RarityDash

Awesome. That's all we needed.

The history is a little short, but the app is solid enough for me. Seems like a fun character.

Hi there. This is a good application and I'd be happy to stamp it now. However I have one issue with what I'm seeing that I would want addressed before that. I'm really not sure about the character's name. To be twitchy is to either be characteristically anxiety ridden or to posses a visible physical twitch, neither a particularly positive trait. We prefer characters not be given names with negative connotations, as the idea of the parents giving these names to their children doesn't really fit with the spirit of FiM or WoE. As such, we would prefer if another name was chosen. Thanks!

Looks good!

Well, that depends. At the moment, Canterlot.com offers two separate, very different RP environments, World of Equestria and Free RP. For the World of Equestria RP, effort is made to stick as closely as we can to show canon. For this section, all lore for species or locations is written by a dedicated team of Lore Builders and original species not seen in the show are not allowed at all. If you're intent is to introduce your species here, you will not be able to. The Free RP sections, however, are more anything goes. In these sections you are free to play any kind of species you want to so long as the site's rules are obeyed. You don't even need to submit character applications either, you can just jump right in and start RPing if you so choose.

[colour=#000000]Harlequin Salad had come to Fillydelphia for a week to visit her parents when and old friend had clued her in to the speed dating event happening that week down at a local tavern. Being a mare who didn't exactly have a lot of luck on the romantic end, Harlequin had decided to go ahead and check it out. She was after all, interested in finding a special somepony, it had just been illusive for her thus far. She had a lot of friends, but just not a lot of romantic prospects. Most ponies seemed to find her too silly and weird, and if ever they got around to tasting the food the aspiring chef proudly prepared, they would invariably want to sever all ties. [/colour] [colour=#000000]Yeah, romance seemed to just lead to disaster for the pink-maned mare, but being the sort of pony who didn't even comprehend how to give up, she was set on making just the right connection there that day. She just needed to try her best and she was sure her obvious charm and likability would pull her through. She kept that in mind as she found a form and began to fill it out quietly. She had to think about some of the questions more than most mares probably would think to, but in time it was all filled out and ready to go.[/colour]​ [colour=#cc6600]"It'll be worth your while to come to the Prancing Pony Tavern in Fillydelphia."[/colour] Those were the words that, along with a date and time, had brought Radiant Steel to this place at this hour. The guardsmare wondered just how foolish she was to follow them. Every other sentence uttered to her by her mischievous brother was some manner of tease or jape. Ever since they were foals, Dagger had delighted in tormenting her with his irreverent nonsense. Now, despite him being a celebrated REA lieutenant, he had apparently yet to grow up. Upon hearing his words to her, she had supposed that she would come to this place and find some must meet VIP whom mingling with could push along her young REA career. Instead, she found the place preparing for a speed dating event. Considering it now, she felt she owed it to herself to question Dagger further, but he was all too good at being slippery... and even when he did tease her over something, from experience she had found that more often than not he was frustratingly right. Even in this case... she did have to admit this event did sort of intrigue her. She had often felt intrigued by the idea of romance, but never did it seem to get very far. She had a bad habit of taking most things too seriously...while at other times being a nervous, neurotic wreck who over thought every little thing. She doubted the line of prospects who were interested in her was very long. Just maybe through this event she'd find somepony though. It was at least worth a shot since she was here, she supposed though she had a lot of doubts. She tried in vain to keep away the thoughts that she might be wasting her time as she sat in an isolated corner of the tavern and filled out the form for the event.​ [colour=#000000]Serendipity's wanderlust had once again propelled her from her home in Las Pegasus. Fillydelphia wasn't the most exciting city to her. Really she had intended for it to have just been a waypoint on a trip to Manehattan. As it were, however, while there, she had heard word of an event happening at the local tavern. Speed dating. For the lively casino dealer, it sounded like a great deal of fun. She loved meeting ponies, especially interesting ponies. While she doubted there was a pony alive who could tie her down, the novel idea still just read as a fun opportunity to make some new connections. At the very least she'd hopefully collect a few new entires for her treasured notebook.[/colour] [colour=#000000]She collected the form for the event and filled it out without really reading it. It didn't really matter to her. She knew how amazing she was, and anyone who met her would know the same almost instantly. To get this point across, at the bottom of the form, she wrote [/colour][colour=#000033]"I'm the mare everypony here wants to leave with "[/colour][colour=#000000] She then smiled and leaned back on her barstool, gave a laugh and adjusted her sunglasses. This was going to be a lot of fun.[/colour]​

[colour=#000000]Looking at Alexandrite Tilt, imperial palace guard and champion jouster, one might not assume that she would be a fan of the finer arts. This assumption couldn't, however, be further from the truth. Alexandrite considered herself to be as much an artist and performer as she was an athlete. In the jousting arena, she was putting on a show, a drama by which to enrapture the crowds. Perhaps this wasn't to uncommon a thought; jousting was the favorite sport of her kind, and crystal ponies were said to by their nature be in tune with all things artistic. She didn't doubt the drama of the joust was noticed by many and lent to its popularity. For Alexandrite at least, exquisite art resonated with her as deeply as the fiercest joust. That is why going to see the Trillion company's production of La Bayamare had been so very exciting for her. [/colour] [colour=#000000]She was fond of ballet what with the grace and athleticism the art called for and the emotions it could convey but she hadn't found the time to go to one since she was a filly, well before the rise of the dark king. Not too long ago, however, she had happened to meet Lilac Briolette, prima ballerina of the Trillion Ballet, at the gates of the city and the two of them had ended up spending a day together leading a tour of their fair Crystal Empire to a number of strange outsider. The tour had ended up being a curious ordeal in all, but Lilac had proven to be a rare delight. Vivid, charming, lovely and intelligent; she had made up for some of the more hard to deal with elements on that tour. At the days end, she had come to decide she simply must see this mare in her element.[/colour] [colour=#000000]Having just seen the opening night performance of La Batamare, Alexandrite was nothing but delighted to say she had made the right choice in coming that day. It had been one of the most moving performances the guard had ever happened to see. The tragedy, the drama, the way the dance evoked it all so expertly... the jouster had found herself moved to tears several times through the piece. Lilac was the very heart of the piece too. The prima ballerina looked so very radiant upon the stage and her movements were deeply affecting. It was impossible to take the eyes off of her as she danced and so very easy to understand why her character demanded the attention of multiple stallions. As the ballet finished, the crystal mare was left sad, but strangely uplifted and inspired by what she had just witnessed. She knew it would be something that would stick with her for some time. Moreover, she knew she would be coming back to the ballet more regularly.[/colour] [colour=#000000]Alexa was set upon letting Lilac know how exceptional she was, so she stuck around for the after party. Perhaps she didn't fit in perfectly. She was intelligent and sophisticated, but she was a soldier and champion, most comfortable in her full armor with her lance at hoof. She was sure she looked as awkward as she felt with her golden mane up in an elaborate bun and her dressed in a dress, even a fairly understated dark purple and white one like she wore. Part of her wondered if Lilac would even recognize her in such an ensemble... though she had been determined to treat the event with the formality it deserved. [/colour] [colour=#000000]She found Lilac in time at the foyer, with quite the little crowd around her. A number of well dressed outsiders seemed to have her attention. One earth stallion in particular stood out for his peculiarly loud fashion. She was presently engaged with a unicorn in a purple dinner jacket, however, who was gifting to the mare a bouquet of roses. The sight made Alexa wonder if she shouldn't too procure a bouquet to the deserving ballerina, though somehow she doubted the gesture woud mean quite so much to Lilac coming from another mare. Somewhat cautiously, hopeful not to interrupt anything, she walked up to the mare.[/colour] [colour=#ffff00]"Good evening, Miss Briolette. I believe I told you that I would come to see you perform. Having done so now, I find myself moved! It was a soul-stirring show, held together by the unmitigated poise, agility and charm you exhibited in the lead role,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said with clear enthusiasm.[/colour] [colour=#ffff00]"I commend you and your company for the work you've done bringing something so beautiful to the ponies of this realm and those here from the lands beyond!"[/colour]​

((ooc: oh, wow... this thread got huge... not sure how I want to involve Lyra just yet, so she's skipped for now.) Rarity was quite surprised not to get much of a reaction out of Spike, especially when Fluttershy joined in as well, but she supposed he must be too busy helping out to bother with their teasing. Perhaps she'd see him again later. She gave him a smile and then nodded toward the green mare and took the badge from her.[colour=#663399]"Thank you, darling,"[/colour] she said kindly.[colour=#663399] "But as I expressed, my intent today is to have a fabulous time. I can't very well do that if I'm stuck working behind a table, can I?"[/colour] she added. [colour=#663399]"That said, I do have fliers prepared which I do intend to hand out to your guests..."[/colour] Rarity said with a nod, as she opened the fancy saddlebag she wore, revealing a thick stack of papers. [colour=#663399]"I'll leave one here for you!"[/colour] she said as she retrieved a flier and left it on the desk. The flier was glossy and showed a number of dresses on it as well as details about everything Carousel Boutique offered. Continuing along inside, Rarity was surprised to see how busy it already was. Looking around, there were mares of all sorts gathered there, both familiar and unfamiliar. How exciting! Of course... perhaps it wasn't so exciting to some. Recalling what Fluttershy had mumbled to her in the line, she looked toward the meek pegasus and offered her a reassuring smile. [colour=#663399]"I know what you must be thinking, darling, but I wouldn't worry. Give this event a chance, and I am quite positive you'll have yourself a fabulous time!" [/colour]Rarity said, glancing over the yellow mare. [colour=#663399]"Look. You know a lot of these ponies... there's Lyra and Derpy and Cherry and Bon Bon, ooh and Lotus from our favorite spa!" [/colour]Rarity started, pointing out the familiar Ponyville ponies. Her eyes went wide as they then found some rather unexpected familiar faces in the crowd. [colour=#663399]"Oh my, even Princess Cadance and Princess Luna are in attendance! So many wonderful mares to mingle with and point toward my boutique! How exquisite!"[/colour] Rarity said in a high voice, not containing her enthusiasm. Looking back toward her close friend, she offered a small laugh, fearful she was pushing too hard for the other mare.[colour=#663399] "Of course, we can hold off on the mingling at first if you're uncomfortable,"[/colour] she said, offering a smile. The fashionista realized then that this was going to be a bit of a balancing act. One one hoof she had to meet as many new ponies as she could to pass out her fliers... on the other, she had to make sure one of her dearest of friends remained at ease in this heavy crowd. The two goals seemed diametrically opposed... but at that moment, Rarity had confidence she could pull it off. ​ [colour=#ff3399]"Thanks!"[/colour] Harlequin took her badge eagerly and rushed ahead, eager to find her stage. This was going to be the perfect venue for her first bold strides toward being Equestria's greatest superstar chef extraordinaire. She was all but positive. Sure, nothing she planned ever worked. Sure, most ponies thought her food to be utterly repellant... but she was sure that with the dishes she had prepared that day it would be different. Here at this EQGirls Con, she, Harlequin Salad, would make dance the palates of every mare so bold as to sample what she had to serve. She had unending confidence in the fact. She was about to prove it too.Striding right in the direction of the refreshment area, she placed her basket down on a table and then stepped ahead. The mare suddenly stood on her backlegs and threw her left forehoof up highe dramatically. She called out to the crowd in a bold voice, trying to catch the attention of any mares in the area. [colour=#ff3399]"Mares of Equestria, listen! I, Harlequin Salad, aspiring master of cuisine have prepared for you today culinary delights beyond your imagination! Any mare who wishes to be introduced to flavours of which they have never before dreamed, step forth and obtain from me a free sample of my craft, guaranteed to make your palates cry out in blissful delight!"[/colour] the mare declared loudly and theatrically while doing a series of ludicrous poses. She hoped it would be enough to hook a few mares into coming her way. ​

[colour=#0000FF]“Splendid, [/colour][colour=#0000FF]If you’d like Mrs. Snowflake, come down to my Manehattan office and I’ll show you in detail which potential survey sites I intend to excavate in the near future. Once you pick a location or two of your liking, I’ll have the necessary paperwork drafted, and we can make everything official.”[/colour] [colour=#000000]Crystal wore a dignified smile and nodded along to the stallion's words. This was proving to be quite the fortuitous meeting. Romance or no, she now stood to build what could be a profitable partnership regardless. It was quite exciting. [/colour][colour=#0000ff]"Trust me, dear sir, one needn't twist my foreleg very far to get me to pay visit to your fair city of Manehattan. It may not have as rich a history as this city, or the strength and solidarity of my treasured Stalliongrad, but it remains one of my very favorite cities to visit. It would be my delight to visit you there,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said eagerly, not hiding her excitement at the proposal.[/colour] [colour=#000000]The mare then gave a polite laugh and continued, [/colour][colour=#0000ff]"Not even through the first and we're already setting the place for the second date. What delight!" [/colour] ​[colour=#0000FF]“Oh by the way, [/colour][colour=#0000FF]I will reimburse your travel expenses for your trip to Manehattan. It... simply won’t do for my clients to pay money just so we can conduct business matters.”[/colour] [colour=#000000]The pegasus was somewhat taken aback with this proposal. It seemed odd to her for Merlot to have to take on this expense. She wasn't entirely sure what to make of it.[/colour][colour=#0000ff]"Hmm... It's always been my belief that a pony doesn't get very far in this world depending on the kindness of others, and money is hardly an object in my case,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]Crystal mused aloud, glancing the handsome stallion over.[/colour] [colour=#0000ff]"That said, I suppose I truly have been out of this scene for too long now. After all, it's only proper for the stallion to want to treat the mare, is it not?[/colour]" [colour=#000000]she started with a smirk.[/colour][colour=#0000ff] "if you do insist upon paying my way, what reason do I have to refuse that kindness?"[/colour] ​

I really considered it. Ultimately it came down to me just having so many more Rarity threads than Lyra ones.

Sounds fun. I'll bring a few guests. Alexandrite Tilt is a given. How about I bring a couple others too though... perhaps Crystal Snowflake and Lyra.

[colour=#000000]Sierra could be described as being a rather composed young dragon. She had something of a temper, but otherwise she was levelheaded and mature for her age. As she found her way across the red carpet for the REA Ball, however, she found that she could not even begin to contain her enthusiasm. Despite the fact that she had spent her days traveling the world, It had been years since she had returned home to Canterlot. She hadn't seen her family in so long now. She had missed them so much, and none more than him, Hammer Spark, her brother and lifelong friend. [/colour] [colour=#000000]Now here she was, with him right in her sites. Sierra had to fight the powerful urge to open her wings to thrust herself forward and tackle him to the ground. If she were still a child and smaller than him, she likely would have. Instead, she just increased her pace. She was sure many gathered there found the sudden appearance of a dragon to be a curious thing, but she didn't pay any of the other any mind. No, her eyes stayed on Hammer, a grin stuck on her face. Sure, they had been in regular contact throughout the years, but letters were no substitute for actually seeing him again.[/colour] [colour=#000000]She managed to checked herself as she got closer. She knocked herself mentally for letting herself get carried away. They weren't children anymore; Hammer was a soldier and the setting was a esteemed ball held in honor of the service of he and his comrades in the guard. She needed to remain respectable and presentable. She had stressed so much already in preparing for the event. As his guest, she really had to take it as seriously as she could. She had had no clue how to even dress herself for the event. The REA Ball suggested formality and regalia, but that really wasn't Sierra's style and there really weren't a lot of places to get clothing for dragons in the first place. Not wanting to go underdressed, but not wanting to spend for some kind of elaborate custom dress, she had settled on a long and flowing fancy dark purple cape that covered most of her, including her wings.[/colour]​ [colour=#7F0000]"Sierra! [/colour][colour=#7F0000]Sierra, my sister! At long last, you're here!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]At the sound of his voice, Sierra found herself no longer able to hold back. She strode boldly right up to the unicorn stallion, quickly past several ponies. She took a moment to admire how cool and dignified he looked in his formal uniform before breaking out a giant grin.[/colour] [colour=#cc99ff]"Hammer.... I missed you so much![/colour]" [colour=#000000]she started as she moved toward him. She pulled the stallion into a powerful hug.[/colour] [colour=#cc99ff]"It's been far too long! There's so much to discuss."[/colour] [colour=#000000]She pulled back then and gave a nod.[/colour] [colour=#cc99ff]"You look rather cool and distinguished in that uniform, by the way. Not bad!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said, still grinning.[/colour] ​

I think I'd bring three: Radiant Steel, Serendipity and Harelequin Salad.

I like her at least. 24 puts her in the front half of my list. I just prefer Diamond Tiara.

Looks good to me.

Looks good to stamp

[colour=#6699FF]“You are quite welcome, Rarity, but I would not have chosen you if you were unworthy…”[/colour] Luna replied as modestly as could be expected of a princess as Rarity continued to kiss at her hooves. Then, quite suddenly, the princess erupted with mad laughter. Rarity stopped what she was doing and blushed intensely at first, fearful she had taken it too far. As the laughter continued for some time and only grew louder, the mare found herself giggling softly herself. It occurred to her then that Luna wasn't her sister. Flinging herself down at the elder sister's hooves in thanks hardly resulted in this reaction after all. It was almost shocking watching this princess, otherwise respectful and dignified, slip away into incessant laughter, yet her expression told Rarity the mare was having fun. The laughter proved to be contagious, as watching Luna collapse into her mad fit proved to be quite the amusing sight. In time, both mares were laughing at full volume at the other's expense.​[colour=#6699FF]“I do apologize. [/colour][colour=#6699FF]How unbecoming of me!”[/colour] Rarity stopped laughing at this and glanced aside. She gave one final giggle and nodded.[colour=#663399]"I would apologize as well, Princess. I suppose that display of mine was just slightly excessive,"[/colour] she said. She could almost feel Opal's eyes roll as the cat stared at her from nearby. [colour=#663399]"Though this garden of yours... it truly is exquisite. It's beauty truly does come so very near to warranting such things,"[/colour] Rarity added as she once more looked around the gardens some more, still marveling at all they had to offer. She really did feel like a lucky mare to be able to see such things. ​[colour=#6699FF]“Shall we move on, then? Perhaps we should step outside into the main garden to enjoy the breeze a little better.”[/colour] [colour=#663399]"There's even more to this garden?"[/colour] Rarity started in shock. She shook her head and then gave a repeated nod. [colour=#663399]"Of course, Princess! I'd love to see everything."[/colour]She grinned and walked ahead a few steps. [colour=#663399]"Just lead the way!"[/colour] ​

((ooc: sorry for the huge delay on this. should have got back to it sooner. )) [colour=#EE82EE]"Okay. Oh this will be so much fun. Thank you Miss Rarity. [/colour][colour=#EE82EE]Oh yes yes yes yes yes yes yes. [/colour][colour=#EE82EE]this is the greatest day of my life."[/colour] The young griffoness' enthusiasm was infectious. Rarity couldn't help but smile as she watched her eyes light up. This was clearly one with a passion for fashion. Rarity was always delighted to see that in a youth. It just made her all the more eager to please this young Glimmer as best she could. The cleanest path to that seemed to be making the older brother as stylish as was possible. Looking him over as she did her measurements, she was confident she was up to the task.​[colour=#FF0000]"Hmmm...well since I hadn't intended to originally do this....I got nothing of preference. Something that will allow my wings to still be used. Nothing excessive in fabric and wild colours like some ponies in Canterlot wear. You're the designer, what do you think works? No Glimmer. No pseudowings. I doubt Miss Rarity here has any of those anyway."[/colour] Pseudowings? Rarity wasn't sure she was familiar with the term. Were they come kind of stylish wing covers? She had made that manner of thing for some of her pegasus clients. It was likely a term used in Aquelian fashion, something Rarity had neglected to study very far. She would need to remember to research it later. She wasn't going to admit to not knowing something about fashion to the customer in the meantime, so she just nodded along. If the client had no preference that meant she would have free reign. That was always fun.​"Shoot, I guess you're right. [colour=#EE82EE]oh how about a cloak? The base could match your feathers colour and the trim could be silver shaped to read an Old Aquillian quote you like so much."[/colour] [colour=#FF0000]"The one Talonius Razor said? Veni, Vidi, Vici?"[/colour] [colour=#EE82EE]"Yeah that. Or maybe something more modern. What do you think Miss Rarity?"[/colour] Seeing things continue to unfold, Rarity decided there was probably an even more fun approach. She gave a bold nod and looked toward Giimmer.[colour=#663399]"I think it sounds like someone here has a budding love for the fashionable! As an artist, I find it is my duty to help nurture such things where I find them,"[/colour] she added with a smile. [colour=#663399]"So, how about it, darling; since brother has no preferences, how would you like to assist me in designing his ensemble?"[/colour] Rarity asked with a smile.[colour=#663399] "I'm sure nopony could possibly know better how to suit your brother than you do!"[/colour] It seemed a perfect idea. She was wondering how Razor would react. ​

[colour=#DDA0DD]"Well of course I am not disappointed! We all have bad days, even the best of us! [/colour][colour=#DDA0DD]Remember when I brought some of my experiments home that one day and caused that horrible stinky cloud that sat in our home for days? As embarrassing, and smelly as that was, it didn't suddenly make me bad at biology, so it is like uh.. You and flying! The same! Umm.. except for the stink of course. Umm.. anyway, you are still awesome and like you said, they had you do the hard stuff, cuz' your awesome!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]Chaser gave a laugh, recalling the incident in question immediately. It would be hard to forget that one. [/colour][colour=#ffffff]"Ah yeah, I remember that! It stunk so bad I had to sleep outside in the clouds for like a week!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she started, laughing some more. It had hardly been a laughing matter at the time.[/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"But I never once blamed you or thought less of you for that. Actually, I found it kind of cool in a way. There had to be some awesome science involved to make something that smelled as strong as that did!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she added.[/colour] ​[colour=#DDA0DD]"Look, it will be our secret, I won't tell them if you won't, 'kay? We'll just talk about how crazy the storm was all night out there, and I'll tell how I struggled and they'll smile; I don't mind. [/colour][colour=#DDA0DD]shall we go out?"[/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"That sounds great..."[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said fondly returning the mare's kiss happily.[/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"You're the best, Flitter!"[/colour][colour=#000000]Cloudchaser smiled and gave a nod. She really was lucky to have somepony like Flitter. Sometimes she wondered what she had done to win such a cool, kind, smart, understanding mare as her. She was happy for whatever it was though. [/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"Let's go back and join everyone else,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said, smiling and leading the mare back out into the bar.[/colour] ​

[colour=#0000CD]"Awwww, well, [/colour][colour=#0000CD]Y'know. Anything for my friends!"[/colour] Rarity smiled at the sentiment. "Anything for her friends." Of course, this was just how Dash was. She was the element of loyalty after all. It was the core of who she was just as much as it was Rarity's nature to lend a hoof to those who needed it and try and please every customer fully. All the same, the sentiment was warming. Dash was remarkable really. She really was the sort of pony who one could count on to always be there to catch them when they happened to fall. Rarity would always admire that quality.Returning to the kitchen, the two found Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie. She had learned long ago that questioning the pink mare's antics rarely lead anywhere. If pinkie wanted to squeeze eggs out of chickens or crush up eggshells that was her prerogative. As the chickens bawked and blustered about the messy room, she just hoped that she didn't end up a mess yet again as a result. She was sure with Pinkie it would just make the finished product better. Pinkie's culinary skill was first rate after all; she had picked up so much in her time working for the Cakes. Most of Rarity's friends were fairly competent in the kitchen though. She herself was skillful enough and Applejack was a master at her somewhat rustic but tasty Apple sweets. Fluttershy had to regularly prepare food for all her animals which gave her practice, and while Rarity wasn't sure Twilight had much experience she was sure that meticulous mare would be able to follow a recipe. That just left one pony... ​[colour=#0000CD]"Frosting, eh? [/colour][colour=#0000CD]Sure thing! [/colour][colour=#0000CD]Let's make some frosting! ... How do you make frosting? [/colour][colour=#0000CD]Ah! Butter, powdered sugar ... that's silly, isn't all sugar a powder? And milk... that's a lotta sugar for only a little butter and milk! Huh. That's gotta be a typo... [/colour][colour=#0000CD]Ah, found the sugar! Hey, weird, their sugar is *brown*! does that mean it went bad?"[/colour] Rarity hadn't actually ever seen Dash try and make food before, but she'd always assumed the sporty mare would be some manner of clueless. Watching her fumble about was kind of fun in a way, though she didn't want to see Dash ruin anything. It was probably for the best that she intervened.[colour=#663399]"Substituting brown sugar for powdered sugar might perhaps work... but really Rainbow you should try and keep the proportions about the same, otherwise it might not turn out quite right..."[/colour] she cautioned the mare, stepping toward her. ​[colour=#FF8C00]“Wow, ye look gorgeous ... Er, I mean... confused! Aye, th' sugar! Yeah, broon, it is actually supposed tae be broon. heh, its a special type ay sugar, it is fine, troost me! It will wark!”[/colour] [colour=#0000CD]"You're a hoot, Carrot Fields! Always using silly words like that about me!"[/colour] Rarity watched as Dash fought with the bag of brown sugar and responded to Carrot, who seemed rightfully impressed with Dash's lovely appearance. "Gorgeous" really was a good word. Rainbows colours made her naturally striking, but with her flowing dress and mane she looked ever the more so. Rarity really did need to convince Dash to model for her more often. Pretty things looked so nice on her.Unfortunately, Rarity wasn't permitted to dwell on such things much longer. Dash was struggling with the bag of sugar and Rarity could tell ahead of time that the result wasn't going to be pretty. There wasn't enough time to prevent Dash from making that final tug to tear the bag open, but there was enough time to step right in the way. Right as the bag ripped open and a cloud of the brown sugar left it, Rarity stepped ahead allowing the sugar to hit her coat instead. [colour=#663399]"Come now, Rainbow. We don't want you making a mess of that fabulous gown of yours already..."[/colour] Rarity said with a nod as she started to brush the sugar off her coat. ​[colour=#FF0000]"My gosh, it's so pretty! THANK YOU, RARITY!" [/colour] It was about then that the call came from the other room. It seemed the birthday filly had just opened Rarity's present to her. The mare rushed over without even thinking otherwise. This was Apple Bloom's party after all. Though her coat still had a few splotches of brown sugar along the front, she emerged to find Apple Bloom holding up the dress she had made for her. Rarity smiled.[colour=#663399]"I'm so glad you like it, Apple Bloom. I can't wait to see you wear it,"[/colour] she said, offering a smile. ​

[colour=#FF9900]“Good day, soldier! [/colour][colour=#FF9900]Thank you, but I’ve no need to be brought to Captain Armor. [/colour][colour=#FF9900]I’m conducting an unannounced inspection of the Crystal Empire for REA purposes; your superiors don’t need to know I’m here. Carry on with your tour, soldier.”[/colour] [colour=#000000]Alexa nodded at the colonel. She noticed the emphasis he put on the prince's REA title, as if perhaps to correct her. For him this was perhaps proper, but for her this hardly seemed like accepted protocol. Shining Armor was after all the prince of her Empire, husband to their exalted regent, Princess Cadance. It hardly seemed there was much point to make fuss over this detail, for the crystal palace guard, it just served as a reminder that in this strange new time so many things remained in an unsure state.... one such thing being her unit's relationship with the greater REA.[/colour][colour=#ffff00]"Very well, Colonel! In that case, I will merely say that I do hope that you enjoy the tour,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]the crystal mare started to the officer dutifully before turning back to the others[/colour]. ​"[colour=#8B4513]We are indebted, Miss Tilt.[/colour]" [colour=#ffff00]"Talk of debts is unnecessary, sir. As a member of the imperial palace guard, I am a servant of the Crystal Empire. To extend a welcoming hoof to outsiders is not a favour, but rather a duty,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]Alexandrite insisted at the words from the stallion who called himself Earth Writer. [/colour][colour=#000000]This one was evidently a reporter.This was hardly unusual. Reporters had been coming to the empire at alarming rate since they had returned; evidently in Equestria, accounts of the Crystal Empire were still sought after news to report on. If this one would be writing on them and their culture, that was all the more reason to give the best tour she could.[/colour] ​[colour=#DDA0DD]“Oh no, the pleasure is all mine! [/colour][colour=#DDA0DD]And how refreshing it is to hear that! It is always lovely to know one’s passions are appreciated, and I find I do agree with you. I may not look the type but I have always admired the jousts! It is a little less delicate, but equally as graceful in its own way, as you said. Oh, and the suspense! My, but I’ve been prattling on! I’ll let you take the reins from here,”[/colour] [colour=#000000]Alexa smiled slightly at the response from her fellow crystal mare. She was a dancer, so perhaps it was only natural... but this mare really was quite charming and elegant. That she understood the grace of the joust made her all the more intriguing. The guard was glad to have her on this tour. She spoke as she gave her a nod.[/colour][colour=#ffff00]"Nonsense. Passion is no prattle. I can tell you are an eloquent mare, fully understanding the majesty of our storied homeland and its rich traditions. And I welcome you to join me in showing all that this shining city has to offer to these outsiders. I am sure that you do indeed know the Art District better than I, after all,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]the guard said. [/colour] [colour=#ffff00]"In fact, I'd say I look forward to that leg of the tour. I must say I'm quite curious to learn more about your dance company and where they perform,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she added warmly.[/colour] ​ "Hello, I hope I'm not interrupting anything! I'm Silverbolt, sir." [colour=#000000]At the arrival of yet another outsider, Alexa gave a short nod. [/colour][colour=#ffff00]"Hello there. If you're after a tour, feel free to join us. All are welcome to come along,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said.[/colour] ​[colour=#006400]"Well, I'm really excited for this tour! How long have you been a guard, give or take a thousand years? Ever fought a Crystal Golem? Does it drain emotions? Hey, maybe that's why you're so uptight!" [/colour] [colour=#000000]Then there was still this mare. Alexandrite looked at her, thoroughly confused. What was it she talked about? Were these the sorts of baffling tales that the Equestria of today had been telling of her empire in its absence? She supposed it was only logical that the truth could be lost to time... but this all still felt so ridiculous. [/colour][colour=#ffff00]"I know nothing of these crystal golems you speak of. Golems are beings born of applied magic; crystal ponies lack a means to give life to such things as your unicorns might have been at one time. I imagine whatever stories you've heard are works of fiction,[/colour]" [colour=#000000]she said in a stark voice, staring at the bizarre pegasus.[/colour] [colour=#ffff00]"My unit did raise our lances against the Dark King, however... and for it our emotions were left drained and twisted for a time as was the case in time with all of my compatriots here in the empire. Stories of that period in our history are not, however, something we favour discussing..."[/colour] [colour=#000000]The guard trailed off and gave a sigh. "As for me, I've been a guard since I was quite young. My skill with the lance has been well honed since my youth and the victories I won with it at the joust in turn caught the eye of the Guard. As such, I've been at my post likely longer than you might expect given my still relatively young age," she explained. Even if questions came from foolish mares, they deserved answers. She was determined to give a good tour.[/colour] ​[colour=#006400]"Hey, so this Crystal Heart...how BRIGHT is it?"[/colour] [colour=#000000]That said... this was still a rather of silly question. Alexa gave another sigh and nodded.[/colour] [colour=#ffff00]"The heart is quite radiant. It's a difficult thing to express in words alone, but I'm sure when time comes to see it you will find it is worth appreciating."[/colour][colour=#000000]The mare stepped ahead, guiding the tour along. [/colour][colour=#ffff00]"But visiting the heart plaza is a ways off. For now, it's best we get this tour under way. From here at the outer gates, it would be most prudent to first show off our fertile farmlands surrounding the city, which provide sustenance for every pony in the empire. Follow me and take the time to admire the lush greenery which is possible in this arctic region only through the magic protection of our Crystal Heart," [/colour][colour=#000000]Alexandrite said as she walked along a path through the farm districts.[/colour] [colour=#000000]Rolling hills of green could be seen all about. The crystal corn grew tall in the distance while the sweet fragrance of the crystal berry bushes permeated the air. Picturesque crystal farm houses were scattered about, some of which were adjoined by pens housing colourful tiny sheep. The city was a beautiful sight, but in a lot ways, Alexa had always thought these green lands were just as impressive. She hoped the tour group would appreciate them as well.[/colour] ​

[colour=#cccccc]Gray looked at the badges that had been discovered and gave a laugh. He retrieved two, one of which he passed off to his young charge. Spirit stared down at it curiously, not understanding what it was at all. Gray just gave her a reassuring nod which in turn produced a small smile.[/colour] [colour=#999999]"Well, I suppose with these it's official! We are now a guild,"[/colour] [colour=#cccccc]Gray said conclusively with a boisterous laugh.[/colour] [colour=#999999]"May these badges guide us ever in the direction of greatness and adventure."[/colour] [colour=#cccccc]The old stallion still wasn't sure what the future for this guild truly held. He had gotten a taste of the group this day, and wasn't entirely sure what to make of all of them. All the same, looking down at the badge, he felt a surge of confidence. Maybe this arrangement truly would take them somewhere. At the very least, something would come of it, he was sure. Through this experience, Spirit would find a means to open up. For all his bombast and proclamation on the matter of legends, that somehow felt even more important. Glancing toward the filly as she continued to look down at her badge, Gray couldn't help but smile fondly. He had made the right choice in coming here.[/colour]​

[colour=#CC99CC]"Awwww… thanks hon. Although I had to move my bow.I[/colour][colour=#CC99CC]t doesn't look as good down there, but oh well… Heh, if you want, I can tie it onto your tail instead! It be soooooo cute!" [/colour] [colour=#000000]Cloudchaser was happy to see her mare, but seeing that look in her eyes she took a step back and grinned awkwardly. Bows might look amazing on Flitter, but they totally clashed with her awesome style. [/colour][colour=#ffffff]"Nah, that's fine, Flit... I actually think it looks super cute on your tail,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she said with a laugh. [/colour][colour=#ffffff]"you totally know how to make those bows work," [/colour][colour=#000000]she added with a nod.[/colour] ​ [colour=#0000CD]"Hey, girls! [/colour][colour=#0000CD]This is awesome, huh? Equestria in peril, and we, the only ponies who fly guard against disaster! Caught between plague and famine! Do or die, this is our moment! The kingdom is counting on us, and if we fail, thousands, perhaps millions of ponies will starve!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]Dash had noticed the two of them then and had flown over to offer greetings. Chaser smiled at her fellow weather pony as she laid on the dramatics. How very like Dash to make a scene of it with her dramatics. Chaser laughed and smiled at her captain's excitement. Fitter, on the other hand didn't seem quite so pleased. She had that look on her face that told Cloudchaser she was worried. As she spoke up, this was confirmed.[/colour]​[colour=#CC99CC]"Oh come on… It isn't that bad! Is it? I[/colour][colour=#DDA0DD]t isn't that bad... Is it?"[/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"Well, it is a big deal. Equestria depends on the weather factory for so much. Still, you know Dashie. Leave it to her to make every event out to be a Daring Do climax,"[/colour] [colour=#000000]the pegasus did her best to reassure her special somepony. [/colour][colour=#ffffff]"We just gotta do our best and we can beat this!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she concluded, readily.[/colour][colour=#000000]Though she talked big, she was a little worried. She had never really done factory work before. Moreover, she'd sometimes go all scatterbrained and screw up under pressure. She could vividly recall how combatting a storm that had gotten out of control not too long ago had landed her passed out in a puddle with a bump on her head after only a few minutes of work. She wasn't going to let herself choke up like that again. She would try her best to be as cool as possible. [/colour] [colour=#000000]Princess Luna addressed them then with a rousing speech. Chaser watched with rapt attention. Princesses sure were cool. With Luna here, she was sure they'd all do nothing but succeed. She clapped her hooves together at the end of Luna's speech.[/colour] [colour=#ffffff]"Woo! Go Luna! We're so gonna do this!"[/colour] [colour=#000000]she cheered out, revealing her enthusiasm.[/colour] ​

Hmm, this sounds fun.... not sure which character I'd use though. I have several that would work well for it... I'll have to give it some thought.

I was taken to the grand opera in town a couple times a few years back. I enjoyed the experience; the music and singing were engaging and evocative, though I haven't seemed to have retained the stories very well. I can't exactly recall what it was I saw. I don't believe either was particularly well known; one was an old Italian opera, the other was a newer English-language piece; I recall liking the former more.