Volt

Well, that IS an unexpected turn of events for me. It means that I don't have any luck in love ;.;

Even though I don't entirely get the scoring system at the end . But I wonder if I should put that into question.

Anyway, the RP isn't done yet. I'll say it was fun the moment it's locked completely But in case, for those who wouldn't take part in last 'free' stage: The RP was top-notch. It was a pleasure reading all those fantastic ideas and solutions people came up with. That's exactly what I'd expect from an RP of this size. Even though there were so many participants, nobody had issues deciphering other's intentions and replying to them. 't was a jelly good run everyone.

Just, one more thing...

In your dreams AJ!

...my OC conspired against me it seems... I've failed on my quest.

As far as I can see, there are still like 19 hours left. Although personally I doubt if there's anything else I'd like to add. Unless I'll have to respond to somebody's post yet.

The surprise on Star's face was clearly visible as she was replied back by an orange Earth Pony. [colour=#0000ff]"Did she just... like... taunt me?"[/colour] - Star wasn't allowing herself to slow down. [colour=#0000ff]"Who is she, appearing out of nowhere, blitzing through the group and then making mockery out if it! Run faster? Very well..."[/colour] - the situation suddenly transformed into a real cut and thrust. The rush of excitement blinded Star's judging capabilities, as she obviously forgot that each pony had to beat the same race track. She even failed to notice that a lot of earlier 'lost' participants suddenly found themselves in the group as well. Risi pulled another 15% out of herself, but it was her upper limit. Her fierce expression on face could scare away a royal guard as she galloped at full speed towards the finish line. In barely a few last seconds she managed to come up with dozens of reasons for why she'd like to win the race...

Her never ending strive of improvement until the very perfection...

The trainings she held in order to prepare herself...

Her family... they certainly would appreciate their daughter coming back with such an achievement...

A newcomer showing everyone nothing is impossible...

And finally...

A sudden sqeak to her right made her investigate the source. Her mane flew on the wind as she stared at her precious companion.

...[colour=#0000ff]"Imperio..."[/colour] - the whisper was too silent for anypony to hear. That bird learned to support her throughout all those years they've spent together. It was her shield from daily routine and a loyal, true friend in every situation. The Caracara flew aside her, raising her spirit and will to fight. She was so thankful... even though there were a lot of different participants, Star couldn't forget about her 'little' partner. Who would have guessed what was happening in that pet's head...

Imperio circled high above the finish line, observing the horizon. He flapped his majestic wings a few times, purely out of vanity. Those ponies below should know how does a true, royal bird looks like! Even though he was always able to remain stoic and calm, he wasn't used to be left alone for an extended periods of time. The Caracara managed to grow anxious few times before it spotted racers in the distance. It took a few more minutes to fish out and recognize his mistress though. He didn't know what was she doing nor what did she expect of him. But after such a long time of growing impatient, Imperio was happy to see her again. Bird expressed his happiness loudly, high in the skies, before he dived towards the group. After a brief moment, he was already at Star's side, keeping her company as he always did. They knew each other for years. Even though her intentions sometimes remained a mystery for him, Imperio learned how to read Star's behavior. And right now he was sure that his mistress was more than content of seeing him. She was so silly sometimes... as if he was going to ever leave her.

With all her hopes and motivators in front of her eyes, Star did her best. She ignored the flaming pain in her legs and forced her body to submit to her will for just a few moments. The suitable commentary, including her in calculations, only boosted the atmosphere of excitement. Yet, she realized that there was no commentary earlier, and finally managed to match the voice to one certain pony... When she found Earth Writer (also known as "Walking Scrub/Bush" in her mind since the events of Whitetail woods) with eyes, he tripped and struggled to regain his speed. It was yet another value she had to take into consideration... [colour=#0000ff]"I'll do it, I'll do it for all those who were with me here and made this traditional run such a wonderful event."[/colour]

She didn't know if her strengths would allow her to best that last obstacle, which was the last straight. But nothing stopped her from trying. Star pushed herself to the limit. The moment of truth was upon her. And she realized it all too well...

Like how you didn't give up nevertheless like the others did, Dieg- ...Havoc.

Oh, yes, finally.

One more last soundtrack. I've been trying to remember its name and where I've heard it, and finally managed to achieve that:

This soundtrack made me consider that game one of the best SW games out there in market. It had a great story, really cunning and action-packed missions, awesome gameplay. But all of this wouldn't be remembered if not this music, which underlined the atmosphere really strong.

Whoever didn't play it and likes shooters with an element of tactics, I recommend Star Wars: Republic Commando. You won't regret it. I did not to an extend in which I've replayed the game about 4-5 times. It's just so great. (Just remember, don't play it on 'easy'. It removes all the experience you should get. The harder it is, the more interesting gameplay, because an example: Some missions require you to f.e. close the doors before the amount of enemies overwhelms you. On easy, you simply resist them all in melee... On hard, you actually had to start acting before they even appear if you hoped for survival. Therefore, normal to start with is a good choice )

The majestic royal city was still in Star's sight. An unique, artificial forest of dazzling white towers. It knocked the wind out of her, metaphorically speaking. But at once it truly inspired her, such a wonderful sight couldn't be simply ignored. The final call of this struggle, which the race turned out to be, was presenting itself in front of Risi. Far away in the distance she could see an end of this ultimate test of one's physical condition. Yet, it was still of enormous surprise for her to discover that she actually found herself at the very front lines of the race. She could feel the satisfaction filling her soul as she remembered all the trainings she undertook in order to finish the race. Even though hooves were denying to grant her full strengths, she still managed to keep up to the pace.

Star caught a glimpse of Greenshot galloping past her. As she noticed his mane flip and the idea finally reached her mind, she tripped, losing her balance for a second and burst out in vibrant, honest laughter. [colour=#0000ff]"Did he really just...?"[/colour] - the situation was at least amusing. Star followed him with sight, spotting that he threw a single sentence towards Sugar. After that he launched himself forward. [colour=#0000ff]"Where did he hide all of this remaining strength...?"[/colour] - it was truly unsettling to see Sugar engaging in competition with him. Star couldn't believe her eyes, it looked like the injuries didn't affect her at all. Was it possible that Unicorn medics did really such a great job?

Of course, it seemed that not only these two were hoping for a last, glorious run for everything. Hoss didn't want to give the field and sped up too. The fact he mentioned his family made her smile. She probably would have done the same in front of her sister, but Star wasn't even sure if she mentioned that she was willing to participate in this event to her family at all. Even when an orange mare passed her and taunted Sugar and Greenshot, pink one remained indifferent to the race. It looked like they were into competition, pride and valor much deeper than in the actual goal of this race... Risi herself cared more about the tradition. The race, even though there were some obstacles, seemed to be a success to her. She'd just continue calmly, without stretching herself needlessly...

And then an echo reached her from above...

An echo of something familiar...

A voice she would recognize everywhere...

[colour=#0000ff]"Imperio!"[/colour] - his sight was an unexpected injection of pure energy. Unicorn observed the silhouette circling somewhere above her. Another sqeak reached her ears. Risi looked back at the group, slowly gaining their distance from her. She frowned, shaking her head and smirking. [colour=#0000ff]"Oh no, no... If I'm so far already, I won't let you get rid of me THAT easily..."[/colour] - it seemed as the presence of her beloved pet made her believe she's compelled to fight to the very end - [colour=#0000ff]"Hey!"[/colour] - she exclaimed behind the group, speeding up - [colour=#0000ff]"Haven't you forgotten somepony? It's not nice to leave companions behind!"[/colour] - her claim wasn't hollow, as she managed to catch up to the group again, but used a lot of strengths to do so. [colour=#0000ff]"And I don't know who you are to come out of nowhere suddenly..."[/colour] - she shouted after Applejack, making a few intervals to catch her breath - [colour=#0000ff]"...but don't think you can just ignore us like that!"[/colour] All that Star knew about this pony was that her name was Applejack. She could have sworn she didn't have a chance to spot that earth mare until the very bridge. And now she claimed to be the granted winner? [colour=#0000ff]"In. Her. Dreams!"[/colour] - it was a brief sum up of what Risi thought about it. [colour=#0000ff]"You can do it, your Cutie Mark is all the proof you need, so is your name!"[/colour] - Star encouraged herself focusing not to mistake her hooves order. [colour=#0000ff]"Now, just not to exhaust yourself too early..."[/colour]

If you're being so kind actually, dear Santa, perhaps I'll burden you with one of my visions...

I thought about an image of Ardent Will having a fort-snowball fight with 2 Royal Guards in order to gain control of an xmas tree filled with presents labeled "From Celestia". I don't care about the exact details. All I'd like to see is their determined and stern expressions, implying that it's the most important fight they've had throughout their entire life, while they're throwing snowballs. And, of course, they all should be wearing their armors. After all, it's the MOST important fight. MOST!

Here's a little reference I drew when I was completely bored and still believed I could draw:

Anyway, I'm glad that LM... I mean... CDLS... Okay, I don't know who I mean in the end, but still, that one of them is in process of fulfilling request concerning Rising Star, therefore if it would be too much of a weight to lift, feel free to drop the idea

In your dreams AJ!

The amusing part in all of this is that I wasn't expecting I'll be able to maintain the pace judging from my timetable. But it seems that world once again conspired against my predictions and "made me look so baaaad...".

*Goes to post in order to develop a bit better contacts for Star*

Let's see... Music from games which brings memories...

First, and most importantly:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=PL&hl=pl&v=ZWuNf4gxwuM

It brings the nostalgia for playing an awesome game with wonderful world and opportunities.

Secondly, of no less importance:

Do I have to say much?

And third one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWBmgMnP-D0

Because honestly, those who wouldn't recognize this theme at once, should be buried alive if they consider themselves PC players.

There are many more I'd like to list, but I had to pick tough decisions.

Still, I believe that Starcraft 1 OST deserves mentioning nevertheless. Each part of it.

Too bad I've missed out on this stage, I was looking forward to it But as I've said, was back home for weekend. Had to work instead of attending Canterlot for longer.

The ocean of silence... What a contradictory feeling that was. Rushing along with that vast group of racers... now also Star's acquaintances, as it seemed, she couldn't hear anything other than hoof beat and the subtle rustle of leaves falling around. She could feel some of them gliding over her body... It tickled a bit, but Risi got used to this already. Star raised her head, remaining silent and rather washed out of emotions for now. They were out of Ravine. That was most undeniable. Unfortunately, she wasn't out yet herself... Oh, of course, she had a poor start in this stage, but she caught up to the group quickly. The price she paid though was high, as her strengths were stretched to the limits... She shouldn't have rejected that generous offer of detailed examination concerning her physical status. Now she could feel her body twisting in exhaustion, but it wasn't the first time in life she'd experience that. Moving forward was the only option, although because of it Risi was a bit... absent, one would say. She felt like a doll... a hollow doll somepony threw into this stage, ordering her to run no matter the consequences. The Ravine took its toll...

Pale pink Unicorn was in her own world. It was filled with trees, leaves, some other ponies and a few obstacles she had to avoid. There was a faint taste of... some kind of syrup too. It bounced inside of Star's mind until she decided it was highest time to stop acting like some kind of tool. Mare blinked, trying to focus her sight as her hooves kept moving her forward. Upon closer inspection, she realized that she fell behind a bit. It wasn't of great surprise to her. The Ravine really was an obstacle she wasn't prepared to encounter, and now she was just paying the price for her ignorance.

The ocean of silence... was filled with voices. She could have heard them on the edge faintly, but those did not reach her. After waking up from her trance, she quickly realized these were ponies having conversations around her. Star tried focusing on words, but an awkward sight of sap flowing from trees distracted her effectively. She never yet had a chance to witness its production, so she took her time absorbing the images and trying to remember. Finally, the Unicorn managed to concentrate on others around her. Some were just talking, others... well, judging from their... 'interest' in syrup, fooling around. She even caught a glance of a mare couldn't spot earlier. And then there was that leaf monster. An unexpected appearance of tree sap and falling leaves connected with a well-positioned stallion, Earth Writer as it seemed. Yet, Star couldn't even recall if she smiled to that situation. Risi took a look around... A beautiful forest, dazzling leaves cascades, friendly ponies around, wonderful atmosphere, that feeling of job well done... The Ravine was left behind...

A spark ignited in her heart.

The ocean of silence... dried out. Risi felt the energy returning into her limbs. [colour=#0000ff]"Enough of this apathy!"[/colour] - she couldn't help scolding herself - [colour=#0000ff]"What happened to you silly filly, you're the positive spirit of..."[/colour] ...Canterlot city. It loomed somewhere above her in the horizon. And it provided a sidekick she was just in need of! A wild smile appeared on her face once more after the spark moved into her eyes. Mare felt the breeze in her mane again, heard the birds around her. The world rewarded her for perseverance, it seemed. [colour=#0000ff]"Come on everypony! We're just about there, ain't we?"[/colour] - she threw in between the group, presenting a splashy mane flip and panting slightly. She caught Greenshot's glimpse and blinked towards him, following with a friendly smile before she focused on the run again. Of course, it would seem strange for them to see her wake up like this out of nowhere, but she wasn't going to allow herself falling into that 'slumber' once more.

The whole situation sounded like a poor comedy. Her mood swings would eventually become unbearable one day... But not today!

[OOC: There were so many things I wanted to refer to in your posts, but I couldn't, given the situation that I had very limited access to web ;.; Missed on an important part... Therefore, instead of Wall of Text, I've generalized and gave a little excuse.]

My E.T.o.A. for post is: 12 hours 30 minutes. Will be back in Cracov again (city in which I study) and will have more broad access to web.

QuickLime, the Valiant Protector of LovinMoonlight

But yes, if I was him, I'd simply ignore all the requests posted here while it's [CLOSED].

I guess that gives me the upper hand? Or hoof? Whatever...

I won't greet you with text, I've done it in the vid already xD

*Coughs* *Coughs* *Chokes* You know what they say, at least I have luck in love.

@River: What? Nuuu, that's exactly not what I've meant! I mean I just enjoyed the separate arc you had in there, I wasn't implying anything else. The RotL is after all one, big, continuous RP, and it was nice to see a bit of individualization. The scores/lists had nothing to do with what I've said ._. It was just fun reading some stories with different background.

Okay, my last post for this stage, won't be up until tomorrow. Have fun finishing it

[OOC: I guess I can just follow the trend now?]

Step after step, hoof after hoof. Star's zeal cooled down as she entered the bridge. She could clearly hear creaks coming from under her hooves, each plank protested under her weight. There was a hidden threat in every single sound, a threat which hid a situation which she didn't even want to imagine. She raised her head to throw a look at Hoss. He didn't have the problem she had. What allured her to enter the bridge in the first place again? Pride, lack of patience and, once again, foalishness? There was no retreating now though. She took yet another step, feeling how the wooden plank bends under her weight. Star ceased her movement and decided to avoid that one, placing her hoof a bit further. That one felt a bit more sturdy, so she moved her mass on it. Everything was going slow and steady, no haste, no problems.

She was heavily focused on her task. Each single step had a chance of causing yet another interesting story to be born. The fact group behind her was causing so much noise did prove helpful at all. Mare tried to ignore it for a moment, but finally her curiosity took over her. Star turned her head back... and stood eye in eye with a Griffin charing at her. Her intuition ordered her to move out of way, and so she did. Risi jumped aside, completely forgetting about the condition of the bridge. The impact she had caused to the guardrail broke a few planks, making them fall into the void below. She could feel the bridge trembling as the Griffin ran past her. What she couldn't imagine though is that somepony was reckless enough to follow her at full speed at the same time. Pink Unicorn stood petrified, trying not to move a single limb. But bridge wasn't going to remain indifferent to such an impertinence. One of the planks turned out to be extremely bored with her current activity and broke, trapping an orange Earth Pony hanging under the bridge. It startled the mare only for a moment, because she quickly remembered about the coordinators waiting below. They wouldn't allow anypony to get hurt... would they?

And then an explosion occurred. An explosion of pure anger, hidden and long suppressed. She couldn't help but to stare, hypnotized by the sudden shout of... [colour=#0000ff]"Huh...? Him?"[/colour] - the question hanged unanswered in air, as she observed Earth Writer giving schooling to the rescue teams below. 'Schooling' somehow seemed to be an excellent word, judging from his appearance and voice. She instantly imagined him arguing with one of the rescue ponies and, despite the situation, burst out in laughter. The image was so grotesque that she couldn't gain a grip at herself. Yet, it seemed that his effort brought results, because soon after a lone, gray Pegasus appeared in front of her, offering her a helping hoof. She stared at him for longer before asking: [colour=#0000ff]"Uh... I have some... Bad memories when it comes to flying..."[/colour] An image of Hoss carrying her just few minutes ago flashed in her mind. [colour=#0000ff]"Let's make a deal, I'll attempt to cross it on my own strengths, and you'll watch over my safety? Deal?"[/colour] - without waiting for an answer, she moved forward, a bit more confident than before. The bridge was the last obstacle, from what she had learned. The road straight to finish line stood open, but somehow she felt compelled to wait on her new companions on the other side. One could participate in different races, but the tradition was only one.

Tales? Meh, I'll pass... *A jar crushes on the wall next to him* Uh... blasphemy you say? Fine... I'll watch it later (monday since I'm home) and will edit this post for feedback.

Yeah, but you know. I was awaiting AJ meet Sugar under different circumstances to see her reaction on that little 'accident' she had

Seriously, why did we connect AJ/Gilda separate story together ._.? I mean, they could have run past the bridge BEFORE we got there or AFTER this >< This situation came completely out of blue, after all even River didn't mark a single word about our OC's being there. That implied something

*Shrugs* Not like it was a horrible deed, just... meh.

As far as I've seen with character's like Angel Bunny and Winona, they seem to have a higher intelligence than Earth pets, but still not enough to be able to learn to speak.

"Who?"

But meh, Rising Star has a Caracara as companion. Basically I somehow underestimated its size, because it turns out that Caracara is nearly third size of human's height... Anyway, in nature these are carnivorous. But I don't see any reasons for why I couldn't change that. Besides, it's not like you're going to roleplay his/hers meals by exactly describing what he/she eats ;D And even if, you can always lie about their feeding style for the well being of an RP, am I 'rite?

Tempting her fate. More like tempting the SteelEagle, hah.

I see AJ/Gilda were first D: Or were behind... I don't know anymore 8l