/donut/ - Donut Bar

Shudleng steps out and looks around at the squalor. "Yech."

He shakes his body, and a set of wings unfurl from his back.

>>2251

"Yeah, the Bar always opens into this part of town. It's kind of a defense mechanism, I guess."

Dawn steps up alongside you.

"When you're an extradimensional space with Luna-knows how many different kinds of world-ending things in it, you gotta stay hidden, I guess. Follow me, the offices are a little bit closer to the nice part of town."

He turns toward the train tracks, and starts walking.

>>2252

Shudleng follows along watching the area carefully. This isn't his cup of tea anyways, so he's happy to get somewhere nicer.

>>2253

Storefronts, dives, strip clubs (yes, for a naked species) and even the occasional thinly-veiled "smoke shop" dot the sides of the street.

"There's a lot of nasty stuff down here already," Dawn mutters. "O'course, it might just be that the bar let 'em in. Or attracted them. We're not sure what came first."

The tracks are, mercifully, disused. No trains will come today.

As Dawn steps over them, he smirks.

"It's funny how sharp the line is. It's literally the train tracks. Follows 'em perfectly. The moment you cross them, crime drops like a rock. It doesn't disappear, but it drops."

>>2254

He follows him over, curious. "Have you considered magical reasons for that yet?"

>>2255

"There's a running theory that whoever built the tracks made them in the shape of an ancient peace-keeping rune that protects everything inside."

He shrugs.

"Don't know for sure, though, since our resident rune expert is kinda flighty. Over here."

He turns to a bookstore, and walks in.

"Hey, Nightlight."

A sleepy-looking unicorn looks up at the two of you.

"All-nighter again?"

The unicorn nods.

"Yeah, sucks, don't it? The morning guy should be here in a few. Thanks for keepin' the post, buddy."

Dawn gives the unicorn a hoof-bump, and Nightlight presses a button on the desk, which causes a door in the back to swing open.

>>2256

He leans in to Dawn, asking quietly. "So, unicorns, pegasi, regular ponies, deer and gazelle? Are there Zebra?"

>>2257

"Yep. They usually keep to themselves, though."

He leads you through the back door, into an oddly white hallway. The walls are paneled in some shiny material, and the floor is tiled in a color just a shade more grey.

"Just an FYI," he whispers back. "Shudleng isn't a very common pony name. Whether you keep it or not is up to you, of course. I'd recommend not lying about your status as a shapeshifter, though."

>>2258

"Oh, Pony name. Should pick one. How does Night Between sound?"

He also raises an eyebrow at the last sentence. "So to be sure, I should tell them about shapeshifting? I can do that."

>>2259

"That sounds like a decent one. And yeah, you pretty much gotta tell 'em."

He sighs.

"Ever since that one time that the Changelings tried to invade Canterlot, we've been on edge. And for good reason, they almost took out the Princesses. Anyway, all shapeshifters of any kind are required to state their abilities as part of a special form. It was modified after we figured out that non-Changeling shapeshifters were popping up."

>>2260

"That's right. Spooky scary shapeshifters. Are there those with both horns and wings?"

>>2261

"Very few. They're called Alicorns, here, and there's only four known to exist."

He leads you further down the hall. Down a side passage, you see bulky, metal suits of armor--all hooked up to the walls.

"There's Celestia and Luna, the Princesses. Well, the main two. All of them are royalty, but C and L rule over this city. Then there's Cadence, who rules over the Crystal Empire to the north, and then Twilight, who doesn't rule anything right now."

He turns a corner, guiding you around a pony who is currently talking to a rather confused-looking owl-headed humanoid.

"They're all powerful magic-users, skilled leaders, and generally get things done. HOOFEN is their go-to group when they need something dealt with quietly. If they don't mind the press, they send Twilight after it."

>>2262

"Interesting. If there's only four, how do they have children? And they are all women? Are they immortal?"

>>2263

"They're immortal, and, near as we can tell, they're made. Twilight was originally a unicorn."

He steps up to a doorway, with a round port and a screen set into the wall next to it.

"Then, after a massive burst of magical energy, she was an Alicorn. Nobody knows what happened but her."

He leans up to the port, which flashes a light at his eye. The words 'access granted' appear on the screen.

"Eyewitness reports say she vanished in a flash of light, left a scorch mark, and then reappeared in the town square--which sounds like a really powerful teleport. But that's all we know," Dawn says, as the door slides open.

Within, several desks are arranged in a semi-orderly fashion. One desk has a bulky-looking unicorn sitting at it, tapping away at a row of icons on the desk; a screen flashes information at him.

"Hey, Bricklayer. Any news on our Prometheus wiretap?"

"We haven't heard anything but garbage," the unicorn says in a thick but understandable accent. "They may have discovered the tap."

"Get with Crunchy Cracker and start doing some signal analysis. If they know, then we need to know."

"Gotcha, boss. New recruit?"

"Yep. I'm giving him the interview."

>>2264

"Callsigns then?" He raises an eyebrow again. "And a tap? What is that?" He looks around again, then back at Dawn.

"Bricklayer?"

>>2265

"He's new."

"I can tell," Bricklayer mutters.

"So," Dawn says, "Prometheus is a group we're monitoring for a lot of reasons. Side project. A 'wiretap' is a device--or set of computer instructions--that takes info that passes through it, and gives it to us. Bricklayer is this guy here. Found him repairing construction machinery in the Doeminican Republic."

Bricklayer waves.

"Crunchy Cracker is one of the other team members; she helps him with breaking into computers that they don't want us looking in. Now, we gotta do all the formal stuff, so if you'll just follow me right in here..."

Dawn walks into a small office set into the side of this room.

>>2266

>>2266

"Oh. So a suspicious group, that you have a sensor watching. And the visible magic, then. Makes sense." He waves back at Bricklayer, then follows Dawn into the office.

>>2267

"Okay."

Dawn closes the door, then takes a seat behind a rather nice-looking oak desk.

"So, aside from all the paperwork, the only important thing is this:"

He looks you in the eye.

"You're about to join a group that handles all kinds of strange things. You'll be in mortal danger on a regular--and irregular--basis. You'll be expected to follow orders, and to follow the rules of engagement laid out by us, and by the sovereign power of the area of operations, in roughly that order. This is a volunteer organization. You choose whether or not you get involved."

He leans forward, resting his hooves on the desk. "What you do here is your own choice. Will you become an agent of HOOFEN?"

>>2268

"I, Night Between will gladly become an agent of HOOFEN." He smiles and nods.

>>2269

"Very well, then."

He grabs a sheaf of papers.

"This is the new hire paperwork..."

Some two hundred individual questions about species, age, gender, skills, preferred combat method, spiritual beliefs, and relative technology of your world (the latter includes a signed statement that you will not commit "weapons technology trafficking"), everything is wrapped up.

You got the HOOFEN Badge!

It'll let you access HOOFEN's armory, infobanks, and transportation.

>>2270

>>2270

He gladly reaches a hoof onto the desk, and his hoof splits into 5 different tendrils tipped with black. They begin writing each question in, signing in perfect script "Night Between" and they finish rather quickly. What does the badge look like?

>>2271

It's a simple thing; a fold-open piece of plant leather, with a white card inside. It's got HOOFEN written across the top in blue, with "Temporary Card" filled in where the name would go.

"We'll have to get your picture taken," Dawn says. "We can do that while I show you all the important bits. You got a favorite weapon?"

>>2273

"I'll take that as a no. Fair enough."

He opens the door.

"Brick, clear my schedule."

"Like it wasn't clear already?"

"Fair enough."

Dawn leads you out into the halls again.

"Just in case you want to have something other than your fists, hooves, what-have-ya, we have an armory here. Any weapon you can think of, and some you can't--but those are restricted, of course."

>>2274

"I'll make sure to check it out. Definitely. Can't not make use of tools, available."

He follows along, leaning in.

"How many are there?"

>>2275

"Weapons? Thousands. Weapons from other times? Millions, if you count the ones stored off-site. We only keep a few on hand for training purposes."

He takes a turn--narrowly avoiding a group of armored soldiers bearing complicated-looking rifles--and steps into a small waiting area. On the opposite wall, a non-horned non-winged pony is reading a magazine behind a chain link barrier. There has to be a better word for nonmagical horses here.

>>2276

"I suppose that makes sense. So who would I be working with, besides you? Or is it just the two of us for now?"

He looks at the regular pony reading.

>>2277

The regular pony looks up.

"Oh, hey. Need somethin'?"

"Just an introduction, Half-Cocked."

The pony puts his book down--it appears to be technical diagrams of a large gun. Looks like it's meant to accept a belt of bullets. In fact, it looks kind of crude compared to most of the ones you've seen.

"If you say so. Name's Half-Cocked. I'm an old buddy of Breezy's. Most of the time, you'll find me behind this desk."

"Sometimes he comes along, though," Dawn adds. "He's a crack shot with that M2."

"Nothin' fires like a madeuce," Half-Cocked says with a laugh.

"I'm working on making a team for the new bar, Night--you and I are the start. Half-Cocked has to watch the guns most of the time, so he can't always back us up."

>>2278

He nods, smiling at Half-Cocked. "Nice to meet you. You sound very interesting to be around."

He looks over at Dawn.

"Anyone else you want me to meet?"

>>2279

"I think that's about it for the regulars. Everyone uses the archives, but you probably won't meet them directly."

Dawn waves to Half-Cocked, and you're whisked off through the halls once more.

"The archives have info on everything we've fought before. Everything from various kinds of zombies to the worst villains we've ever seen."

The door to the archives is just as unassuming as the rest of them.

As it slides open, you notice dozens of ponies, humanoids, and other beings hunched over computer desks.

"Welcome."

Night Between briefly considers yelling a loud expletive and annoying everyone in there, but decides against it. "And this is all a great repository for knowledge? On the visible magic?"

>>2281

"Yep. Lemme show you how it works."

He walks up to an empty desk.

"You start by entering your username--a word that identifies you--and your password--a secret series of letters and numbers that ensures that only you have access to your account. Kind of like a password for a secret door, except..."

The explanation drags on and on. This visible magic is complicated. There are a billion security checks and nearly as many technical details to work out. But, eventually...

"Type a word into this box," Dawn says, "And click this button."

>>2282

Night nods slowly. This is a complicated dealing, but he's learned complicated before, this is just something worth knowing. He reaches over and types out a word slowly before he gets used to where the letters are. All told he ends up with something about 16 letters long.

"And then?"

>>2283

"Then," Dawn says, "you watch the magic."

He guides your hoof--and the 'mouse'--across the tabletop. The pointer lines up with the "search" button.

Click...

>And now, the question is, what did Shudleng search for?

>>2284

Shudleng searched for changelings. He wanted to know what his native cousins looked like, what they acted like, and what they were weak to.

>>2286

A set of small text snippets appear, each one headed by an underlined phrase.

>Changelings (disambiguation)

Changeling can refer to...

>Changeling Invasion (4A2014)

The Changeling Invasion of 4th Age 2014 occured during Cadence's wedding...

>Changeling

A Changeling is a quadrupedal, insect-like creature capable of shapeshifting...

>Changeling Hive

Changeling Hives are a common sign of late-stage Changeling infestations...

>>2287

Changeling.

"Insect-like? The one I met did seem like an insect, but there was just too much there." He moves the mouse and begins clicking where he thinks it should work.

>>2288

>Changelings

A Changeling is a quadrupedal, insect-like creature capable of shapeshifting into almost any [equine] form. The most common form of changeling is capable of mimicking the physical characteristics of an [Earth Pony], a [Pegasus], or a [Unicorn], but incapable of mimicking their voice. More advanced strains of changeling, often termed "infiltrators", are able to mimic speech, but often don't have an expert grasp of the [common language], making it hard for them to impersonate especially intelligent ponies. Queens are able to mimic [Alicorns], including speech. Changelings are incapable of copying the mental patterns and habits of their target directly; instead, they must rely on memorization, or, in cases where the original pony is captured, interrogation.

>Changeling Biology

Changelings are capable of directly feeding off of emotional energy (and, by extension, can feed off a unicorn's [magic]). Some studies also claim that a changeling can feed from other materials, based on the structure of their digestive tract, but nobody has been able to prove this, nor to find the food in question (some speculate that it's "brains", but this is generally considered incorrect).

Further, Changelings are thought to have several means of reproduction; it is not clear which methods are actually used and which are urban legend, however. It is only clear that they rely on non-changelings to some degree, and that ponies who enter a hive often do not come out.

>Changeling Detection

Due to their ability to consume emotional energy, changelings are considered Dangerous Creatures (under [Canterlot Decree #7], "Beings which Threaten Equestria"). As such, killing one is considered a lawful act, so long as proof is provided of the creature's true nature. This proof can be provided after the creature is dead, but if there is no satisfactory proof then it is considered 1st degree murder.

Common methods of detecting changelings include:

- Behavioral patterns. Changelings cannot exactly copy a pony's personality; thus, if a friend begins acting in an extremely unusual way, they may have been replaced.

- Speech. Some changelings are incapable of speech, and others are learning it as a second language. They may make grammatical errors that the original pony would not make, or they may avoid speech entirely.

- Unusual Advances. While changelings don't behave as they're depicted in certain works of [pornography], they do sometimes rely on seduction to feed. A friend who was previously uninterested, who suddenly becomes interested, may be a changeling.

The surest way to identify a changeling is to spot them while they are not disguised, or to locate their [nest]. Nests are usually covered in a greenish-black, smooth material, and may have green mucous within. If you identify a changeling or find a hive, contact local law enforcement.

>>2289

>Forgot to mention: Words in [square brackets] are links.

>>2289

"Oh, so they are poor copiers. Not given the gift for understanding. They have queens, so their loyalties are imbued instead of given. That's a shame. Ha, I can see why some would be so paranoid. Love is such a damn trap now with these things."

He looks over at Dawn.

"And the other shapeshifters in this world?"

>>2291

"The elephant in the room is that they came from the Bar. Most of the world is unaware of the Donut Bar, but HOOFEN knows about it, and so do the Princesses. Official story is that they're the result of experiments with universe-hopping."

Dawn rolls his eyes.

"Of course, anyone who pays attention would notice that they all seem to pop up in a specific part of town. But nobody notices, because they don't really care. We haven't had a changeling attack in years, so they assume that it all just works."

>>2292

At this, there's a very un-ponylike grin from Shudleng as he nods. "Good. And it's our job to handle them? That sounds great. Absolutely perfect!"

>>2293

"It's our job to handle anything that's dangerous and shouldn't be publicized."

Dawn raises an eyebrow.

"Most shapeshifters are smart enough to be licensed. They get catcalled, sure, sometimes attacked, but they're lawful. They follow the rules. There's places where stray Changelings can feed with consent."

>>2294

Shudleng grimaces a little. "Mm. I suppose that's the other side of having a Law."

Just as quickly. "Then, while I'm here in town, do I stay here? The Bar? Your place?"

>>2295

"I've already got things set up back at the hotel..."

Dawn shakes his head.

"No, wait, I didn't. Not here. Did I?"

>>2296

He looks at Dawn like he's losing his mind. "No, unfortunately. Were the Avengers even real! Am I gonna have to watch a different movie because it's here?"

>>2297

"No, that one exists in this universe. But I'll have to introduce you to the bagboy again. At least now I can tell the finance boys to take care of paying for your room."

He taps you on the shoulder, and nods to the door.

"You probably won't use it much unless we're doing some kind of covert, long-term stuff in this world, but it's nice to have, and maybe I won't have to listen to you flirt with my sister."

>>2298

He laughs boisterously and slaps him on the back. "I'll have you know, she came on to me first. Well in advance of me even asking you permission."

>>2299

"Whatever. Let's get it taken care of."

He leads you past a group of ponies playing some form of game on the computers. Their screens show the point of view of various otherworldly warriors, each wielding a powerful weapon.

One fires a flaming spear at another; the spear explodes, scattering the body parts of the victim across the void they leap through.

>>2300

Shudleng watches intently until they pass. "Ah, so it also does interactive stories. That's really interesting. You'll have to show me how sometime."

He throws a foreleg over Dawn's shoulder. "Relax, friend. It's possible she won't even remember. If you want, I won't even know her. For what it's worth, she really cares about you. She just wants you to spend some time with her."

>>2301

As you walk past, the defeated warrior returns to battle, apparently unharmed but without his previous weapon. The two players share a hoofbump as one compliments the other on his aim.

"That's actually a pretty old one," Dawn says. "It's from back when they were still working out how to do it. It looks impressive, if you haven't seen the stuff they have now. Makes that game look like friggin' alphabet soup."

He leads you down the halls once more.

"For what it's worth, the flying stuff in Avengers was all made with a computer. And the Hulk, too."

>>2302

"That's why it looked illusionary. I figured it was something to do with the technology." Shudleng nods.

"Really, though. If I'm overstepping the line, let me know? Why do you avoid your sister?"

>>2303

"..."

He sighs.

"I've got more important things to do."

He's walking a little faster now.

>>2304

"Than to cultivate family ties? I mean, sure. I can understand being busy, but take it from someone who has had a lot of families. It's worth it, and it'll make her act up less." He shrugs a little.

"I suppose that's it. Anyways, what's the money like here? Coin? Paper? Barter?"

>>2305

"Used to be coin, now we mostly use cards."

He pulls out a wallet, and reveals a small card-shaped thing, made of a similar material to the odd, shiny-smooth substance that seems to be part of everything around here. A black stripe crosses the back. The front says "Equestrian Express", along with Dawn's name and a bunch of numbers.

"Like a lot of things, computers handle money faster."

>>2306

"Ah. That is quite the difference. I'm imagining large sums are involved then? Like Dragon Hoard level?"

>>2307

"Not really. These cards can handle any kind of transaction."

Nightlight waves to the two of you as you leave.

>>2308

Night Between waves back. "Oh, well. That's a hell of a spacesaver. A portable hole for your coin."

"So, finance, and then we receive our orders from who? Who is our boss?

>>2309

"Our boss, technically, is retired. Blowhard hasn't run the place since...damn, it's been a couple years, hasn't it?"

Dawn looks a bit wistful, and a bit scared. It's a look you've seen on soldiers before.

"Yeah. Couple o' years, now. At least he's happy, y'know? Wife and kids."

>>2310

"Ah, so we'd be relatively free agents, as long as we follow the rules."

He looks over. "Is that not normal? Do people in our jobs not get retirement?"

>>2311

"Not normally. Even Death doesn't stop us. Hell, I've faced the literal reaper twice. I kicked him right in the chest, first time. Second time? Well, I learned a lot about grenades."

He chuckles sadly.

"That was one hell of a whoopsie."

>>2312

"Oh. I see. Part of what makes us interesting to those on high, huh?"

He bumps him. "Relax, you'll be fine. You've got me watching your back now."

>>2313

"You say that like I won't be watching yours," Dawn says, laughing.

As you pass by the now-familiar businesses of Downtown Canterlot, he watches the alleyways.

"It's amazing, y'know? After all the things he's seen, he actually got out of it. Near as I can tell, nothing's bothered him since."

>>2314

"It sounds like it. It'll be some good stuff. Who knows. I might settle down and spend a few lifetimes here." He watches the alleyways as well.

"What's your plan?"

>>2315

"Study, learn, act on anything that might be useful."

You arrive at a vaguely-familiar-looking hotel building. The carpet is a faded shade of red.

"Hey, Breeze! Who's your friend?"

"Business acquaintance," Dawn replies. "Here's the billing info. Give him a room next to mine."

Dawn hoofs over a piece of paper, and the bellhop throws out an overdramatic salute.

"Yes sir, Breeze, sir!"

"Attaboy."

>>2316

Shudleng waves. "Nice to meet you. Night Between."

He waits until out of earshot to ask, "Tell me, why does HOOFEN send you here? Is this secretly a base for the organization?"

>>2317

"Nah, it's just the place I lived in before the Bar. HOOFEN just picked up the bill."

He leads you upstairs.

"Now, I don't know if Rushie will remember you. Just play it by ear, okay?"

He pushes open the door...

"BOOTY BOOTY BOOTY BOOTY ROCKIN'--Oh, hey Dawny!"

She's wearing short shorts. And dancing. To music of questionable artistic value.

"Jeez, would ya turn that down!?"

>>2318

The look on Shudleng's face is nothing short of priceless as this world's idea of music hits his ears and he doesn't know how to process it. In addition to the sight. Just... welp.

>>2319

"Oh, hey! This a new friend of yours!?"

"RUSHIE STOP SHOUTING FOR LUNA'S SAKE--"

Rushie taps away at a little slab of metal and glass on a table.

I LIKE, BIG, BUTTS AND I CANNOT--

STOP! Collaborate and LISTEN--

I NEED A HEROOOO--

Finally, she hits the pause button.

"For cryin' out loud. I mean, come on. Why do you even have booty shorts."

"To see the look on your face."

Dawn facehooves.

>>2320

Shudleng looks incredibly disappointed, but shoves it away and waves. "Yeah, Hi! Night Between. I'll be working with your brother from now on."

He leans over to Dawn, whispering "I told you, she just wants attention." He then returns his attention to Rush.

"So I hear you like the Avengers. I've never actually seen it."

>>2321

"Oh, really!? We have it on DVD! Can we watch it, Dawny? I'll wear my cosplay--"

"Jeez, fine. Just don't wear the cosplay. I don't wanna be embarrassed in front of my new partner."

She zips off to her room.

"Dammit."

>>2322

He laughs a little when she's out of the room.

"Damnit. That was half the fun, last time. Ah well. So now that things are real in this world, can I have your real permission?"

>>2323

"...Sure. Flirt with her all you want. Maybe she'll get off my back."

He reclines on the couch, grumbling.

"Heck, impersonate me if ya need to. She'd probably ask for that."

You hear humming from Rushie's room.

>>2324

"Wouldn't you much rather her pursue pursue a more wholesome relationship with her brother? I would recommend it."

He walks further into the room, shouting into the other room. "Hey, Rush. Got Got a question for you."

>>2325

"I told you, I haven't got time..."

Rushie pokes her head out the door.

You can see juuust enough of her costume to note that it's not quite on. Which, honestly, doesn't matter. Fucking horses and their weird clothing shenanigans.

"Yo?"

>>2326

"The name Shudleng doesn't mean anything for you, does it?"

He looks back at Dawn, giving a light shrug.

>>2327

"...sounds kinda familiar."

She blinks.

"Yeah. I think I heard it over lunch or something."

Dawn just glares at you.

>>2328

"Thanks, just wondering."

He steps over to the couch, telling Dawn. "It was worth a shot. You can't begrudge me that, of all things."

>>2329

"..."

The glare subsides.

"You're trying to help, aren't you?"

>>2330

"Of course I am. My dear friend, it's what I do. It's what I live for."

He looks mockingly hurt. "You couldn't honestly think I was doing it for selfish reasons, could you?"

>>2331

"Nah. I just didn't think."

He sighs.

"You ever get that way? Just, y'know, hear something, and you stop thinking? I'm pretty sure that means you're on the right track."

>>2332

"No, not usually. But I tend to try and hear everything going on. I'm all ears, you see." He makes a cheesy grin as a bunch of ears pop out of his face for a second, then back in. He definitely made sure to do it in such a way only Dawn would see.

>>2333

"Heh."

Dawn lowers his eyes.

"You know, I deal with a lotta organized crime."

He pauses. Collects his thoughts.

"People at HOOFEN, people on the Team, they can't be threatened. Can't toss them over the waterfall."

>>2334

"That makes a ton of sense. I'm guessing HOOFEN is rather eh... Selective?" He nods along. "Of course they'd want the very best."

>>2335

"Hand-picked by the leaders. Or, in this case, me."

He shrugs. "And we only pick people who can handle it. People who, regardless of their mental state or species or history, can fight things that don't make sense. Ideally, people who can handle learning that the world's a giant fuckin' story."

"My sister is a lot of things. Strong, she ain't. If someone wants to give her cement horseshoes, they probably can. And they will, if she's close enough to me."

>>2336

"They would otherwise. If somebody is already at the point they'll kill those close to you, they'll do it whether she's actually close to you or not. That I know for a fact."

>>2337

"..."

He takes a deep breath.

"Even if that's true," he mutters, "do you really think I should be spending time with her? Time that could be spent making the world safer for us?"

>>2338

"There's no point in making the world safe if your world falls to pieces aroynd you. At the end of all this, you may not have anything that's actually yours."

He seems incredibly serious about this last part. "There's nothing worse than having nothing of your own. Especially if you threw it away. The world won't end if you take some time to see your sister for lunch. That's what an organization is for."

>>2339

"I can't afford it, Shudleng. One of us has to be the responsible one, and somepony who takes 15 minutes to change into a friggin' catsuit just to watch a movie..."

He trails off.

"...she's usually a lot quicker than that."

>>2340

Shudleng stands up quickly and moves over to the bedroom door. "And taking care of obligations to your family is responsible. I don't need you thinking about all the chaos she's getting up to here when we are on a mission. Getting her to calm down is better for the both of you."

He knocks on the door.

>>2341

No response.

Dawn presses himself against the doorframe, draws his revolver, and mouths the words "on three".

>>2342

He stands at the ready, wings now somehow much sharper looking and nods.

>>2343

One...two...

"NOW--"

Dawn kicks open the door and sweeps across the room. Looks empty.

There's a strange device on the floor--like a bowl with a handle on the bottom. It's pink and purple; some cardboard "gears" have been stuck to it with glue, and the words "iSpy SoundSense" are crossed out, replaced with "Audiomatic Sound-o-tron".

There's a note on the dresser. It flutters gently, blown by the breeze coming from the open window.

Dawn checks the closet. "All clear."

>>2344

Shudleng returns his wings to normal, ready to move when he says the word. "She was listening. What's the note say"?

What does it say?

>>2345

It reads:

Dawny,

If I'm not strong enough for you to love me, then I'll find someone who'll love me anyway.

Have fun being alone.

Goodbye,

--Rushie

"...son of a bitch."

Dawn leans out the window.

"Rush! Goddammit, Rush, where are you...!"

He growls and pulls himself back into the room.

"She flew the coop," he mutters, with an indignant edge.

>>2346

"Then let's go." He flexes his wings. "I can track her."

>>2346

"Then let's go." He flexes his wings. "I can track her."

"Didn't consider she'd try that?"

>>2348

"Didn't think she'd try. She can't even use a frickin' microwave oven without asking me for help."

Without pausing to explain what such an oven does, he leaps out the window and spreads his wings.

>>2349

Shudleng quickly follows suit. He catches up quick enough. "Does your world have flying dogs too? Or am I going to have to keep it subtle?"

>>2350

"Low-key."

He swoops over the broken-down street.

"Dogs, yes, wings no."

>>2351

"I can do that. Just run interference." If he looks over, he can see his nasal structure is just a little bit off. Just a little.

"Give me a moment."

>rolling system?

>>2353

>List of things to add to Infinity Fuck-It:

>Custom auto-update settings

>Names per-board

Rolled 1, 1, 2 = 4 (3d5)

>>2353

>yeah, I thought it was for the spread. The new rules update does simplify it a little. I'll give the 3d5 a try though.

>roll to track

Rolled 2, 2, 3 = 7 (3d5)

>>2353

>yeah, I thought it was for the spread. The new rules update does simplify it a little. I'll give the 3d5 a try though.

>roll to track

>Hoping this isn't a double post.

Rolled 4, 3, 4 = 11 (3d5)

>>2353

>yeah, I thought it was for the spread. The new rules update does simplify it a little. I'll give the 3d5 a try though.

>roll to track

>Hoping this isn't a double post.

>HOTWHEEELS

Rolled 5, 1, 1 = 7 (3d5)

>>2353

>yeah, I thought it was for the spread. The new rules update does simplify it a little. I'll give the 3d5 a try though.

>roll to track

>Hoping this isn't a double post.

>HOTWHEEELS

>Cripple God pls

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post twice before.

>Hotwheels nods sadly.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post three times before.

>Hotwheels nods sadly.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post four times before.

>Hotwheels nods sadly.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post five times before.

>Hotwheels nods grievously.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post six times before.

>Hotwheels nods grievously.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post NINE times before.

>Hotwheels really needs to get his shit together.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post TEN times before.

>Hotwheels has no business being king of the monsters.

>>2355

In one universe, Shudleng flies into a flagpole and loses consciousness.

>>2356

In another, the trail leads to a pony in an alley; he's currently staring at a latex bodysuit he found in a dumpster and looking very confused.

>>2358

In yet another universe, Shudleng follows Rushie's scent...to a waterfall on the edge of the wall.

>>2357

But in one universe...

You catch her scent. It leads down a twisting, turning path, doubling back on itself--more likely out of panic than planning. She zig-zags across the city, and eventually, her trail leads along the train tracks.

>You told Hotwheels that he has killed your post ELEVEN times before.

>This is why people do Genocide Runs.

>Jesus fuck.

Rolled 3, 3, 5 = 11 (3d5)

>>2369

>you see the "Post has taken too long to submit" message.

>It fills you with Determination

"This way. We'll find her. Don't worry. Let's pick up the pace."

His musculature increases almost imperceptibly and he begins flying faster.

>>2371

Dawn follows you, diving.

The trail twists and turns, taking wild detours. In general, though, it seems to follow the tracks.

"RUSHIE!"

Dawn calls out to the ponies below.

"RUSHING WINGS, I SWEAR TO FUCKING CELESTIA, IF YOU DON'T COME BACK HERE I'LL FLIP MY SHIT!"

Rolled 5, 3, 4 = 12 (3d5)

>>2372

Shudleng shifts his eyes to something like an Eagle's. It's starting to get clearer. The search continues.

>>2373

The trail's narrowing now.

Even though you're picking up some interference from the soup kitchens dotted around the slightly-less-terrible parts of town, you're still on her--and you can see a familiar-looking green mare on a street corner.

Rolled 1, 4, 2 = 7 (3d5)

>>2374

"Dawn. Up ahead! Go for her."

Shudleng makes sure he points the mare out exactly.

>>2375

"On it--"

The mare looks up, and starts running!

"Aw, shit. RUSHIE!"

Rolled 4, 1, 1 = 6 (3d5)

>>2376

"Oh no you don't. I've been looking for you this whole time, found you, then found you again. Will not let you get away again."

>you look like someone whose post died once before

Rolled 1, 1, 2 = 4 (3d5)

>>2376

"Oh no you don't. I've been looking for you this whole time, found you, then found you again. Will not let you get away again."

>you look like someone whose post died thrice before

>>2377

>>2378

Unfortunately, there are some things that just don't change.

Sometimes, there comes a part of the story that just cannot be changed, no matter how much timefuckery or universe-swapping you do. Sometimes the story even outright states this, especially when time-travel is involved.

Rushie darts into an alleyway.

>Meanwhile, I bang my head against a keyboard.

Dawn nosedives, pulling up just in time to land at a gallop.

>>2380

Shudleng decides to take the other way, up over the building. Easier to see possible other routes this way.

>>2381

Looks like there's no way out of this alley; it's a dead-end.

Down below, Dawn and Rushie both pause. There's something rectangular in the middle of the alley.

>>2382

Oh, shit. Is that a doorway? If that's a doorway, or even closely resembles it, Shudleng goes diving. Diving with increased weight. Vasnesh told him what happens. He knows.

>>2383

It's a doorway.

On the way down, you hear Rushie speak.

"You told me about these," she says. You can hear the thought in her voice. "They're like hell, you said."

"Tell me why I shouldn't open it."

>>2384

He's rapidly approaching critical velocity as he begins to direct all his weight into the front of his body. He'll hit that doorway like a nuclear fleshbomb.

>>2385

"Rushie--"

"TELL ME WHY I SHOULDN'T OPEN IT."

She's got one hoof on the handle.

"Why shouldn't I go in there, huh? It's not like anybody likes me. You hate me!"

"I don't--"

"Sure you don't. You never want to be around me. You're just too busy, drinking up all the booze in the Bar!"

>>2386

Shudleng begins yelling. "WE MET IN A DIFFERENT WORLD. I CARE FOR YOU RUSHIE. WE BONDED OVER THE AVENGERS."

>>2387

"...What?"

Dawn lunges forward, grabs Rushie, and pulls her away from the door.

"HEY! LEMME GO--"

"For fuck's sake, Rush, calm down!"

>>2388

Shudleng goes slamming into the ground between them and the door, not quite hitting it hard enough to crack the ground, but it's not a pretty impact.

>>2389

"Get--OFFA--ME!"

Rushie finally wiggles out of Dawn's grasp.

"Why are you doing this?" Dawn shouts. "I mean, I get that you're unhappy. But where'd you get the idea to open your fucking Door!?"

"..."

Rushie backs toward the door.

"I'll do it, y'know."

"Rushie, stop."

>>2390

>>2390

Shudleng comes out of the heap with a not great to hear cracking noise. "Oh boy. That's a few broken bones. Okay. RUSH. Stop. Please."

He tosses himself gently to the door, standing awkwardly in front of it. "It's not worth it. I know for a fact it isn't."

>>2391

She glances back at you, for a split second.

"Dawn," she mutters. "Do you hate me?"

"What kind of question is that!?"

"Answer it."

Rolled 4, 3, 4 = 11 (3d5)

>>2392

Shudleng slowly begins standing in the way, bulking out his muscles.

Rolled 5, 3 - 2 = 6 (2d6)

>>2393

She backs into you.

"Answer the question, Dawn! Will you love me?"

"That's not what you asked--"

She turns and tries to shove you out of the way!

>Rolling at disadvantage, 2d6-3.

Rolled 1, 1, 2 = 4 (3d5)

>>2394

"Of course he loves you. You're his sister."

So says Shudleng the Immovable

Rolled 1, 3 - 2 = 2 (2d6)

>>2395

She flails at you for a few moments.

"Get outta my way! Get outta my way...!"

She collapses against you.

...she starts sobbing gently.

>>2396

He'll catch her gently, supporting her from just going down. "I know, I really do. We talked for a good long time about this before. I know that sounds weird and all, but you have other ponies that care about you. I care. Your brother cares in his own way. And I'm going to work with him to help him be a better brother, ok?"

Rolled 3, 4 - 2 = 5 (2d6)

>>2397

She presses her face into your chest.

Dawn walks up behind her.

He looks conflicted...

>>2398

"Dawn, tell your sister how you feel." He rubs her gently on the back, making sure to avoid her sensitive spot.

>>2399

"..."

He sighs.

"I don't know if I can."

Rushie stiffens in your embrace.

"It hurts to say it," he says, "but I don't know if I can tell her how I feel, because I don't know when she'll be taken from me."

>>2400

"So you'd rather drive her away? You should be smarter than this, Dawn."

He squeezes Rush gently. "You shouldn't even think of letting this poor girl think you don't care. Rush, you've got ponies that care. I care. A lot. More than you probably know. And your brother does too. He's just really unable to talk."

>>2401

"You know what, I would!"

The door behind you resonates.

"It's better that I drive everyone away--that way, they don't die, and I don't have to feel it!"

Rushie turns toward him.

"Yeah, I care about you, Rushie. When you ran away, it hurt me. But I need you to run away, okay? I can't care about you. It'll just hurt both of us."

>>2402

"Aw, jeez man. Okay. I can see how this works."

He pushes Rushie a little. "Rushie, do you want me to save your brother? If you do, I need you to step out of this alley and do not look back."

He starts growing and two horns begin growing out of his forehead in spirals, curving around forward.

>>2403

She looks up at you.

"..."

She steps back.

"Are you sure?"

>>2404

His eyes turn red, and his wings start turning scaly. "Yes" he replies in a much deeper tone. "I'm here to protect you and your brother. But you have to let me. Go." The growth continues.

>>2405

She nods, and runs out of the alley.

Dawn stares up at you.

"What are you gonna do? Fight me?"

He laughs.

"You can't convince someone by beating the shit outta them."

>>2406

He laughs deeply, wholly and heartily. "No, I know how your temptation is affecting you right now, and I'm going to take it away. I know you have dragons here, so I needed something comprehensible."

He leans forward down close to Dawn, and lifts his rear end right up into the air over the door.

>>2407

Dawn stares at you.

"...what the heck are you doing."

>>2408

"I've had to deal with a few horrific artifacts in my time, and there is one place NOBODY will brave to get one." His grin runs all the way back to the sides of his ears, with teeth like sabers.

He begins settling his back end down. Either crushing the door or fitting around it if he has to.

>>2409

You sit on the door to Hell.

This is, possibly, the single most amazingly ridiculous scene ever conceived in the Bar. Outside of, perhaps, that one time that a seasoned veteran was turned into a magic coat that ran on sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll.

"...you think I wanna go in there."

He starts to laugh.

"You really, really think I wanna go to Hell. You friggin' idiot. I'm tryin' to stay out of it!"

>>2410

"Well, it was your door too. I felt it." He sits nice and prim and proper, dragon head looking smug.

"Go get your sister, and don't say dumb shit like that again."

>>2411

"..."

He sighs.

"I'll lose her. Don't bother telling me it won't happen, you know it's true. One day, I just won't get there soon enough. And when that happens, the more I've connected to her, the more it'll hurt."

>>2412

"Yeah, but it'll hurt her far far worse during that time. You are that selfish to choose less pain later and inflicting it on her now?"

>>2413

He steps back.

"Hey, I know it's not nice. But nothing I do is nice. Nothing in this world is nice, even if you pretend it is."

His gaze falls. "Nice doesn't always get you hurt, but sometimes you gotta be mean, y'know? It's better for me if I just stay away. Better for her, kinda. She can find someone to take care of her when I die."

>>2414

At this, Shudleng leans forward and comes as near to eye level as he can, resting his head on the ground. "You are an idiot. If I hear you talk like that again, I'll take you back to my world and show you the gravesites of all 42 of my family members. Don't you dare act like you know how to handle loss. Family is not better pushed away. And I'll make you learn that if it takes me the rest of your life, Dawn Breeze."

He accentuates this by breathing out a heavy plume of smoke through his nostrils.

>>2415

Dawn stumbles backward.

"...okay. You win."

He glances out toward the street. Rushie's tail is poking around the corner of the alley.

Rolled 3, 4 + 2 = 9 (2d6)

Shudleng wants to be there. "Go, I'll be along in a minute." He focuses inwards. He'll need to leave a bit of himself behind for this. All around the door, he makes it harden. And harden. Until it's the hardest he can get it. Harder than most stone.

>Rolling to make this shit work

>>2417

To your surprise, the door starts to absorb bits of you.

By the time you realize your error--you're trying to fill cracks that lead to another world--you've lost a pretty large chunk of mass.

But, in the end, you're able to leave a nice, thick covering of living bedrock around the door.

Dawn nods. "Nice. I like the little shiny bits. That's a nice touch. I'll call a HOOFEN squad in to block off this alley."

>>2417

It's been a long time since he's done this. It hurts. And it takes much more out of him than he likes. He shudders and falls forward, curling around himself and rapidly returning to pony form. "P-please do. It wasn't great. Please let's go get your sister and something to eat."

>>2419

Dawn pulls one of those little metal-and-glass things out of his pocket.

"Half-cocked? Yeah. Get a squad together, kit 'em up for guard duty. Rifles, yeah. It'd classify as a supernatural threat, and a doozy too--"

As he walks out of the alley, Rushie throws her hooves around him, nearly knocking the little slab to the ground.

"..."

He puts a hoof around her, and lifts the phone to his ear again.

"I'll leave it in your hooves, you know how to handle this shit. I need a warm meal and a good drink."

He puts the phone away.

Rolled 5, 3, 4 = 12 (3d5)

>>2420

Night between comes walking up, still a little shaky. "Told you, I'd take care of it, Rushie." He smiles a little.

>>2421

She's too busy nuzzling Dawn's neck to reply.

"There's a schwarma place down the street," he says, laughing.

>>2422

"Ha, let's go then. Rush. There'll be plenty of time for that later, right Dawn?"

His raised eyebrow shows he expects and answer, and a good one too.

>>2423

"Yeah."

He manages half a smile. Hey, it's a start.

"C'mon. The bar's got free food."

The journey back is, thank the gods, uneventful. Nobody notices when three ponies slip through a door in the worst part of town and disappear.

>And that's the end of that. Back to the counter thread, at least to set up tomorrow's shenanigans.

...and then they popped out again, approximately two days later.

"First it was wednesday, now it's friday. I'm really gettin' tired of this time weirdness."

Dawn glances up and down the street. It's mostly empty, of course. Everyone's already indoors.

"You can't even trust time, can ya?"

>>2452

"You can trust yourself, as long as there isn't a Hell Door nearby."

He punches him in the arm gently.

"You never did tell your sister about what I did, did you?"

>>2453

"About what you did?" Rushie asks, popping in behind you.

"Long story," Dawn says. "There's a reason you remember the name 'Shudleng'."

"...does it have something to do with weird dreams?"

"Sorta."

Dawn starts leading the way through the twisted, dilapidated streets, making a beeline for the train tracks.

>>2454

He follows along diligently, watching for anybody dumb enough to attempt something.

"Yeah, weird dreams. I tried to tell you a bit, back by the door."

>>2455

"Wait, did we actually watch The Avengers?"

Rushie stares at you for a moment.

"...yeah! You're even wearing a Hawkeye costume. Or, y'know, you look like Hawkeye. You're like a shapeshifter, right?"

Dawn shoots a knowing look at you, and silently counts down. "3, 2, 1--"

"So you could look and act like Hawkeye, and I wouldn't be able to tell...?"

Dawn looks genuinely surprised.

>>2456

He speaks up in Hawkeye's voice. "You and I remember Hoofapest very differently?"

>>2457

He smiles a little bit, hoping he remembers the line properly.

>>2457

>>2458

Rushie makes a noise best described as a "sqee".

Dawn's jaw drops.

>>2459

He clears his throat then, keeping it right there in Hawkeye's register. "Well then, it will be my genuine pleasure to escort you, Black Widow."

He offers a hoof.

>>2460

"The pleasure is mine, Hawkeye," she says. taking your hoof.

Holy cow, she's so excited she's vibrating.

Dawn just kinda stands there for a few moments while the two of you make your way toward the train tracks.

"...what."

>>2461

He looks back at Dawn, tossing a wink his direction, and shaking his mane a little bit, making it slightly more accurate. Then he gives him a headtoss like he's telling him to catch up.

>>2462

Dawn canters after you.

"Do you even know where the convention center is, Rushie?"

"Yeah, I do! It's in Canterlot Park."

"Do you know where Canterlot Park is?"

"Uh..."

>>2463

"Well, lead the way Dawn. Don't want to keep the stunning lady waiting."

He motions for him to take the lead. "We'll be right behind."

>>2464

He eyerolls again, and starts trotting on ahead.

"Heehee. We're so out of character but I don't care!"

Rushie throws her forelegs around you.

"We'll have the best costumes in the entire convention!"

>>2465

"Yes we will. Nobody could hold a candle to your costume. It's obvious just how well you've done on it."

>>2466

"Well, you're practically a clone!"

She giggles.

"We should enter a contest! No, wait, they might think we're cheating. Or they might think you're the actual Jay Runner! That's the pony who played Hawkeye."

>>2467

"Oh, we'd absolutely be cheating. Especially because I could probably shoot good enough they'd think I was actually Hawkeye. No, not that good. But passable."

He chuckles and picks her up effortlessly carrying her along with a little help from his wings. "Though, honestly, you've got a much better chance of winning. You know your character so well."

>>2468

She gasps, clinging to you as you flap gently along.

"...yeah, I guess you're right! But, y'know, I'm not that good at acting. There's just too much me to hide it behind another character, y'know?"

>>2469

He laughs boisterously. "I know exactly what you mean. Oh, Luna do I."

He smiles. "I remember you telling me exactly what you like about her, just as she was getting introduced."

>>2470

"Always turnin' the tables on somepony, even when it looks like she can't do anything."

She sighs, watching as Dawn trots around a corner.

"...y'know, you're actin' like you know me so well already. It's kinda refreshing. Dawny might be cool, but..."

>>2471

"I wasn't kidding when I said I care, earlier. We really did have a good time. That was before I knew it would all be a different world."

>>2472

"Different world, huh? Is that what those dreams are about?"

She blushes.

"...so does that mean we--"

>>2473

He grins like a madpony. "Oh, so you do remember! Yes. We did do what you are thinking."

He follows Dawn, but gives a little more distance.

>>2474

Around the corner, you can see the park. Tents are set up everywhere. Dawn's standing at a pavilion, negotiating ticket prices.

"Wow. And to think, I thought those were just dreams!"

There's a moment of thought.

"Are all of those dreams like that? I mean, like, a different world."

>>2475

"I wouldn't know. It's only happened a couple of times. For what it's worth, I've already done a lot to make my promise reality."

He looks up ahead. "Be ready. You are gonna have the best costume there."

>>2476

"...okay, so 75 bits times three, that's 225 bits--"

"Plus tax!"

"Plus tax. So that's somewhere in the neighborhood of 230, 240 bits."

"Yeah. That's what I offered to start with."

"Then I guess that's what I'm payin', huh? Three tickets."

Dawn lays that plastic card on the counter of the ticket pavilion; the attendant swipes it through a clunky-looking electronic device, and hands it back, alongside three slips of paper.

"Have fun, buddy."

Dawn trots back to you.

"Okay, there's a costume contest in a couple hours--"

Rushie giggles maniacally.

"...oooookay. Anyways, there's also some comic signing going on right now. The Guns of Icarus dev team's running a booth--"

"Do they have the demo booth set up!?"

"Of course."

Rushie makes a very, very excited high-pitched noise. Ponies apparently do that a lot.

"Now, we're gonna go there together, all right?"

"YEAH!"

"You don't have to shout."

"Hey, welcome in! Glad you could make it!"

A bipedal canine, a Diamond Dog, waves to the two of you. He's standing next to Dawn, holding some tickets. He seems to be dressed in normal street clothes, but you can detect a slight glow under his shirt, right over his heart.

"Well this is unexpected. Have we finally got some contenders for Best Dressed? I hope so; they won't let me take the prizes home with me this year!"

He laughs, handing you the tickets.

"Your man paid for it. Good guy, once he gets the stick out from his butt. Oh, I gotta go. Opening ceremonies are starting soon! Have a good time!"

The diamond dog strides off, dropping a Lunabean coffee cup. On it is written the name "Tony Bark."

>>2478

>DAMN YOU TIMING

>>2477

Shudleng cringes at the high-pitched noises, but less each time. "That's the one about airships, yeah? Let's go check it out. See if my skills transfer over."

>>2478

He waves as the diamond dog walks off.

"Do you know him, Dawn?"

>I'll try this again

. Sorry, comp is sloooow.

>>2481

>It's fine. It's been one of those days.

>>2480

"He's the master of ceremonies," Dawn explains. "It's kinda his job to be friendly to everyone. He's the guy leading all the events."

"He's dressed as Pony Stark, if Pony Stark was a diamond dog instead of a pony!"

"Diamond dogs are...it's complicated," Dawn explains, lowering his voice. "Lots of stereotypes, none of them good. It took a while for people to stop hiding all their gemstones every time one moved in."

>>2483

"I'm guessing the name is more than just for alliteration, then. Sounds good anyways, I've got nothing for him to steal." He smiles.

"And I can see that we've already got a good chance of winning."

>>2484

"Well, he's not entering. He's one of the judges."

Dawn shrugs. "Anyway, we'd better get over to the Guns of Icarus booth. The line's probably already a mile long..."

When you get there, it looks like he wasn't exaggerating; the line's pretty big. Ponies (and a few humans) are excitedly talking about the game. Apparently, it's a "first-person shooter" about airships. The prospective players chatter about which "class" they'll play, strategies, beginner's tips.

Outside of the line, ponies in costume laugh and strike poses. A human wearing an all-black costume with a cape and a pair of horn-like protrusions from the top shakes hands/hooves with a mare wearing a purple costume with a cape and a wide-brimmed hat.

Suddenly, a couple of tones blast from the speakers.

*DOO DEE DOO*

"Hey, we've got a missing kid. Human. Dressed like Robin, if anyone's seen him. Was last seen over by... where was it? "

Some mumbling off-mic.

"Oh, seriously? Dang, that'll take a while to check. All right, if you're at the Guns of Icarus demo, look around. Lil' kid in a Robin outfit, look for red and green, black cape, should come up to your waist if you're human, neck if you're a pony, and anyone else can figure it out from there."

The intercom clicks off.

>>2485

He bumps the two and points them out. "Friends? Or enemies?"

He also leans forward and asks Dawn "Uh, hey. I didn't know humans were here."

>>2486

And then he hears the announcement. "Ah, jeez. What's Robin look like. I'll find him."

At that moment, you see two human children walking by. One's dressed in red and green, with a short cape. The other appears to have shaved his head, and is dressed in blue and white striped pajamas.

"It's okay, we'll find them. What did you say they looked like? Oh hey there's my mom! She can help!"

Pajama boy drags the caped youngling over to Rushie.

"Momma, this is Seth. He lost his parents. Have you seen them? One's dressed like Batman, and the other's the Joker..."

>>2487

"Friends. And yeah, humans are a thing here--"

Dawn's ears perk up.

"Red and green, with a cape..."

>>2488

Rushie blinks.

Dawn blinks.

"Wait, since when are you a mom?" Dawn says.

"I dunno!"

Rushie looks visibly panicked.

"Listen, kid, I think you've got the wrong mare, but we'll help you look for 'em, okay?"

"Okay! But... you even sound like Mama..."

The boy holds onto Rushie's leg. His new friend holds onto the sleeve of his pajamas.

>Shudleng, how're you at sensing magic?

>>2488

>>2490

>Meh, if he's not paying attention. Want me to roll for it?

>>2490

>>2491

>Sounds like roll time. 3d5/10/20 Tavern Tales style, or 2d6+Modifier?

>>2492

>Pick your preference!

>>2493

>I like 3d5 TT style, but I think Shudleng would rather go 2d6.

>Do whatcha want! Whatever works for ya!

Rolled 3, 4 + 1 = 8 (2d6)

>>2494

>>2495

>I'm a sucker for the 2d6, yeah. On this. 6-9 is a mixed result. Success, but at a cost. Or with a downside. 10+ is a success, and 6- is a failure.

You sense something big. That's all you can tell, is big, but you just get a sense of enormity from it. Like it's the concept of big come to life.

Rolled 1, 4 - 1 = 4 (2d6)

>>2496

>>2497

>Rolling at Bark/Sam's request for Dawn.

>>2498

Dawn notices that the kid is friggin' adorable.

>>2497

"Yeah, ok. Dawn, there's something going on. Something big. You might need to call work."

He looks around for anything out of the ordinary.

Nothing out of the ordinary... Well, nothing more so than usual at one of these conventions. Nothing you wouldn't expect to see, and certainly nothing that would warrant this... You should be able to see it from here though; even if it's not close, it should be friggin' HUGE!

"What's going on? Is something wrong?"

The pajama'd human tugs at your sleeve.

>Roll again at a +3.

Rolled 4, 6 + 2 = 12 (2d6)

>>2499

>>2500

"What? The kid's parents are lost, but that's not something HOOFEN gets involved in, not without--"

Realization crosses his face, and he focuses.

>>2501

>Roll 2!

Rolled 2, 2 + 3 = 7 (2d6)

>>2501

"Yeah. There's something wrong."

>>2502

Dawn, you can tell. Your training has given you the ability to pinpoint this sort of magic. Only two sources could give this off: A door, or a savant-level unicorn mage. But the source seems to be right next to you.

It seems to be the child.

>>2503

"Is there any way I can help?"

Rolled 3, 1 + 1 = 5 (2d6)

>>2504

>>2503

"...We'll find the kid's parents."

Dawn nods to the colt wearing the green-and-red costume.

"Don't worry, little guy. I'll see if I can spot 'em from the air."

With a nod to Shudleng, he leaps into the sky.

>Rolling for Where's Waldo I Mean Batparents.

>>2505

"Yeah, do you do magic? I know magic is done here. I need to find some."

Shudleng looks down at the kid.

>>2506

"I don't know how to use magic... But I can find it!"

He hops excitedly. Then he bends his legs and...

Where'd he go?

>Make like a baker and give me a roll. Perception.

>Sorry for the different code, posting from home and my wifi won't let me to 8chan so I use Tor.

Rolled 5, 3 + 1 = 9 (2d6)

>>2506

>>2507

Meanwhile, Dawn curses his eyesight and keeps looking.

>Rollin'!

Rolled 4, 1 + 2 = 7 (2d6)

>>2507

>that's fine, that's what I know you under anyways

>rollin

He begins spinning his head around.

>>2509

>>2508

Shudleng, you have determined that he didn't run away. You also notice some indented footprints where he was sstanding.

Dawny, you nearly get hit by a flying child. He grabs onto you. Fortunately, he's not big enough to take you out of the air.

"Do you see anything?"

Rolled 4, 2 - 1 = 5 (2d6)

>>2510

"ACK WHAT THE CRUD--"

Dawn somehow manages to remember his manners around the time he stops spinning.

"Jeez, kid! You could warn me first, ya know. And no, I haven't seen 'em. You said Batman and Joker?"

>Rollin'.

>>2510

>>2511

He looks up. "Oh. This will be not great. At all."

Dawny, this is a HUMAN child.

"He said Batman and the Joker! I think he has two dads..."

>>2512

Well, there he is!

Rolled 3, 2 - 2 = 3 (2d6)

>>2512

>>2513

"See, that narrows it down a lot."

He glares at the kid.

"Now, let's get you down before you lose your grip on my leg."

>Rolling for accidentally spotting the parental units while landing.

>>2514

"Okay!"

The child rolls onto your back, Dawn, carefully avoiding your wings.

"Who is the one you're with? She looks just like Mama..."

>>2515

"She's my sister. And I think that's a coincidence," he says, as he struggles to stay level.

"She hasn't had any kids. Not any human kids, either."

>>2516

"Huh."

He stops, thinking for a second.

"But she even *sounds* like her..."

>>2517

"...see, that is weird."

He lands.

"Hey, Rushie. You sure you didn't adopt anyone?"

"Absotively posilutely."

"This is friggin' crazy."

>>2518

"Miss Rushie? I'm sorry for calling you Mama. I should have checked first."

The child bows his head towards Rush, then turns to Shudleng.

"Any luck finding the magic? I didn't see anything."

Rolled 6, 4 + 3 = 13 (2d6)

>>2519

>Christ, forgive me. Internet was terrible last night.

>>2519

"You know what? I'll keep an eye out. We'll find it." He seems deadpan, but his nose elongates a little, and all along the inside, if anybody is looking, little technicolor hairs are sprouting.

>Good ol' Devourer senses.

>>2520

>If that roll was to figure out where the magic is coming from, congratulations! It's the small child in front of you!

"Okay! I'll keep a lookout too! And maybe we can find Neil's parents, too!"

Rolled 2, 2 = 4 (2d6)

>>2519

>>2520

>>2521

"Hang on, lemme call over some staff members. I mean, every pair of eyes helps."

Dawn casts about for a security pony, and waves at them.

>Rolling for success in the effort to find helpful horses.

Rolled 4, 4 = 8 (2d6)

>>2522

>Jesus fuck, dice.

Rolled 4, 6 + 2 = 12 (2d6)

>>2523

>Wow that roll was terrible.

He throws a hand up in the air, waving it around like a big sign. ACTUALLY. He tosses a giant and red HELP sign in the air at the end of his hoof.

Rolled 3, 4 = 7 (2d6)

>>2524

>Maybe Hotwheels is angry that I made Undertale references at him.

"...well, that'll get someone's attention."

Rolled 6, 6 = 12 (2d6)

>>2524

>>2525

"Hey!"

Some ponies in navy vests come galloping through the crowd. One of them has a small colt following him, for no apparent reason.

"Careful with that sign! If it lands on someone..."

The guard stares for a moment, and apparently realizes that the sign is part of Shudleng.

"...uh."

>>2526

"It's part of the costume. They need your help."

He lifts the sign and indicates the others.

>>2527

"This kid's lost," Dawn explains. "Parents are wearing a Batman and Joker costume set."

One of the guards pulls a black box off of his belt, and speaks into it.

"We're alerting everyone in the convention. It'll take five minutes, tops," another explains, while that little colt stands on the third guard's shoulders and peers out over the crowd.

>>2528

"Neil? Neil!"

Two guys, one dressed as Batman, one as his adversary The Joker, rush up to the little boy dressed as Robin.

"Told ya he'd be near the video games. It's where the cosplayers hang out!"

"Good call. Now, c'mon little dude!"

The Boy Wonder shakes his head.

"Don't make me use your full name."

The Boy Wonder scampers to his parents' side.

>>2530

"Mhm!"

The kid nods.

"Just like her! I mean, except for the costume. My mom's Scarlet Witch, and Dad is Quicksilver."

>>2531

"Huh."

"Oooooh, Scarlet Witch! She looks cool. I need to see Age of Ultrot."

As Rushie hops forth to chat excitedly with her not-son, Dawn turns to Shudleng.

"Hey. Something smell fishy to you?"

>>2532

"Yes. It seriously all smells fishy. Like absolutely every single bit of it." He looks oddly suspicious.

>>2534

"I'd like to talk to whoever this kid's mom is. I think it'll be real enlightening."

Dawn turn back to the kid...and then looks back at you, eyes narrowed.

"Don't look at me like that. I'm pretty sure this isn't actually her kid. Like, 90% sure."

>>2535

"No, I'm also pretty sure. She's kind of had that taken care of apparently, but still."

He waves his hoof back to normal, then looks at everyone around him. "You know, we should find his mom, and ask him why he's got more magic than an archmage."

>>2536

"Mm. Hey, kid!"

Dawn taps the human on the shoulder. "You said your mom looked just like her?" he says, pointing to Rushie. "What about your dad?"

>>2537

"He's Argentineighan. Bald. Tall. Kinda brown..."

The child looks to you again, looking from Shudleng to Dawn.

"Is something happening?"

>>2538

"Just tryin' to help you get home," Dawn says. "Let's go find 'em."

He takes to the sky once more...

"Benjamin!"

By the time Dawn's gained altitude, a jumpsuit-wearing caramel-coated pony slides to a stop.

"You just keep getting into trouble, don't you? I'm sorry, folks, he just wanders off..."

>>2539

"Yeah? I mean. I'd be real careful where you let him go, considering he's got a bunch of energy." Shudleng doesn't look very impressed.

>>2539

>>2540

He thinks about it for a moment and actually decides to step forward.

"Actually, I know we are in mixed company here, but could you explain that Mr....?"

>>2540

"Well, yeah, he does just bounce off the walls, doesn't he?"

If the kid's dad knows about the magic, he sure doesn't show it.

"I'm Tequila Sunrise. You've already met Benjy? Give me just a second, my wife should be around here somewhere..."

>>2542

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Sunrise. I'm Night Between. I'd very much like to meet the boy's mother."

>>2543

"Right. MARTINI!"

He calls out across the crowd.

"Martini, honey, I found him!"

Dawn rolls his eyes.

>>2544

>>2543

Someone moves through the crowd.

"Oh, there you two are! I knew he'd end up in line for a game, Teq."

"Oh, sweet merciful Luna," Dawn says. "There's two of 'em."

>>2544

>>2545

"You can not tell me there are two Rushies. My heart may not be able to take it!" He feigns a heart attack.

>>2545

>>2546

"Mama!"

Benjamin rushes up and embraces the Rush Doppelganger.

"I found a pony that looks just like you! She's really nice, and she's dressed up as Black Widow, and..."

He goes off chattering for a while; some of it isn't even words.

>>2546

>>2547

Not-Rushie hugs her son(?)...and then locks eyes with Real Rushie.

"..."

"Yep, that's me."

"That is totally me."

"Small world, right?"

"Oh yeah."

"Hug?"

"Hug!"

There are now two Rushies hugging with a small human squashed between them.

"Mares, right?" Tequila says.

"Yeah, I know," Dawn says. "Anyway, there's something I gotta talk to you about."

Dawn flashes his HOOFEN badge. "Long story short, your kid's got some talents."

>>2548

"Some rather severe talents." He leans over to dawn and whispers, "Didn't know we could flash the badge. Would have made it easier."

He leans back. "Ah, yes. And we think it's something rather important to discuss."

>>2549

"Yeah, the badge can be flashed. What, you think we're a secret? No, HOOFEN is public. Disaster relief. I mean, we were on call for that giant pony in Manehattan..."

He shrugs.

"But I digress. Mister Sunrise, your son...Benjamin, you said? He's, uh...he's got a lot of power. Night Between here is trained in magic detection."

"He's a pegasus."

"And? Wings are just as much a conduit as a horn is. They're just specialized."

>>2550

Shudleng smiles and shakes his head, returning his nose hairs to normal. "There was also the matter of him jumping up into the air higher than I could without a moment of prep. And he did it with very very little effort."

>>2551

"That too. I'm guessing he's adopted...?"

"Yes. Martini adopted him. When I saw her trying to take care of a kid on her own..."

He sighs.

"I didn't know that she'd picked up someone magical. I wasn't even sure humans had magic."

"Depends on the human. I think we'll need to talk to your wife. She'd know more about him, obviously."

>>2552

"Much agreed. Feels like the hand of something greater at work."

He pats Mr. Sunrise. "Trust me, there's a lot more magic in the world than one would think."

He turns to Dawn. "Shall we?"

>>2553

Dawn nods.

"Hey...Martini, was it?"

The Second Rushing perks her ears.

"Y'need somethin'?"

"I mean, it's not like we have to spend all day being snuggly."

"Would you mind telling us about how you adopted Benjamin?"

Martini's smile starts to fade.

"...can we go somewhere else to talk?"

"Yeah. I'm sorry about cutting your day short. The tickets should be good through the rest of the week. I'll take care of any complications."

>>2554

"Sorry. The past is hard to talk about. I know it." Shudleng puts on an apologetic and sympathetic face.

He looks over at Rush. "I'll be right back, Widow." and gives her a wink.

>>2555

"Pfft, you kiddin'? I'm comin' with ya!"

Rushie hops onto Dawn's back, much to Dawn's chagrin.

"I'm gonna spend the day with my bro, no matter how crazy it gets!"

"...you're kinda heavy, Rushie..."

"Hush, you!"

>>2556

He laughs greatly. "If you just don't want to walk, Rushie, I can carry you easily. It's like not even a thing."

He coughs a little bit. "Let's go.

>>2557

"Okay!"

With a flap and a hop, she's on your back.

...she's not that heavy.

"Giddyup."

Martini reaches over and covers Ben's ears.

"RUSHIE."

"Oh, it's not like you all weren't thinkin' it.

>>2558

"Save it for later." He leans back and whispers. "I'll make those dreams come true." It's just loud enough mayyyyybe Dawn hears.

He clears his throat and looks over at Martini. "We ready?"

>>2559

You gained Eye Roll x1! A gesture of sarcastic disapproval. Given to you by Dawn Breeze, who continues to think his sister is a perv.

Martini picks up her kid. Tequila and Dawn pick up the pace.

"To the HOOFEN offices," Dawn says.

Some five minutes later, you're standing at the front door of a small office building. You might notice that it's not the one from before. Maybe they have a public-facing side and a secret side?

>>2560

Of course they do. Any good organization needs to have each. If one, it's just a business. If only the other, it's a secret society.

"Let's get this road on the show."

He opens the door for them, allowing them to go in.

>>2561

"I think you got that backwards..."

>>2562

He gives a happy smile. "Yeah, but sometimes things are better backwards. You'll know what I mean when you are much older."

>>2562

>>2563

Martini and Rushie roll their eyes in unison.

"Miss Shaker, if you'll just step into this conference room. Mister Sunrise, you too. Ben, do me a favor and hang with Rushie for a little bit? Don't get too attached."

With a smile and wink, Dawn leads everyone but the childish ones into the conference room and closes the door.

"...Okay. Miss Shaker, my partner and I have detected a very, VERY large amount of magic radiating from your son. And...well, we want to know why."

"I want to know why, too."

Tequila Sunrise hasn't taken a seat yet.

"Honey, I'm worried. We've got a big-name agency asking us questions about our son. He's magical? This is the first I've heard about it! And you're acting like you know something about it."

Martini lowers her head.

"...tell me the truth, Martini. Please."

>>2565

She stares for a few moments.

"So that's why you were able to see it. I was wondering how a pegasus picked up on it."

"...we can detect magic too, ya know," Dawn mutters. "It's just a little harder."

>>2566

"Well, there was a few other factors. Which is really where our questions come in. All things considered, you are lucky we noticed it and not someone or something else."

He motions for everyone to sit down. "Please, go ahead and start from the beginning."

>>2567

"...I am not a normal pony. In fact, I am not technically living, though I have all the features, so to speak. I'm actually a magically-animated golem."

"...you're not real? I mean, it's hard to believe. Especially after--"

"That night in Las Pegasus, last weekend?"

Martini smirks.

"Well, I'm not technically a real pony, but I can still do that. And the pregnancy test was necessary, honey."

Tequila turns a nice shade of pink.

"Anyways, I was created to be Ben's mother."

>>2568

Ben looks like he's been hit in the head by a two-by-four.

"You're... not real?"

>>2569

Dawn glances at the door, realizes that it's not closed, and quietly curses.

"...I'm sorry, Ben," Martini says. There's tears in her eyes.

"I was told to keep it secret until your mother came back."

"Well, who's the mother?" Tequila demands. "Maybe she can tell us why he's so powerful. Maybe I can get some answers from her--"

"I can't."

Dawn raises an eyebrow. "Why not?"

"Well, like I said, I'm not really a pony. My body is a golem. But my mind's an AI. Part of it is...locked. I can't say the password, but it's--"

BREEP BREEP BREEP

Dawn pulls a phone out of his saddlebags, and answers it.

"This is Breeze...what?"

"Wait, what? Son of a...I'll be right there."

He puts the phone away. "Martini, Tequila, Rushie, Ben--STAY HERE. Do NOT leave. Rushie, if you go outside, I will personally kick your ass, got it?"

"Aw, c'mon--"

"I'll take that as a yes. Shudleng, with me."

He turns, and does his best to not gallop out the door.

>>2570

"Ah, shit. Listen. He's not kidding, folks."

He stands up and looks severely severely at each of them.

"We'll be back. Hopefully we can figure out some information then."

He turns back into Night Between and follows him out.

>>2571

"Listen," Dawn says after he closes the door. "It's growing. The Door is growing. The science guys picked up tiny fractures in the stone surrounding it. It's like a tree cracking a stone."

He strides out of the office, and spreads his wings.

"We're heading back there. If that door goes nuts or something, I wanna be on hand to seal it."

>>2572

"So, be on the lookout for you making stupid emotional remarks. If you go in that door, I'll wring your neck, Dawn."

He spreads his wings too. "Leaf the way."

>>2573

"We might have to."

He leaps.

Some five minutes of flying later, he lands in front of a small cadre of white-uniformed soldiers. HOOFEN is written across their chests in blue block letters.

Dawn flashes his badge, and they part. He steps into the alley, and Half-Cocked--now wearing a white jumpsuit as well, with his preferred weapon on his back--falls into formation beside him.

"The sci team's still trying to calculate how fast it's growing," he says. "It depends on when it started. They only noticed the cracks today. It might've been growing from the moment you left, Breeze."

The door itself is currently surrounded, not only by your own coating of bedrock, but also by a dozen metallic devices, lit up in electrifying blue. Ponies wearing long white coats and face-shields manipulate touch-screens on blocky machinery.

"How big is it?" Dawn shouts over the humming of a pair of small engines--they're hooked up to the rest of the machines, perhaps they provide power?

"Last scan showed dimensions of 2 feet wide, 6 feet tall, and approximately 3 inches deep. It appears to be growing by mere centimeters, but with a massive amount of force, as much as a--"

There's an audible crik. The stone surrounding the door shifts almost imperceptibly.

"...It's very powerful," the scientist finishes.

>>2574

Shudleng steps forward, making sure to be between Dawn and the door at all times. Not super obviously, but just enough that he can wrap around the stupid colt of he needs it.

"So, what's the plan, then? Do I need to wrap around it until you all can find something to do?"

>>2575

"...look, I've been inside one of those things before. There's a copy of...whoever the door belongs to."

Dawn starts to pace.

"We always ended up fighting the copy. But when it was over, and the clones all made up, the door vanished. So did the clone."

>>2576

"That's not how I heard it. One of the other guys from the bar killed it and dragged the clone out. He ate it."

Shudleng looks rather queasy.

>>2577

>>2577

After a moment. "You can't honestly be telling me that you want to go in there and fight a demonic clone of yourself. That's enough for me to consider you potentially compromised."

>>2578

>>2577

"Huh. He ate the clone? Wow."

After a moment...

"Wait, someone in the bar had to deal with a Door? Who?"

crik

The cracks are a bit more visible now.

"Breeze, sir? It's growing at a rate of approximately one centimeter every five minutes--"

crik

"We'll have to revise that statement."

>>2579

"Vasnesh the spider. The one who set the webs to the ceiling of the bar. He went in with Percival, a twin searching for his sister. They have a romantic relationship."

She eyes the door.

>>2580

"I see. Y'know, that sounds awful familiar--"

crak

Part of the door is peeking through now.

"Sir--"

"Get back," Dawn shouts; the scientists abandon their equipment and retreat behind the line of soldiers.

"That thing just ain't stopping."

>>2581

"Yeah, I know it does. I meant it when I said I could see the threads on us." He looks at Dawn and steps forward. "So we are going in to murder the fake two of you, then?"

>>2582

"...That's the thing. I don't know."

CRAK

A chunk of stone falls off the door, and crumbles to dust.

"You said the other guy killed the clones, right? I've never seen them killed. Beaten, yeah. They get real fuckin' nasty. But they survive long enough to talk afterward. Tell me, did Percy's door disappear?"

CRAK

More stone falls off.

>>2583

"Percival. And yes, it isn't there in the bar anymore. Lots of poison works, apparently."

"..."

"We need to go after them."

Ben stands up from his chair back at HOOFEN HQ.

>>2584

"Shit, really? Maybe I oughta just throw a nuke in there and shut the door..."

KRAK fwizzle

A chunk of stone strikes something expensive-looking. The eerie purple of the door shows through.

>>2585

"Ben, you are going to stay here."

Tequila looks far more serious than you've ever seen him.

"Whatever's going on, it is incredibly dangerous. Maybe you've got crazy magic powers, but...Ben, you're only twelve years old!"

>>2586

Ben stands up.

"Dad, I know you're worried, but I can handle it! I promise."

His eyes don't leave the ground.

>>2586

"Yeah, maybe. For what it's worth, it was Riley's door. His sister. Though he had a copy in there too."

Shudleng begins growing muscle, imperceptible at first, but enough that it begins to stand out against his skin.

>>2587

"...Don't leave, son. I need you to stay here--"

Martini puts a hoof to Tequila's lips.

"I understand," she says. "You don't see danger. You see a chance to be a hero. And with all the magic you have..."

She smiles.

"Go ahead. The Bulwark wouldn't leave anypony in danger, would he?"

"I'm coming too!" Rushie shouts, flapping in place. "My bro can't get rid of me that easy!"

>>2588

"Two people in one door. That's new."

Dawn watches as another chunk of stone falls off the door. It's visibly bigger than you remember.

KRAK

The stone splits down the middle.

"All right, Miss Rushie! Let's go!"

Benjamin jumps onto Rushie's back, and pulls out a little mask from under his shirt.

"Hi-yo and away!"

>>2589

"Well this door belonged to both you and Rush, who mark my words will find a way to show up here. You know she will. She's that type of mare."

He shakes his head.

>>2590

She rears up (just a little--don't wanna throw Ben off!) and rushes out the door.

"Okay! First, we gotta find them. Five bits says they're at the Door!"

>>2591

"Fair enough. You know, I really wish she'd just do what I tell her sometimes--"

KRAK

There goes the rest of the stone.

"Son of a bitch. This thing's gonna open."

>>2593

"So what's the plan? Go in and murder anything that isn't us?"

>>2594

"Well, I was thinking we gather a party of like-minded adventurers, arm them with the latest and greatest in high-quality weapons that may or may not exist at this point in time, and clear the whole place out with mechanical efficiency--"

"I'M COMIN', BRO!!"

You hear approximately three ponies get knocked to the ground, and see the green blur that launched them. There's a kid riding on her back.

"RUSHIE WHAT THE FU--UAARK!!"

Dawn is promptly tackle-hugged(?) by his sister, and he falls directly into you, and given your positioning and the impressive speed that Rush was able to build up, you end up teetering on the edge of touching the Door.

Rolled 3, 2 + 2 = 7 (2d6)

>>2595

Shudleng responds rather... not well. An incredible amount spikes and prods shoot out in all directions, hoping to find purchase in the nearby rock.

>>2597

"Don't...move. Don't even breathe."

Your spikes have embedded themselves in everything from scanning equipment to pavement. Everything except the door.

Dawn is balanced on you, with Rushie on top of him, and that kid from earlier balanced on top of Rushie.

"...aaaaah..."

Rush looks like she's about to sneeze.

"Don't sneeze, Rush--"

"Aaaaah..."

"Don't sneeze, you unbelievable little--"

"AAAAACHOO!"

>One more roll.

Rolled 5, 6 + 2 = 13 (2d6)

>>2602

Shudleng begins straining to tighten the spikes, pulling them away.

>Dear god.

>>2603

For a moment, you rock perilously.

"Shit shit shit SHIT SHIT SHIT--"

The pile of protagonists rolls back to a stable position.

"...okay. We're good. I think."

Rolled 1, 5 + 2 = 8 (2d6)

>>2604

Shudleng doesn't say anything for a moment, before a deep booming voice sounds from the center of the pile. "Get off. Get out of the alley, Rush. No arguments. Take the child with you. "

>>2605

"Nope."

Rushie clings to her brother with the force of a thousand hugs.

"I'm not goin'."

"Rush, you friggin'--"

"I am NOT just gonna sit around while you go fight your demons an' stuff! I mean, come on. What are sisters for?"

"To be seen and not heard," Dawn says, rolling his eyes. "And DEFINITELY not to be tossed into literal Hell."

Rolled 2, 6 + 2 = 10 (2d6)

>>2606

"As somebody who has fought Literal demons, and personal ones, I can tell you that honestly, I wouldn't want you there, Rush. Please."

>>2607

"I don't want you two in there either! But if he's goin', I'm goin'!"

"Rushie you dumb bi--"

Rush bops him on the head with a hoof.

"Ow!"

"And stop calling me that. There's a kid here."

Rolled 5, 6 + 2 = 13 (2d6)

>>2608

"Ok. Let's put it this way. If he doesn't go in, you don't go in? Is that what I'm hearing?"

>>2609

>DICE STAHP

>>2609

"Well, I guess..."

The door starts to pulsate.

"...aw, fuck," Dawn mutters. "It's still growing?"

>>2611

"Well. look at it this way. Here's your chance to see what happens if somebody who's door it isn't enters."

With that, Shudleng winks, and disentangles himself from the web of skin and bone holding the rest of them away from the door, dropping himself directly into it.

>>2612

"Whoa--"

"DAMMIT SHUDLENG--"

The world twists under you, and all fades to black...

>>2596

>>2612

"AAAAAAAA"

Ben jumps through the door after the shapeshifter.

>>2632

"Oh, mother FUCKER--"

Dawn leaps in after him!

"H-hey! Don't leave without me!!"

Rushie jumps in...