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

[CoffeeHorse]

Static nearly cracks up. "Words I tend to live my life by, really. If not for Ms. Iron giving me a chance...well, I think you saw a bit of what I was like before. I was not in a good place. That probably goes double for Splash Flaunt. And for as much as I ever learned about him, it seems to have counted for Snowy too...which...leads us right back to Dazzling." Static sighs. "Honestly, Night? Do you think we have a chance with her? Getting her to come around I mean."

---

Casino team

Flairvoyant, Misty Monsoon, and Maplejack could hear,

Hello?
I know I've never met you but you seem familiar.
Could you let me out?
Please?​

---

Maple heard it that time, whether the voice had gotten louder, or the room had just gotten quiet enough for her to hear it this time she couldn't really guess. But it was a little spooky.

"If the building catches fire again... or if enough of the water used to put out the fire ends up down here... I wouldn't want to have left knowing somepony was trapped... even if where they are might be safer from either of those things then we are -somehow... um."

Maple thought about trying to use her powers to sense if there was any ill intent behind this voice... but that only worked on things she could see...

---

Static blew out a long breath and took a while after that before he could answer. "I'm...not sure what to say to that, Night. It's a messy situation, I can't deny.

"Loyalty is something that's always been a big thing for me. There's nothing I wouldn't do to protect my friends. They mean that much to me. But part of being loyal to someone...well...it doesn't really include consorting with their arch-enemies, someone who threatened them to their face...does it?

"I mean, I would like to think that if you'd told me how much danger she was in, I'd be rational enough to understand. But...that isn't the truth. Without finding out what I found out about her today, I never would've understood. I may have even told you "tough luck, she deserves no less." Static take another deep breath as he hears himself saying the words, shaking his head self-deprecatingly. "I would've been wrong."

Static shakes his head and gives Night Cap a hug. "I'm sorry I put you through that. I...*sigh*...do what you can for her. Whether she can be redeemed or not, nopony deserves the fate she seems to be building for herself."

---

Casino team

Flairvoyant said to Dart Noveau, "I think we found what we're looking for. I'm gonna need you to bust through the wall. Your right." "Alright. Y'all stand back and brace for impact!"

Finding the wall and positioning herself, Dart Noveau bucked through the wall to reveal a small pocket with a magic wand. The handle was like a clear cylinder that had been vertically cut in half. The head of the wand floated separately from the handle and was made of a half sphere of red beryl--the mirror double of the Wand of Doubled Doubling. Flairvoyant plucked the cracked rock from around it with her magic before pulling it out. *whew* "We've had a long morning but it looks like it's time to go topside."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Oh no! Of course not...if I take your meaning correctly. Do what you can to help save her from a fate worse than death...insofar as it doesn't help her destroy and/or rule the world. I...thought that was implied."

---

"Oh hey, how'd you get in there?" Maple asks the wand...

---

"How'd what get where?"

---

"Oh Sorry Mr. Scarlet ... um the voice we herd turned out to be the wand of delightful doublifying... so I asked it how it got in there?"

---

"Last time we saw it, it was in Petrichor Falls!"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Scarlet cocked his head.

"Hmm. Your reports said that the Petrichor wand Boss Vine has, doubles other ponies. And its only one half. This must be the other half. The one that doubles the wielder.

Oh...

Yeah, we really need to get this wand out of here and safe as soon as possible. If anypony from COIN gets it. Especially Little Miss Modesty over there..." Scarlet waved a wing that was clearly meant to indicate Chipotle Verdes unconscious form.

"I suggest we get moving, before reinforcements arrive.

'cough'

Thank you Maple, but i think you can put me down now. So long as you keep me pointed in the right direction, i'll be okay. Really. "

---

"Okay, but the first time you walk into somepony's rumpside ...it's right back on you go." Maple's snorts and chuckles ease out of her shrinking form like air from a balloon, and soon enough Scalet is standing on his own with Maple trailing off into titters beside him.

---

*snerk*[/spoiler]

---

Library team

After a brief moment to take in the sights, the team got on the train and headed home. It had been harrowing but they had gained perhaps the greatest thing one could find on a voyage--information.

Casino team

A stallion dropped down into the tunnel and announced, "This is the fire department! Is everypony okay?" "We're good for as far as ah can see." Flairvoyant almost commented but simply chuckled and shook her head. Though she did use her magic to prevent the worker from sneaking away.

The STOMP members made it topside and also made sure the police set about apprehending the various COIN members. Before leaving the scene, Plainclothes revealed that 'Red' was actually the notorious criminal Rough Carmine and apprehending him was a big deal. Before they could ask him to elaborate, the police briefly distracted them and Plainclothes managed to slip away without a trace.


Upon returning home, the two groups met with Brisk Iron for a mission debriefing and to share information. She thanked them for a job well done. A lot of work had been done but perhaps their work was just beginning. But for now, they had gained a well earned rest.

Has the new information been discovered in time to avert a potential disaster of Dazzling Midnight's making? Or has the STOMP team only found enough to discover they were just in time to be too late? Tune in next time folks for more of the Equestrian Radio Show's Adventure Variety Hour!

*static crackle*

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

*static crackle*

Good evening folks! It's time for another exciting Saturday night with the Equestrian Radio Show's Adventure Variety Hour! This week we once again bring you to the explorative exploits of the Explorers of STOMP. Last time, the team split into two different successful expeditions. One successfully thwarted Chipotle Verde and recovered the second half of the Wand of Doubled Doubling while the other discovered secrets about Dazzling Midnight and her possible future plans.

Now, after a well needed day's rest, they return to work to find Steele! Flint waiting for them and holding a clipboard with her magic. There's a certain about of calm to her despite an obvious sense of urgency. "Good morning everypony. Due to numerous circumstances, there's been a change to daily plans. We have multiple schools doing field trips for our archaeology exhibit and mini dig. While I would prefer to play up the good news that Savant Sard will be donating part of her own collection for the dig (something I told her she didn't need to do but she insisted), I unfortunately have to report that Zig Zag is sick today. Thus we're a little short hooved for this.

Maple, you have been directly requested to assist. Your probation was nearly over anyway so think of this as an early reprieve. I have the tour plans here unless Melon already briefed you when this was originally in the planning stages. Scarlet, Wanderlust, and Symphony, the two of you will be assisting her. While not part of your normal duties, most here don't have front facing positions so this will allow you some hooves on time with museum guests and thus a chance to see those who benefit from our works. Night Cap, you will be on camera work so that we can record this for local documentaries.

Static, we recently got in some documents that need to be transcribed. Ready Quill is already on it but that means he'll need you to meet with the Marketing Department. It's about a decision for the theater and he trusts your judgement. Flair will be taking over your shift since after that meeting, Brisk will need your assistance with some work out near the coast. Grounds and Gardening will also be doing some work over there so you may possibly see Misty.

Any questions?"

---

[They need me to help make an executive decision? Ready Quill trusts my judgment? Is everypony in this place insane?]

Static takes a step towards the marketing department but stops short. "After meeting with the Marketing Department, should I meet Ms. Iron at her office or at the docks?"

---

"At the docks. Here's the address." She handed him a note with the address.

---

"Thanks! Well, I guess I better go talk to Marketing then. Don't want to be late." Static sets off, waving goodbye to the others.

[Never a dull moment.]

[Well, Luna willing, maybe today won't be so life or deathy.]

---

Maple's face lights up with the strength of a million suns.

"OH THANK YOU VERY MUCH!" then turning to those she'd be working with she adds. "School children are just the best for taking on tours, you're all in for a treat."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Symphony blinks softly at this news, backing up as her ears wilt gently. "Oh... I um... uh... I'm not really sure about this..." She mumbles softly. "I couldn't even handle being a waitress around all those people... but foals... oh dear... I-I'm not sure I'd be able to handle such crowd of small rambunctious kids doing Luna knows what..."

---

Spoiler

Wanderlust playfully bumps Symphony on the shoulder. "Come oooon, kids aren't so bad! It'll be fun!"

---

"Oh, yes.. that's a very important thing to know of in advance."

---

"They're lumped into multiple hordes. Melon Hide will be handling another group with other help from the department. You'll only need to do this once but the mini dig will take up a portion of time."

---

Still feeling a little stiff and sore from recent events, though much happier noe he coukd see again. Scarlet could not still a rueful smile as he heard what today held in store. Then had to laugh as Wanderlust spoke.

"I could debate you for ages on how 'uniquely' the terms Fun and Foals go together," he commented with a grin.

"However, i'm sure we'll be able to handle it. With Maple to entertain them and us to keep watch. How much mischief can they get up to?

I mean, at least we aren't letting the loose in a labyrinth."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Do we have the defensive capabilities to deal with multiple hordes of children?"

Despite the reassurences, the grey unicorn still felt extreme dread over the day's task. "I... uh... believe that um.. such capabilities are... well... purely fictional..."

---

Static stops dead in his tracks as a dreadful shiver works its way down his spine.

[So, Rhapsody told her about that? Huh!]

He proceeds on his way to Marketing.

---

"Indeed. Defending against unpredictable foals is naught but a dream.

All we can do is try and hold their attention and keep them entertained. And be prepared for lots of questions."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static

When Static Signal entered the Marketing Department, everyone simultaneously turned to look at him. He could see Bold Standard and Plaid Paisley and both waved at him. He also saw Hazel Naught sitting in a separate chair though she also waved. From behind him, he could hear the jingle of jewelry and Amaretto Swirl said, "Good morning, Static. Ready to begin or will you need a moment?"

Tour team

"And one more thing. There's a brand new camera we would like to try for recording this. While it would usually go to Static, it seems that honor falls to you Night Cap."

Night Cap found that the new camera was very similar to Static Signal's current camera in options...and in size. It was perhaps a little lighter. Slightly. As he dutifully followed Maplejack, the group saw the foals waiting impatiently as the teachers tried to keep them calm. "Gosh, that must be heavy," one of them said as they saw Night Cap approach. "Woooow, you're not much bigger than me," said another as they looked at Maplejack. Front and center were two fraternal twin earth ponies, a filly and a colt, who seemed far less enthusiastic than their peers.

---

Symphony seeing all the foals felt even less sure of all this as they rushed towards the others... however the two in center cuaght her attention. She slowly walks over to them. "Oh... um... are you two alright?" She asks in her soft voice, trying to remain calm as possible. They could smell your fear... or was that wild animals? not that there is much difference...

---

Static took an unconscious step back as all eyes turned on him. He waved back to everyone in turn as he took a seat. He took out a notepad and pen and gave a curious look to Amaretto Swirl as she commented.

[Need a moment for what?]

"I'm ready. I hope I wasn't holding things up."

---

Maple smiled at the little one who commented about her size... children were much better at speaking their mind when they were curious about something, and it was important to keep that going ...too soon will they begin to grow out of that if it wasn't nurtured.

"I'm actually a lot bigger on the inside, my being this small is a sort of magic." Maple winked at her friends, and then rustled the mane of the young one. Leaning in close she added. "I'm actually the Masked Mystery Mare, and this is my daytime disguise....shhh."

turning back to the group, Maple waited for Symphony and Night Cap to ingratiate themselves too, which left her some time to discuss things with the teachers

"Good morning, as you know we've got a rather large group today - so the keep will be providing you with a few extra staff ponies to make sure every student receives the greatest benefit from this visit as possible... dropping her volume slightly Maple adds ..." while also relieving yourselves from some of the supervisory duties..because golly gosh this is a lot of heads and hooves to herd. Just let me know at any time if you'd like to take a rest and sit down, We have a lovely snack bar here."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

[Just...flip a coin?]

It was on the tip of Static's tongue to say just that. But that wouldn't be very diplomatic, would it? "What are the two choices?"

---

"Hey kids! Who's ready for dinosaurs?!" Despite his previous statement, Wanderlust actually had very minimal experience with kids. But this was a surefire way to get them excited! And that was the goal, right?

---

Tour team

A large multitude of eyes turned to look at Wanderlust.

---

"Oh Cadence, he said the D-word." Maple moved between the students and the teachers... spreading out her wings to make sure there was at least some barrier in case of a stampede

---

"I'm actually a lot bigger on the inside, my being this small is a sort of magic."

Symphony's ear twitches a bit as she hears Maple's words, but shakes it gently as the looks back to the twins. "I-Its just that you two don't seem l-like you wanna um... be here is all... T-though truth be told... neither do I..." She admits softly, hoping it might give her some common ground with them. And then...

"Hey kids! Who's ready for dinosaurs?!" Despite his previous statement, Wanderlust actually had very minimal experience with kids. But this was a surefire way to get them excited! And that was the goal, right?

Tour team

A large multitude of eyes turned to look at Wanderlust.

"Oh dear..." She mumbles as all at once the majority of the kids all turn their attention to Wander, like a group of pack animals noticing a wounded prey... She seems to shrink a bit more and swallows a bit. "W-well... I... uh... suppose it was nice knowing him..." On the bright side, at least it wasn't her...

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"There are many wonders to be found in our museum. So long as one has the interest to look.

And with Ma-lejack as your lead, you';l see some great things." Scarlet gave the foals and encouraging look. Having spent many a lesson having to deal with disinterested or recalcitrant children, Scarlet kept calm.

Cocking his head towards Symphony, the pegasus added under his breath.

" Don't worry. Eager ponies may be scary ponies, but they're infinitely better than bored or grumpy ponies.

Trust me on this. "

---

"Uh...wow." Wanderlust was expecting more direct enthusiasm. He stage whispers to Maples, "We do have dinosaurs in there, right?"

---

Tour team

As the teachers rushed to corral the students before any sort of stampede, Maplejack remembered that with the exhibit rotations the paleontology exhibit wasn't up at the same time as the archaeology exhibit. The anxious foals wouldn't see any dinosaurs outside of whatever fossil props that were setup for the mini dig.

Static

There was a brief flurry of motion and then two covered charts were brought out. Plaid Paisley presented the first one. It was revealed to be purple and silver with teal accents. The visuals were vague and abstract symbols. "With this proposal, we're to present the museum as something calm and relaxed. The type of sophisitcated educational experience a knowledgeable pony seeks out. With this, we want to let them know that it's time to settle back--you're about to learn something." Then Bold Standard quickly unveiled the other propsal. It was red and orange with off-white accents. It was a fiery theme with a pony standing on top of a mountain and the sun replaced with a flaming movie reel."With this proposal, we're to present the museum as something exciting and daring. The type of intellectual extravaganza that reveals whole worlds to those who are eager to explore them. With this, we want to let them know that it's time to hold onto your seats--you're about to learn something!"

---

Static stood and walked around to get a closer look at the displays. And here was where diplomacy got tricky. He knew the moment the color schemes were unveiled which one he would go with.

"You both make it hard to choose. I actually like them both."

He looked first to Bold Standard's display. "I like the overall design. The sun being replaced with the movie reel is a particularly nice touch. I also appreciate wanting the kids excited and eager about learning. Which would make the color scheme great...for another exhibit. But with all the time I've spent in the theatre, believe me, the last thing you want are a bunch of foals wound up and excited. Have you ever been to a theater sitting right next to a family with a hyperactive foal?"

He then looked to Plaid's display. "Which really makes me like your color scheme. It's soothing. It could quiet down the younger foals without really putting them to sleep. At the same time, the overall design is rather...vague. It doesn't really say 'movie theatre' to me."

Static then looked between the two displays. "What would it look like if we used Ms. Standard's design and Mr. Paisley's color scheme? I'm not sure what that would do with the sun, with a more bluish color scheme. Maybe a moon?"

[Both sides win.]

[Or both sides lose. You certainly didn't hold back, did you?]

---

"Actually, thanks to a failed attempted robbery a long time ago, the display we had, .had to be moved and repaired. The 4 princesses Display is located there now.." Maple answers, smiling at the kids. "But that won't be a part of the tour today, today - if we're lucky we'll maybe discover our own brand new type of dinosaur!" Maple's grin breaks into an open chuckle. "But if we do find something new... please let's not name it Maplesaurus."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Symphony couldn't help herself as she picked up Maple's last comment. "I... uh... think there is a... um... small... chance of that..." She grins softly.

---

Static

"Mixing? Whoa now." "That could possibly lead to giving the guests mixed signals. Think about it, if you were going for a peaceful night's sleep and the sun was was up, that could throw you off completely." Amaretto Swirl calmly said, "Changing the layouts would cause us to go back to the drawing board and in doing so cost the Keep more money. Such a thing would be counterproductive to bringing Hazel into this meeting. We'll make note of it as a possibility for the next visual revamp but for the moment, you'll need to pick between these two as the best option for the theater."

Tour team

"You mean...there no dinosaurs?" A large quantity of sadness could be heard in the air as the students were clearly disappointed and even some of the youngest sounded like they were going to cry. A few of the teachers shot Wanderlust dirty looks. One of the twins sighed and spoke up. "She said we might find some dinosaurs when we dig." There were excited murmurs among the students--they were going to find a dinosaur!

---

Static sighed.

[Looks like somepony has to lose.]

[Just say it. Quick, like ripping off a band aid.]

"I'm sorry then. For the reasons I stated, I'm going to have to go with Mr. Paisley's."

[I hate it when someone I like loses.]

[Well, someone else you liked also won...so...there's that.]

---

Misty sets to work. She knows just what to do. Carefully corral and collect those capricious cumulus clouds, then come back in time to convene with the Chief!

---

2color=#ff0000]"It will be an adventure,"[/color] Scarlet said with a smile.

"Today, you get to be the intrepid treasure hunters, delving into the mysteries of the past. Who knows what you're going to find!"

---

Wanderlust shifted awkwardly. Yes, Night Cap, this was exactly the moment I wanted memorialized in perpetuity! He shut his eyes tight, took a deep breath, and called to mind his own love of archaeology. He forgets to open his eyes, but he does manage to say "That's right! And even if you don't find dinosaurs, artifacts and treasures of lost civilizations can take you on incredible journeys!"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Tour team

Soon, the tour started in earnest as the group moved to the first exhibit. It was several tools and a brief summary of early archaeology. However, Maplejack's attempt at presenting it was interrupted by the sound of hammering. "What are you doing?!?" One of the unicorn foals had a hammer with her magic and was hammering cracks into the floor. She looked up and said, "I'm trying to find dinosaurs!" The twins visibly winced upon hearing this.

---

"Whoa, now!" Wanderlust chides the child. "You'll never get through flagstone with a hammer like that! You want one with a point on the end, for chipping!" He remembers they are not, in fact, on a dig...yet. "And, uh, you're just a junior archaeologist right now! You're still learning! First rule of archaeology: break as little as possible! You might want dinosaurs, but what if someone else is really interested in these tiles?" He scoops up a bit of dust and licks it. "Marble, perhaps fro! m a local mine?" Still not on a dig. "Anyway!" He grins an infectious grin at the foal. "A dig isn't just about finding what you came for; you have to be careful you don't lose something you never knew you had! Think before you strike. And, uh, don't hurt the tiles. They're very important."

---

"Speaking of... the Hammer and chisel contained in this display were, in fact, some of the very same tools used to hue these tiles from the side of a Dragon's mountain. ...imbued with Magics to make them stronger, faster and more... quiet, than normal ones." Maple smirked, before continuing her introductory lesson.

"by the way, what is your name miss?" Maple askes the little unicorn filly. "You stick close to Mr. Wanderlust, and we'll make sure you get the first swing when we get to the dig. Okay?"

---

Static

Active writing could be heard, then Amaretto Swirl said, "That went smoothly enough. We'll be getting the work order put in shortly. Where will you be going from here, Static? Helping with the field trip?"

Misty

Misty Monsoon knew that she would have to be careful so they wouldn't rain on the coast.

Spoiler



Tour team

"Twinkle Glitter!" the young filly said. She then ran next to Wanderlust. Meanwhile a familiar voice called out from the crowd, "Mister Night Cap, is that you?"

---

"I'm afraid not. I'm supposed to meed Ms. Iron at the docks. Don't know much more than that yet. I'm sure I'll find out when I get there. Speaking of, if we're done here, I suppose I should get going."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Tour team

"Twinkle Glitter!" the young filly said. She then ran next to Wanderlust.

---

Wanderlust flashes Maple a 'thank you' look, then pats Twinkle Glitter on the back. "Say, where did you get that hammer?"

---

Tour team

Twinkle Glitter smiled and replied, "I saw a pony walking by with cart full of brooms and mops and stuff. I saw a hammer so I borrowed it!"

Static

"Wouldn't want to keep you from Ms. Iron. Once again, thank you for your input. I may go see if the foals are still here during my lunch break. Oh, I hope the twins are enjoying themselves!"

---

"With Maple there, oh, I'm sure they're having a blast. See ya around." With that, Static leaves to go meet Brisk Iron at the docks.

---

Zamuel:
Tour team

Twinkle Glitter smiled and replied, "I saw a pony walking by with cart full of brooms and mops and stuff. I saw a hammer so I borrowed it!"

"And were you ever planning on giving it back?"

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Scarlet simply watched the controlled chaos and smiled.

---

"Mr. Spectrum, since it seems like Misters Wanderlust and Night Cap have found themselves foal companions, perhaps now would be a good time for us to do the decide the groups before we get to the main dig site..." Maple waves over to the little one she revealed her not so big anymore secret to, ushering them over.

"I wouldn't really like splitting them up, so maybe you should look after the twins."

---

Tour team

Twinkle Glitter answered Wanderlust's question with, "Yes, once I found the dinosaurs!"

Plateau Precious then asked Night Cap, "What's that thing on your back?"

Static

Following the address, Static Signal eventually found himself at the last warehouse on the docks of the north canal before reaching the coastline. He could see a few more buildings dotting the coast. Upon entering, he could see a flurry of motion as boxes were moved and floors swept. Nearby, he saw Brisk Iron though she was dressed differently than normal. She had her hair tied down with a bandana and was wearing work coveralls in a look that bore some resemblance to Dusty Winds. Upon her spotting him, she said, "Ah, good to see you're here Static. There's coffee over there from Skivey's if you need any. Otherwise we've already started if you don't need a rest."

Rhapsody

A nurse opened the hospital door and allowed Splash Flaunt to enter. She was carrying a paper bag that she sat on the bedside table and then sat down in the nearby chair. She then said, "I was off today and decided to stop by. The doctors said you're making a speedy recovery and you're to be released soon, which is good to hear. I guess I'm just wondering how you're doing. Not so much right now but rather in the grand scheme of things with everything that's happened."

---

"Alright... time to round up some clouds! Yeehaw!"

Spoiler

She might be getting a little reckless.

---

[Aww! I already had some in the way in to work. If I'd have known there'd be free coffee available, I would've waited}

[You can always get another cup if you'd like.]

[Better not. There's work to be done.]

"I better not. I'm already pretty caffeinated. May have some later though, thanks. Where do you need me?"

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Putting on a confident , teachery face, more or less. Scarlet appeoached the not-so-chipper twins.

"Hello there, I'm Scarlet Spectrum. What are your names and why are you so unentused about being here? It's not that bad, is it?"

---

Tour Team:

Symphony watches as she looks around, seeing as her attempts with the twins seem to have failed, and everypony else seems to be having better luck then her on this. Even Night Cap who seemed like he wanted to stay in the background now has some foal and is acting like he's known her forever. She wasn't even quiet sure why she was here at the moment...

Hospital:

Rhapsody looked over to Splash as she entered. "You're about the last pony I expected to come see me." She muses with a shrug and looks over to the bag that is set down on the table next to her. "I guess I'm alright, Tired of being here of course. But then lately I think I'm tired of a lot of things..."

---

Scarlet over at Symphony and had a thought.

"Since these two are best siited together, why not come help me, Symphony?"

Then, making sure the kids couldn't see, he mouthed.

" Please? "

---

Symphony nods some to Scarlet. "Ah, well... I guess you're right... I'll help."

---

Maple smiled to herself, it was nice seeing those two get along.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Misty

With Misty Monsoon's enthusiasm, she pushed the clouds a little too hard as small bits of rain spritzed out of them and the clouds themselves didn't quite go where she intended. Salvageable at the moment but not her absolute best.

Static

Brisk Iron pointed, "The boxes listed A through N are to go back to their corresponding shelves. Pace yourself--others are here helping and those are primarily medical and rescue supplies so they should be treated as fragile."

Tour team

The filly of the twins said, "Oh, sorry. I'm Latte Windfall and my brother is Cinnamon Jackpot. Didn't mean to be rude Mr. Spectrum...just hope mom doesn't show up and embarrass us."

"Wooow." Plateau Precious said as she marveled over the large contraption. One of the teachers, a stallion, walked up and said, "Wait, that thing is some sort of fancy movie camera? I thought it was just supplies. But uh, one must be cool and collected to be a good teacher," He said as he seem to try to be subtly making cool poses in front of the camera. A female teacher jumped in front of him and started subtly flexing her muscles. "Yeah, you got to be tough to handle a bunch of kids." A couple other teachers seemed star struck by the idea of being on camera while most of the rest seemed to collectively facehoof at the antics.

---

A through N? Where to start! Static decides to start at the beginning with one of the box listed A.

Caldwin:
"Yeah, I could do for a rest. I may be an earth pony, but it seems like everypony takes that as an invitation to 'give him all the heavy lifting'."[/b] Static rolls his neck around a bit, letting it crack and work out some of the tightness. "Gotta get rid of some of these stereotypes!"

[One of these days!]

Spoiler

---

"Nice to meet you Latte and your brother. And don't worry, you weren't being rude. I just wondered why you weren't enjoying yourselves. Still, if its your mother you're worried about, i can understand. Parents can be very embarassing when you're young.

Still," he added in a low voice. "i don't think she'd be posed for the camera like some of your teachers over there.

Just tell Symphony and me who your Mom is and we'll warn you if we see her. Ok?"

Scarlets had a hunch he knew who the twins mother was, but he wanted to be sure.

---

Rhapsody

Splash Flaunt replied with, "Well, your team was my first direct contact with STOMP in so long. I've had a lot of disorganized thoughts in my head as of late. I guess at the forefront, how do you cope with decisions as a leader? The good and the bad decisions, things you regret, et cetera."

Static

Brisk Iron was next to Static Signal! pushing box B. "So how have things been going recently?"

Tour team

Cinnamon Jackpot said, "Our mom is Amaretto Swirl, head of the Marketing Department."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Rhapsody huffs as she lays there, silent for a moment or two. "That is a very heavy question." She says and takes a deep breath. "My priority is to the team, keeping them safe. Then the mission. Its why in the first meeting I was so ruff on your team, even though you all helped us afterwards... I couldn't take that risk on you. Not when the goal was so close, not when failure could have been a mass extinction event. It was a strict call, and I wasn't really a leader then... but its one I did regret. Later. Once everything had calm down, once I had time to actually! reflect on everything... I realized that I might have been too strict there, and why I was determined to try and make it up to you if I ever encountered you lot again." She says and closes her eyes. "I suppose that's it... I... I don't really think about it. Not at the time. Things have to get done, you can't always be nice, you can't always tow the line, quick and rough decisions need to be made, right or wrong... it doesn't matter. Not in the moment." She huffs and opens her eyes.

"After that moment, when there is time to reflect... well... I'm one of those that have issue 'turning off', I go to the gym, find things to punch... becuase... I can be a very intense and angry mare... and easiest way for me to cope sometimes is just working that anger out." She says with a slight smile and chuckle. "I'm not really sure if I am the best role model for being a leader... I do my job, I do everything I can to keep my team safe and complete the mission... Nothing else matters... I think I isolate them. No... I know I do... Somewhat on purpose... I say its better that way... keep them distant and then... it doesn't matter when they leave you without a word... When they betray your trust... when everything you think they are turns out to be a lie... Keep them distant... and It doesn't hurt so much... So you tell yourself... then you realize how really alone you are when most don't even come to see you... You wonder if you really are needed, if things wouldn't be better without you..." She says with a sigh. "Yeah, I guess I'm not really that much help..."

---

Static took a sharp breath. "That's about as loaded of a question as you can ask...and it also depends if you're talking about how I'm taking to the leadership role, how things went in Louisianeigh...life in general..." He didn't stop pushing the box as he spoke. He needed the focus. He did give a heavy sigh as he continued. "Well, I'm sure in most cases, saying what I'm about to say to a boss would probably be considered career suicide. But...you did ask...so...here goes!

"When it comes to being team lead, I guess I'm doing better than I thought. There are times I catch myself wondering how Rhapsody does it. Funny thing...I actually wanted it. Every time we were in a meeting getting a mission briefing I was coming up with backup plans to backup plans about how I would do it. Now I'm actually doing it and..." Here Static does stop briefly before returning to pushing the box. "It's so easy when you're only responsible for yourself. You start having to make life or death decisions that involve other ponies?" He sighs again. "But I think I'm doing alright. It's scary, but I think I'm doing alright. I guess if it were easy, everypony'd be doing it.

"As far as Louisianeigh, I'm sure my suggested course of action must have come as a shock to you when you read it. I know it came as a shock to me when I came up with it. But to be honest, I do think Night Cap finding a way to befriend her and convincing her not to do this...it's honestly our best chance. And not because I found her diary and realized that she had a troubled past and, quite beyond any reason, I felt sorry for her. Sure...that plays a part in it. But honestly, you've read my reports. You've read the reports of what happened at the police station. If it comes down to a knock down, drag out fight with this mare, Celestia help us! I don't see how we could win.

"But yeah, there's also the aspect of going there expecting to find information on some monster that's haunted my dreams, some evil, irredeemable non-pony...thing. Turns out she's a pony...who hurts...who actually has reasons for what she does. I'm...still trying to reconcile that.

"Which...leads me into life in general where...I just don't know anymore. A couple days ago I knew for a fact that Dazzling was an irredeemable monster. A couple days ago, I knew for a fact that anything we could possibly do to tear her down and bring all of COIN crumbling down around her would be the best thing for the world. A couple days ago, I knew for a fact that any friend of Dazzling is no friend of mine and she deserves what she gets. Now?" Static lets out a self-deprecating scoff. "I don't know. I just...I honestly don't know. How could I have been so wrong?" He gives another huff as he gives the box another shove.

"Oh, by the way, if anything happens to me, my last will is in the top drawer on my nightstand in my bedroom. I've been having a bad feeling ever since we got the mission to go to Louisianeigh. Guess it turned out all right. Everypony's still alive."

---

Static

Brisk Iron replied with, "Nothing you said particularly sounded like carreer suicide and it wasn't meant to be a loaded question. I just had to know your perspective considering that different ponies react to the position differently. I've had my own reactions in my day but I know I view expedition work and museum work differently from others since it's coming from a different place. Arguably, one could say that I'm married to the job but I probably shouldn't--it very much feels like it's true."

Rhapsody

"I guess I have different difficulties in not turning off. I don't have an outlet. Or more accurately, my outlets don't shut off the thoughts in the back of my head. I guess part of that's due to the fact that my failings as a team lead in STOMP led to me having a small team in COIN. I was literally a villain for a while. In my zeal for my dream job, my actions caused a team member to be hurt and that led to leading a team that had to constantly worry about survival.

I will say this: While I have some of my own difficulties in interacting with others, whenever I've reached out to either team, they were supportive. Things are strained in both ways for some of them but improving. Still, I'm at a loss to improve them further."

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Well, it's a family business for you, isn't it? I mean, that alone probably gives you a different perspective. Come to think of it, I never knew what my father did. Something about patchwork because the higher ups were too darn cheap to allow the to fix something proper. That was the same year the old bits and parts factory went up in flames and mom and I had to tighten our belts. I...try not to look too much into that.

"Honestly though, hardest part I found in leading is that sometimes...well...how do I put this? Well, take for instance at the library. My first plan was to just to give the librarian the briefest of prof! essional curtesy introducing everypony and then go about snooping ourselves. After all, I didn't know the pony, didn't really trust him seeing as how for all we knew we were in COIN territory. I didn't want him knowing what we were really there for.

"But Night Cap had the idea of actually letting him talk to him. I fought with him on it a little bit...but then...well, we went with his idea and it turned out the best thing we could've done. So, I guess the matter is pride? Taking it out of the equation and trusting the ponies I'm in charge of to do their job? I mean sounds simple enough, but when you don't even realize you're doing it..." Static shrugs. "Night Cap still surprises me. I mean, you've known him longer than I have. I'm sure you've seen his...eccentricities...I guess is the diplomatic way of putting it. But then he has these moments of such lucidity!"

Static pauses as though just hitting on a epiphany. "I think I just got it! He's a dream walker. I mean, I've never heard about it with Luna or seen it with Zig Zag...but...what if to him this is the dream world and when he's asleep, that's where he's awake. Like...you know where when you're dreaming, you don't really know what's going on. More like you're watching things happen and most of the time you can't even control what you're doing. But when you're awake, that's when you're lucid and clear. What if it's the exact opposite for him? I mean...I don't know, maybe I'm just...that would certainly explain some things."

---

"I thought so.

Well never fear, Scarlet and Symphony will make sure ypur mom behaves herself," he said with a low chuckle.

Raising his voice, Scarlet asked.

"Is everypony ready?"

---

"It's a lot of fun doing this with other ponies." Maple smiles as she waves too

---

"I guess I have different difficulties in not turning off. I don't have an outlet. Or more accurately, my outlets don't shut off the thoughts in the back of my head. I guess part of that's due to the fact that my failings as a team lead in STOMP led to me having a small team in COIN. I was literally a villain for a while. In my zeal for my dream job, my actions caused a team member to be hurt and that led to leading a team that had to constantly worry about survival.

I will say this: While I have some of my own difficulties in interacting with others, whenever I've reached out to either team, they were supportive. Things are strained in both ways for some of them but improving. Still, I'm at a loss to improve them further."

"Then maybe you need to find something that inspires louder thoughts..." Rhapsody says and huffs hearing that bit of story, she thinks she heard some of that the night she brought Splash back into the fold, but that seems forever ago... not to mention the similarity to current events. "Yeah. I think I know that feeling..." She sighs and seems to deflate some. "Its why I'm here. One of my teammates... Isn't who we were lead to believe they were. They became a threat, something that could endanger the team... but everypony else just... wanted to ignore it... How? How can the rest trust them, when everything about them was a lie?" She says with another huff of annoyance, while trying very hard to not reveal too much information. "I... I couldn't do it. They were a threat, everything I knew about them was a lie... It was only a matter of time before that cuaght up with them and endangered my team... But no pony would believe me." She says trying to keep calm, though there is some subtle anger there.

"Probably because there is another teammate that I also feel could jeopardize the team, yet again everypony else just lets them be too. So its just another case of Rhapsody being paranoid." She says narrowing her purple eyes a moment before closing them completely. "Maybe I am, but that's also helped keep me alert and keep them from being killed." She shakes her head. "I just felt like if I could force their hoof, the first one, I could prove that they were the danger I saw... and well... I'm in here and they're out there, because I was reckless. Are they a threat? ...I don't know... I'm not sure I even care anymore... Everyone else wants to ignore it... so maybe I should too. ...And they're one of the few that have come to visit me... Maybe there is some truth to them... I'm not sure..." She says with a sigh and half buries her head in her pillow.

"I thought so.

Well never fear, Scarlet and Symphony will make sure ypur mom behaves herself," he said with a low chuckle.

Raising his voice, Scarlet asked.

"Is everypony ready?"

Symphony blinks, she's not even sure if she knows who that is. She's worked here for only a few days now, and most of that was posing as a waitress at a Casino... "Ah, yeah. I suppose I am... um... as ready as I'll ever be.." She says meekly.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

Static

As they went back for the next set of boxes, Brisk Iron said, "Yes, the opposite is true for him. And for him specifically as opposed to all dreamwalkers, seeing as Zig Zag isn't like that. The difficulty comes from finding those moments when he's 'on', so to speak."

Rhapsody

"...

Do you mean Maple? I would think that it's as much ! of a shock to her as it is to us and that we should push her in the right direction. From my own experiences, I can't wish to see another STOMP member become a villain. To do so would be villainous in its own right."

Tour team

An alarm suddenly went off and a few nets, those most malign of mechanisms, dropped from the ceiling. The foals effortlessly wriggled through the holes and cheered the excitement while the teachers seemed confused. "What's going on?!?"

---

Spoiler
Zam

Maple looks around as the Net lands on all the other larger ponies... Looking down she sees she is entirely surrounded by a loop of netting... she didn't even feel it touch her feathers on the way down.

"Okay children calm down, once we get everyone out who is stuck... I'm sure, somepony will be around to let us know what happened."

---

Static shrugs. "For me, that's not so much an issue. His lucid moments come when they come and it's nice to see. Problem is that when they do come, they're usually followed by moments where he's ultra...not...lucid. As for the normal day to day, it's a bit of a line to walk between trying to curb his habits and trying to...guide...them. I hate to use the word 'manipulate', but sometimes...I better stop before I paint too bad a picture of him. He is my friend after all. And properly motivated, it's downright amazing what he can do."

Spoiler

---

Rhapsody

"...

Do you mean Maple? I would think that it's as much ! of a shock to her as it is to us and that we should push her in the right direction. From my own experiences, I can't wish to see another STOMP member become a villain. To do so would be villainous in its own right."

Tour team

An alarm suddenly went off and a few nets, those most malign of mechanisms, dropped from the ceiling. The foals effortlessly wriggled through the holes and cheered the excitement while the teachers seemed confused. "What's going on?!?"

Rhapsody huffs. "Ah, so you know." She says with a nod. "Yes, 'Maple'." She looks over to Splash. "How can you trust her? We know nothing about who she really is. Everyone wants to give her the benefit of the doubt because of the Maple they knew. But that Maple was just an illusion. She's a changeling, who ever heard of a GOOD changeling? It's like everypony has just forgotten the invasion of Canterlot." She huffs and rubs her brow with a wing. "I can't. My mother was in Canterlot at the time, and there was nothing I could do." She says was her right eye twitches slightly. "Its just luck they were defeated so easily... but proves how they can infiltrate and strike without warning. And now we're coddling one." She states and shakes her head, though her voice lacks any hate or malice, it still seems Rhapsody has issue with the idea of trusting a changeling.

---

Symphony blinks as the nets come down and quickly attempts to dodge out of the way...

Spoiler

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

At the sound of the siren, Wanderlust had automatically clamped Twinkle Glitter to his side. He had not yet elected to release her. As he looked around, he noted that the nets were of very high quality. Only the best for Keep security. "Maple, how many foals should we have?" He scanned the collection of foals, trying his best to do a headcount.
Spoiler

---

"Hmm, that didn't go as well as I'd hoped. I'll give it another go."Misty spits on her forehooves and rubs them together before making another attempt at sorting out the cloud formations.

Spoiler

---

"A bunch of bunches at last count." Maple says with a hoof to her chin in a pondering pose, her outstretched wings doing so obvious and dreadfully incorrect feather calculating... designed to make the children laugh... and hopefully calm them down from this moment of unplanned excitement.

---

Scarlet instantly pushes the twins out of the way of the net, while he leaps up and to the side. Staring around, he tries to work out whether any more nets lie in wait for them, as well as whoever might have put them there.

Spoiler

---

Once Misty Monsoon finished her weathercrafting work, she headed to meet up with Brisk Iron. However, right before she opened the door, she had a brief vision of the sun. Something was subtly off about the sky but she couldn't place just what it was.

Static

"Admittedly, a lot of things have been surprising compared to earlier teams but thankfully it's all worked out." Brisk Iron waved Misty Monsoon over once she entered.

Rhapsody

"I didn't know, I merely guessed. As far as your question of trust, who's heard of a dragon who isn't a rampaging monster? Or...I guess more to the point, who's heard of a marine biologist blind enough to use dynamite on a coal reef? I say this to you, Rhapsody: You're more than just a fan of Princess Luna, correct? Some might say that that one who risked bringing such suffering to the world can't be trusted. A monster worthy of fearful holidays and legends. 'Completely irredeemable.' But that's not true, is it? I don't think an individual should be blamed for the actions of an entire group, nor should they permanently be blamed for the past when they're trying to change. I would think that a pony who holds Luna in such high regard would be open to forgiving others instead of dismissing the possibility of change.

I need to go but please think about this." Splash Flaunt began to get up but then said, "Oh, and it's a variety of cookies in the bag. Just hoped it would make the last bit of your hospital stay better."

Tour team

The alarm immediately stopped once Wanderlust pulled Twinkle Glitter close. "Did I find the prize?"

Meanwhile, the foals did seem entertained by Maplejack's wing antics.

---

 

[CoffeeHorse]

"Whoa... that was different." Misty shakes off the strange vision and heads over to where Brisk Iron was. "Hiya, Chief Director. I heard you needed help with some stuff?"

---

"Hiya, Misty!' Static waves, grateful for the slight break in box pushing.

---

Tour team

The alarm immediately stopped once Wanderlust pulled Twinkle Glitter close. "Did I find the prize?"

Meanwhile, the foals did seem entertained by Maplejack's wing antics.

---

Wanderlust squints at Twinkle Glitter, saying nothing, then scooches her farther away.

---

"Maybe now would be a good time to head over to the dig site.." Maple says to the Adults.

---