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Post by Admin on Sept 20, 2013 4:26:24 GMT -5
Assimilation.
It can creep its way slowly into any community. Insidious, indiscriminate. It just leaches on like a parasite and exploits systems until it becomes bent to their liking. And the worst part is... there is no stopping it. Not unless drastic measures are taken, measures that can cause turmoil, violence... and when outnumbered and ultimately becoming minority, quite disastrous results.
It began as few individuals at most from across the globe, an other continent entirely. Struck by war and their religious beliefs, many of them sought for refuge... and they did find such blessing, here in Equestria. But it didn't take long for them to feel like the odd ones out. Their traditions, ways of life as well as their religious beliefs didn't merge well with those around and society as a whole.
Aggressive and prideful, they wouldn't let those things from stopping them. And instead of enduring those new cultural habits, they began to impose theirs. A few specific places and lands were landed to them, a few holy temples were built here and there. Then they began to shape their piece of lands like theirs, imposing rules to follow, conditions such as specific garments, behaviors and conduct.
Such comfort attracted more of them, their population grew in number at an alarming rate, their system relentless and ruthless. Their reproductive drive a lot more active due to their beliefs than other countries classing them from minority to a vast majority of Equestria's population.
It didn't take long for them to gain in political power and begin shaping part of lands which didn't even belonged to them in ways they saw fit. Mares were restricted to mere housewives, rights were robbed from them as colts claimed superiority. They applied their religious laws, re-enacting barbaric and death sentences from what they considered crimes against nature. Gamblers where whipped, thieves were amputated a hoof, no matter their motives. Homosexuals stoned to death, cheating wives put to death... they even allowed husbands to hit their spouse(s). Adulterers were executed... as well as any who dared to insult or impose their beliefs.
They had the right to lie and deceive if it were to help their community grow as well... it was their current and active duty to keep going at it until all was branded theirs.
Free speech wasn't in their image of things and seen as an abomination. Anypony who dared standing up to defend their rights were usually violently assaulted, and rightfully so.
They claim their religion is peace, that their god and messiah is the one and only truth and that only through complete world assimilation would the world finally know peace. Nothing was raising to stop them... and soon, cultural diversity would be things of the past. Already nearly all other religious symbols, establishments and teachings were destroyed and converted to their image... soon, nothing would be left.
Very few places in Equestria were still clean of such radical changes... Appleoosa, Manhattan and Ponyville to name a few as well as Canterlot. Protesting were vigorous... but slowly, they would become dominant there as well. Ponyville was losing this battle. Already those sand-colored ponies were invading and intruding themselves in the population, becoming more and more numerous. Temples were built nearby, the mayor was at lost for words and had little to do in all of this when the majority of the population demanded radical changes. Assimilation was at their doorstep and knocking.
This very morning, the law that constituted mares to wear flat, black or dark brown manes in public had passed, as well as to hide their cutie marks. Soon schools would also include the teaching of their language as well as the study of their religious beliefs. Soon mares wouldn't be allowed to work... and soon, they would succumb to the tyranny that was this oppression.
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On the east side of Ponyville, coming from a distant continent as well, an earth pony would eventually show himself on top of a cliff... climbing his way there, slowly but surely until he'd arrive at the very top of it. His gaze would all on the town before him... seeing it, he'd let out a sigh of relief as he'd crumble on the ground, giggling and eventually laughing uncontrollably.
At some point he'd just lay on his back and look at the passing clouds. He had made it, finally somewhere he'd find some food, water and perhaps even shelter as well!
Said pony was of average size, had a sand-colored coat and had a short and scruffy black mane. His eyes were light brown and tail medium sized, black as well. He wore a simple light-brown vest coupled with a black bandoleer and belt, filled with that seemed to be expedition equipment. A large machete, a whip which pretty much doubled as a rope, scrolls, water gourd, compass, so on and so forth.
His clothing was worn and holed here and there as well as dirty, which shown the numerous miles he must've been through. His Cutie Mark was one of an opened Swiss knife... only instead of a white cross on the red surface was a four-leaved clover.
???: Hah! Finally! Guess I'm done drinking my own pee now! Whew!
Sure that didn't happen... but in more than one instance did it cross his mind considering just how much deprived of water he had been. Sighing, he'd then pull out a pair of binoculars... and start scouting the area... however, what he saw there made his ears flop, loosing his initial smile.
???: Aww crap... not here too!
Thing was... he had been on the run from these nutjobs for a while now because of... things he did in a near past among them... and just when he thought he had finally found one of those few rare places where those of his natal land hadn't converted yet... he was given this. Sure it wasn't as fully far gone as others, but it sure as hell was going this way. He'd have to be careful.
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Jolleh
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 22, 2013 15:54:29 GMT -5
This town in which a certain pony lived was usually a place where others were getting along rather well. Ponies of this place could say they knew each others at least a little. So all in all, a very friendly place.
That's the reason that this pegasus decided to install himself there. Living in this place for a while that later on he decided to take care of a young filly who he found to be unconscious on their first encounter. They took the time to know each others and both agreed to live together, where the pegasus would be taking care of the child.
This filly unicorn then began to go to school. Being of the age of 8 she had to start learning everything, but at her own pace. She was in a special class for this.
Life for both of them was going well. Although the filly's past was still some of a mystery to the purple flying pony, he didn't want to rush things anyway. She was happy and he was too. For now he would make sure things would go well for both of them. It wouldn't be too hard to do so in Ponyville, right? This town had everything they needed for this.
Well... things would have gone good if they hadn't changed. When those ponies from the other lands began to install themselves here, Jolly was rather fine with it. They had their own culture which was something new to him. They had their own religion as well. Jolly wasn't at all into those things and would just let others believe what they want, just as long as they wouldn't force it on others.
At first he didn't keep an eye on them, but as time went by, he began to do so. To keep himself up to date with what was happening. Protestings in the streets were happening... those newcomers wanted their rights for themselves, believing they were in the right, thinking that life was working this way. Obviously Jolly wouldn't agree with that and began to worry. They were gaining more and more political power... The more it would, the more he'd worry. His niece Violet wasn't allowed to go outside all by herself at a certain point. Seeing how they were treating mares back in their lands, he wouldn't like the same to happen to her, oh no.
Before these things would happen, Jolly had a few clients of this new culture in his office. Sure, those who were coming to see him seeked help and were probably more open... but even then, he could see how they were very attached to their own beliefs. The therapist had to be careful with what he was saying sometimes... because he had shocked a few. His own methods were not fitting them all too well.
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Days went on like this and it finally simply happened. Ponyville was starting to fall under the hooves of these ponies and their own beliefs. At that moment Jolly was in his living room, looking through the windows through the curtains. From what he heard the law passed and now mares as well as fillies had to wear their mane in black or another color like brown. They seemed to require that they were flat as well. Meaning Violet wouldn't be allowed to wear her own mane style anymore. Not only that, but they would have to hide their cutie marks as well.
So Jolly would leave the window, he had seen enough already and was not too happy about it. It was just morning, it was time to prepare the young one for school... but things would be different today. As he stepped inside the kitchen, his look was not his usual good mood looking one and his niece would notice this right away. She was somewhat aware of what was happening in the town, but politic was still complicated enough for her given her age and all the things she has to learn already at school. Yet she could prove herself to be mature enough to listen and try to understand.
Taking a sip from her hot chocolate drink and putting it back on the table. She'd keep quiet for the moment, wondering if it was time to ask him if things were going fine, but Jolly would quickly give an answer to that.
Jolly: Well... there is no school for you today.
He'd tell her, looking at her from the counter of the kitchen.
Violet: What's wrong?
She'd ask of course. The pegasus would look outside of the kitchen before coming back to her, not finding a way to smile at all of this.
Jolly: The laws are changing in town... If I have to let you out, you would have to change the color of your mane and they wouldn't allow you to wear this mane style as well... and you would have to hide your cutie mark too.
Violet wouldn't understand just why she'd have to do that... mostly all of a sudden too. Heck, all her life so far she had these colors and this cutie mark was a proof that she had a special talent as well. Having her hooves on her cup of the hot drink, she'd get it a little closer to herself as she'd think a little. She wondered...
Violet: And what about you? Do you have to do the same?
Jolly would shake his head to give the negative answer. Things were not the same for the colts and stallions.
Jolly: No... they do this only to mares and fillies. That's why I don't want you to go out today.
He'd say before pulling a chair at the table so he could sit down and look outside of the kitchen again. Most of his curtains were closed.
Jolly: I don't like how things are going around here anymore...
He'd come to say... he'd have to consider what he'd do next. Maybe he'd have to move out from this place and find a new place to live at where these laws wouldn't apply. Sure that was quick thinking for now, but it was already something he'd consider. For him this law was already making no sense at all. He just wondered how worse this could become and he didn't wish for that to happen. The day could be long.
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Post by Admin on Sept 22, 2013 19:45:13 GMT -5
The earth pony would look once more behind his binoculars, trying to find himself a way through all this... as well as to get himself some water and perhaps some food as well. If he was to get to Canterlot without getting caught, he'd need some strengths... and perhaps some rest too... right now he just felt like dying. Spending a few more minutes, he'd eventually find himself a nice and quiet house... the curtains were close and everything seemed perfectly still about it. Perhaps he'd be able to break in, take whatever he needs and get out fast, incognito.
He'd chuckle.
???: Heh, sure! That's gona work!
He'd begin going down the small hill he was on, sliding at some point on the pebbles before he'd eventually reach flat ground. Once that done, he'd keep himself on the village's edge, using bushes and various covers to slip in before anyone could notice him. Hard enough, but nothing he couldn't do!
Eventually the sand pony would reach his goal. Nopony was looking right now... he'd have to be discrete about it if he wanted any chance of this working. He'd look around one last time... try and look through the window and listen... he couldn't see or hear anything... so he'd take action. Once the place secured, he'd take off his shirt and roll it around his hoof.
???: Alright... here it goes!
His right arm would rear back as he'd trust it forward, smashing part of the window. His hoof would slip in and he'd unlock the window, slide it open before he'd tumble his way inside, putting his shirt back on. he'd dust himself off as he'd then take a look around.
Almost immediately his look would fall on both the unicorn and pegasus. His cocky grin knocking itself right off as he'd switch for a sheepish one instead.
???: ...Crap.
Then he'd take an other look... around as well as at them. They weren't one of them... and he didn't see any religious symbols or whatever on any of the walls or shelves... perhaps he still had a chance?
???: L-look, I know this might sound a bit... um... sudden? Right? But You've got to help me!
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 23, 2013 13:25:24 GMT -5
A moment before, Jolly had gotten back up. The young unicorn just watched him do so, he seemed to be very worried. She could notice that easily on him and not just because he said he was, but because she could simply feel it. The pegasus had gotten back to the counter of the kitchen, seeking a plate and a glass which he'd use to prepare his breakfast. Perhaps things were slowly changing around the place, but he still had to keep himself healthy.
Once those down he'd go for a closed bag of bread, open it, take two slices and put them in the toaster just in front of him. All that while being silent, trying to think of what he'd do today. He even wondered if he wanted to meet his customers... some of them were from that culture and with all the changings, with Violet still being her normal self and not the one she should be according to the law... if they were to see her, they'd probably tell him she has to change the color of her mane and all of that. How he'd deal with that... he wish he could tell them off at this point knowing they wouldn't listen to him.
Stopping in his things as he was thinking of that... he'd lower his head some, looking down at the counter, yet at nothing. No... it couldn't be. Not all of them were like that, right? Not all of them were going to follow these rules. There had to be some who would think otherwise, think that everyone was free to live the way they wanted and not follow one rule.
Violet: So... what are we gonna do today then?
The little voice spoke from behind him, bringing him back to reality. He'd turn his head around before completely turning his body, about to give her an answer. Opening his mouth, words about to come out, the window would make itself be heard... being hit and breaking. Immediately the attention of the two would direct itself to the window, both jumping by surprise, Violet almost spilling her hot chocolate while Jolly stepped back toward her, a frown appearing and being quite on the defensive already. Never did it happen that a pony broke in his house before.
The pegasus was standing in front of Violet, ready to do something should the intruder try himself at attacking or anything... He'd see the look changing on that pony's face and he'd take the time to read him as he'd also hear him talk. He'd scan him once more before he'd begin the conversation with him.
Jolly: It is a bit sudden, right... Just who are you? Why did you break in like that?
He'd ask. The color this pony had was also not helping in reassuring the pegasus. It was just like those ponies now. It was already too late, he had seen Violet too... how will he react to this? Yet another thing he noticed was how he asked for help. Why would he ask for the help of a citizen who was not following this religion? Besides he didn't even know him... as if desperate to look for help at the moment. Realising this Jolly would let down his guard some, keeping the same look, only softened.
Jolly: What kind of help are you looking for?...
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Post by Admin on Sept 23, 2013 14:55:28 GMT -5
Oh... just that? Heck, here he expected him just to... jump on him and assault him or whatever with that plate of his... or heck, a kitchen knife even! But that pony right there seemed to be rather level-headed compared to what he had been dealing with lately. Ponies trying to shoot, punch and slice him were his quotidian now, to be honest... so this came rather as a surprise. A very pleasant one at that too. He'd raise an eyebrow and then let out a chuckle.
???: Oh wow... you'll actually listen to me? Hah! Um... I mean, of course you'll listen to me!
Sighing in relief he'd just sit his flank on the ground; for now he seemed to be safe, knowing he wasn't in any immediate dangers. He'd look up at both of them once again... that purple pegasus seemed like a well-educated individual... the glasses as well as the bookshelves in the background and few diplomas somewhat giving that away. Maybe he fell on some sort of teacher or whatever?
As for the little filly... well... she didn't seem all that scared. Curious even. Just like him when he was just a colt. Only she didn't live in the street and stole for a living. At this he'd smirk and chuckle as he'd look back at Jolly.
???: Is that your daughter? She's adorable, just saying!
He'd say, getting back up.
Josiah: Full name's Josiah Shazeb! But... y'know, you can just call me Joe. Feels more natural to me, honestly.
He'd say, bringing his right hoof to his chest before bringing it down.
Josiah: And I think I owe you two an explanation for... well... all this. I was sure this house was empty, y'see? And I've been on the run for... weeks now and it's not until recently that I ran out of food and water... so I thought I'd drop by... get some supplies and... well... leave.
He'd rub the back of his head, feeling a bit guilty about all this.
Josiah: The thing is I gotta go and see your princess. I... have a certain item which I may have "burrowed" from a museum on my homeland for undefined amount of time... an item which I believe if it were to fall in the wrong hooves would... well, it wouldn't end well, that I can be sure of!
He'd then rub his face, thinking about all this.
Josiah: That's why I believe the princesses should be the ones having it. I can't go too much into details here... I mean... don't take it the wrong way but I barely know you, believe it or not.
He'd look at him once more.
Josiah: So all I'm asking is... y'know, maybe some water? A handful of fruits maybe and a place to rest? Hopefully I'm not asking too much... I guess I could always um... let's see...
He'd reach for one of his pouch... he had some "spoils of war" hidden in there. One of them being a small ritual knife with a steel blade, and a diamond-encrusted gold handle. He'd grab it with his teeth and drop it on the table.
Josiah: I'll give you that as compensation... for the window and... all the rest. Just this then I'll be out of here, I swear!
He'd finish, looking up to him, sounding genuine in his words.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 24, 2013 12:04:27 GMT -5
Jolly didn't really expect to see and hear this one. The color of this Josiah was like the others and to be honest, he was afraid he might be one of them... at first when he noticed Violet, Jolly took a stance. She wouldn't change! But... did he just say she was adorable and then jump to another topic? The pegasus' stance would change again, he'd stand up now. Hearing more of his story, the reason why he came in and all of that... the way he even sounded.
One moment later Josiah took out a knife that he'd put on the table. The two residents of the place would take a look at it, Violet's eyes widening at the sight of it. This one was a very beautiful one... it was as if Josiah knew she was into bladed weapons.
Jolly would give a look to the pony, remaining silent and just scanning him once more. He could tell that he was being rather honest. That he didn't mean them harm or anything... The frown he had earlier would finally disappear to make place to a normal look.
Jolly: Well... Obviously I thought you didn't want us any good. I guess I can do something for the water and food, good thing I've done my groceries before the new law came in... but a place to rest that'll be difficult.
He'd tell him. Meanwhile the filly behind was still contemplating the knife, using her magic to levitate it, turn it around so she could get a better look at it before she'd turn her head to talk, getting her uncle's attention.
Violet: Uncle, this knife is just beautiful! He's really giving this to us?
The pegasus would turn back to Josiah, this time smiling some. It was time for the presentations.
Jolly: Her name is Violet Charm, by the way. My niece so to speak and she loves knives. It's a long story... As for me, I'm Jolly Thinker, former therapist of the town.
He'd say. He'd then pull out a chair so he could sit down and relax a little. Their uninvited guest didn't seem so bad after all.. but it sure was one moving morning. He'd let out a long sigh as he'd lay his hoof on the table, just rethinking of everything.
Jolly: Things have changed around here, though... it's not the same anymore. A new law came in right this morning and Violet would have to change the color of her mane as well as hiding her cutie mark, which I believe is absurd...
Turning his head toward Josiah he would take a brief pause before continuing.
Jolly: I thought you were one of them at first, but you don't seem to be at all. The way you speak and how you didn't even say anything about Violet's appearance pretty much gave it away to me.
Just as he'd finish saying that, the breads that were put in the toaster earlier would jump out, ready to eat. At that the pegasus would get up and walk to the counter so he could grab them and put them in his plate. Right after what he would take his empty glass which he'd fill with water from the sink. Grabbing the plate and glass one after another he would bring them closer to Josiah one at a time.
Jolly: Have these for now.
He'd offer him before he would take back his seat at the table where the young unicorn was still looking at the knife and sometimes at the two adults.
Jolly: I know it's none of my business, but... where are you from? And that item you spoke of, I'm sure the princesses will look into it if you bring it to them, but what can it do?
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Post by Admin on Sept 24, 2013 15:52:58 GMT -5
Well that came in as an other surprise, to say the least. Once again said ponies would astonish him by actually offering him hospitality. It was a breath of fresh air compared to being chased after with sabers, batons and what have you. No. For once he'd be able to breath and actually take a respite from all his adventures. Sure, he could continue... barely but he could. Though, he'd rather be safe and just re-energize himself before making the last few miles which, in his book, would be the most critical. He'd look as the toasts would be put in front of him. Jam on it or not he'd begin eating them right away... finishing all of it in not even a minute as well as gulping down the glass of water in one shot. Nothing fancy here but a whole lot better than nothing, that's for certain. Taking his time to down it all, he'd then look at Violet who took interest in the knife as well as Jolly's questions. Josiah: Well technically I am from Palastimane as well and born there... I just don't follow whatever these idiots are preaching is all. S'just a load of crap in my opinion... He'd finish shrugging. Josiah: And as for the trinket... well, I wish I could tell you about it but... after running for several weeks and putting my very life in danger countless of times before that... I'm not exactly sure revealing anything about it to somepony I barely met would be such a great idea... at least not when I'm so close of reaching my goals. He'd then flop his ears, realizing the irony in everything he just said, now scratching the back of his head sheepishly as his sight would flee to the left. Josiah: But then again... I did break into your house and you could've just ran out there and get help... but you didn't. So I guess I could always show you... as well as tell you part of it. Just... He'd take a look around once more, just to make sure. Josiah: Don't tell anypony. You too, girl! He'd say, pointing his hoof at the filly. Reaching for his pouch, he would then pull out the trinket and put it down carefully on the table. image.artfact.com/housePhotos/profilesinhistory/06/423906/H3257-L45061484.jpgJosiah: This thing... is both a clock as well as a map... though, it doesn't follow our timeline and the coordinates it throws you to are completely off. It seems like it was made for a different world entirely. All I know is that this thing dates back as pre-Celestial time... before Celestia or Luna were even born... He'd grab the thing and turn it around in his hooves, taking a better look at it as he went on. Josiah: It comes down to a legend of a pony adventurer named Will Booth who was sent by Celestia's immediate ancestor on a mission to find something and activate it. This was handed to him so he could find his way. He'd then let out a sigh. Josiah: And whatever he was sent to activate out there remained a secret ever since. All we know... or at least, what is rumored is that whatever he turned on that day by their order was of... incredible proportion as in... balance-of-all-there-is incredible. He'd shrug. Josiah: And that's fine by me, really, I didn't really cared as long as it stayed nice and put and nopony knew about all this... But for some reasons those religious nutjobs began taking interest in it one faithful day... a group which is now after me, hunting me down. I stole this thing just to make sure they wouldn't get their dirty hooves on it... I can't let them have it. He'd then pull out a smirk. Josiah: Though, this is just one part of the thing... I have the compass thingamajig or whatever... and they have the key to activate it... as long as they don't have the two, we're fine. He'd then look at him. Josiah: That's why I need to see the princesses as soon as possible. They'll figure something out... and hopefully they know more about this thing than I do too... my own grandpa used to tell me stories about it... that's how I knew how important it was, but there's still many things I don't know about all this. It's all still very vague. He'd finish.
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Jolleh
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 25, 2013 12:53:00 GMT -5
Jolly let the time to Josiah to eat and drink... which took barely two minutes. If anything he could understand if he didn't want to tell them about the trinket, but at least to know where he was from. The pegasus' eyes would open wide when he said he was from Palestimane. Quite the far place from here indeed and for an adventurer it must have been quite the trip. The part that reassured him was that he was not following their religion, at least. Well that's something he could tell already since he was not acting like them.
Once Josiah said he would tell them some about the mysterious object, Jolly would be all ear... and Violet too, although being pointed and told directly like that would let her a little uneasy, looking at the tip of that hoof, but nothing to really come bother her as well. Jolly would even chuckle. He just knew her well enough to tell that the secret would be kept safe.
Both the stallion and the filly would take a look at it as it would be put down on the table, Violet finally leaving the knife for now as she was also curious to hear the story. During the story, Jolly would keep the focus on the words as he was also staring at the object on his table. Ears would fall down some when he heard that the ponies who were starting to take a lot of place here were interested in that thing. They were surrounded by them at the moment... good thing the curtains were closed in this house because he didn't want anyone to know anything.
Jolly: Well...
He'd begin, taking a step back and looking at Josiah.
Jolly: It's quite the story you have here and it must have been one heck of a trip to manage to get here. Canterlot's still a way from here, but you're close enough too.
Saying this that he'd take a quick look at his window before coming back to Josiah.
Jolly: And don't worry. This secret is safe with us. Neither Violet nor me will say anything about this.
Then he'd start to think some. All of that made him realise if the princesses would look into what's happening in the town and probably other places as well. Ponyville surely wasn't the only place to change like this... and he was certain that they were not these kind of ponies as well. He doubted they would want to follow those rules. He'd look away, not at any place in particular or at anything.
Jolly: Makes me wonder... Things are starting to change around here as well. A new law just passed this morning. I won't lie, it's really bothering me a lot.
He'd look back at Josiah.
Jolly: I wonder what the two princesses think about this. If anything, maybe I could take you to Canterlot and I could try to meet with them as well.
He'd say, then he would turn completely to face him, having another question on his mind... Something that could be worrisome.
Jolly: And another thing. This group who is chasing you... Do they know you are here?
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Post by Admin on Sept 25, 2013 15:07:47 GMT -5
Josiah would laugh at this as he'd sit back on the chair. He'd then grab the trinket once again and hide it back into one of his pouches.
Josiah: Well, they know my name and face for sure... not sure if they ever took interest in my pass as well but I couldn't care less about that, to be honest. All I know is that the moment they realized somepony wanted to try and snag away their part of the treasure, they mobilized almost a whole army against me!
He'd then take a deep breath.
Josiah: Heck... now I actually feel bad for telling you two about it. Because if they ever see you with me.
He'd say, bringing his right hoof to his chest, he'd then slide it up to his neck and mimic a "beheading" gesture.
Josiah: You two will be done for. Like, even the kid. They don't care about age, hope you do realize that.
He'd say, sounding a bit nervous. This whole situation had just taken a turn for the worst... in the moment, he never thought about putting in danger two lives... heck, he was hungry, thirsty, tired and he needed help! It never occurred in his head that he'd make these two accomplices. Should he just leave right now? would they be willing to take the risk? Willing? Who cared, honestly, he didn't want them dead, willing or not. The best action would be to leave... like right now. He'd feel too guilty were something happen to them.
Josiah: Actually... I think I should be on my way. Keep the knife. I... I'm sorry I shouldn't have brought you into all this. You two seem like honest people with peaceful lives and I wouldn't want to turn it into shit like mine.
He'd say, reaching for the bowl of fruit in front of him. He'd put two apples and an orange in his bag and get himself ready to leave... however, before he even had the time to do so, a knock on the door would let itself heard. His eyes would widen as his sight would lock on the entry. He could see two shadows through the blurred window, as well as some vague colors. Ponies from Palestimane, obviously.
Guards: Citizen, open the door in the name of Shk'ulah!
The way they spoke, accent and everything... those were the local authorities established by those Shaklins which took over. Immediately Josiah, used to defend his own hide, would reach for a thick iron frying pan as he'd throw his back against the entry wall... apparently ready to knock them out the moment they'd step inside.
Guards: We heard noises and reports of a strange individual lurking around! You have a broken window, open at once!
The knocking would make themselves even more numerous and heavier as well.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 25, 2013 16:38:07 GMT -5
It was true... if Jolly and Violet were seen with him when he was being looked for by them... things could be very bad. To be honest, Jolly was more afraid of what they'd do to his niece more than to him. He wouldn't even want her to ever have to be ordered around by them. He'd look back at her, she had heard as well, of course and she looked worried, but didn't seem to be as much as Jolly for some reason. The pegasus would come back to Josiah, looking unsure about all of this, but what he had said seemed right.
Jolly: Yes... maybe it's better if you leave. Wish I could have done something, but I certainly wouldn't want any more trouble with what we have already and-
Yet his words would be cut as he heard the door being knocked on. He did the same as Josiah at the same time and looked in the direction of the entrance. This sounded bad. Very bad. According to the accent they used as well as the words, they were not royal guards and with their guest here as well as the story he had just told them, things were not going to get better if he was to be seen. Jolly would remain silent and observe until he saw Josiah getting ready to defend himself. Thing was, if he could just avoid any violence at the moment it would be helpful. Else, they pretty much would have to get themselves ready to leave the place and rush to Canterlot.
Jolly: Wait!
He'd whisper loud enough to him, wanting to get his attention. He'd look around him as well, wanting to find something that could imitate what smashed his window. He'd spot an empty pot made of glass, like a pot of jam. Grabbing it that he'd quickly put it on the floor in a position that would seemed legit enough for something that was thrown. Then he'd come back to Josiah.
Jolly: Go hide! In my room, under the bed or in the closet! You too, Violet!
He'd tell them both still in whispers to avoid being heard by the guards. Violet would listen by getting off her seat with the knife and rushed into the room to hide in the closet. As for Jolly he'd get near the entrance so he could open the door, only he'd make sure everyone would hide. Violet went into the room, only Josiah was left. Standing next to him that he'd look at the door of the entrance, he'd tell him.
Jolly: I'll take care of it.
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Post by Admin on Sept 25, 2013 17:04:57 GMT -5
Josiah would look as Jolly would take that pot of jam... and... what was he doing placing it on the floor? Oh... Ohhh. Seeing that the adventurer would only let his face collide with his right hoof. This had to be one of the worst excuse he had seen so far... for a myriad of reasons. Number one... it was made out of glass. It would've broken as well! Number two, who the hell threw bottle of jams at windows anyway? Have it been a rock or a brick... maybe! A bottle of jam? No way in hell.
Josiah would simply shake his head, still hiding behind the wall, frying pan in hooves. He wouldn't hide his bum in an other room knowing that dim plan Jolly cooked up at the last possible second wouldn't work. If anything, they'll suspect him of lying... and ultimately of hiding something as well. That pegasus was digging his own grave.
Pony of action that he was, he knew better than this. He'd knock those two guys out pronto, tie them up, hide them... and then make a break for it. If they did this smoothly and fast enough, they'd be able to move out incognito before they realize two guards went missing.
Josiah would motion with his head just to open the door.
Josiah: Stop messing around, just open up! And if they get in, I'll take care of it, don't worry!
He'd whisper, taking position. Meanwhile, the guards on the other end were getting impatient, knocking at the door even more.
Guard1: Is anypony there?! We will bring down the door if we have to! Open up!
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 25, 2013 17:51:49 GMT -5
Seeing that Josiah wouldn't move, and with the guards getting rather impatient, Jolly saw it was no time to argue. He just did what he could with what he had and there was just no rock around he could use to fake it. Oh well, so much for that. He'd have no choice but to come and open. As he said, he'd take care of them if they were to step inside and start looking around... He could only trust him. He'd nod before stepping to the door as the knockings were making themselves louder and harder.
Then he'd simply grab the doorknob and pull to open. Upon opening he'd look up at the two guards standing in front of him. Staying silent for now, it was rather stressful to have them there, but he'd manage and keep himself from showing any sign of stress, but instead taking the voice of somepony who was aware of what happened already.
Jolly: ... I'm sorry, I had my hooves at something.
Was all he'd say for now. Trying to tell them everything was fine would rise suspicions and they'd surely want to take a look inside.
Jolly: H-have you looked around the house? Maybe the one responsible has already fled...
That's really the least he could do. Anyway, if their minds were set to just come in... they'd probably come in, that he was certain of, but if he could try to discuss with them and convince them that the individual one they were looking for wasn't there then things would end up better.
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Post by Admin on Sept 26, 2013 16:56:10 GMT -5
The guards, about to lose patience were about to literally bring the door down the moment it actually opened. Seeing it wouldn't be necessary any longer, the two of them would simmer down as they'd take a look at the individual standing on the other side. They'd listen as he'd speak, though, the moment he presented them with the matter at hooves, both of them would become highly suspicious. The two of them would look at each other, one of them with a raised eyebrow. They'd look back at the purple pegasus once more, the guard on the left doing the talking.
Guard#1: Your window is still wide open! The criminal must've entered your house... and now you're telling me that he "may" have ran away?
The guard would frown at this point.
Guard1: Move aside!
And without much of a warning, the guard would simply push the purple pegasus out of the way as he'd step inside. The second one would follow suit. They'd take a look in front of them, scanning the area. So far so good. Then, as he'd take an other step, Josiah would place himself behind them silently and swing his frying pan for all it was worth at the back of one of the two guard's head, knocking the first one unconscious as a lout "F'TONK!" echoed through the house.
Guard2: What is the mea-
The second one was rammed against the wall, left foreleg under his neck. Josiah would then proceed to knee him in the jewels. The moment he'd bend forward, he'd be greeted with a knee to the face... and then a frying pan behind the head.
Both of them dealt with. Silently. He'd close the door and then look up at Jolly.
Josiah: Well... what can I say? Welcome to my world! Pack your things, I'll tie these two up and we'll get out of there as soon as possible! S'not like we have much of a choice, hah! ... Ugh.
And with that he'd begin pulling those two in an other room and proceed to tie them up nice and snug, making sure they wouldn't be going anywhere anytime soon, giving them a good head start.
Josiah: We'll sneak out of this town pronto and head to Canterlot like our lives depended on it!... Because... well... now I think they do, don't you know.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Sept 27, 2013 11:45:24 GMT -5
Being pushed out of the way, Jolly couldn't help but feel stressed as they stepped inside. He feared for both Josiah and Violet who was hidden, but all he could do was to watch as he was unable to take on them himself... That's until he saw the adventurer acting, smashing one behind the head with the frying pan hard, letting the guard fall losing consciousness. The second one would be taken care of in an efficient way as well, he had no time to react it seems.
As Josiah said, he'd take care of them and he did as he said. The pegasus was relieved that they wouldn't bother them for a good while, but another matter was at hoof now. The fact that those two were knocked out meant that they would be missing on duty. The others would know and start to investigate. Jolly knew that if they were found, they'd be done for or something like this that wasn't going to be pleasant at all.
After his sigh of relief he'd look and listen to Josiah. As he said, they had to pack their things and leave. This place wasn't safe anymore, unfortunately...
Jolly: ... I guess we really don't have a choice, then.
He'd say before walking away, going to his room. Stepping inside he would see his niece already out of her hidding place. It was easy to tell that she heard the two guards being hit and assumed it was safe to come out. The two of them would look at each others, Jolly not losing much time at that, he'd already start to put a few things on his bed so he could pack up.
Jolly: It's time for us to go. You have to pack up whatever you want to bring with you. We're leaving this town.
The filly could understand why, but even so... she wondered.
Violet: Do you think we'll be able to come back one day?...
She'd ask worried. Hearing this question, Jolly stopped his things only to look down slightly in a short moment of silence.
Jolly: I don't know... living here is dangerous. With what just happened if we are discovered then we might be done for...
He'd turn around to face her, looking serious, yet also concerned about her.
Jolly: These ponies are dangerous and I don't want anything to happen to you, understood? We're leaving this place as soon as we can and we'll have to hurry. So pack you things, dear... we have to get going. Take anything you want to bring right now and try not to forget anything because we won't turn back.
Saying this, Violet would nod to him and would start doing the same, going to the closet so she could grab her bags in there so she could start filling them. The things she would bring first... the knives as well as the one they were given by Josiah, of course. That's really all she'd bring with her given that she didn't need anything else. As for Jolly, he took some papers, some of his work stuff and a few books as well. After what he went to the kitchen, passing by the living room and making sure to not be in Josiah's way as he did to take out bottles, two of them. He'd fill them both with water and as he'd do so, his sight would fall on the kitchen's window which was still opened. Quickly he'd close it and move the curtains back to hide the inside of the place and avoid beind seen by anyone outside.
Bottles filled, now was time to grab some food just in case. Actually he'd take the rest of the fruits that were in the fruit bowl, then some things from the fridge as well as bread. Lastly, some sweets and pastries in case they had a sweet tooth.
By now he believed that Josiah would be done or at least almost. He'd go and wait in the living room where he could wait for him along with Violet who was also ready. Seeing she was, he'd nod to himself before speaking to the adventurer.
Jolly: We're ready.
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Post by Admin on Sept 29, 2013 4:01:50 GMT -5
While Jolly as well as Violet would be busy packing whatever they deemed necessary, Josiah would have his hooves full at tying both of them in such a way they wouldn't be moving anywhere anytime soon. He even took their swords and made sure they didn't had any other objects on them left that could possibly help them out. He'd simply grab everything and hide it somewhere in the house, away from them.
Once that done, the sand-colored pony would get to next a window and slide one of the curtains slightly, scoping the area to make sure the slight perturbations of earlier didn't grab anypony's attention. Didn't seem like it did on first glance, people going on with their business and such, as if nothing happened.
While Jolly would be packing things, seconds went by like hours for the adventurer... what was taking them so long? They were suppose to pack essentials, not packing things for moving out of town! Canterlot wasn't too far away, after all... a minimum of food and water would be way more than enough... in fact, just water would've been perfect. Stealing food's easy, after all.
When both of them would finally be done with everything, they'd eventually gain up to him, awaiting their next order, looking at him. Oh, that's right. He was the one in charge now... no more of that lone-wolf thing. Snapping out of it, he'd shake his head as he brought his hooves to each side of his hips.
Josiah: Y-yeah! Okay! Now... umm... here's the plan. Basically all we have to do... is to get out of town without getting seen...
He'd take a double take on this one as he'd chuckle.
Josiah: Sorry, that was captain obvious speaking. Um... let's see...
He'd take an other look by the door's window.
Josiah: It's still morning and people are just starting to wake up... If we move through the small alleys and avoid open areas, we should be fine.
He'd say, looking at them once more.
Josiah: I also saw some... boutique on my way here, don't you know. Seems like they sell cloth. Perhaps they have something to make us look at bit more... erm... to their liking. Even if it's just a few hours, we'll have to wear their stuff and colors just so we can make our way there incognito.
He'd say, creaking the door open.... then closing it back, staring blankly at it for a moment.
Josiah: Let's... let's use the back door. Should be safer.
He'd say, trotting through the house as they'd eventually reach the backyard's door. He'd unlock and open it, take a quick look around and once everything clear, waved them to get out there. Once they'd be out, he'd follow suit closing the door behind them. He'd then get down the rear porch and into the actual yard, going to one of the fences and looking through a crack. There wasn't much people for the time being.
Josiah would gesture him to follow as he'd simply leap over the fence, not bothering with opening the door which wasn't too far to his left. Yeah, he lost the ability to simply open doors a while back with all this running around these pass years...
Once on the other side he'd let out a sigh as he'd take a few steps forth.
Josiah: Well... seems like proper nourishment and sleeping are now luxuries I won't be able to afford today... again.
He'd mutter to himself.
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