NeilWacaster

"The Dwellers are a brutish race of outcasts, as I told you earlier," he informed Squallmane as they browed the armory. "From what I've seen, they are nearly all pegasi or earth ponies, and as such, are generally armed with crude, non-magical weapons, such as broadswords, spears, as well as heavy armor. Mind you, I have only had the displeasure of encountering two dozen of their kind up close, at most, so who knows what some of their soldiers might be packing." Newsworthy looked over the weapons carefully, trying to find the most effective non-lethal choice. It was against his principles to do any more harm to any creature than absolutely necessary, but he wanted to be prepared for any and all situations. Finally, he settled on a light, medium-sized blow gun. This particular weapon was intended for use by a pegasus, and strapped to his side for quick access in the air or on the ground. He chose two packs of ammunition darts. One would merely tranquilize an enemy, and the other would poison him with a potent neurotoxin. He hoped to Celestia that the latter would not be needed. He also picked up a pair of retractable blades for his forehooves, similar to the ones that the other pegasus wore. He would hate to have to use them, but would rather be armed than dead. While he chose his weapons, he was lost in thought. Finally, he spoke to Squallmane while strapping on the blades, "So, you say that you have lived in the Everfree, but are uninformed concerning the Dwellers? Care to explain why?"

"I have walked along the forest edge many times," Newsworthy said, "but never more than a mile in. The only time I've been into the heart of the Everfree was during my adventure with Partheus, two months ago, or so. We found and defeated the Dwellers' leader, a wicked sorceress. In fact, I'm surprised that they would be making a move so soon. A number of their soldiers perished in the attack on Canterlot last month. Although ... perhaps it shouldn't be surprising that they've returned to their usual, less overt attacks, if they are exacting revenge." "As for your concerns about the dangers, yes, there are many and serious risks which we should prepare ourselves for. For one thing, we need to be prepared for unexpected weather conditions. Unlike the rest of Equestria, storms can and do strike at any time, as you mentioned. There are a number of large beasts, such as manticores, that we should be ready to fight. And, of course, we need to be able to repel the Forest Dwellers, should diplomacy fail." He smiled at his companions. "Don't worry. If a bookish, scrawny newspony can get in and out of there alive, then it should be no problem for sturdy, battle-ready ponies like yourselves." Inwardly, Newsworthy was not so sure. It was concerning that Shining Armor would send a rookie who was afraid of the very forest they were entering. Surely there is somepony more qualified ... And as for Squallmane, he too seemed awfully young to be embarking on such a quest. There must be a reason that Celestia chose him. He began to wonder what this colt's special talent was, considering his cutie mark depicted a coiled snake. Perhaps there was more to these two than he could see. (OOC: Tacobob, I expect there to be some conflict. I've never done formal battle in a text based RP, what I've done in the past is just writing as usual, taking into account my perception of the enemy's abilities and both of our resources. Both of you, let me know if you want to handle it differently.)

(OOC: The captain of the royal guard, Shining Armor, is introduced in the last 2 episodes of season 2. Newsworthy saw him briefly in a previous RP, but didn't meet him.) "You bet I am." He bowed to the princess again. "Thank you your highness. We shall not disappoint you!" Newsworthy quickly joined 'Squallmane' outside. A large, burly captain stood there, in the the traditional purple and gold armor of a high ranking officer. "Hello, boys," he said, in a serious, commanding tone. "Today, you embark on a great mission for Equestria. As you know, the Everfree Forest is one of the most dangerous places in the Kingdom. I am sending one of my finest soldiers with you, to help you on your journey and protect you from harm. Also, the royal armory is open to you if you need weapons. Now, if you will excuse me, I have important business to attend to."

"Yes, your highness," Newsworthy said. "What specific information do you need? Are you looking for their motivation for the recent lootings? A way to stop them?"

Welcome to Canterlot, Julius! Can't wait to see you in some role plays

Newsworthy bowed obsequiously to the princess. "Thank you for issuing the call, your highness. What is this important topic of which you wish to speak?"

"I would love to ..." he said, as the music began to play. The curtain rose, and he clasped her hoof in his. After the performance, they walked back outside. Newsworthy set their course for the nearby hotel where the after party was to be held. "It wasn't half bad. I wish they had had a better actor for Mr. Loman though. He was a little wooden. Mrs. Lowman was brilliantly played though. I simply must interview the actress at the party."

Hey! So glad to see you here, friend!