Pretzelparty

Roleplay Type: World of Equestria

Name: Foxglove

Sex: Female

Age: Mare

Species: Earth pony

Eye Colour: Bright purple

Coat: white

Mane/tail: Black with purple highlights. the highlights often change color between her appearances.

Physique: Foxglove has a build that is rather lithely and impressively built. She’s in good shape but isn’t exceptionally strong.

Residence: A fairly large two story cottage in the Hollow Shades. She occasionally leaves to attend booksignings, parties, family get togethers, and other things.

Occupation: foxglove is a bestselling horror, fantasy, thriller author, having written hundred of books. The most popular of her books series being called “The Coldblood Chronicles”, a series about a detective who is called in on Equestria’s strangest cases that even the princesses could not explain...

Cutie Mark: An eschewed five pointed star with an eye in it’s center.

It all began on a trip to summer camp. Foxglove had been sent there by her parents. There had been rumors going around that the colt’s cabin was being haunted by somepony’s ghost… One night, Foxglove snuck under the crawlspace under the cabin and noticed something interesting. There was a small box that once she opened it up revealed a whole bunch of old photos of the camp in it’s beginnings, with a couple of photos of some strange young ponies. Somehow she felt that she should leave this place alone and make sure nopony else did. The next night around the campfire she spun a yarn about a pair of young ponies in love whose wrath would fall upon any who disturbed the resting place of their memories. Once she’d seen at the end of the summer that the place had been left alone and undisturbed she’d noticed a mark on her flank.

History:

Foxglove was born to a pair of earth pony florists in Canterlot. She gained her name because her eyes matched the color of the foxglove flowers that they grew in their garden. As a filly she seemed to be drawn to horror stories that always seemed to keep herself up at night. Under the covers of her bed, the little filly read of creepy spectres and eerie horrors that crept around in the dark corners of the earth. Dreams that normally might have scared the cutie mark off any normal foal were the things that Foxglove looked forward to every time she went to sleep.

Growing up for the filly was rather interesting experience. In her younger days she was always looking around for the unexplainable. Despite her unconventional interests she was always viewed as an exceptional peppy and playful filly who loved to joke around and play with her classmates. Even as a younger filly she seemed drawn to unusual sort of gothic dark styles that she managed to pull off rather well with her color palette.

After the filly gained her mark she began to start writing short stories. While she originally wasn’t too confident in them, her parents decided to send a few to a magazine and soon she wound up becoming a published author. Some time after she left Highschool she began to feel she was getting a bad case of writer’s block. In order to remedy that she began to travel all across the globe ,learned all the various obscure non unicorn magics, and supposed hauntings. In her time in all these places she found her inspiration seemed to come from the thrills and chills she got from the increasingly creepy situations. In addition to her experience with all the incredible things she seen, she also made sure to learn all about the various local myths on how to defend oneself from them; all of which she incorporated into an ongoing series of supernatural thriller novels she’d been thinking up…

Upon her return she wrote her first book in ‘The Coldblood Chronicles.” A book about a hard nosed detective by the name of Coldblood Trotter who took on Equestria’s strangest cases. The recurring themes in her books were the ideas of ghosts and spectres being creatures who were empowered and given form by the popular consciousness’ thoughts and rumors about them, The hidden thoughts and darker sides of Equine given form, beings from beyond the stars and outside of reality trying to come into the world and driving someponies crazy. Her world building in the secret side of the world that her books often depicted was considered very impressive and the pantheon of entities she created thought of as fascinating.

Since she became a bestselling author she has found the constant attention from presses and things is not really where she felt most at home. So to keep those who might spy on her personal life and leave her be when she felt she needed to be on her own, She made a rather controversial decision and decided to move to a cottage in the center of Hollow shades. Anypony, griffin, or otherwise would find this place incredibly difficult to spend very long one with all the mysteries and creepy occurrences there.

Currently, Foxglove is living happily in a small two story cottage in the Hollow Shades on her own. The large amount of money that she receives from her books’ sales allows her the opportunity to travel and go to all kinds of places with mysterious and eldritch rumors to them, however she always returns and shortly after she seems to easily pump out an entirely new book in about a month or so.

So far, Foxglove is fairly happy with her life. She does occasionally feel slightly lonely and as a result she will often leave her cottage and the Hollow Shades to spend sometime among other ponies and attend book signings.

Character Summary:

Foxglove is a well reviewed author of horror fiction, with her most popular book series being her Coldblood Trotter series. In addition to her talent as an author she is also fairly athletic, knowledgeable about a lot of paranormal theories, and due to her upbringing knows a great deal about flowers. Some rumors seem to fly around about her constant traveling to various haunting grounds have left their mark on her, as she carries a strange mysterious air about her and has a strange talent for suddenly appearing behind someone when they or noone else is looking.

Ghosts, unknown magic, ancient curses, dark relics… all of theses are things that can easily pique Foxglove’s interests. When she is not involved in any of those things for the sake of her work she does in fact other interests to keep her busy. Having grown up around a pair of botanists she has a fairly useful knowledge of flowers and plant life, however she seems to know most about plants that have magical properties to them. Besides botany, Foxglove has a particular love for certain styles of fashion; particularly gothic styles. Her usual outfit with consists of a necklace with her own mark on it, a black camisole, some black boots, and a black umbrella made of various magical materials she’d gathered across the world on her travels.

until recently it hasn’t been very often one could catch this elusive author anywhere besides the latest place that’s caught her fancy, but lately it seems she’s been spotted out in public a lot more often. Around other ponies she’s very jovial, witty, and occasionally snarky. The easiest way to tell that she’s shown up in any setting would be to listen for a cry of surprise from the first pony she speaks to due to how most seem not to notice her until she’s right next to them and talking. Despite her rather dark and gothic stylings most find she is very pleasant company to have around.

The things that Foxglove often fails at are first impressions. The first time a pony might meet her she may seem a bit odd; with her dark fashion but bright personality seemingly contradicting each other intensely. Another fault is that when she wants to be left alone to write her work… it’s best to leave her alone. If she’s interrupted while writing she has a tendency to be very short and hostile towards anypony who bothers her.

There are quite a few things that Foxglove fears, however her love of her craft has caused her to confront these fears at every turn so she can use them better in her books. She still can be afraid, but it’s incredibly hard to get her to show it. In a way, she is a bit afraid of other ponies who can’t relate to her as easily; being scared of offending them in someway. In some ways, Foxglove has begun interacting with the public considerably more so she can not only better write characters she is unfamiliar with more convincingly, but to also better herself. Missing a deadline for her book is something that scares her more than any possible spectre could, as aresult she tends to spend weeks without sleeping and writing nonstop… then collapsing into a tired heap just after she puts her manuscript in the mailbox then re-enters her home.

Oh, that's Princess Celestia! She rules Equestria with her sister, Princess Luna! She is the pony that raises the sun every morning!" The pegasus got a contemplative look on her face at the bat's other question. "You know, I'm not sure why she's so much taller than most ponies. Maybe it just come from being an alicorn?" Her eyes widened at that thought. "Does that mean Twilight will grow that tall too?" she pondered out loud.

The little bat once again nestled in Fluttershy's mane and made himself comfy among the pegasus' soft pink locks. His little leafy ears flicking as he listened to her and soon the little creature perked up. The strawberry chiropteran pulled himself down the Fluttershy's ear and told her we was going to thank her for making all the mornings so warm... even if she couldn't understand him. With a determined look on his little face he flew off and fluttered towards the princess once more and nuzzled his tiny nose to her muzzle in thanks and then flew around her a few times before hanging of her horn.

"Oh no, he said he was very happy with you," she answered, smiling. "Oh yes!" then said brightly, warming to the subject of animals. "They are really pretty. Very bright colors and little black eyes. Some ponies are scared of snakes, for some reason. I've never really understood that..."

The mare pretended to wipe some sweat off her brow,"Phew, I was worried he'd be tell ya about all the embarassin' situations 'e'd seen me in." Seeing Fluttershy's face brighten up once the painter brought up the snakes, She thought back to the time when she adopted her little flying friend. There were many animals back then and quite a few of those that were gathered up had signs before them. One group of those animals gathered were snakes that had a very pretty look to them, "Milk snakes... those are the one's with the red,black, and yellow color pattern right? Those are so cool lookin' All the other foals back home that I saw when I was growin' up said they were slimy and gross... I kept tellin' 'em that they were actually just shiny and warm and they just laughed at me." she said with a huff. "Anyway, could I see the milk snakes sometime? They sound really mesmeric!"

"Though I may make that decision myself, I do not often take action where I have officers to deal with internal discipline. I do believe notifying Col. Pummel would be the better choice Lt. Silverheart. However..." Celestia paused momentarily, "If you do as you say, I may...forget... to mention it to him."

Fortunately (for Celestia, at least) Silver failed to notice that smirk and instead glared at the fruitbat who was formerly on her highness's nose. Upon hearing her remark that she may send him to the infamous Colonel Pummel the color almost drained from his face. Silver had always been doing his best as a member of the R.E.A. and in his time in it he'd heard many things from the troops about him. That he was incredibly strict and bordered on overbearing taskmaster status. As much as Silver respected his superiors he did not wish to be reprimanded by one of the R.E.A.'s most reputable and tough officers... but if he had to he would,"I-I will accept any punishment you deem necessary your highness... and I'll take it even after I have dispelled these rumors."

As his Sister walked by, apparently having gotten her kiss and apples as well. Looking at her sternly he spoke up,"Presteza! would you please control your pet?" Even though Fresco had moved on to spend some time with Fluttershy... and was now apparently sticking his tongue out at the guard pony for taking that tone with his owner, Silver still felt he needed to reprimand his little sister.

Given Silver's sudden change of demeanor it didn't take long for his sister to put together that the princess must have been messing with him, "Wotsa matter, Silver? Did yer first cru--" Soon she found her brother's hoof cover her mouth,"Shut it!" he said sternly while the mare rolled her eyes then pushed his hoof away and approached him to whisper something in his ear; something that made him beet red and shut him up until Both Celestia and Blueblood had finished their interactions with Applejack.

Walking towards her old acquaintance, Fluttershy she smiled brightly at the pink maned pegasus."I hope Fresco wasn't tellin' ya anything too bad about me!" she said jokingly as the aforementioned fruit bat fluttered over and perched on the cream colored unicorns head, "By the way, wot were ya sayin' about Milk snakes?"

"Well boy howdy! You're gonna race? I thought I smelled some muscle in you." Applejack smirked back, bringing her eyelids back to a flirtatious level. "I will trah to keep the dust from under my hooves from gettin' into your face. Or maybe I'll just run ahead to let you breathe."

​

The mare chuckled lightly as Applejack admitted to suspecting her own athletic aspects and gave her a firm nod, " Well then ya got quite the nose on ya! Guess that's somethin' we got in common." she said with a playful chuckle. In regards to Applejack's last little remark of playful competition she scoffed and smirked, "I shoulda guessed ya'd be racin' too... Sorry ta tell ya this, Miss Applejack but if anypony's be left in the dust it's you!" The mare lifted her hoof to brush the fringe of her mane that hid one of her eyes from view so she could go right back this subtle battle of the gazes the two ponies were engaged in, her smug smile only grew wider as she heard Applejack approve her 'tipping' idea.

"Heh heh, well, I can't keep a satisfied customer from doin' what they please."

​

"Well... good, maybe if it's reall--" before she could finish what she was saying the kiss was planted on her. The Apple mare wasn't the only one who felt that sudden jolt of electric-like energy as their lips collided. As odd as it sounded the feeling she got from the kiss wasn't in any way romantic, flirty maybe but felt more like it showered her with the energy of two powerful personalities colliding. For a few seconds it left the poor out-of-towner slightly dizzy. Luckily, she managed to regain her bearings soon after the lip-to-lip contact and blushed just as intensely as the kisser did even after Applejack ended the kiss.

Blinking once or twice the mare laughed only semi nervously before sliding five more bits on the table and looking to the elderly mare who was collecting the bits she paid with, " Wow... Yer granddaughter's one hay of a kisser, Ma'am! I'd definitely say it was worth at least... five extra bits don't ya think?"

"What's yer name partner?"

​

"I'm glad ya asked. The name's Presteza, Travelin' artist and the world's future greatest painter in history!" she stated, puffing her chest out slightly with pride. It seemed that the mare had dreams just as big (if not bigger) than her previously shown streak of confidence. Before she head off to grab her bags and put them on her back she looked back to her soon to be rival and smirked, "I look forward ta racin' with ya! I'll try not ta make it too embarassin'!" she said playfully and moving aside for the next in line.

"Heh, are you sure?"

"Nope. Ya get one for everything. Nice trah though!" Applejack winked at the unicorn, as if to say, 'I won this round.' "That'll be fifteen bits!"

​

The golden tan mare scoffed lightly but let a smile spread over her face shortly after. As the bags were set at her side she couldn't help notice an interesting inflection in Applejack's voice, she could have sworn that was the tone of skepticism. Taking off one the saddlebags she bore on her she laid it down and put a bushel in both bags with the intent of draping the last one over her back when she was ready to take her leave. looking through one of the smaller pockets on her bags she eventually pulled out a small sack that made a faint jingling sound as she moved it.

"Oh I'm positive. I'm a lot stronger than I look y'know!" she stated proudly while returning to the stand for the promised kiss and to provide the promised payment. Dropping the pouch on the table she opened it up and slide fifteen bits forward under her hoof, "I'm pretty fast too... in fact I'm gonna join in the runnin' o' the leaves this year and I betcha I'll win!"

Looking in at her bit pouch she smirked a bit as she saw she had a few more bits left inside, "Hmmm... if I really like the kiss, could I pay a li'l extra... a sorta tip as it were?" she asked playfully.

"I did not think she was a hoofful at all Lieutenant. In fact she was perfectly proper."

For a moment it looked like the lieutenant was going to let out a sigh of relief, "I see... maybe her time on the road has improved her manners a bit. I guess she is growin' up... doesn't stop me from worrying about her though."

"I do not think I can speak of such things. The last time my dear sister was a 'trying presence' was the last time I saw her for a thousand years. She, unfortunately forced me to banish her. I always remember the good before that, and I choose not to remember the bad. I truly wish she had been around to play tricks on me, Lieutenant."

As the princess' expresion grew sad the lieutenant's own expression fell. Seems in his desire to embrace this opportunity to relax and drop his typical formal attitude he had pretty much forgotten the detail of exactly who he was talking to! How could he forget the ... complicated... relationship between the royal sisters and not watch what he said?! The marish stallion gulped and bowed nervously, "I-I'm sorry, you highness. I meant no disrepect... I simply assumed... I-I ... actually don't know what I assumed to be honest."he admitted as he hung his head forlornly.

As his gaze met the ground, similar to his sister's actions earlier... although not as intense he began to doubt whether he really belonged in the royal guard now. If he couldn't show proper respect to the princesses in even a casual setting, how could he be expected to be a trustworthy guard for them and their kingdom? his doubts were only heaped upon each other more-so with the princess' next words in regards to his reference to what other guards had said.

"It is obvious why you think that. I too would be 'grumpy' if that is what my trusted officers decided to talk about. Such things are a sore subject for both my sister and I. If those are the things you would choose to say to her, then perhaps you would do well to avoid her in the mornings."

Why did he have to bring up stupid rumors that circulated the barracks when he honestly had no way knowing whether or not they were true? stupid, stupid guardpony! As he stared at the dirt below his face he had sudden, inexplicable urge to bury his head in it as if to escape his self inflicted embarrassment. As he tried to speak it sounded as if his voice was almost shrinking," I-I'm sorry, Princess. I'll T-try and tell those under my command to stop spreading baseless rumors as soon as I return... that is unless you don't wish me back..."

Fresco shifted on the princess' nose and soon took flight off of it and landed on Fluttershy's outstretched hoof. In response to The pink maned pegasus' query the creature let out a series of squeaks in Fluttershy's ear. If Fluttershy listened the little creature would say that he was being treated wonderfully. After looking back in the princess's direction the little creatures asked who exaclty she was and why she was so tall... fresco wasn't the most knowledgeable of his kind.

Presteza couldn't help but notice Applejack's change of posture and those angled eyes, as an artist she had to have a keen eye for such a detail especially when painting ponies. She remembered some of the other mare's of the upper class in Canterlot and Trottingham would give her mother a somewhat similar look before having a few subtle jabs at eachother. Obviously the young painter had no intention of causing any sort of confrontation with the Apple mare but she couldn't help but return the gesture for a moment as she looked through some of the apples that were on display. Looking at the several apples she noticed once particular name that sounded really tasty; Honeycrisp.

Pointing her hoof to the box bearing the sign with 'honeycrisps' on it and said rather proudly, "I think I'll take... two- no three Bushels o' those... actually, Fresco may want more than 'is own bushel. Just a sec please." Turning around she raised her voice and yelled to the fruit-bat currently resting on the princess's nose, "Fresco! raise a wing fer each bushel ya want!" almost immediately the little creature stretched out a single wing. Seeing her little flying friend's response, the silver maned mare gave a nod and looked back to Applejack, "Yea, Three Bushels o' Honeycrisps if ya would! I can carry 'em myself."

After stating the amount of apples she intended to eat she returned to this unspoken challenge of personality and slightly narrowed her eyes at the mare in the stetson, staring with her icy blue eyes right into Applejack's own bright green eyes. For any bystanders watching, one could practically see sparks flying between the two spirited ponies as they conversed, "So... if I buy three bushels I get three kisses. is that 'ow this works?"

"I didn't hear anything about it, and you didn't hear anything about it from me, until Princess Cadence shouted it out. Myself, I can neither confirm nor deny it. She might be, for all I know."

It seemed the event must have been a misunderstanding on pretty much everypony's part due to a jump to a conclusion by the princess of love. After a few attestations from Princess Twlight's closest friends it seemed the debate over the princess' pretend pregnancy was cleared up. The marish looking stallion turned to Blueblood and chuckled, "Perhaps it was the way you phrased it." he said before looking back to the princess.

"You should be very proud of your sister then, Lieutenant. She has been keeping me company and rather entertained," Celestia turned to Presteza. "Isn't that right? And as for her not attending my school, that is perfectly fine. While I am sure we could have helped her to develop her special talent magic and even hone some finer magical abilities, sometimes it is better for ponies to follow their own path, and your sister seems to have grown into a fine young mare, even without my school's aide."

Silverheart nodded, "She sure can be very entertaining... if a bit of a hoof-full, especially when she was a filly." Despite what the stallion said about his sister his voice still had a tinge of pride for his little sister. She was indeed growing up into a great pony that he was sure would make her family proud... even if she still did have quite a bit of growing left to do. "Little sisters can be quite a trying presence on occasion though. Wouldn't you agree, Princess? I mean when I was traveling with her she'd always say whatever was on her mind whether or not it lead to trouble... and even then she'd still play tricks on me." The stallion probably would have gone on and on if Celestia had not told him of her appreciation of his confidence in her and the other princesses.

"I thank you for your trust and confidence, Silverheart. My sister and I do our best to protect Equestria, with the help of the REA like yourself. There are ways to see my sister if you really wished to. I'm certain you could see her in the mornings before she rests for the day."

The stallion blushed a bit and bowed reflexively towards the princess, "Th-there's no need to mention it, Your highness. I only state the obvious." the guard said with a bit of a stammer at the beginning before continuing. "I suppose I could say Hello to Princess Luna in the mornings... Some of the guards have been saying she can be a bit... grumpy in the morning though."

"I greatly look forward to seeing your name on my schedule in the near future for a portrait appointment Miss Presteza. I'm sure you will do a fantastic job. Greetings Fluttershy, it is a pleasure to see you again."

It was all she could do not to rear back and whinny in excitement, just hearing the princess' support of her dreams was incredible enough to make her overjoyed. the next occurence was only icing on the cake; Fluttershy had appeared!

Waving her hoof to the pink maned pegasus, presteza gave a happy greeting to the shy mare, "Heya, Fluttershy! Thanks again for introducin' me ta Fresco, E's doin' great! Are the other animals at the shelter doin' okay?"

Presteza had previously met Fluttershy during her animal adoption event, where she had met her little traveling companion Fresco, the little fruit-bat who at this very moment was resting in the painter's saddlebag. Speaking of the little Fruit-bat it seemed the clever little creature noticed the mention of Fluttershy's name and poked his head out of the mare's saddlebag to give Flutershy and everypony else a hello squeak. Before Presteza could do anything to prevent it, the little flying mammal flew out of her bag and towards the Sun princess. After circling her head a few times the little creature eventually perched on her muzzle, right on her nose, before giving her a happy little squeak.

The painter looked towards her pet and sighed before looking to Fluttershy again,"Still as energetic as always as ya can see!" Stepping towards the princess once more she smiled slightly awkwardly,"Sorry about Fresco, Yer highness. He's a sociable little fella."

The silver maned mare perked up a moment as she spotted the waving motion from Applejack in her peripheral vision. It seemed that at this point Celestia's plan to get her to relax a bit had worked... maybe a tad too well as she made a slightly odd request of both the princess and her brother, "Could you two take care o' the li'l guy fer a sec while I buy some apples." Her brother just stared at her with a flat expression of disbelief but before he could object his sister just went ahead and took her closer place closer to Carrot.

"Hey partner, I don't think I've ever seen you around these parts."

The tannish yellow pony smiled at Applejack, "Nope This is my first time in Ponyville, but I'm jus' stoppin' by fer a while before I get back ta travelin'! It's awesome ta meet one o' Equestria's heroes... let alone 'ave a chance ta kiss one!" she said ina slightly cheeky tone.

"I do not think there is a form for that miss Presteza, The best way would probably be to fill out the request forms for both, and then send letters to organize it separately. I'm sure Canterlot Court and The Household Office would have no issues working in conjunction of each other."

Not only was the princess of the sun giving the young artist a helpful explanation of how all this paperwork stuff, but it seems Princess Celestia might even be a bit eager to be painted by this peppy artist from the heartlands of Equestria! Presteza couldn't believe how great this was going, her first time having a casual chat with royalty already it was going swimmingly. That grin still plastered on her face she nodded excitedly in response to Princess Celestia, "That's great! I'll have ta start work on that after this! This is gonna be the most amazin' portrait ever!"

“I’ve been to Manehattan a few times myself. They really make good pizza there, so I’m sure you’ll be in heaven when you visit the city.”

Princess Cadence was willing to vouch Manehattan's pizza credentials it seems, just the thought of the incredible pizzas that Manehattan had to offer made the mare's mouth water. The mare had to take a second as she nearly drifted off into a daydream of her making it to the the city and the sights that may await her on her eventual trip there. Once she brought herself out of her imagination she smiled at the Princess Cadence, "You've already been there? Wot was it like there is there anythin' special I should try ta visit?"

"Permission granted. I must ask Lt. Silverheart, is this your sister?"

"Thank you, your Majesty." The pony said before his horn lit up and his magic aura engulfed it's entirety. It took a moment but eventually he slid it off his head and set part of that particular piece of

his regalia to his side. It was nice to get that helmet off his head again, Silver could appreciate it was vital to protect one's head when those few times danger came around but by Celestia that headgear was heavy! The stallion let out a sigh of relief and relaxation before nodding in response to the princess' question, "That she is, your highness. She -was- going to attend your school for talented unicorns but she decided to instead pursue her talent."

"Don't bother trying to put a leash on my Aunt. Generation after generation of guards have tried before you; there are no tricks, no tactics that she has not seen a dozen times before. Try your luck with Princess Luna, she rather likes the old-fashioned."

"Please do not listen to my nephew. You and the rest of the guard are doing a fine job. And as you probably know it is very rare for me to make excursions out of the castle without the Royal Guard."

Silverheart really had no intention of 'putting the princess on a leash' and as far as he knew neither did the rest of the royal guard, "Neither of you need to worry, I think we both know the Princess is perfectly capable of defending herself from... well whatever event comes to Ponyville on a regular basis. Thank you though ,your highness.By the way as much as I'd like to I don't see very much of Princess Luna."

Soon the prince went back to chatting with Cadence. Silver was going to try and strike up a bit more conversation with Princess Celestia but soon everypony's attention was directed to the sound of a princess shouting in surprise.

“YOU MEAN TWILIGHT IS PREGNANT???”

The REA pony gave a quizzical look and looked to Blueblood. Whatever Twilight personal life was not really any of his business unless the REA made it his business. He did know a bit about her and having a foal just after the coronation seemed... maybe a rushed is the right word. Looking to Blueblood the marish stallion coughed to get his attention,"Excuse me, Prince Blueblood... but how did you come by that information? "

Running into Silver was a bit of a surprise. She hadn't seen her big brother in a long time, not since he'd taken off for home and given her the very scarf that adorned her neck. That was about one or two months ago. She knew he had a job to do, being a lieutenant in the R.E.A. but She thought she at least deserved a hello from her big brother. In response to the Armor clad pony's query she let out a huff,"Well I -was- talkin' ta the princess o' love but somepony came in and interupted me ... and worst of all is ya didn't even give me a bloody 'hello!"

The mare then took a moment to look back at the state of the line she was in, a smile appearing on her face as her previous goal of buying apples seemed to be within her reach,"Besides that I'm in line ta buy apples like everypony else with the bonus o' gettin' a kiss from one o' Equestria's heroes!" Presteza was behind Miss Carrot top who now seemed to be involved in a conversation with Applejack after having let Princess Celestia sample a carrot from her bag.

Once Silver replied she went back to addressing Princess Cadence. It seemed Princess Celestia had a bit to say to her as well about more of the procedural process a group portrait would require.

"I cannot speak for the other princesses when it comes to a group portrait. However I think it is a lovely idea, and I'm sure Princess Cadence would be happy to give you her input now as well. However it would require some coordination with Canterlot Court and I believe the Household Office in the Crystal Empire."

There was no way this news could upset Presteza in fact in her excitement she reared back on her hind-legs before addressing the princess of the sun,"That's great, yer highness! I'll see what I can do about another form!" the only problem with submitting these forms was that Presteza found a lot of paperwork quite boring... but her dreams and aspirations were worth plowing some paperwork out of her way.

“Just curious, But you’re still travelling around a lot these days, are you?”

In regards to Princess Cadence's question she gave a nod,"Yep! I sure am! I'm actually hopin' ta see Manehattan soon, I'm gonna try and find the best vantage point ta paint the big statue in the harbor... and after that I'm gonna sample every slice o' pizza from every pizza place there! I keep hearin' ponies say Manehattan is like the Pizza capital of Equestria and I'm gonna see if it's true!"

Silver was still rather surprised his sister was here in Ponyville. When he left her he thought for sure she'd travel to some far of lands like Unyasi or the like to celebrate her freedom. He mostly just sat there waiting for her to finish her explanation, "Well... It's nice to see you again, Presteza... um sorry for interrupting. " said the guard pony in a hesitant tone. As much as he wanted to converse with his little sister he still had a job to do. Speaking of his job it seems his Boss was speaking to him.

"I do have my reasons for doing what I did Lt. Silverheart. I do appreciate the concern of your captain and the rest of the REA and Royal Guards, though. I will be sure to make every effort to alert the Captain

"You may continue to accompany me until I return to Canterlot, if it will set your mind at ease,"

Silver smiled at the princess and let out a sigh of relief,"I'd honestly love to, Your Highness. It would be nice to relax a bit for a while I suppose. Might I have permission to remove my helmet?"

"Dear Cady, huh?... I guess it couldn't hurt to ask a princess for her opinion." Thought the silvery grey mare as she looked over the morning paper. Silver Belle's day at the manor was once again severely boring. The school in Canterlot had no need of her services. Her husband was away on R.E.A. business again and her son was in the same boat. Belle's Daughter... well the last she heard of her was in he last letter where she said she was headed to the Crystal empire. Now the Duchess was left only with the company of the waitstaff.

With how slow her day was going it seemed writing a letter was going to be it's highlight whether she liked it or not. After a bit of searching she managed to get some paper and a pencil and began writing down her letter. The mare's writing was neat and flowing script, a writing style that fit a mare of class and grace such as herself.

"Dear Cady,

I am a married mare with a husband in the Royal Equestrian Army and two former foals now out in the world. I have always been rather absorbed in my various magical research and studies and looking back I feel I may not have given enough time to my son and daughter... especially my daughter. Ever since she was a filly she's had trouble manipulating her magic correctly and I feel I should have been able to do more to help her. She seemed to have some of my aptitude for the magic arts I thought and she even inherited a trait from me where our magic acts up whenever we sneeze... despite what she share in common I always find it a bit hard to connect with her even when I love her as much as any mother can love her foal. Nowadays she is on the road getting into all kinds of trouble that worries me to know end in the pursuit of improving her talent. I was wondering should I do some traveling of my own and try and meet her so I can connect with her more or would you have any suggestions that may help me?

There is one other issue I have although I feel it is a bit less notable but somehow no less important. My Husband has moved up in rank since her first joined the army and lately he has not been home as often as I'd prefer. I know he has his duty to our fair country but not having that big stubborn oaf around the ...house makes this place feel really empty. I wonder if he took my (half) joking threat of shaving off that ridiculous mustache of his off literally... I should probably wrap this up before I start ramble on paper.

Sincerely,

'A Bell in Trottingham'"

With some slick manipulation of her telekinesis she folded up the paper and put it in an envelope. After a quick call for a servant to bring the letter to the mailing office it was off to the Princess of love.

-"Duchess" Silver Belle- http://www.canterlot...er-belle-ready/ (WoE)

Unicorn// Mare// Magical Scholar

How others might have heard of her:

part of a long line of powerful and skilled Magic users who in ancient days were given the title of Duke/Duchess those of the Upper class in any circle will likely have heard of the unnoficial duchess of Trottingham. Gives occasional lectures at the School for talented unicorns in Canterlot so students of there would likely know of her if they attended.

Notable abilities and traits:

*An immensely powerful and skilled magic user (Magic ca be toned down if need be)

Spells she knows:

• Telekinesis: capable of lifting incredible weights with her magic if she is given time to concentrate and if she exerts herself.

• Teleportation: Is capable of performing up to nine teleportations in a row if she uses them to travel a short distance. For longer distances she requires a bit of concentration and knowledge of exactly where she is. Her farthest teleport took her to Trottingham square from her room in the manor in north Trottingham. If necessary she can teleport up to five ponies with her to another location but her magic will be disabled for a while after wards. is capable of teleporting smaller things to her position from almost anywhere if she can visualize them perfectly and has seen them before in person
• Has learned how to conjure all four classical elements
• Failsafe spell: Able to undo or stop magical effects caused be other unicorns
• Illusionary magic: Able to summon up multiple images of her that can be used to distract, taunt, and mess with other ponie's heads
• Knows of many forms of magic known only to the highest of level unicorns

“Ah, I remember you Presteza, or should I say, Allergic Artist. What are the gentlecolts giving you for gifts these days?”

"Wow! Ya remember me! This is so cool! Gettin' ta meet two princesses one day! So! Awesome!" It seemed that Presteza was still in her own little world for the moment. In her excitement she began to prance around excitedly, the fringe that hid one of her eyes flipping upwards and momentarily exposing both her icy blue eyes to the world. Soon enough though the excitable young mare realized she had been asked a question and stopped to calm herself down and answer Cadence's question.

Taking a second to push her fringe back into it's normal position she bowed to Cadence to show her the proper respect, even though her big ecstatic smile was still plastered on her face. Soon she managed to speak up although in her enthusiasm she still spoke pretty fast and the cracks in her voice didn't seem to be going anywhere,"Well, Princess when I'm around long enough for sompony ta give me somethin' it's usually somethin' like chocolate or food er somethin'... wait a sec chocolate is food... anyway, yeah yer advice was a great help!"

"Ugh... Really you'd think a really tall alicorn princess wouldn't have been able to slip out of the castle so easily without alerting the guard..." Thought the silver Guard pony as he walked calmly down the paths of Ponyville. Silverheart's day so far had been quite uneventful, but so was the life of a member of an army that protected a land that rarely had any conflict. Unlike some ponies who joined the Royal Equestrian army seeking adventure and just wishing for a day when they could have some excitement, Silver actually much preferred these uneventful days. thing being Uneventful meant there was no real trouble and no trouble meant no unhappy ponies and no unhappy ponies meant everything was in order.

As silver strolled down the streets of Ponyville he noticed besides the few stares he was getting that there seemed to be quite a few ponies heading towards the apple family's farm, "Hm... Maybe the Princess decided to check on Miss Applejack if anypony has a chance to draw a crowd it's the princess..."

Silver broke off into a gallop towards Sweet Apple Acres and on the horizon he saw a line with just the princess he was looking for standing in it... plus another princess he hadn't gotten to actually speak to in a casual setting just yet and she seemed to be talking to somepony familiar but at the moment he didn't have time to see who it was.

"Your highness!" Shouted the stallion, although nopony would be able to tell he was a stallion at first glance or even first sound seeing as his voice didn't help any confusion. Soon Silver came to a halt before the princess of the sun before bowing his head,"Princess, I apologize if i seem impertinent, but next time if you wish to leave the castle could you please tell the captain? he's guards to search all over Canterlot... and me to Ponyville to find you."

soon the lieutenant lifted his head and turned to Princess Cadence to address her with a respectful bow of his head as well, "It's nice to meet you, Princess Cadence. I am Second Lieutenant Silverheart of the Royal Equestrian Army. May I ask what bring you to Ponyville today and how your husband fairs?"

"Silver! I was talkin' ta princess cadence! don' butt in!" said an extremely familiar sounding voice in an agitated tone.

Glancing up at the source his eyes widened and his jaw dropped before he lifted his head and asked loudly in his surprise,"Pressy! what in Equestria are you doing here?!"

Even before the princess replied to her questions, Presteza had been thinking up several new ones. Where would Celestia wish to be painted? was there anything in particular she should wear? would she mind if she were painted with the other princesses?

"There will be plenty of time to discuss how the painting will be done once an appointment is arranged. I do favour allowing the painter to have creative license, within reason of course. So I'm sure however you choose to paint me will be fine,"

A massive grin appeared on the young artist's face, any traces of the sadness from earlier far gone. "Thanks so much, Princess! I can't wait! Maybe I should use one o' those fancy silk canvases! should I ask my folks back in Trottingham if they know anypony who makes really good paint?oh wot am I sayin' those two can't tell a flat brush from a rigger! Aw, hayseeds! I'm rabblin' again. Sorry this is just too cool! I promise that I'll start workin' on those forms n' stuff right away!" This was actually the second time she was told about having to make an official appointment by a princess, although the last time it was in the form of text rather than in person.

"Oh um... Princess ,when I get all that paperwork stuff done with would you mind if I painted you, Princess Luna, Princess Twilight, and--"

"Princess Cadence..."

Presteza nodded with an embarrassed chuckle, "Yep, her too!" she actually had written to the new princess of the crystal empire in her advice column about a personal problem she was having as she traveled from place to place. Some post script in her letter to Princess Cadence was asking if she would like to model for her and she gave pretty much the same reply as Celestia... albeit without the teasing. She was going to continue to try and talk to Celestia about the prospects of the future paintings but something the Princess of the sun said next got her attention.

"It is so nice to see you again. Are you here to get some apples as well?"

"Huh? Wot are ya talkin' abo..." the mare turned and she stood there staring a moment, she could hardly believe what she was seeing. The Princess of love was here in Ponyville buying apples too,"P-Princess Cadence! This is so cool! I actually get ta see ya in person! y-ya might no' remember me but I'm Presteza! Y'know, the uh..." the mare blushed a bit and mumbled out,"The... Allergic ... Artist..." she managed to perk back up quickly enough to look back at Celestia with a big grin on her face,"I can't believe this! If Princess Luna and Princess Twilight show up, this'll be the happiest day o' my life!" at this point the excited little painter was going a mile a minute, her words practically running together and her voice cracking more so than usual in her intense excitement

-Amber Tome- http://www.canterlot.com/topic/16868-professor-ambertome-ready/ (WoE)

Crystal pony// Stallion// School teacher

It's nice to meet you! I hope you'll have a great time here!

Presteza had managed to finally visit the crystal empire on her travels. She still had quite a bit to see on the road and lot of styles she needed to master. Despite the mare's fairly consistent upbeat attitude and the presence of a certain flying companion who had taken to hanging from the brim of her hat, Presteza had been feeling a bit lonely. Her faithful Chiropteran companion may be nice company but he wasn't always the most stimulating of conversation.

Upon entering the gates of the Crystal empire she was expecting to be greeted by maybe one or two decent crystal pony folk, but it seemed a paper had beaten them to the punch and promptly collided with her face. Pulling the paper off and pinning it to the ground under her hooves she looked at the first column that drew her eye. The princess ran an advice column? This could certainly be an interesting development.

Galloping to the nearest inn and buying a room for the coming weeks as per usual she found a quill and paper. Taking the Quill in her teeth she began to write down her letter. Her hoof- or in this case toothwriting was a bit sloppy but still legible.

"Dear Cady,

I have been traveling the roads on my own for a long time now on my own. My pet Fruitbat, Fresco is a sweetheart and smart as a whip but he's not much in the way of conversation. I've met quite a few nice stallions ... and mares but I never bother trying to pursue a relationship with any of them because as I said I'm on the road almost constantly and remaining stationery is not an option for me, at least not yet. Lately I have also found some stallions when I visit someplace try to give me flowers. This usually ends badly for them and leaves me mostly-okay entirely- embarrassed because I have allergies to pollen and my magic can surge and/or misfire when I sneeze. Do you have any ideas on how I could get stallions to let up on that and I'd honestly prefer not having to wear a sign around whenever I enter a town.

Equestria's soon to be greatest painter,

Presteza

Ps,

Could I please pain't you sometime? I think you'd make an awesome model!

"

"I only have one thing left to say to you, miss Presteza."

The mare's head hung and she reflexively shut her eyes as she heard the princess approaching her, what was she going to say now? was she going to have any of the Trottingham mare's art from ever reaching a gallery? Was she going to tell her to give up on ever painting anypony ever again? She could only grit her teeth she listened for what she was sure going to be the last nail in the coffin for her hopes.

"Gotcha!"

The mare's eyes opened and blinked a few times in surprise,"W-wait...wot?... uh..." She was dumbfounded for a few seconds but eventually she slowly pieced what was happening together. She had to admit, the princess had gotten her good. She also had to admit her pride felt a bit bruised so she put on a slightly tough facade with a smile as she wiped something away from her eyes,"W-Wow Princess! ya definitely got me good... I wasn' cryin' though!"

"She's also rather big on these little pranks. If you think this is bad, you try living with her."

The mare chuckled a bit at the prince,"She mustn't be tha' bad since you decided ta help 'er out!" she retorted in a slightly playful tone.

"To be completely serious with you, I personally don't make such appointments. You would have to go through the proper channels at the Canterlot Court."

"I can however tell the court to be expect a formal request from you."

Presteza effectively lit up, a grin plastered upon her face. It may be a small favor but the fact that princess was willing to do anything for her was incredible! The mare bowed deeply to the princess of the sun,"Thanks so much, yer highness! Do ya mind if I ask ya few questions about what kinda painting you'd like done in advance? how would ya like the overall feel o' the piece? I guess wot I mean ta ask is if ya want ta pose in a way that showcases aspects of you? I could do a painting that showcases yer power, perhaps yer authority, or maybe even your... uh allure. Anyway This is so bloody excitin' and so awesome! is there any kinda canvas ya'd like me ta use?" the mare's speech was going a mile a minute, with each word it seemed like a miracle she was able to keep up this line of questioning seeing as she didn't stop to take a breath in her extreme excitement.

With the recent approval of Ambertome I have now mark her as ready!

"It's true, you know," He said, joining in on his aunt's little game with a sympathetic look, "She is all about courtesy, and doesn't tolerate any exceptions. Ask me how I know." As much as he'd try to deny it, they were in no way so closely related as their senses of humor.

The prince's words... didn't help. Each singular word made her wince like she was receiving a sharp jab in the side. She sincerely wished she hadn't eaten her hat previously cause now she could really use it as she always would during the moments she felt vulnerable; during such times she would usually either lower or push the brim of her hat to cover her expression. All she had at her disposal now was her bangs which only covered one eye so instead of even trying to keep eye contact with the prince she just kept her eyes glued to the ground and stared at her hooves.

"Ri-right... sorry ta have bothered you, yer highnesses..." her voice was very unsteady sounding like she was trying to keep herself from crying. She took a deep breath and pushed the vibrant blue scarf she wore with a hoof and brushed it under one of her eyes as if to wipe something away.

"If I can't paint the princesses than none o' this is gonna feel like it's got any point... I guess I can still try and paint some o' the historical sites an' stuff. If I go back home I guess I could still paint sometime but wot the hay else am I gonna do? I can't use magic on anythin' but my brushes without messin' it up somehow..." With each thought the mare seemed to almost sink further and further into her little slump as she piled on various thoughts on what she would do with herself.

The painter chuckled a bit wryly,"Well I'm stuck with buckin' stuff .. my horns only good fer messin' up and levitatin' these brushes o' mine." the mare with a sort of empty pride before poking a hoof to her horn and sighing.

"As fer uh... bein' ... uh cognizant o' my abilities and limitations... I don' really know 'em, I jus' stick ta my painting." she said before walking over to a nearby tree and giving it a powerful kick and waiting as an apple feel from one of it's branches. Rearing up on her hindlegs she caught the apple in her teeth and began to munch away and chuckling,"No' bad... nowhere near as good as one o' the apple families apples, but decent. Want one?" she asked before carefully placing her hat back on her head to shield her eyes from the sun once more.

Welcome to canterlot! I'm sure you'll have an awesome time!

good ... I'm just waiting on AMbertome to be approved before i mark it as ready

"Normally I'm jus' focused on what I love about painting in general, spells are usually the farthest from my mind. " The mare thought a moment before giving a shrug,"'sides Like I said I been doin' that since I was a foal and I probably wouldn't 'ave been too focused on it then." Most of what Asteria said had pretty much flown way over the Trottingham pony's head. Presteza, while she had been given an excellent education was not the most articulate or well read. She had pretty much left her thoughts on any magical theory back at the study in her parents manor when she went traveling to hone her skills as a painter.

The silvery maned mare shuffled a bit in place and gave slightly awkward smile,"Oh you do alot o' runnin' too? I'm pretty fast myself... plus I'm pretty good at buckin' trees" the mare gave a more genuine smile before bucking the the air behind her, showing very good form and energy for such and activity.

"Ah, right, as you were saying, Miss Presteza? I should like to see a sample of your work sometime. I am known to be a patron of the arts occasionally."

The Prince's coughing fit snapped the mare out of her own little trance in which she was chiding herself profusely. A small smile creased her lips as she saw blueblood's momentary embarassed expression,"No need ta look so embarassed yer highness... Like my parents used ta say ta me back at the manor: Even nobles have gotta breath right, dun' they?" she said in a slightly playful tone,"But anyway I'd be happy ta paint somethin' for ya someti--"

Celestia straightened up from leaning in after hearing the demand, and wiped her smile from her face. She looked down on Presteza with a stern look. "Though I have been painted many times, most have not been so bold as to demand my cooperation." Celestia began in a seemingly disappointed voice. "Most [by which the princess inferred all] painters and artists saw it proper to politely request I be the subject of one of their works of art. I strongly suggest you remember common courtesy. It is usually met much better than frivolous demands."

The golden tan mare practically shrunk as she heard the words of the princess. She had royally (no pun intended) messed up now! Here face practically fell as each word was uttered, her ears falling as well and going flat as Celestia finished her reprimand. Immediately she turned to the princess looking an odd mix of frantic and remorseful,"I-I;m so sorry, Princess please fergive me!...I-I guess there really isn't an excuse for that... I-I just was really eager ta meet ya and well you're even more awesome up close is all!" she said with her words speeding up near the end before sher sadly turned back to the line and hung her head sadly with her long blue scarf dragging on the ground...

In her head the young artist from Trottingham was once again chastising herself in her head, "Good goin' ,Pressy. I hope yer proud o' yerself, ya ruined any chances you had of painting any of the princesses now. Now you'll never get to paint the princess of the night , love, sun , or magic... not once in your life..."

Asteria listened to the response of the clearly embarrassed painter but showed no sign of disapproval. The black mare studied the new face in front of her for a brief moment, formulating something meaningful to say the sniffling artist. "Lady Presteza, I would suggest you avoid using magic while you are sneezing. Sneezing is a primary cause of loss of focus during use of magic, and losses of focus can be rather dangerous as you can see. Perhaps it would be best to simply sneeze as much as possible until the sensation passes, holding back such a reflex only amplifies the reaction further,"

The mare chuckled a bit,"Well that's kind of a problem... since every time I sneeze I wind up casting a spell, It's been happenin' ta me since I was a foal." she said with a slightly embarrassed grin. "So sneezin' as much as possible might be ... problematic, y'know? Like I said though sittin' next to a bed o' daisies wasn't my best idea... but the perspective from there was so great..." the mare hung her head sadly before sighing.

Hearing Asteria ask about her hat she perked up a bit. The hat, while not the original, had quite a few happy memories attached to it,"Oh well ta be honest it was supposed ta be a sunhat like my teacher used to wear but i kept messing it up and wound up turning it into this! One day I'm gonna get it right though!" With that the mare puffed her chest out slightly in pride of what she was sure was going to be a future accomplishment,"Oh? yer a traveler too?"