.” “Huh?” “Luna says ‘Hi’.” My eyes grew wide at this. She’s watching me. “Noooooooooooooooooooooo--”
Once Upon a Time in OakvailThe Road to Royalty Chapter 2-Once Upon a Time in Oakvail Hey, I think I remembered what pain feels like now! Not pleasant, not pleasant in the least, really, how can some ponies find it appealing? Ugh, now remember how I was screaming my head off as I finished my character?.. Wellllll that’s not the first thing you want to do when you log in. “Noooooooo-!” I screamed, while I registered that I had unlocked a night stalker whom was watching my every move. The feelings I had lost in character creation suddenly returned in full force. First sense, that returned was sight. I went from being saturated in pure darkness, to staring straight at the sun…. “Gaahhhhaaaa” Needless to say, my eyes were kinda toasty. “What the hay, Celestia, trying to blind me, much?” I complained. The second thing I can remember is the sound… so many sounds. Some mare was screaming her head off, not to mention, she had a opera house lungs. Shattered glass was an understatement. Ohhhh yeah, did I happen to tell you about that speeding carriage? That was getting louder by the second. “-noooooooooo- Ack” -Crack- . I’m hit, pegasus down! I haven’t even started flying yet… Well now I am, right into that tree over there, on course with my muzzle. -Crack- Hhmm, Applewood is tasty. "oww-bonk-, oww-bonk-, oww-bonk-,” Oh look, the apples have joined me, in threes. “A-chievement unlocked, I got lunch!” Well, I hope I did at least. My sweet mistress of darkness greeted me once again. I think she did this on purpose. … … … “Hey” Huh, I heard a voice. “Are you ok?” Why no, I’m not. “Here take this” No thank- -Splash- OOoooOOhhh, that’s so cold. “Ahhhhhhhhh, I’m up, I’m up!” I desperately gasped. It took a few seconds for my vision to return to me. The scene before me reminded me of the day when my Derpy investment went horribly wrong. Broken cart, check, destroyed products… “Oh noo, all of my food is ruined!” Cried out a distressed female voice, check. Now for the pony who has taken all of that damage. I looked around for him and saw a full green health bar, in the left side of my vision. Nope nop-- “oowww, oww, owww.” a sharp pain in my head blindsided me. It hit me after I tried to look around, oh yeah, that pony, was me… Check. Now for the final element of chaos, an explosion, or random flash fire. I sat there, zoning out and waiting for the last element to spark… hmm, nothing happened. “-re you even listening to me?” My eyes drifted over to the voice that was probably addressing me. It was of female nature, and gave off a distressed tone. I looked at her as she tried to assess the damage. Her eyes frantically examined my whole body for any signs of bleeding or fatal damage, I assume. She relaxed as I seemed to be physically okay and looked me in the eyes. I returned her gaze in that bedroom eyes manner. “So, do you like what you see?” I snarked. Her orange eyes widened, as she stepped back once. I looked over and saw a light blush on her brown cheeks, but after a moment, she adopted a smug look. “Yeah,” She said as she came forward and lifted a hoof. “I really like your mane,” She flicked her hoof through it and laughed. I know, I must of really had a goofy look on my muzzle right then. That one combo line made me enter ‘scrunch-off battle mode’. She trotted around behind me and tried to help me get up. “Come on now, don't keep sitting there; you're making the locals nervous.” She informed me, motioning around us. Sure enough, everypony there that I made eye contact with looked like they were going to stare me into submission. Ohh yeah, I think I should go. The mare pulled me up, led me through the crowd, and around a few corners. We trotted around some new area, I didn’t really pay attention to our erratic movements any more. We turned one last corner and she waved me over, before ducking into a bar. I looked up at the sign, ‘The Wooden Harvest Inn’. I trotted inside, wary of any searching eyes. I don’t think I want somepony from that wreck following me, ugh, what a disaster area. “Hello, good traveler.” Hailed a booming voice from behind the counter. “Welcome to the ‘Wooden Harvest’.” I looked at the big red earth pony and nodded in greeting. “The name’s Cliff Hanger, and I own this here Inn.” He slapped the counter and continued. “Come, stay a while for a nice treat, the food service here will really leave you hanging on the edge of your seat.” He let out a hearty laugh and I cringed at his pun. I walked passed him, into the bar area to look around. I noticed my guide had seated herself by a far wall and trotted over. The cringe I had still hadn’t changed in the slightest. As I sat down, the brown pegasus mare- Yes, she has wings.- shot me a questioning glance. “So, I’m guessing you’re new around here?” She mused. “What a way to make a memorable first impression.” I shifted uncomfortably in my seat. “Yeah, it was a doozy.” She smiled, “Well how about we make some new impressions. My name’s Midnight Desire, and you?” She gestured a hoof at me. “Arcadia Skys.” I stated promptly. To me, her name sounded laced with trouble. “Sir Arcadia.. Skys...” she tested it out on her tongue, “I like it, it has a certain high class ring to it.” A orange coated mare suddenly waked up to our table. “Pardon, ‘ahm your waiter, Orange Puzzle, what can I do ya for?” “Fifty bits.” I chirped. She recoiled, “What in tarnation is that spose ta mean?” she said. “Ah, never mind, ughhh.” I picked up a menu. “I’ll have an apple turnover.” “Alright, and you missy?” Orange addressed my companion. “The Pinkie Surprise.”... as soon as Desire got those words out, the whole bar went silent. Orange stated sweating nervously and asked, “Ya sure there missy? I’d honestly recommend something else.” “Why of course, darling, I wish to expand my horizons.” my companion elegantly stated. “Well if’n you say so.” Our orange waitress trotted away, calling out, “Suds! Get the soap en’ mop bucket. It’s about ta get messy!” So, that now leaves us to our previous conversation. “My my, what service.” she stated idly. The rest of the bar’s conversations all turned into hushed whispers. Desire waved a hoof at me, “So tell me, what are your plans for this evening, if you don’t mind me asking?” she inquired. I scrunched up my muzzle, “You’re just going to ignore that, are you?” I made a show of scanning the bar’s crowd. “Ha, everypony would want to share a few words about the most beautiful mare they’ve seen in their lives.” she stated with a flourish of her hooves. The bar crowd let out a chuckle, “Ain’t no pony got time fer dat.” Oranges voice echoed, Which was then drowned out the sound of the crowd’s responding laughter, revamping. “But enough about that,” She continued, oblivious, “What are you going to do? Being so new and all.” I was going to have to get my bearings soon, so I might as well think out loud. “I’m going to beat this race and win those royalties. The first thing I’m going to do is hunt an-” “Hold on Arc, one does not simply trot out of Oakvail!” She looked at me with a fierce look in her eye, “There are procedures that need to take place, you have to stay for one week, in town, until the Goddess, Selene, can finish blessing you and the adventures guild gives you, a adventures license.” “What? But I was gonna- Ah to chaos with it, I don’t want to fall behind anymore than I already have.” I said, crestfallen. “You really should plan for these things, Arc.” She chided me. “Have you at least thought about raising your stats?” I looked up at her and replied, “Of course, I was going to, when... I leveled.” “Tsk, tsk, tsk, you should know that you can raise stats through daily work. Here, let me see your stats.” Really, now she wants to see my personal stats? Meh, I just started, I’ve nothing to hide yet. “Sure, might as well frisk me too.” “Hmpf.” I picked my head up and faced the bar. ☾Status window☽ ☾-----☽ Name- Arcadia Skys Type-Neutral Level - 1 Class - None Title - None Fame - 0 Health - 151 Mana - 229 Strength - 12 Dexterity - 20 Intelligence - 8 Wisdom - 10 Stamina - 10 Leadership - 0 Luck - 0 Offense - 0 Defense - 0 Resistance to Magic - 10% resistance to wind magic ☾-----☽ “Hmm, it seems your intelligence is great, you actually made it to an eight.” She snarked at me. I shoot her a glare,“How witty of you.” I responded deadpanned. “Why of course darling, I’m a perfect ten.” She waved a hoof at me, “But you are so dexterous, you could do wonders with your mane.” Okay, that makes no sense at all. How can being dexterous have anything to do with manes? Right when I was about to voice my thought, Orange decided to return. “Alright y’all, the foods nice and hot.” She said while walking over. “Ah hope you two can handle it.” She placed our plates down, my apple turnover looked gorgeous. It has that flakey crust, a sweet smell wafting off it, and it’s huge. The food takes up the whole plate. Oohh this is gonna be good. I put the loop fork on my hoof and got ready to dig in. “Oh my, that looks wonderful.” Desire compliments. I look up from my plate, about to reply, when I spied her plate. What I saw… to say the least, was pathetic. The plate was dressed up like one of those nobility snobs dinners. The outside ring was a few greens, mostly broccoli, shaped into a smile. A few garnishes were set around it here and there. Then in the middle sat the main dish… A single pink, perfectly square, cube. What? That's not even a full meal! I thought looking around. I took a little more notice to my surroundings. Orange, after setting that plate down, had apparently backed away. “Ya-ya’ll enjoy your meal now, your check’s on that there table.” She informed us. I looked down at the paper check and froze. I don’t have any bits yet. I shot a quick glance at Desire. Screw chivalry, I’m as broke as a rock farm funding parties. My companion took notice of my glance and saw me looking at the check. A few drops of sweat formed on my muzzle, as I waited for her to speak. She blinked, I pointed with my eyes to the offending paper, she blinked again. I let out a groan, she blinked once more, I opened my mou- “OOOooohhhhhh.” She finally responded. I relaxed, figuring she knows I don’t have any bits yet, problem solved. “That’s the cutie mark I’ve been looking for!” she exclaimed in excited revelation. My irises shrunk to pin pricks. You’ve gotta be bucken kidding me! I turn to face her direction, as red veins joined my white eyes. She had trotted over to some random orange unicorn stallion, with a totally unique cutie mark. It was some stupid sword crossed over an hour glass. I almost slammed my hoof on the table in outrage… Wait, why don’t I just do that? I raised my hoof an- The stallion saw my eyes staring into his soul and fled the scene. Desire turned around with a smik. “Why darling, what ever are you doing?” she asked smartly. “What am I doing!? What are you- doing!” I almost screamed. She spun around sideways and tossed some bits at Orange… who was hiding behind that stallion, who had just ran for his life. “Why, paying for dinner of course.” she stated smugly. My anger dissipated, like I was shot with an arrow, and was replaced with embarrassment, as my hoof floated downwards. Desire trotted back over and sat down. “You're hardly a stallion really, if you are getting so angry over nothing.” She picks up her hoof fork and declares. “Let us enjoy this gorgeous meal.” I started poking at my apple-turnover. The crispy flakiness crumbled just right and it stuck to the fork. The first bite was so divine. Eeer, yeah, it was that awesome. A bit of my embarrassment started to fade away. I looked over at my companion's so called ‘dinner’. She was slowly eating her greens with a slight flush to her face. “This dish is absolutely splendid.” she stated a bit short of breath. I shrugged, I don't know why everypony was so worried about it. We both seemed to be enjoying our dinner. I know I really am. I dove right into destroying the outside of my turnover. Due to present company though, I restrained myself to eating with more manners, rather than a wild hungry beast with its’ only prey for the whole week. I haven’t had food this good in a while. I looked over to see Desire slide the pink main cube past her lips. The result was almost instant, as she finished swallowing it. Time stopped, the bar’s crowd gasped. Were they waiting for this? Desire's eyes went wide, her coat changed pink and then swiftly to red, she started sweating bullets the size of Celestia’s fat flank- I mean really that thing’s HUGE-, then her body expanded and contracted. Man, this was definitely weird. This was too weird for me, I had to say something,“Hey, I just met you… But THIS,” I waved a hoof in her direction franticly,“is crazy!” Steam hissed out of her ears and she compressed back to a normal, more flushed state… the floor was drenched. Desire slowly rose up in her seat, mane hanging down, emphasizing her figure, as her coat shone glistening with sweat. She looked at me with fire blazing behind her half-lidded eyes. She opened her mouth and hot breath came out in a huff, all the way across the table. “Theres other ways, that you can pay me for dinner," she licked her lips,"maybe.” -Gulp- “Oh boy, I’m on the edge.”
Ch.3-Bit HunterThe Road to Royalty Chapter.3- Bit Hunter All of my muscles ached. My stiff wings were fully spread and over worked. I was drenched in sweat and I couldn’t stop, even if I wanted to. “Darling really, is that all you’ve got?” Desire chided me. My breath came out in a huff, as I redoubled my efforts. Smack, smack, smack, the sound rang out and bounced off the walls. “Come now, you move like an amature, Harder!” She commanded. I felt the zone kick in, as I quickened my pace and let down some heavy blows. I wasn’t about to let her tell me I wasn’t good enough. “Thatssss the spot, right thereeee.” I felt the last of my energy was coming to an end and decided to give it my all, for the last few seconds. Smack,Smack,Smack, SMACK! I knew I was at my breaking point and gave one last good smack. A message popped up before my eyes☾Str +1☽ and then I fell down in exhaustion, like a doll after being used, with his strings cut. “Nooooooooooooooooo,” She Shrieked, almost shattering my ears, Luna, she has some lungs…heh, if she was screaming yesterday at that accident, I will personally kill her. “Don’t stop! You were soooo close!” she cried waving her hooves at me. “Huff,huff, can’t… too tired,” I informed the distressed maiden. She gave me a death glare. “You will get back up this instant, and put that, weapon back to work.” “We have been going at it for hours, my pony body needs a break... but I would be happy to continue later.” “Hmp,” Desire huffed. “Well then you can continue, without me then, as long as I get results.” She then got up and stomped off, tail swaying back and forth high in the air, as well as her nose. Really now? It’s just training. I sat up and flexed my stiff wings, flicking sweat in every direction. How did I let her rope me into this? I looked around my area at the many straw pony shaped dummies. Beyond that was a big open area and stone walls. I looked back to the ground before me, there was the wooden sword I was using to hit the imaginary pressure points on the doll. She tells me of a way to pay, for that dinner, is to get stronger... Yeah, I was already planning to do that, but I don’t really trust that mare. That whole thing with the bill was not, o-k. I hate being put on the spot by so called 'Rich', ponies. Ugh, that leaves a bad taste in my mouth, I’m going to get me something to snack on. "Huff, huff, huff," Taking a few breaths I calmed down a bit, then stood up. My stomach confirmed my idea of getting something to eat, by making a loud growling sound. "Guuurrrrr." Good thing not many ponies come to the training hall. The training instructor on the other hoof… “I just heard some pony with a, weak resolve.” his voice boomed. Yeah, he’s one of those. I tried to slip out the door, but the instructor blocked my way, I let out a groan. “What's this that Iron Will sees? A pony that doesn’t have the fight. To get what's right.” I open my inventory and tried to ignore him. Ten baked breads and one canteen greeted me. Oh, that and a bit counter that has an ominous number zero. I frowned, then taped my hoof on my bread to take one out. It materialized in front of me and I raised a hoof up to catch it. The bread that I had just taken out hit the floor. Five hoofs away from my current position… let me re-play that. Bread in air, I raise my hoof, Bread falls towards my hoof. A blue blur darts past my face, smacking into my food, bread hits floor. My left eye twitches, a minotaurs hand lingers in the air. Oh, Buck No! “You FEATHERING block head! Don’t touch my food,” I stomped up to him, wings flared. “That's the spirit I'm looking for! Get into the zoneeee,” he energetically replies, also stepping forward. “Outta my way, idiot minotaur,” I growled , trotting straight past him. “That's RIGHT, don’t settle for a measly baked bread, get out there and get some reeeaaalll food,” I stomped out of his range before he could say anymore crap. That was one down side to the training hall. A minotaur that thinks he’s Iron Will… I hope he’s not the real thing, that would mean, theres a guy giving bad advice and getting paid for it. Anyway, looking into my inventory and seeing that zero makes me angry. I’m going to fix that right now. I swiped my hoof in the air, re-opening my menu, to grab a new baked bread. This time it actually made it to my hoof. I took my first bite of my reward… “UGH, this is so dry!” The bread was baked to last and not to be tasty at all. Even if my taste buds were not pleased in the slightest, my satisfaction bar was rising to full. “It’s better than starving, no pony deserves that,” I read that you die ingame, if you starve. “Guess I should get some better food and to do that I need bits,” I declared, “I wonder what kinda jobs they have around here.” I started walking away from the training hall and headed south. The streets seemed moderately teeming with ponies, minotaurs, and a few zebras. Yeah, it’s definitely a bit more diverse than home. I normally see only the three pony races on the streets. A few of the ponies I passed gave me a judging eye. What's all that about? I wonder. I walked into my first destination for making bits. Silver Wood Weaponry, I figured that I could make some bits and prepare for battle at the same time. The first thing that hit me, was the heat. The little hairs on my coat curled up, burning the tips. Hmm, thats a bit warm for my tastes, but it’ll have to do. I took a look around to check out my potential work area. There were swords lining the walls in glorious detail. Blades of silver and gray, with handles that had straps of magic weaved leather and dark black bindings. I looked to the counter and noticed a barrel of swords with much less detail and polish, among those sat a lone pata blade. Those must be the beginner swords, I need one soon. “Hold on a second,” a voice calls from the back. I guess that’s the owner, time to make a good impression. I fixed my gaze over at the counter and awaited his arrival. Two minutes had passed before I heard something. “Sorry for the wait, what can I get for you, mister?” I looked over at the space between the counter and the way to the back. Strange, there was no pony there. I assumed they were talking on there way out, so I raised my voice. “I’m here looking for some work, from such a fine place as th-” “Owww OWww, hey, no need to yell mister, I’m right here,” the owner replied, clearly in pain. I looked back to the counter and then to the backroom. Yeah, still no- “Aghhhh” I jumped back as I was kicked in the left fore-leg. “I’m down here, you slowpoke,” the owner huffed. I landed and looked down… shes sooo smallll. It must of been the look on my face that gave it away, because with that I earned yet another kick to my leg. “You must really not want that job,” she snapped at me. That got my wits back to me. I snapped back up and adopted a neutral expression. “Hello boss, I’m Arcadia Skys, nice to meet you.” “Shut up mister, I’m not your boss yet…” she stated while poking me in the chest. I looked down at her and gave the boss a once over. Her coat was bright red, she had a dirty brown mane, and the cutest silver eyes. “The names Silver Frame, and don’t get so close mister,” she said as she pushed off my chest again and made me take a few steps back. She’s strong… but she looks so smalll, Oopss. That slip in thought lead to another glare. Err, let me try to redirect my situation. “So can you hire me?” I finally asked the question that was on my mind. She trotted over and poked me again. “Your real weak, you know that mister?” I winced. She trotted around me and checked my physical appearance. Then she took out a tape measure and made another round. Yeah yeah, I heard that weak line, like twice already. “Ok then, everything else looks good,” she confirmed. “So then I got the job?” I asked her looking hope full. “Buck NO!!, You're a party crasher” she snaps. “What!! I didn’t do anything like that.” I state swiftly, a disbelieving look upon my muzzle. “What do you call screaming at the top of your lungs, making the party cart lose control, standing in the middle of the street, damaging city property, and RUNNING AWAY FROM THE CRIME SCENE!!” Some how she was in the air yelling, but also pushing me back. She landed on her hooves and looked at me. I spent a few seconds staring at her before she opened her mouth again."Well? What do you call it huh?" After all that the only thing I could possibly say was… “Awwwwww” “Ugh, just get outta my shop mister” she spat as she tossed me out the door. I was unceremoniously dumped onto the street. So there I sat… outside on display, there were other ponies looking at me, with those same judging eyes. I realized that all those glares were not curious stares, but they were all looking down on me as a ‘party crasher’. What kind of party would make a whole town that mad at me? I looked back at my first choice for some bits. “It’s just a single party, it can’t be that bad.” I got up and dusted myself off, ignoring the looks of the crowd as best as possible. I decide to just re-start the searching process. I trotted into the crowd, receiving a not too friendly nudge as I passed. Hey, watch it buddy.Arriving across the street I read the sign of my next destination, Bubble Sap Potions. I trotted up to the doorwa- slam, the door closed so fast, I can’t believe it was open. I once again landed on the ground, this time was accompanied by the crowds laughter. I got back up and once more dusted off… “Where did this sap come from?” My left foreleg was covered in fresh sap, anddddd pine needles? "Ugh," I looked up at the closed door and right where it touched me, a outline of my foreleg was embodied into it. The ponies around me apparently thought this new development was worth laughing at even more. My left eye twitched. Say calm, I already have enough heat on me. I looked out and smiled at them. All for the bits. Receiving no other reaction from the crowd. I opened my inventory, to take out my canteen of water. I used it all to wash my fore-hoof off. Most of the crowd was now uninterested in me, as I was back to normal. I looked up the street. "Time to hunt, for a job, " I walked into the crowd, "It's gonna be a bit tougher then I thought." From business to business, I trotted on. The third try, was better then the second. I got in the door, that was about it though. The owner demanded that I leave, so I did. No use making my new reputation worse. Even after the business rejected me I continued, the next stop stalls. "Hey you over there." A voice called out. I turned to see it was another pony, other then the vender I was currently headed to. The dis-heartening fact was, his stall was in a ally way. "Come on over here my good pegasus, we should chat." Couldn't hurt. I trotted over, into the shadow filled ally. "Sooo," The vender started, "Word on the street is, you're looking for a, Job." "Yeah, I am, I need to make some bits." I took a quick look around, then back at the merchant. He was draped in shadows, melting into the scenery and his teeth were a bit crooked, better be on my guard. "Well the names Root Dust, and I have just the job you’re looking for," "Does it pay well?," I lifted a hoof to my chin. "Oh, of course, doing this job, could get you some hefty silver bits, no need to worry about copper bits here. We pay our workers well," Root stuck his hoof out of the shadows and silver bits gleamed in the dark ally. I noticed he was covered head to hoof in a black cloak. My eyes locked on to the precious bits I was searching for. My hoof shot out to grab them, but he pulled back faster then I could even see... taking my prize with him. "Woah there boy, The job always comes before the pay." I squinted at him, "So who is this 'We' and what's the job." "Simple really, you do this job and you get paid. We contact you, not the other way around." He tried to snake his hoof over my shoulder, but I backed out of range. He shrugged, "Suit yourself then, but here's the deal," he leaned in. "There's this smith named Silver, she been getting big deals lately and had a rare, expensive Sword commissioned, All we want you to do is be a distraction. A stallion of your talents should be able to do it easily. 'Party Crasher'." I looked at him and quickly thought about this situation. I just been scouted by some dangerous organization, after only just arriving in this game a day ago. My reputation is already low, due to my entrance and now if I refuse, I could only gain even more enemies.What rotten luck... heh who cares. In this situation, if I play my cards right, bits will be mine. I adopted a neutral expression, as my mask. " So, you require my services as the 'Party Crasher' eh, well i'm gonna need a deposit up front. " I stepped towards him. He laughs, "Ha , are you deaf boy. Work first, pay after." "Now think about this, using a quick flash of coins to entice the naive an greedy Blacksmith to pay attention to me, is better then some haggler off the street with nothing to show right?" "Well of course sh-" "You want a quick success to your mission, and ensure you get the sword." "Why do you think we are telling you this ki-." "Then the best way to handle this is with only half of the bits. Just enough to lure her out. You found me once didn't you. Not like I'm going anywhere soon." Dust ruffled his cloak, with a scowl on his face. He looked pissed, but he clearly was in deep thought. Here we go, if this works I could get my first thing of bits. Dust suddenly stopped and swiped his hoof out at me. I leaned to the side to avoid it, raising my left hoof. Three sliver bits dropped in instead. "I'll be expecting results 'Party Crasher'...." His eyes gleamed , Sending a cold shivering up my back. I grinned at the shiny sliverbits in my hoof. "No worries Dust, there's no party left un crashed." I stepped out of the alleyway with my reward. All about the bits. I continued on my search for a real job. Suckers. After I was farther away from the ally I dropped the 'Party Crasher' mask. Well that went better then I thought. Even If I could not avoid having more enemies I at least made a profit while making them.heh. The rest of my day was uneventful to say the least. Every shop I went to rejected me. Most venders just outright ignored me. I walked around until the sun was about to set on my second day. I ended up walking right back into the area where I caused this mess. I looked out over the area. There was a small brick path way, in the middle of a dirt road. The houses and shops were make of oak wood... Go figure. Painted in very earthy colors of Autumn's brown,red,orange and yellow mixes. They sat along a simi circle path, with a central road. I looked to the right, there a little ways off the road, was the tree that had gave me apples... ohhhh I forgot about lunch. I quickly looked at my hunger bar. It was dangerously low. I decided to go over by that tree, that had given me my lunch.It also provided a nice grove of tress behind it, away from the main city. I sat down beside it and waved my menu hoof. I tapped on the apples that I forgot about. It dropped into my hoof. It's red color looked great as fallen leaves danced around me. I took a bite of the sweet fruit, the flavor was much better then my last meal. The sun dropped down further as I ate. Biting into the last apple was great, but half way thru I felt a tap on my back. I looked over, "hhmmm?" "Um, Could you not steal our apples, mister criminal sucm?" A cute voice said. The apple caught in my throat as my brain processed that.-Cough, cough, cough- "What?" The Violet earthpony mare smiled, " Come on, get up worm~, eating our apples with out paying means you want to work~! Oh this is great, we can get a new worker right when we need one, that aslo solves our theif problem too." My brain rebooted , a few seconds after. " Who are you?" "Oh, me? I'm Melony Lash." Really luck? This is the frist real job you can think of. ". What do you mean your offering me a job, how much does it pay?" "Who said you had a choice? Criminal~. Everypony knows the 'Party Crasher' in this small town. Ex specially when he crashes the party everypony was required to attend." -my let eye twiched- Hmmm, "How much, am I getting paid." She smiled, my background music changed to some slickly sweet country jingle. "Payment varies depending on how much your worth, are you better then dirt criminal? Can you do real work?" I Shot up tossing the apple at her. " What ever work you got is nothing to me. I would work so good, you would toss all your bits at me." The apple flew right at her face, she twiched.... The apple flew through her? Wait, it was now on the ground behind her choped into perfect slices, on a plate... Next to a picnic basket. What? " Oh, mister Criminal, I'm so sorry I think nothing of your great boasting skills," She turns to the farm," I look forward to your services." "Hmp," I slam my hoof down," that's right..." Then it hits me "Hey!"
