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[Unicorn]Swift Squall [FINAL]


Ciraxis

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Roleplay Type:Mane RP

Name: Count Swift Squall from Noble House of Squallcoast. Swift however used many false names and aliases during his life. Among those are Sharp Carrot (during his REA trainee days), Liquid Storm (from his mercenary days), Quattro Badge (identity he took after defecting from 'DTD' and while leading the militia) and Persistent Quill (writing pseudonym when he published articles about situation in Unyasi). There is also his nom de guerre back from his sellsword days - "Emerald Flash", for his lighting fast fighting style and mane color. When faking his death during his initial tenure as agent of EPIC Squall made yet another false name for himself - Hail Line.

Sex: Male

Age: Stallion

Species: Unicorn

Eye Color: Jade green, once in a while tends Squall wears shades of various transparency and color so it can be hard to tell.

Coat Color: Light orange

Mane/Tail/Markings Color & Style: A very long and lush emerald mane that spills on his back and shoulders, either or in the ponytail. This gives him look of some barbarian hero of legend. Identically colored tail is long but kept free.

Physique: For an unicorn, Squall is absolutely ripped while still being lean, keeping himself in shape rivaling that of Equestria Games level sportponies. Combined with how tall he is (being one of few who rivals the younger of alicorn sisters) this can make him quite intimidating stallion when he wants to be...

Squall formerly sported numerous disfiguring scars on his back, received in the fight with ferocious Unyasi manticore. However, att the urging of Fire Walker Squall had them removed with a help of specialized elixirs. Others - still present - scars include two more are on left lower side of his neck and another on rear right leg, slightly below the flank - earned in separate accidents. Because sight of his warped back skin was unsettling for potential clients, Squall took the habit of wearing concealing clothes at all times, a habit he keeps to this day.

 

Cutie Mark: Long, dark green sword enveloped in gust of wind and lightning. Discovered pretty early - proving that he inherited the talent for swordplay from his mother side of the family.

 

Origin/Residence: Squall was born and raised in Manehattan. Wandering across the world for most of his life he settled in Stalliongrad for two years. Now he lives Fillydelphia after reclaiming ancient residence of his family - Squallcoast Manor. Squall shares his house with his trusted butler Oak Branch, mansion previous owner Conjurer Bauble - now a ghost and his love and fiancée Fire Walker.

 

Occupation: Swordstallion, Count of Fillydelphia, adventurer, philanthropist, playcolt, occasional theatre critic, Agent of EPIC and also founder, owner and CEO of Tempest Corporation and it's children companies. He's a busy pony alright.

Likes: Broccoli, physical exercise, justice, karaoke, rock music, dusters, traveling, rough weather, swordplay, material arts, shades, reading, cosplay, theaters, giving monologues.

Dislikes: Ducks, criminals, selfishness, blind traditionalism, bureaucratic red-tape, narcissism, apathy of others, dodging responsibility, concepts of fate and destiny, WRAITH.

History Act 1 - The Soldier:

Spoiler

 

Born as a sole heir of the extremely wealthy family, Swift Squall from his early years wished for nothing else but following hoofsteps of his mother, Grapes Squall - much to disapproval of his father. Although they rarely agreed on anything Swift always held his Old Stallion in highest regard for his unshakable moral code, striving for truth - uncanny for an upper business world - and fair treatment of his employees.

That is, until Squall and Hasty News had a major fall out after Swift expressed his desire to make use of his talent and become a swordpony.

It was in complete opposition to Hasty plans for his son, who wished for young Squall to be a successful business-pony - like himself and his father before him. . To prepare him for that, Squall was educated at home, by the finest private tutors. This made colt much more knowledgeable then other students, even if he gone along with that only due to having nothing better to do. Eventually however, even that bit of colt's patience was depleted and he left, becoming a run away colt severing any ties with his father for a many years in the process. Squall kept in touch with his mother nevertheless, with her supporting him financially.

 

During his escape from his house, young Swift used Manehattan sewer system as the way of avoiding ponies searching for him. In these tunnels, he encountered their most dangerous denizen - giant alligator known as the 'Leatherhead'. After frantic game of Cat and Mouse, unicorn colt managed too outsmart the beast and emerge from the sewers outside of the city borders.

After that, Squall was even more hungry for more thrills, having tasted the rush of adrenaline for the first time. He knew however realized that without necessary skills , his life as the adventurer would be very short indeed.

 

His solution was to enlist in the Equestria military. There Swift lied about his age (which wasn’t hard, for Squall was very well developed for a colt) and gave a false name - 'Sharp Carrot'. As a soldier Squall had had excellent results in tactics, physicals and self discipline, but had tendency of not obeying his superiors - listening unconditionally only to those who earned his respect - Captain Star Breezer and Colonel (eventually General) Pummel being a star examples, the later being one of his mentors. It was due to Pummel's recommendations that Swift was chosen for the Honor Guard training, as well as picking young unicorn for 'Smart Soldier' program - an initiative  to train better educated military and potential officers. Squall trained and studied for two years, eventually achieving Master's degree in Classical Literature and Drama. For a moment young unicorn - now having reached maturity - even pondered joining REA permanently. However the life of the soldier wasn't as eventful as he hoped for. Squall also though that due to his discipline issues his presence in REA would do more harm the good. Unicorn however had not reveled his doubts to anypony and he simply quit - going AWOL just before graduation ceremony and choosing the life of adventure. Still, his time in Army has made him knowledgeable in camuflage, military tactics, strategy and installing the basics of hoof-to-hoof combat by picking up Krav Maga and CQC, and of course took his skill with a blade up a notch. As got older, Swift started to become guilty about gaining all of these without giving anything in return, something that he begun trying to rectify in his later years after he settled in Squallcoast Manor.

 

 

History Act 2 - The Student:

Spoiler

 

After leaving Army structures Squall become a sellsword, one who chose his employees carefully, and often scoffed at higher wadges if he found out the cause to be undeserving of following. During this time Squall had a certain pony, the duo working with each other for half year, before breaking after a fight up due to ideological differences and Swift's picky habits when choosing potential contracts.

 

As a mercenary Squall was involved in so many adventures and situations that some may find it unbelievable that a stallion his age could have so many experiences behind himself. Squall stopped the attempted assassination of Baron Grigoj Ashenplume from Aquelia (Swift's own presence a complete coincidence) during the famous 22th of November, and as a result became part of the investigation team, that in the end squashed the potential coup. Later Swift became part off the expedition to deep Leota and his presence was one of the major reasons why everpony involved got out of there alive. After that traveled to South Seas around Saddle Arabia and Unyasi, taking the mantle of the pirate hunter. He had quite a number of successes in the field, his most triumphant one being the clash and subsequent capture of famous sea robber - Bluebeard. Swift stayed in the south for the time being, moving to Maretonia after hearing about the vicious dragon that was plaguing the peninsula - to the point that Kastrot, Acroneighos and Hippostion set their differences aside just to get rid of the reptile and organized a dragonhunt. The operation ended up a huge success, and three cities were free to return to their bickering. Always in need for another job, Squall moved to Kastrot, took position of the bodyguard and became quite knowable about the nation during his stay. However Kastorians views, gambit pileups and chronic backstabbing soon tired and disgusted him and orange stallion ended up on the road once more. It was then that Swift arrived to Unyasi for the first time. 

 

In the land of zebras, Squall stuck to his usual, preferred contracts - monster slaying and bounty hunting, most notable of his contracts being the evil shaman Unununabe.

During the chase through the jungle after one particularly clever criminal, Squall was ambushed by a vicious Unyasi Manticore - a far more dangerous cousin of it's Equestrian counterpart, both in size and cunning, while being much more cruel. The two fought for hours, with swordpony eventually coming victorious from this mortal struggle. Swift however was completely exhausted, suffering terrible wounds and was at death's door. By all means he should perish right there, yet events took the different turn after he fainted.

 

The orange stallion doesn't remember much due to how delirious he was due to the blood loss and fatigue, but he can recall that he was saved by a pair of elusive Abada - apparently siblings from what fragments of their conversations that he remembers. The two took care of him as long as Squall wasn't able move, but as soon as he shown signs that he could they dropped him at the edge of nearby zebra village - the denizens of which picking up the the task of tending unicorn back to health.

During his recovery, a certain other foreigner, of great age and experience visited the zebra settlement. This vagrant hailed from the far away land of Nippon, and by coincidence was follower of sword way. The quickly found understanding between each other, and mysterious swordmaster became one of Squall many teachers. The noblepony gained much more then the opportunity to elevate his sword skills. Swift picked up the knowledge of Harmonious Path (even if he didn't really became a follower), the Neighponese and Long languages as well as knowledge of Far East's customs, history and geography. After completing his recovery and absorbing everything he could during that time, Swift and his Teacher parted ways. However the wandering Swordmaster warned the orange stallion that despite being the most talented student,  Swift's training was not complete yet. Thus they were fated to meet again one day. While Squall scoffed at the concept of fate, he agreed that the certainly will reunite somewhere, someday.

While Squall regained his health and physical capabilities, his back was terribly disfigured by the manticore claws. It was then that Swift took the habit of completely clothing himself, sparing others the unpleasant sight of his scarred skin.

The training with his Teacher and the tales about the Long Guo and Neighpon filled Squall with desire to see those places with his own eyes. However his funds were sparse, and the bits sent by his mother were nowhere near sufficient to cover the long journey and living expenses at once.Thus Squall took one last job in Unyasi for the time being.

Little did he know that it will be his toughest challenge yet....

 

 

 

 

History Act 3: The Sellsword:

Spoiler

 

The job of retrieving there sacred stones stolen as well as rescuing the captured witch-doctor-in-training was task presented by Tippu-Wazi tribe. This contract pitted Swift against the infamous Burning Web Cult. The Burning Web planned to use the stone to rebuilt the long ago destroyed avatar of their spider god. After the long chase across the the entire continent, Squall along with of of Tippu-Wazi greatest warrior stormed the Cult's volcano lair on the small peninsula, cutting through Web's most zealous followers. The young witch doctor was rescued, with Squall bringing down the incomplete avatar made of lava and brimstone, before the volcano erupted - sinking the whole peninsula into the ocean. While Swift suffered a few nasty burns - making his back even more unbearable to watch - the Burning Web Cult was crippled, and swordstallion was rewarded generously for his assistance.

 

Swift embarked to the Far East, but his journey didn't come without a hitch. During his short (supposedly) stay  in Wingapore he had a little drink too many....

Next thing he knew, he was pursued by Wingapore law officials and three most prominent gangs in the city. The swordpony had to use all of his craftiness to stay ahead of those four organizations, while trying to piece together what exactly happened while he was smashed.

As it turns out, in his tipsy state Swift stumbled on the meeting between the aforementioned crime organizations. Azure Sharks - the weakest of the group - used the situation to strengthen their position - eliminating valuable members of the rival gangs while framing the drunk Squall for the deed. Still, after the two weeks long game of cat and mouse the unicorn managed to expose the real culprit and clear his name. Yet, after the fact Swift swore off any kind of spiked beverages, becoming staunch teetotaler. The destruction of Azure Sharks also left a power vacuum in Wingapore, which was later filled by a newly established branch of Divine Protectorate....

 

The orange swordpony finally managed to reach Neighpon, but only managed to explore Poninawa and chain of southern islands.

Just as he was about to depart to Horshu, Squall received an urgent letter. It informed him that new Pirate Bluebeard has arisen. The nephew of the captured sea robber had taken the mantle of his uncle, and he was gathering a fleet continued the legacy of terror of his predecessor.

Feeling somewhat responsible for the situation, Squall - for a first time - chose to go against his desires, postponing his vacation in Neighpon for a time being.

Swift returned to seas around Saddle Arabia as fast as he could, only to find that Bluebeard the Second already had over three dozens ships in his command, with the fleet's flagship - The Silver Pheasant - being a vessel the size of hoofball stadium. This didn't disheartened the young mercenary. Squall decided to infiltrate The Silver Pheasant, striking the heart of the opposition.  He did just that...and was almost immediately captured. Swift was locked for ten straight days with minimal water and food, but in the end he managed to escape his cell and - after a lengthy duel with Bluebeard - unintentionally set ammunition depot of Pheasant aflame. Swordpony managed to escape the vessel before series of explosions ripped it apart. Bluebeard the Second perished with his prized ship. The fleets of Equestria and Saddle Arabia were easily able to mop up leaderless remains of the scattered pirate fleet.

 

Having enough of the water for the time being, Squall traveled to Equestria's Borderlands and Badlands in search for more works. This time he spent most of his time a a tomb raider, although he also participated in the bounty hunt after perpetrators of Great Las Pegasus Heist. It was also during this time that he was hired to go after yet another dragon - Conflagrius, who was terrorizing the boarder pass between Aquelia and Equestria - this time, alone in this endeavor.

Unfortunately the resulting battle set the fighters into the sky and later crashing into Beakbreak City, with most of the dragon's hoard used to pay for the caused property damage.

 

After some time Squall traveled to search for more work in Saddle Arabia. At the time, the nation was ruled by a Sultan with a rather hair trigger temperament. While a skilled administrator, his character ended up causing a few small conflicts that otherwise could be avoided. This mean an abundance of work for mercenary like Swift. During the tasks he was given he often ended up working alongside Saddle Arabia special forces. While he didn't received an official training, unicorn ended up learning much simply from observing them in action.

Unfortunately the end of his stay in Saddle Arabia wasn't a fortunate one. During a job of stopping a vicious genie Squall caused a serious collateral damage to a known landmark. While he ended up subduing the magical being, the mulct took the whole reward for promised for the job and all of his savings. Worse yet, his father found out about Lady Grapes supporting their son financially, turning this source of income dry as well....

 

 

History Act 4: The Expiator:

Spoiler

 

Being being in a financial peril Swift joined the mercenary group called ‘Doing Things Done’ (or 'DTD' for short). The group earned quite a reputation as a PMC that was very efficient with dealing with various tribal conflicts that seemed to pop around Unyasi since Swift's last visit. Squall - a very known mercenary by now - was warmly welcomed as a valuable addition to the group due to his spectacular combat skills and unrivaled knowledge of continent. The group leader Grey Condottiere took special liking to young unicorn, becoming another of his mentors. It seemed that Squall career was once again on right track, even if he had to tie it with others. That is until....

 

For a while it was looking like  ‘Doing Things Done’ was conducting simple escort services for trading goods, as well as occasionally dousing some small unrest's trade operations.  Things continued for several months and probably would continue further if not for Squall's accidental discovery of what truly was a subject of DTD business: weapons and armor. Not only 'trade' was intentionally envenoming local tribal conflicts, but the DTD and other allied PMC's  were fleecing zebras on market of natural Unyasi medicine, buying it for laughably cheap prices only to sell it with astronomical profit in Equestria and beyond. Worse yet, seemingly legal trade was not legal at all, happening under the nose of both Equestria and Unyasi officials. Swift Squall left ‘DTD’ disgusted after confronting sell-sword band leader - Grey Condottiere - about this. Instead of returning to his homeland he decided to use bits he earned that way to expose the situation for Equestrian public, feeling responsible for the damage 'Doing Things Done' caused while he was part of it.

Taking identity of Quattro Badge, the militia leader and writing under moniker of freelance reporter – Persistent Quill - Squall made a series of articles which described the reality of situation in Unayasi. To his surprise the one who actually pledged his support for the cause was none other then his own Old Man, oblivious to the fact that Quill was his own son.

 

Working together – Swift still under the guise of Persistent Quill – with swordstallion as a correspondent and leader of a militia (which contained volunteers from valiant Zebra tribes, among them his old allies from Tippu-Wazi, few daring ponies and even fewer griffons), and a media magnate doing all within his might to advertise a public campaign they finally cough an attention of both government.

After repeatably clashing with 'DTD' militia - now having support of Equestria - was ready to deal with greedy mercenaries once and for all.

Finally Squall and his comrades were able to corner 'DTD'. However to cut PMC escape way militia was forced to set ablaze nearby forest as a tactical maneuver.

Grey Condottiere, knowing both that it was Squall leading the militia, and that now there was no way out for him, decided to screw with younger unicorn for last time. Mercenary leader intentionally spread fire to the nearby zebra village, burning it to the ground in the process. After that Swift and Grey had a climatic sword duel among the burning savanna. Fighting with blades, spells and words, Condottiere managed to gain advantage using the latter. However after saying a one thing to many, Grey's words flung swift into such rage that he overpowered more experienced fighter with the surge strength that his fury granted him. Blinded by anger young nobelpony would finish Condottiere here and there, if not of arrival of Swift's allies that brought the orange unicorn back to his senses.

Following his capture Grey Condottiere was transported to Equestria and judged for crimes against civilization. Found guilty, he was sentenced for a three decades of prison although after spilling the beans about the his superiors he was released only after a few years behind - with Squall being completely ignorant of this development.

 


History Act 5: The Count:

Spoiler

 

Swift chose not reveal his role in ending Unyasi Crisis to anypony outside his family (and few years later, his friends), partially because of humbleness - but mostly because he felt ashamed for all of unfortunate events that happened during it. Feeling responsible for all that happens, Swift started to be haunted by the memories and nightmares of the events that transpired during the Crisis.

Feeling lost with himself, and mercenary no more, Squall moved to Stalliongrad to make a new life for himself. However Squall wasn't a pony that could be take from action. This - along his feelings of guilt and desire to make up for his failings pushed the noblepony into vigilantism.

He had not much success in Jewel of the North however, as his methods were frowned upon (with Swift being all but gentle with criminals he confronted) with Swift leaving after a two years, feeling unwelcome in the Stalliongrad.

Noblepony didn't had time to feel purposeless for long. Upon his arrival in Manehattan, Squall's mother brought to his attention that their ancient family domain was put on sale. Squallcoast's, being previously and impoverished gentry were all but exiled from Fillydelphia as a result of political games in the city. In an ironic twist of fate, they were only noblehouse of the city still standing - and their scion was returning home.

However reclaiming the old manor of his family wasn't the only thing that happened that day. In the train to the city Squall met two important ponies - ones that later turned to be most important to him.

Those two ponies, Dunder Blust and Fire Walker - later Squall best friend and sweetheart respectively - helped Swift with the problems he encountered at the mansion. Fillydelphia had a Count once again.....

 

 

History Act 6: The Billionaire:

Spoiler

 

Things started looking up for Swift Squall. Finally he found for himself the place to belong and he slowly but steadily started to build social connections and friendship with ponies and none-ponies of Equestria and beyond. On top of that he found a lover in Fire Walker after both of the realized that their feelings towards each other were much more then friendship.

 

However Swift noticed that Equestria was changing, and rapidly at that. Squall always was a progressive stallion despite being a noble, but even despite that it was obvious that those changes tended to invited....trouble. Often in form in the form of various powerful entities or power hungry tyrants - having a a taste of that during certain memorable Nightmare Night. While his vigilantism was frowned upon still, Squall refused to sit with his hooves crossed. Thus the orange stallion decided to mend his relationship with military and joined the Task Force Suntrot. And while Suntrot was a moderate success Squall had a feeling that formation forwardness wouldn't be suited to combat more subtle threats.

His worries were confirmed when a faction of rebellious and zealously traditional caribou warriors attacked the Crystal Empire - being goaded to that by a malevolent shadowy forces. And while the assault was eventually repelled it only confirmed Squall's belief that if new methods have to be applied to prevent events like that happening in the future.

To this end Squall faked his death to all but the closes to him and joined the newly formed Equestrian Protection and Investigation Command.

 

While Squall affiliation to the newly formed team ended up being permanent, his 'demise' did not, with the ruse failing only after one year. The experience however proved enlightening - Squall realized that his incredible wealth could be as useful tool in combating various wrongs and injustices as his blade. And so Squall ended up founding TEMPEST Corporation and it's various sub-branches, with a goal of improving the lives of denizens of Equestria and economy of his country.

Squall still continues to watch vigilantly towards and upcoming threat. But now he knows that with right tools and faithful companions and challenge can be overcome.

 

 

Individuals Important to Squall's Life:

Spoiler

 

Immediate Family:

Swift Squall father name is Hasty News and he is a second one in line of financially successful Earth Ponies. His own father Swift Work made fortune at real estate market and is still well. News on the other hoof while still supports Swift Estates Company, created his own media empire. He holds rights to most of the popular newspapers and magazines in Eastern and Southern Equestria and also trying to gain influence in the Borderlands.

The father and son are very similar not counting the fact that “Junior” is the unicorn. Squall is little smaller then his Old Man whose impressive figure can be imposing on those expecting sly looking desk worker. Mr. News lacks unlike his son sideburns and also has different eye color – blue. He’s also owner of distinctive “toothbrush” mustache. His mane is very similar straight and smooth but he chooses to keep it short.

Regarding personality they more similar then any of them would admit. They both stubborn, a bit prideful and strive to be best at what they do. Also they have similar morals which is nothing suppressing as Mr. News was a role model for little Squall. However as News focuses on idea of “Truth” Squall holds in higher regard the concept of “Justice”.

Mr. Hasty is known as a large choleric, but those who know him long enough has seen his softer side. He also frequently participates in various charity actions.

His Cutie Mark is pencil and notebook.

Swift’s mother, Countess Grapes ‘Grace’ Squall is former sportsmare. She comes from ancient noble family of known fencers although she lacks typical noblemare arrogance. This is due the fact that she and her family lived a life of impoverished gentry for over hundred years. The fact that Grace married a billionaire was complete coincidence, even if fortunate one. She is well known and famous for she was a silver medalist on two different Equestria Games. While not as agile as she used to be, Ms. Squall manages to keep herself in excellent shapeand doesn't look her true age at all. She aren’t afraid to stand against her husband when she feels need to do so and is actually one of a few ponies capable of changing his mind.

Grace also known as a prankster but she always manages to do jokes with style and class.

Physically she is athletic yet slender unicorn, with silvery curly mane and tail and turquoise coat. Her eyes are nearly identical to Swift Squall’s but bit lighter.

Her Cutie Mark is a foil accompanied by cherry blossom petals.

 

Swift Work - Swift Squall's grandfather. A land and real estate magnate that also a skilled stock exchange market player and holder of shares in many casinos. Mr. Work at first glance seems to be elderly senile stallion from Borderlands who talks about his cowboy hat and his birthland too much. While Swift Work birthplace is indeed the western reaches of Equestria, woe of empty wallet will befall any potential con-pony who falls for his decrepit act. While Work's body may be indeed old, his mind is still as razor sharp as ever, and his years only gave him more experience and cunning. Despite seeing each other relatively rarely in recent times Swift Squall has still a very strong bond with his grandfather. Unlike his son, Work never have admonished Squall for his desires and wishes, instead encouraging him to be more elastic and remember that while his Cutie Mark represented his special talent, in never said it was the only talent he had. It was also Mr. Work that showed Squall the ropes of being successful and cunning businesses-stallion, the skills that Swift uses well nowdays.

 

Love Interest:

Fire Walker - Squall's fiancee and love of his life.

Swift Squall meet her the very same day he came across Dunder. It would be lie to say it was love at first sight through, even more so since Dunder and Fire were a pair back then. However unicorn was moved by Miss Walker kindness and empathy, when she decided to accompany him in the pitfall he fell into for the half of the night. Since then Squall's affection for her grew gradually, until he realized that he came to romantically love her - an emotion previously alien to him. This caused him great anguish since Swift wished not to interrupt happiness of his friends. Even after they broke up, Squall hesitated unwilling to take advantage of Fire valuable state. It took trip to the Bridleback Beach(in Fire case), surviving a ship sinking and getting washed ashore (from Squall part), getting attacked by the kraken (both) and finally a date in Big Orange for those two silly ponies to realize that feelings they had for each other was mutual.

Since then both became a happy couple, living toghther, going on adventures end eventually the two got engaged.

Swift most of the time doesn't call Fire by her real name, instead using affectionate nickname 'Moto', a word coming from one of numerous Unyasi tribal dialects.

 

Friends and Important Acquaintances:

Dunder Blust - Swift's estranged friend. Dunder was a first pony he met during his trip to Fillydelphia. Being of the same rare occupation, the two quickly hit off. However the friendship quickly turned sour after Dunder's failed marriage ceremony with Ice Storm which heavily damaged male pegasus self esteem. The circumstances got even worse when it came to light that both of them had feelings for Fire Walker. With Squall being angry over Blust's previous treatment of Fire (Or as Squall put's it., "Treating her as a second choice." when it came to a romance,as well as being ignorant to her feelings and problems), and Dunder being bitter towards Squall after the unicorn won crimson mare affections. The two seen each other only occasionally in the following years, only interacting in professional - but cold- manner during missions for EPIC.

 

Oak Branch - Squallcoast family trusted butler. Previously a REIN operative, Oak Branch quit after he got tired, and sough to find less stressful job. Oak choose to attend valet school with intent of settling with some nice family. Earth Pony got his wish after he was empolyed by Squall's grandfather. Soon through, he was tasked with serving Hasty News which he did faithfully for over 20 years. He was there when Swift was born and saw him grow up. For Swift, Oak became more of am uncle then a butler, always having an eye for 'Young Master' and caring about him much more  then ordinary servant would. When Squall returned from his years-long vagrancy, Oak Branch volunteered to serve youngest of the Squallcoast's. Swift, who was a little lonely accepted. Now days Oak Branch tends to reclaimed noblepony family estate - Squallcoast Manor - even if doing so on his own is taxing for aging pony.

 

Ice Storm - fellow member of EPIC and Squall's friend from Canterlot. Some may be surprised how two ponies who take snips at each other and bicker so much can be friends. However despite being so vitriolic at times, they have way more characteristics that connects them then then things that divides them. Namely, proactive approach to problems, not being afraid to do some dirty things when necessary, and also having a weakness towards the redhead mares. Also, both Squall and Ice believe it's better not to sugar coat things, even if the have to tell other ponies something they don't want to hear. The two first met during the supposed wedding between Ice and Dunder, although they didn't interacted much back then. However as years followed Storm and Swift ended up running into each other in most unusual of places, ultimately becoming teammates when EPIC unit was formed. Since then the two learned much more about each other on account of being most similar personality-wise.

 

Night Watcher - another fellow member of EPIC, and Squall's connection with a Lunar Guard. Squall and Night first met during the later's day off, and both spending the whole day together, with Swift presenting Watcher aspects of Canterlot and it's high society that military mare was previously knew only form outside. Also, by pure coincidence and the an attempted heist by a certain thief, the duo managed to cause the arrest of Marquis d'Fletcher, a Canterlot socialite that dipped his hooves in many shady business deals and was found guilty of nonlegal possession of many arts and relicts important to Equestria's culture.

The two met again in Manhattan, during Squall's self appointed investigation of suspicious stage magician, Mirror Glass. And whiletheir group failed to apprehand him, they apprently stopped whatever he was possibly shaming...probably.

After that, Squall and Night didn't ran into each other until after formation of EPIC and Squall's staged death. Since then the two were frequent partners on various missions big and small, due to complementing skills and abilities.

What Squall values in Night the most is that the fact that despite being loyal soldier, Watcher is not some yes-mare. She always has an ear for a good advice, and looks for solutions beyond borders of the red tape.

 

Naj AKA Spring Breeze - A former Changeling Kingdom exile and now fully naturalized Equestrian. Squall met camouflaged Naj, along with similarly disguised Flux during the Mirror Glass investigation. During it, both changelings true species came to light, and Squall decided to 'escort' Naj to her residence in Ponyville, before proceeding with observing her from the shadows.

To his surprise, she didn't turned out to be enemy agent, or forerunner of another invasion. This revelation made Squall revaluate his chance towards the changelings, something he didn't expected to happen after his experiences after the certain Nightmare Night.

After that, Swift behaved warmer towards Naj during each subsequent meeting, and eventually became one of her most vocal supporters and the two struck solid - if odd from the outside - friendship. They also became teammates later, as Naj - as many other of Squall's friends - became the member of EPIC, and the two worked on few missions together since it's formation.

Curiously, Squall calls Naj 'Spring Breeze' almost exclusively - the moniker she didn't really use since coming into open. His reason for doing that is something that Squall keeps to himself.

 

Flux - Another of Squall's changeling friends, met in the same circumstances as Naj. Flux is a nomad by choice, and her somewhat chaotic behavior make her hard to track down - even for resourceful individual like the unicorn. As an amnestic, her past is a mystery even to herself, although Swift suspects that she too, like Naj had to have some former military background - something he deduced from seeing her instinctive reaction to various dangers. Flux is...a very quirky changeling, withe her actions and thought being hard to predict. Despite this Swift recognized her as ultimately kind individual - even if she has her head in the cloud sometimes.

 

Presteza - A traveling painter, fellow nobelpony and by coincidence childhood friend of Squall's fiancee Fire Walker. Squall and Presteza first met during an airship crash on the time-displaced island. Since then the two ran into each other, and teamed-up in various adventures. Squall and Presteza share a common background of rich nobleponies who chosen the road and life of adventure instead of banquet halls. They both very cultured, and posses love for traveling and discovery, although Squall freely admits that Pretzy has more artistic intuition of the two. They met less in the recent years, due to Presteza taking the position of Imperial Painter for the Empress of Long-Guo (Much to Squall's bewilderment, knowing her Prestzy's love for vagrancy) although with noblepony recent decision to extend his business to foreign countries, their meeting cane become more frequent once again.

On the curious note, Swift Squall and Presteza are actually distantly related, although their last common ancestor lived two and a half centuries ago.

 

Bevel Gear - An unicorn mare with Aquelian upbringing and a genius inventor and main provider of Squall's more complicated and elaborate magitech tools and gadgets. Swift specifically sought her out after his previous go-to pony for such things passed away from old age. Squall was immediately impressed with her skill and work ethic, which promoted him to learn more about this brilliant - if a little grumpy - mare out of curiosity. Since then their interactions became more frequent and the two came to know each other far more. While not quite a friendship yet, the are certainly on the right track for it.

Squall consistently asks Gear to work for his company with increasingly generous offers, but so far the inventor refrains from giving clear answer to any of them.

 

Jarl Sigrun Askr - Squall's chosen rival, although it's unknown to what extent the caribou cow returns the sentiment. Although their first meting was less then stellar, Squall's was forced to revaluate his opinion on her and her kind after the Bladehymn Sigrun steamrolled the noblepony in Whitescar Arena. This earned unicorn's respect for the warrior cow and her kind, but also led to Swift's growing obsession of defeating the Jarl of Askr. This fixation died out a little after the Askr was attacked by WRAITH, who used unknown substance to temporarily mutate the Hold's inhabitants into bloodthirsty monsters. Sigrun suffered the worst of it, turning into horrifying juggernaut of a beast, only stopped when all present agents joined forces to restrain it - Squall included. After seeing the horror the Whitescarians had to endure, Squall became much  friendlier towards the cow and her kin, his goal of besting the Jarl became a secondary - if still important - concern.

 

Yūrei Henka - A head of a Henka ninja clan. When in need of some obscure or heavily guided intel, Yūrei is the one that Squall turns to. Despite meeting a few times, Henka remains a very mysterious 'pony', which only promoted Swift to offer her permanent employment in order to learn more about her. For some reason she is yet to give a response to that offer, but it didn't discouraged Squall just yet.

 

Cutie Mark Story: One day Swift slipped from his study to his mother training room. He picked his other grandfather blade and discovered that he’s quite good at swinging it – so good that Squall got his Mark. And while his father was not amused. However Squall Cutie Mark represents not only his sword fighting capability but also his restlessness in things he chooses to pursue.

 

Personality:
 

Spoiler

 

Squall is quite a mixed bag, with many aspects of his character that should be preclusive to each other at first glance.

Formerly swordstallion used to treat strangers with wariness and coldness and hold them at hooves-length. This was because his former experiences left him quite jaded, but also because he become savvy enough to know that things can get dangerous around him. However since getting together with Fire this icy demeanor started to melt, and it becomes increasingly obvious how well being of those that he care enough means to him.

Despite still being quite young, Squall travels made him wise beyond his age. Noblepony easily recognizes flaws not only in otherponies (and non ponies) but more importantly himself.

And Swift will be first to admit that he possess many flaws indeed. First is his specific kind of stubbornness. When Swift gives himself a goal, it's a daunting task for others to change his opinion - with only Fire Walker having a better record in that field. This also makes Squall a relentless pursuer. When hunted by Squall, one would be wise to simply give up, because nobelpony is implacable when going after the mark.

 

Second of Squall's weaknesses is his overactive consciences and guilt complex. Squall tends to be his own judge and jury, and giving himself very harsh sentences to boot. Combined with his sense of responsibility and confidence in his own worth and abilities makes this a very unhealthy mix.

In fact- since the events in Unyasi - responsibility and readiness to accept it plays a very big role in Squall's life. Not only in himself but in others. Seeing others refusing to uphold their duties or refusing to be accountable for their actions is one of few ways to anger the noblepony in moments.

Squall's other quirk is his unwillingness to burden others with his problems. While Swift himself is very eager to give aid, he most of the time refuses otherponies offer to do the same to him. The hypocrisy of this doesn't escape him but Squall justifies this by saying that as rich and gifted pony he is expected to take care of himself.

 

The swordpony also have powerful sense of justice, as well as policy of never ignoring an evil in plain sight (and often outside of sight, hearing and smell too). However Swift isn't a knight templar type. While he indeed is very persistent in giving retribution to the guilty he is also savvy and patient enough to wait for the right moment to do so. The fact that he is one of most dangerous ponies in the Strand - not only for his fighting skills but also because of his enormous amount resources and connections - makes him a valuable ally for his friends and a terrifying enemy for the criminals and other evil doers.

 

Swordstallion also have mixed feeling when it comes with taking others authority for granted. While he have extreme amounts of self discipline, he certainly isn't some 'Yes Pony'. To gain his loyalty, one has to earn it through action. And even then noblepony isn't shy say to others where they screwed up or what they did wrong. This tendency of him often makes him come as a jerk to unknowing party - that is until they notice that this tendency doesn't exclude himself. While Squall may be rude when pointing others flaws or mistakes, it comes from his honest wish for others to better themselves and rise above their flaws.

While Squall is more then capable to improvise when necessary, he is far more fond to make preparation for upcoming scenarios, even if they happen to be seen as unnecessary or downright weird.  Those 'preparations' are so extreme in fact that they sometimes border on paranoia. For example swordstallion resorted to distribute and hide supply catches containing healing elixirs in all major and minor settlements in Equestria - 'Just in case' - as well as having a functional shelter in more then few of them . The cave system beneath his mansion alone has enough stocked weaponry and equipment to pull assault on Canterlot Castle - among other things.

 

When dealing with danger, Squall leans on the pragmatist side of things. Squall does in fact have a little bit of honor, but that's for friendly sparring matches or tournament bouts only. When saving lives don't expect him to hesitate breaking a few bones. Still, there are things that Swift will outright refuse to do, and he clings to those rules to differentiate himself from those he opposes.

 

 

 

 

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It progresses alright. Few sentences at time. I calculate it will be finished before end of the week. Still waiting for permission about mentioning one OC (that doesn't belong to me) through.

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Yes, still working on it. It's about 50% done. Does pulling certain sections into spoiler tags (for comfort of reading) acceptable.?

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I giving this application final cuts and polishes. It will be finished soon, but I must ask - If I am about to create a lengthy description of Squallcoast Manor, should I do it within application, or do it within Lore Locations section? (With the blessing of the Canterlot Staff of course.)

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The description of Squallcoast Manor is not required to be in your character's application. This application is about Squall himself, not his house or his gear or his family. While you may include relevant details, do not devote large sections of the application to things other than the character himself. That will keep the application succinct and easily reviewable by both staff and other RPers who want to use the app as a reference for RP.

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One thing before I move this app along: ghosts have never been proven to exist in Equestria. Since we don't allow users to create Lore in apps, please remove the mention of your OC's home as being inhabited by a spirit of a deceased pony.

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