[IC] Equestrian Radio Show's Adventure Variety Hour: Explorers of STOMP

[CoffeeHorse]

Spoiler



Scarlet had to laugh good-naturedly at Wanderlusts slightly confus9ng comments. The shaking of his upside body rolled him sideways to the floor with another ‘THUNK’. Though a much quieter one.

”Hahahahaha—ow!

Believe me Wanderlust, my first thoughts upon waking, were to check that this is, in fact, the same room i fell asleep in.”

Standing upright, Scarlet stretched the kicks out of his bonee and wings with an audile, the continued.

”Divebombing Night Caps room the other night was a shock. Though not as bad as it could’ve been since he’s a friend and dreamwalker.

Falling out of a dream into somepony else hotel room....miiiiight not be as easy to explain to a startled stranger. So waking up to a familiar face, even a new familiar face like yours. Is kinda reassuring.

Anyway. Are you okay,” Scarlet said as he looked at his new teammate and roommate. ”You a bit more unsettled than you were yesterday. Bad night?”

---

Wanderlust rolls his eyes. "Miserable morning. The usual really." He hauls himself to his hooves. "Night Cap's a dreamwalker?"

---

Zamuel:
"I don't know why we would need five coffees, Keen and I will be having orange juice."

"Actually wouldn't surprise me if he meant all five of those for himself," Static said with a grin.

"I was here for lunch so I'll have to look over their breakfast menu."

Static nods still trusting the ordering to him.

When Static Signal asked about 'excitement', the waitress replied, "Oh yeah, everypony gets excited when a parade is coming up. The upcoming one's gonna be great! The town clock is even working right now."

"Oh, actually I meant about a couple rude patrons and a purple colored unicorn that...putting it lightly...took care of them. I'm actually an old acquaintance of the unicorn. I've been wanting to catch up with her for a while now. Don't suppose she comes in here often? I'm...sorry. Am I being nosy?"

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Hmph, I can't see how a couple of jerks giving me a hard time would be considered exciting. Still, that's a great friend you have there that she'll step in to defend others. I haven't seen her before but I'll certainly keep an eye out for her now," the waitress said.

---

"Maybe not the jerks themselves. I do wish I could've seen how she dealt with them though. They way I heard, it sounded like a sight to behold. Thanks though." Static glances to Square. "I'll definitely want some coffee. The rest of the order though, I'll leave in his hooves."

He didn't correct her on Dazzling being a friend. Technically he didn't lie about her being an acquaintance.

[Telling the truth in a way meant to deceive is still a lie!]

Technically he didn't lie...

[Ahem!]

...about her being an acquaintance. But he didn't feel inclined to correct her.

[Because he's being deceitful!]

*sigh* Anyway, he's leaving the ordering to Square!

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Now, what kind of coffee would you like?" the waitress asked.

---

"What kind?" Static asked puzzled. The only kinds of coffee he knew of were bottom shelf, top shelf and the mid-grades. But he was hardly a connoisseur. He thought about it. "I've never been asked that before. I guess...oooooh, what was it that Light Fantastic always said she liked. Saddle Arabian I think? Is that considered good coffee? Do you have that?"

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Alright...two orange juices, a Saddle Arabian, an extra dark, and make sure there's ample coffee refills. I'll take care of your drinks as you continue to look over the menu," she said, before heading to the kitchen.

---

As the waitress went back to the kitchen, Static turned his attention to Square. "What kind of city is this where a unicorn tossing a pony halfway across the room and stopping them just short of going splat on the wall wouldn't be considered exciting?" Static sighs. "Well, I don't see anything out of the ordinary. Of course, there probably wouldn't be. I doubt we'll learn too much here. She could keep an eye out for Ms. Midnight. But if she truly doesn't remember Dazzling ever being here before...*sigh*...just how extensive were the memory issues that were caused by clock tower?"

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

There was a look on Keen Craft's face as she seemed to be picking her words, then she asked, "Static, have you ever worked retail?"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

...

...

"Noooooo...but the fact that you felt like you had to ask me that has me thinking I just said something incredibly stupid."

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

There was a look on Keen Craft's face as she seemed to be picking her words, then she asked, "Not neccesarily stupid but I caught her tone of voice. While she was probably happy that Dazzling stepped in, she wasn't enthused about the actual bad customers. While this seems like a nice enough town, I doubt those two are the first she's had to deal with, nor will you be the last. While I currently do contract work, believe me, wishing your hammer was the correct tool to deal with clientelle isn't exciting.

Also, Dazzling is an unknown. If the royal guard or a Princess showed up, the reaction would probably be different. Probably vary per Princess as well since ponies have different favorites."

Maple (Hazel - Flair) AND Misty - Symphony (Darty)

Flairvoyant fidgeted a bit before say, "Alright, curiosity is getting the better of me. Watch my back." Straightening her newly acquired gaudy hat, Flairvoyant walked over to the stallion. "My gosh, you must be some sort of movie star." The stallion seemed especially pleased to hear this. "Oh no, little filly. You see...I am the mayor of Fiesta Caldera." "Woooow, really? I'm new to town so I bet you know the best places to go." "But of course. You should try the casino. Perchance you enjoy games of chance?" "Sometimes. But aren't casino poorly run?" "Nonsense! Chipotle Verde runs an excellent establishment. Ah, Señorita Verde...that mare is such a glimmering jewel to the eye."

There was an awkward pause as the mayor seemed to daydream after mentioning Chipotle Verde. As the crowd began asking him more questions, Flairvoyant slipped out of the group and back to the table. "Wow, I get the feeling he'd call me 'little filly' and I'm bigger than he is." "Bleh, never let me do that again. Didn't get much but is it safe to guess Verde is some sort of hot stuff?" Flairvoyant asked Symphony.

---

Static winced. "I'm...a bad customer..." he stated more than asked with a suddenly downcast face.

[I was trying to be nice.]

[You bucked it up!]

[I'm getting spit soup, aren't I?]

"Maybe...maybe I shouldn't be the one handling public relations."

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Oh believe me, I've seen far worse public relations gaffes. You're fine." "You know...since it came up, who is your favorite Princess?"

---

Static casts a quick glance to Night Cap to see if he can catch an eye-roll. He then grinned ear to ear. With a look that was his patented "I'm about to talk about Luna" look in his eyes, he turns back to Square.

"Luna...full stop...no question...Luna! We're even making a documentary about her. I'm not quite sure where we are on that at the moment since our advisor hasn't been back to work in a while. But I think it's still in the works. And you know, we actually met her! We met the Luna...TWICE! I mean, we also met her sister too...but...can you imagine meeting Luna? Twice? I mean, nopony is ever that lucky. It's like, I mean, how do you describe being in the same room as the Luna. It's exhilarating and humbling at the same time and...and...and...

Static takes a deep breath. "Yeah, in answer to your question...Luna."

[Every single time her name comes up.]

[Well, I mean, he did ask.]

[Every...single...time!]

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static tried to think back to the times he met the princesses but couldn't think of what joke Nigh Cap may have pulled. Then he realized Night Cap has in fact met Luna on more occasions then he was privy to. He cringes at the thought of what Night Cap would consider "a joke." "Night Cap? Ol' buddy ol' pal ol' chum...? What joke...exactly...did you pull on the princess?" The wince was thick in Static's voice.

---

Maple (Hazel - Flair) AND Misty - Symphony (Darty)

Flairvoyant fidgeted a bit before say, "Alright, curiosity is getting the better of me. Watch my back." Straightening her newly acquired gaudy hat, Flairvoyant walked over to the stallion. "My gosh, you must be some sort of movie star." The stallion seemed especially pleased to hear this. "Oh no, little filly. You see...I am the mayor of Fiesta Caldera." "Woooow, really? I'm new to town so I bet you know the best places to go." "But of course. You should try the casino. Perchance you enjoy games of chance?" "Sometimes. But aren't casino poorly run?" "Nonsense! Chipotle Verde runs an excellent establishment. Ah, Señorita Verde...that mare is such a glimmering jewel to the eye."

There was an awkward pause as the mayor seemed to daydream after mentioning Chipotle Verde. As the crowd began asking him more questions, Flairvoyant slipped out of the group and back to the table. "Wow, I get the feeling he'd call me 'little filly' and I'm bigger than he is." "Bleh, never let me do that again. Didn't get much but is it safe to guess Verde is some sort of hot stuff?" Flairvoyant asked Symphony.

Symphony blinks and looks up at the question. "Oh... I um... well... I wasn't really paying attention to her like that..." She says "I... I don't really notice those kinda things.... The mare I noticed was soft spoken and kinda scary... You know that type where even where they appear nice, you can kinda tell they're being threatening under it all?" She says and looks down. "Rhapsody would probably been able to tell you better."

---

"Oh, Symphony... you did good, right now it doesn't make any difference what Rhapsody would have done differently. Your efforts are just as worthwhile and are actually contributing to a successful outcome to our mission." Maple gives the other mare a warm Smile, the poor thing needs a boost in confidence about as often as Maple needs a boost to get to a snack on a top shelf.

---

Even Night Cap can hear the wince. He's worked in the Documents Department long enough.

"What answer can I tell you that'll make you smile?"

[Maybe we should withdraw the question. Do we really want to know?]

Static sighed. "Truth or nothing at all," he said rubbing his temples and wishing the coffee were there already. "Your choice."

---

"Oh, Symphony... you did good, right now it doesn't make any difference what Rhapsody would have done differently. Your efforts are just as worthwhile and are actually contributing to a successful outcome to our mission." Maple gives the other mare a warm Smile, the poor thing needs a boost in confidence about as often as Maple needs a boost to get to a snack on a top shelf.

Symphony smiles softly, but flusters with a blush. "Oh... I... I uh... meant just that... well... That Rhapsody might have noticed... her looks... because well... her... um... her preference in lovers..." Poor girl can't even seem to discuss romance without getting flustered...

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Oh is that all, heh... heheheheh...." Maple hangs he head and burst into uncontrollable snickering... "tehehehe..I um hehehe... think Mr. Night Cap is still surprisingly single if you're into stallions Symphony." Maple eventually got control of herself and gave Symphony a big hug.

"If liking fillies gave a pony extra detailed perception... I think Static would be able to see through walls by now, and Mr. Night Cap golly he could see into alternate dimensions." Maple started snorting as she laughed, and it was clear she wasn't laughing at anyone of her friends in particular... just as a response to poor Symphony being down on herself for not being as gay as her sister.

---

Maple (Hazel - Flair) AND Misty - Symphony (Darty)

Dart Noveau pondered for a moment before asking the group, "You think Verde might have a swollen head about her looks? I mean, if the mayor is a step away from drooling at the thought of her, it would give her a lot of breathing room for her operation and might inflate her ego a bit. Would be a weakness if so, just don't know what we could do with it."

---

Symphony blushes softly and giggles a bit at Maple's comment, taking a deep breath and seeming to relax a bit. "AH... yeah... I suppose so." She smiles softly, not saying anything about Maple's comment of Night Cap's availability. She looks up to Dart and cocks her head, she takes another deep breathe before she speaks. "Well... um... I think maybe ht best way... would be to have some handsome Stallion go up, distracted her by trying to woo her... I-If she's as... uh.. vain as you believe... it could give somepony the ability to maneuver freely... Thought... I doubt either of those would be me or Wander..."

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"'Wings', heh." Square Fun chuckled. "Interesting collection we have here. Square and I are both fans of Twilight."

---

Even Night Cap can hear the wince. He's worked in the Documents Department long enough.

"What answer can I tell you that'll make you smile?"

[Maybe we should withdraw the question. Do we really want to know?]

Static sighed. "Truth or nothing at all," he said rubbing his temples and wishing the coffee were there already. "Your choice."

"I just went 'Boo' and fluttered my wings a bit."

*snort* "Hehe...that...that's it? Hehe! That...that's actually kinda funny."

Zamuel:
Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"'Wings', heh." Square Fun chuckled. "Interesting collection we have here. Square and I are both fans of Twilight."

*blinks* "How do I keep forgetting there's a fourth one now...every time!"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"They're multiplying."

---

"I know, right?" Static says in response to Nigh Cap. "Sometimes it's just hard enough to remember Cadence. Twilight always manages to slip my mind."

...

...

"Wait a minute! Doesn't Cadence have a daughter now? That makes five! Oh, my head hurts!"

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

Square Fun seemed confused. "I can't see how five would hurt your head. If anything, it feels like exciting times since they're all different. You met Twilight once, right Keen?" "Yes, I was doing some contract work in Ponyville and I asked her about her castle. Not so coincidentally, crystal construction had grown in popularity around then. She was helpful in discussing structural integrities...but not! so much in discussing design. Also, much shorter than I thought she'd be. Darty's definitely taller."

---

"It's just quite a bit to keep up with," Static says in response to Square. "For the longest time there was only one. I grew up with just one, Celestia. Now in the space of just a few short years, we have four new ones. Imagine how many we'll have this time next year!"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Well, if I were to calculate...oh look, our order is ready." The waitress arrived and set the drinks on the table. She then addressed, Static Signal, "It was my fault for not clarifying the specifics on your order so I brought a small bit of cream and sugar on the side, just in case."

---

"Oh, thank you. I'm sorry. I should've said so in the first place. I prefer my coffee black. Also, I'm sorry for earlier. I sometimes get so excited about a certain topic or event or...well...I get caught up in things and don't realize I'm being rude."

---

Spoiler


”I know that feeling,”[/color Scarlet replies as he remembers a few morning where he had really not wanted to move from his bed. Or cloud. Or wherever it was he was sleeping at the time. Chuckling softly, he gave himself a final shake and went to look in the mirror.

”Dreamwalker, lockpick, medic, coffee addict. He has a lot of titles amd a lot of confidence in his abilities. And while i know from first-hand accounts that he’s right to be confident as a dreamwalker.

Night Cap his a tendency to let self-confidence and self-reliance overshadow common sense. He’ll throw himself at a problem alone, whether its the right thing to do or not.

But then, STOMP is full of the eccentric, the exceptional and the egomaniacal. Like me,” he added with a mischeivious grin.

”So then Wanderlust. Ready to find the others, find some breakfast and face the day?”

---

Spoiler


”I know that feeling,” Scarlet replies as he remembers a few morning where he had really not wanted to move from his bed. Or cloud. Or wherever it was he was sleeping at the time. Chuckling softly, he gave himself a final shake and went to look in the mirror.

”Dreamwalker, lockpick, medic, coffee addict. He has a lot of titles amd a lot of confidence in his abilities. And while i know from first-hand accounts that he’s right to be confident as a dreamwalker.

Night Cap his a tendency to let self-confidence and self-reliance overshadow common sense. He’ll throw himself at a problem alone, whether its the right thing to do or not.

But then, STOMP is full of the eccentric, the exceptional and the egomaniacal. Like me,” he added with a mischeivious grin.

”So then Wanderlust. Ready to find the others, find some breakfast and face the day?”

---

"Close enough." Wanderlust shrugs into his vest and heads for the door, but pauses in the door frame and turns, coincidentally blocking Scarlet into the hotel room. "Where were you when you and Rain tripped the trap?"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Oh, that's no problem. It's different when ponies are trying to be odd." After looking over the menu, Square Fun announced, "We'll be having two orders of your strawberry crêpes. Just to make sure, what all is in them here?" "Ours have fresh sliced strawberries and cream cheese rolled into crêpes and served with a some oats sprinkled on top and a light dusting of cinnamon sugar." "Yeah, that sounds good."

Maple (Hazel - Flair) AND Misty - Symphony (Darty)

"You know...with the mayor here, there's got to be something else we can get out of him if we ask the right questions.

...

Not it." "I just went so I don't want to look too suspicious."

---

"Maple might be good... She's a master of disguise and all..."

---

Scarlet twitched at the abrupt mention of Rain, then turned to find Wanderlust blocking the exit. Intentional or not, this did improve his suddenly darkened mood.

”You pick now, of all times, to ask about that.”

Turning to face Wanderlust fully, he gave the colt a very disapproving look, then sighed.

”This is not how i wanted to start the day. At all.

But i’m not going to bite your head off about it.”

Scarlet shook his head sadly, as he really didn’t like to talk about this. Fixing his eues just to left of Wanderlust, Scarlet thpught of old memories. Speaking in a wistful tone of voice, he said.

”It was an uncharted island you’ve likely never heard of. Unexplored, untamed and had apparently been absent any good of pony presence for the Princessess only inow how long.

The Chief sent us there ‘To Boldly Go’ as she put it. Map it out, photograph and document the place. Find anything and everything we could. It was pure exploration. No competition to deal with, no dangerous artifact hunts. No fate of Equestria.

No danger

Until we started exploring the caverns and catacombs of our little lost paradise. I was past the point of being cautious and simply wanted to have fun with my friends. Well, mostly Rain.

And then we stepped on something that wasn’t supposed to be there... there was a blinding flash and...

When we came too... she was gone. I’d sprung some kind of ancient magic trap. Except the magic went wrong. I don’t know how. I don’t know why. All i know is the magic backfired... somehow.

Much as he hadn’t wanted to talk, as it brought up Major Delight and how his anger and fear had hardened against Scarlet.,he still somehow felt he had to keep going.

”The Chief understood of course. But there wasvery little she could do...”

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Scarlet twitched at the abrupt mention of Rain, then turned to find Wanderlust blocking the exit. Intentional or not, this did improve his suddenly darkened mood.

”You pick now, of all times, to ask about that.”

Turning to face Wanderlust fully, he gave the colt a very disapproving look, then sighed.

”This is not how i wanted to start the day. At all.

But i’m not going to bite your head off about it.”

Scarlet shook his head sadly, as he really didn’t like to talk about this. Fixing his eues just to left of Wanderlust, Scarlet thpught of old memories. Speaking in a wistful tone of voice, he said.

”It was an uncharted island you’ve likely never heard of. Unexplored, untamed and had apparently been absent any good of pony presence for the Princessess only inow how long.

The Chief sent us there ‘To Boldly Go’ as she put it. Map it out, photograph and document the place. Find anything and everything we could. It was pure exploration. No competition to deal with, no dangerous artifact hunts. No fate of Equestria.

No danger

Until we started exploring the caverns and catacombs of our little lost paradise. I was past the point of being cautious and simply wanted to have fun with my friends. Well, mostly Rain.

And then we stepped on something that wasn’t supposed to be there... there was a blinding flash and...

When we came too... she was gone. I’d sprung some kind of ancient magic trap. Except the magic went wrong. I don’t know how. I don’t know why. All i know is the magic backfired... somehow.

Much as he hadn’t wanted to talk, as it brought up Major Delight and how his anger and fear had hardened against Scarlet.,he still somehow felt he had to keep going.

”The Chief understood of course. But there wasvery little she could do...”

---

Static's eyes and smile both grew bigger the more the waitress described the crêpes. He'd been so caught up in blueberries, he'd completely forgot about strawberries. His mouth watered and he could almost taste the crêpes now. "Yes, please!"

---

Wanderlust almost visibly shrinks under Scarlet's gaze. Just because he'd asked early in the morning last time didn't mean dramatic reveals were supposed to take place before breakfast! And just because their last conversation felt like it happened yesterday to him didn't mean that was actually how it happened. "I'm sorry." is all he manages to offer. At least his condolences sound sincere.

He still doesn't realize he's standing in the doorway.

---

"Oh.. well I wouldn't say I'm a master, but I'm trying to get better... I mean, if I can be useful to the team - I shouldn't just try to ignore it and hope it goes away." Maple's Power flickers a little at the tips of her hair.. but doesn't actually do anything... no point in actually shapeshifting now.

"I'm doing okay at mimicking ponies that I'm familiar with...voices are kinda hard still. If this is what we'll be doing... who would everypony think I should be... ?"

---

Giving Wandelust a weary smile, Scarlet nodded.

”Don’t worry about it, Wander.

I’ve spent so much time Not talking about it. That it’s always a shock when womepony does. On top of that, Rains Uncle was and is, far less understanding or forgiving than the Chief. I can’t blame him, not really. Except that he made it a personal vendetta against the Keep as a whole. He is the Keeps Royal Guard liason. So, as you can imagine, had the Chief kept me on, it would have only made things worse.

So i was ‘Fired’, moved on to freelance exploration and retrieval work and kept my head down.

I never expected the Chief to call me back, but here i am. Back in STOMP, back on a mission. And closer than ever to finding Rain.”

Then, unexpectedly even for him, he laughed.

”Cheer up Wanderlust. Its not like its the end of the world. I’m not mad at you.

Just... maybe in future, save the Big Questions for when the day is done. Not just begun. Okay?”

Scarlet made to step forward, then remembered that Wander was in the doorway. Grinning, his good humour returned, Scarlet said.

”You gonna stand in that doorway forever?

Let’s go get some breakfast.”

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Wanderlust looks around, and starts as his placement registers. "Sorry. Right. Late at night. Got it." He quickly turns and heads down the hall. When he reaches the dining room he sees the crew...including Symphony. Another muffled groan tries to rise from his chest, but he forces it back down as he joins the table. "Morning."

---

As Scarlet followed Wanderlust down to the others, he could the other colts groan. Following Wanderlusts eyeline, he suppressed an evil grin. Seriously considering a little mischief.

Then decided that might be a little unfair. So he sidled up to Wanderlust and whispered.

”You do know that almost everything you did yesterday was an act, right? Whats with the nerves?”

---

"I'm still hoping it's some kind of fever dream." He mutters. At the same volume, but to the rest of the table, he says, "Sorry to interrupt, but, uh, Symphony? Are we pretending to be a couple marooned in Fiesta Caldera? More specifically, am I supposed to be trying to win back your heart and save the vacation by any means necessary?"

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Four strawberry crêpes it is. I'll be right back!"

---

"Good morning!" Maple smiles waving hooves and wingtips at the boys, as they join in for breakfast.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static licked his lips in anticipation. For the first time since he got here, he allowed his mind to slide away from all things business. "Oh this is gonna be soooo good!" he said as he rubbs his hooves together.

---

Symphony blinks softly and looks over to Wander. "Oh... um... you don't remember? I-It was your idea after all..." She says and brushes her hoof against the ground nervously. "Y-Yeah... that was... um... the story you gave them when they hired us..." She says in her hushed tone, she still was surprised by that and certainly hadn't been what she would have done... but then she's not sure what she would have done... probably faint at first opportunity... which she kinda did... several times...

---

Wanderlust does nothing to repress this new groan, and instead buries his face in his hooves. "I remember. Of all the ridiculous, hare-brained ideas that he's--that I've come up with..." Is his muffled response.

---

Casino ponies

Hazel Naught quietly commented, "From reading over previous expeditions, I wonder if Maple should attempt Casino Soufflé. While it sounds like he was quite the miscreant, if he knew Verde, maybe he knows the mayor. Of course, there is the problem that maybe he never met the mayor...or maybe they didn't get along. Other ideas may be better but it just popped in my head as a possibility."

---

Maple's eyes light up... she might get to put her uniform on after all if she went with Hazel's Idea!. Turning to Symphony, Maple blushed a little and whispered.

"Sorry, I wouldn't have mentioned about Mr. Night Cap if I'd have known... Congratulations by the way."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Scarlet just sighed and shook his head.

Oh great. Pintsize think they really are together, if that slight blush means what i think it means.

Lowering his voice, Scarlet cocked his head at Wanderlust. The colts odd turn of phrase, mixed with his mild confusion at everything. Seemed a little of to him.

”it was and is your idea. You seemed pretty confident about it yesterday. Now you seem surprised.

Whats up Wanderlust?”

---

"Nothing is 'up.'" Wanderlust growls. "I, Wanderlust, made the choice yesterday, and I fully understand and stand by my reasoning." He tone really doesn't match the reassuring nature of his words.

---

Symphony blinks and blushes furiously as Maple. "No! No no no no no no no no no." It was the only word that was able to get through her mind at the moment get soft as the mare seems to blue screen right there in front of them.

---

Despite the situation, Wanderlust smiles. "I feel like I should be vaguely offended, but I agree."

---

"Oh my goodness!" Maple's wings cover her face... "I thought I was whispering." It had been a while since Maple had a wrestling match in such a big place, she'd forgotten about the slight loss of hearing that she'd get for a while afterword.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Zamuel:
Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

Square Fun mused. "Why stop at weekends? Something special on weekdays can help get you through."

---

Scarlet simply raised an eyebrow. Voice still low, he said.

”You don’t sound very convincing.

Why is ‘His’ idea the idea the most hare-brained you’ve come up with? Think carefully,,because you and Symphony with by off to ‘work’ in a casino run by one of the most officious and bullying bosses i’ve ever seen. As well as possibly hiding COIN agents.

You act as if yesterday was a dream that happened to somepony else.” Scarlet wasn’t accusatory or demanding. Just worried.

---

"You know, Night, you could make enough pancake batter one night tolast several days. Get a griddle big enough for two or three panckes, toss some batter on it in the morning...I usually have pancakes ready before the coffee's even done brewing.

---

Scarlet simply raised an eyebrow. Voice still low, he said.

”You don’t sound very convincing.

Why is ‘His’ idea the idea the most hare-brained you’ve come up with? Think carefully,,because you and Symphony with by off to ‘work’ in a casino run by one of the most officious and bullying bosses i’ve ever seen. As well as possibly hiding COIN agents.

You act as if yesterday was a dream that happened to somepony else.” Scarlet wasn’t accusatory or demanding. Just worried.

Wanderlust sighs. "I did it yesterday, right? Then I can do it today. That's how continuity of character works."

---

Symphony looks around some as she finishes rebooting. She swallowing and backs away from every pony feeling highly embarrassed now.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Oh no... you get back here Missy." Maple says... holding her wings out to sort of soft-cuddle -halt the other mare's retreat.

"That was my mistake, not yours... and gosh I'm so embarrassed right now I'm using my magic so you all can't see how red my face is." Sure maple was exaggerating a little... but she needed to make this up to her new friend.

"Besides, I'm going to need your help as well... to tell me If my Night Cap disguise looks okay." Maple adds, letting her wings fold back in.

---

Symphony meeps softly as Maple stops her from retreating too far. "O.. okay.." She squeaks softly and looks to Maple as the changeling speaks. and giggles softly at the little mare's exaggeration. She blinks softly "Oh... um... Wouldn't a mirror just be as much help? Maybe more..." She says with her usual lack of confidence, though in this case she's a bit justified as she's only known Night Cap for a few hours...

---

As the waitress went back to get the order filled, Static looked to Keen and Square. He spoke in a tone so as not to be overheard, but tried to not make it look overtly suspicious. "Okay, I guess now is as good a time to fill you in as any. Last night we found this in our room." Static hands the piece of paper to Square. "It's not much, but it's more of a lead than we had before. The stink of it is, 517 is not in use by the dewey decimal system. Sooooo, red flag. So here's what I'm thinking..."

"We're to the library before it opens thanks to some favors. So trying to act like we're not together is just going to fall flat. But before we do anything suspicious, I was hoping to get something notarized. It's not really Keep business. But given our business, it's probably something I should've done a while ago. After I'm done with that, the three of us just need to hang back while Night Cap does his thing. This is really going to be his show. I'm not exactly sure what to expect once we start snooping, so I haven't really planned much further ahead than that."

"One thing I will say though, if we do get into trouble, it's more important that you two get out and tell the chief what happened. No heroics. No saving our hides. Anything happens, get out and tell the chief. I'm expecting that we're going straight into the lions den. Things could go south real quick."

---

"A Mirror..oh golly no... those things are confusing. if I checked a change out in a mirror I'd for sure confuse a right hoof'd pony for a left hoofer and that would throw the whole thing off... besides, you'll be perfect as a test... since you haven't known him very long you'll be just like all the ponies I'll be trying to fool... somepony who knows him very well.. like Static or Rhapsody would be able to tell right away when I got any number of tiny things wrong."

Maple rolls her eyes in mock exasperation ... "I just hope my insides can handle all the coffee I'm going to have to drink just to keep up appearances."

---

"Ahhh... maybe you should skip the coffee part," Misty suggests.

---

"You're right safety first, even if it is risky ...What would I ever use all that energy for anyway?" Maple says, giving Misty a quick hug.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

There was a bit of an awkward pause, the Square Fun said, "Considering I can teleport other ponies, I can't really agree with leaving you stranded without at least trying to help. I get situations being too far gone and needing to go get help but not simply not trying at all."

---

"Good skill to have," Static says nodding at Square. "If you can get us all out, priority is yourself and Keen...then Night, then me. Biggest thing to remember is that we're here to gather information, not to confront. Getting out is highest priority."

---

"I could show everypony now if you're all ready?" Maple asks.

---

Casino ponies

Flairvoyant, Hazel Naught, and Dart Noveau all noted that they were ready.

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Oh believe me, I'd be the last pony to star a fight in a library," Square Fun said.

---

"Ah, yeah... I suppose I'm ready as I'll ever be..."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Wanderlust's voice is muffled because his head is still on the table, but they can all still hear, "Should you really transform in the middle of a dining room?"

---

Casino ponies

"Whoops! Alright, Maple--find a spot to go change. Hazel--stall the mayor, looks like he might be getting ready to leave." "If you insist." Hazel Naught walked over to the mayor and started talking to him.

---

Static raised an eyebrow at Night Cap. "If you get the opportunity between working the mission and being chased by hostiles, sure! I don't see why not."

---

[Night Cap]​

"I'm not planning on getting chased out. That's about my least favorite thing. I plan on taking a tour of the place and checking out some books."

---

Maple walks around a corner and then comes back in her Night Cap Disguise

Spoiler

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"I'm really hoping nothing happens while we're there and we can just lie low with all of this." Keen Craft said.

Casino ponies

As Maplejack, disguised as a more distinguised version of Mister Night Cap, started to walk out from where she changed, Flairvoyant quickly slipped her a note with her magic.

'Wings or a horn. Pick one of the two or neither.'

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

A subtle *ffwumpht* was heard... and Night Cap's wings and horn disappeared. Maple could only assume her disguise was too good and Flairvoyant had been worried for Maple's safety should a throng of Fanmares see her and pounce.

"A good Idea, thank you, little lady, we wouldn't want young fillies passing out at the sight of me... er, Night Cap heroic savior of sleep time... and fighter of all things what go bump."

Maple's Night Cap voice was also spot on and she almost purred deeply as her voice vibrated through the fun words -like Heroic and Savior

---

Casino ponies

Flairvoyant quickly said, "Well, go save Hazel. She's trapped over there with that politician."

Spoiler

---

"That would be the best possible outcome," Static agreed. "Hope for the best, plan for the worst. I really do hope nothing happens and all this worrying comes to nothing. But we should still be wary. Unless I'm just completely off my game, like I said, we will be going into the lions den."

---

Static has a reaction.

Spoiler

---

Spoiler

"Oh, Good morning Hazel, lovely to see you. But who is this? I do not believe I've been introduced to your friend here."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Casino ponies

Hazel Naught was surprised but then replied, "This is..." "Hello there, good sir! By the looks of things, you must be some sort of celebrity or something! You see...I am the mayor of Fiesta Caldera. What can I do for you?"

---

Misty gives Flairvoyant a sideways glance. Well... what might be a sideways glance.

"I hope this goes better than the last time she met a mayor," she whispers.

---

"Mayor, well that is interesting... My name is Night Cap perhaps you've heard of me?" Maple's eyes flash slightly as she looks at the Mayor

Spoiler

Maple Cap Moves closer to the Mayor and effectively cuts Hazel out of the conversation as she subtly nudges the mayor in the other direction. Giving Hazel an exit in the process.

"Fiesta Caldera ..." Nightple jack let the words roll out his mouth "That is wonderfully fun to say, have you been in power long?" Maple's Night Cap mane rustled in a wind that might not actually have been there as she smiled handsomely down at the Mayor.

---

Casino ponies

Maplejack could sense that the mayor was quite sure of himself once the seemingly important 'Night Cap' joined the conversation. "I was elected two years ago and I intend to make the most of it! I'm sure I'll find the right ponies for pushing my campaign goals."

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

Just then, the waittress walked up with the serving tray carrying the group's breakfast. Each plate was gently set down at each place as delightful smells wafted to their nostrils. She then asked, "Was there anything else?"

---

Static wasn't going to say anything. He didn't seem to be saying anything right this morning, especially when it came to the waitress. But then he noticed his coffee cup was empty. "Umm, uh...I guess...a refill?"

[Saddle Arabian's going to get expensive!]

"Just...regular black coffee. Doesn't have to be the fancy stuff or anything, please." As she sets the food down before him..."Thank you!"

---

"And what goals are you looking to find ponies for now? I know a lot of high-quality mares."

---

Casino ponies

"For one, cartographers. I'd love to put this place on the map but looking at some other cities, we seem to literally not be on the map.
Funds! There's so many things ranging from financing reelections to building projects that need bits. Besides, you can't spell 'funds' without fun!
And architects! While Verde brushes it aside, I really think the casino needs to be rebuilt. It worries me at times but I'd rather not worry the citizens."

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)
The waitress nodded. "I'll be right back with more coffee."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

Following the delicious delights of a balanced breakfast, the team went to the doctor for the morning checkup and met Marmalade Zest outside of the hospital. After the doctor checked each one of them, he said, "Nothing's lingering. Looks like I can give an all clear." "Well, it seems a successful doctor's visit calls for..." Reaching into her pockets, there was a sudden explosion of confetti. Marmalade Zest looked embarrassed. "Oops. I must have left the lollipops in my other vest..." The doctor just sighed.

---

Wanderlust looks up, following the lovely voice that had just entered the room, and train his gaze on...Night Cap(?)? "...Wow." Is all he has to say on the matter.

---

Static sighed as he and Night Cap were covered in glitter. He tried to brush it off. But glitter being what it is, it proved nearly impossible to get it all off. He turned to Night Cap. "If anypony we know asks, we're each others witness...this did not happen at a club. Trying to keep my image clean here."

---

As he watched ‘Maple Caps’ performance, Scarlets head started slowly tilting to the left.

”Dear sweet merciful Luna! Is that how she sees him? Is that how she hears him!” all this was said in barely a whisper, as Scarlet tried heroically (no pun 9ntended) to maych this ‘Majestic Hero Stallion’ Night Cap, with the real thing.

At least she dropped the ‘i’m totally sure Mr. Night Caps a super magic Alicorn Prince. I mean, Night Caos a great colt an all, but this?
This is...surreal.
Hehe. She’s gone full fangirl.

Ah well, at least Night Cap will have another story to add to his collection.

Hmm. Speaking, i hope the Louisianeigh team are doing alright.
Oh stop worrying, Statics on the case

---

"Have you ever thought about not having elections, and perhaps saving those bits to fund some projects... if put to the ponies here, I'm sure a mayor in good standing would easily be able to suggest postponing an election or two to better provide for the citizens... Now I'm not talking about setting up a little monarchy for yourself here..." NightJack winks down at the mayor. "...But Celestia's slippers aren't made of Copper either."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"I have no idea what she's doing now."

---

"You know, I've never had a lollipop before. I mean, I know what they are of course. But...are they good?"

---

Casino ponies

The mayor frowned. "Princesses are different. Furthermore, I'm not like that tyrant out east who took over that crime city. I heard her citizens tried to swindle the royal guard...the nerve of them!" His expression then softened a little. "Look, I'm sure you mean well but I'm going to run this city right. That includes proper elections. I have to go but here's some of my campaign pamphlets. If you see something of interest, try to champion it and drum up support." The mayor gave 'Night Cap' a few papers, then walked off.

---

...

"Remember when we were at the grocery store and we discussed being free to eat whatever you wanted so long as you had the money for it? The sell lollipops at stores and they're not expensive! I just never had the inclination."

---

Static - Night Cap (Square - Keen)

"Well, if we're free to go..." Square Fun used his magic to remove the confetti from himself and Keen Craft then whistled as he trotted out.

---