[Trottingham] Three Lakes Café is now serving! [CLOSED until I get things sorted out :P ]

[Jane]

Three Lakes Café

The Three Lakes Café is located on the northeastern corner of Tatterstall Drive and Stampford Street in Trottingham, and it has been a vibrant part of the town's community for more than ten years. The friendly staff and excellent service coupled with a warm and relaxing environment make it a great place to spend an afternoon visiting with friends or getting to know new people within the community. The menu is also expansive; whether you're looking to enjoy a traditional cup of Earl Grey tea with scones at a relaxing pace, or a double-shot of espresso to-go to kick-start your busy morning, we have something for everypony!

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Really super simple floor plan New and improved floor plan thanks to the ever-awesome DamianMane:

Menu

Tea..............................................2 bits

(Green Tea, English Breakfast, Earl Grey, Orange Pekoe, Chamomile, Chai)

Fresh-Brewed Coffee..............................2 bits

(Regular or Decaf)

Espresso Coffee..................................3 bits

(Cappuccino, Latte, Flat White, Long Black, Short Black, Macchiato, Piccolo Latte)

(Can be made with full cream milk or skim milk; for soy milk, add 1 bit)

Speciality Coffee................................4 bits

(Caramel Latte, Vanilla Latte, Hazelnut Latte, Peppermint Latte, Chai Tea Latte, Café Mocha)

(Can be made with full cream milk or skim milk; for soy milk, add 1 bit)

Hot Chocolate....................................3 bits

(Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate or White Chocolate)

(Can be made with full cream milk or skim milk; for soy milk, add 1 bit)

Babycino.........................................1 bit

Minicino.........................................2 bits

Milkshakes.......................................4 bits

(Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla, Banana, Caramel, Lime)

Cold Drinks......................................4 bits

(Iced Mocha, Iced Coffee, Iced Chocolate)

Frappés..........................................5 bits

(Chocolate, Vanilla, Hazelnut, Cookies & Cream, Peppermint, Caramel)

Food:

Muffins..........................................2 bits

(Chocolate Chip, Blueberry, Raspberry, Orange Poppyseed, Banana)

Bagel with butter................................2 bits

Bagel with cream cheese..........................3 bits

(Plain, Cinnamon-Raisin, Poppy Seed, Sesame Seed, Blueberry)

Donuts (with or without sprinkles)...............2 bits

(Chocolate, Strawberry, Caramel, Maple)

Plain croissant..................................2 bits

Cheese croissant.................................3 bits

Cinnamon Buns (glazed or frosted)................2 bits

Banana Bread.....................................3 bits

Carrot Cake......................................3 bits

Apple Fritter....................................2 bits

Chewy brownie....................................2 bits

Scones...........................................2 bits

(With Whipped Cream, Strawberry Jam, Orange Marmalade, Grape Jelly or Cherry Jam)

Sandwiches.......................................4 bits

(Egg salad, Tomato & Swiss Cheese, Daffodil & Daisy, Clover & Honeysuckle, Rose Petal & Lily Blossom)

Sandwiches.......................................5 bits

(Egg salad, Tomato & Swiss Cheese, Daffodil & Daisy, Clover & Honeysuckle, Rose Petal & Lily Blossom)

Soups............................................4 bits

(Roast Pumpkin, Cream of Broccoli, Cream of Corn and Cauliflower, Tomato & Vegetable)

(All Soups served with a white, brown, or wholegrain bread roll)

Hay Fries........................................4 bits

Baked Potato (with chives and sour cream)........4 bits

Plain Oatmeal with brown sugar...................2 bits

Oatmeal with a topping...........................3 bits

(Strawberries, blueberries, bananas, maple syrup, chocolate malt, chocolate chips)

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[Jane]

The warm afternoon sun was beaming through the west-facing windows of the café on the corner of Tatterstall Drive and Stampford Street as the mare inside bustled about, doing the daily tasks involved in the running of the small restaurant. In its beams danced little dust mites - her daughter called them Celestia's fairies, bless her. The windows were decorated with checked curtains she's made herself, using her favourite robin-egg blue in both the curtains and the solid tablecloths that covered the dozen or so wooden tables in the dining area. In crystal vases that were actually made of cheap glass were fresh-picked dandelions delivered that morning by one of the local florists. Posted in the window of the door, written in the owner's scrawling, looping hoofwriting, was a fresh new sign. It read "Help Wanted, apply within."

On the east wall, to the left to the cash-register, was a community bulletin board, completely plastered with posters and notices from all over Trottingham. There was a notice about the circus that would be coming to town next month, a few job offers from the vineyards north of town as well as a mare looking for a foalsitter for her twin boys. Puppies, free to a good home. Yard sale on Coltgrave street this Saturday. Town Council meeting next Thursday at 4 pm. A pony offering piano lessons. A printout of the weather schedule the town's weather team had planned for the upcoming week. An arts show being advertised at the gallery. A pony looking for a maths tutor for high school.

The bulletin board was Latte's favourite thing about her café. The checked curtains, the polished floor, and the bright dandelions all added to the warm atmosphere, but the bulletin board captured the true spirit of Three Lakes - the community. It was an unofficial gathering place for the ponies of the town, where they could chatter and gossip and connect with one another, make friends, get to know their neighbours. This was the reason Vanilla Latte had founded Three Lakes Café.

There were only a few customers sitting the café - a young couple at one table outside, and an elderly stallion at one of the tables along the west wall. Just as Latte was about to go back into the kitchen to get started on the croissants for tomorrow, the bell above the door jingled brightly to announce the arrival of another customer.

[colour=#5D361E]"Well now, good afternoon, Stormwing,"[/colour] Latte said brightly, [colour=#5D361E]"bit late for midday tea then, innint it?"[/colour]

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The red-maned pegasus smiled at the earth pony behind the counter as he trotted up to it. [colour=#00333E]"Hi Latte. There were more clouds than usual in the sky this morning is all. And Breezyblue's out sick; took longer than expected to get everything done."[/colour]

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Latte nodded as she set about making Stormwing's coffee and serving up his usual order of a tomato and swiss cheese sandwich with cream of broccoli soup. [colour=#5D361E]"I 'eard Breezy was out, poor dear. I'll 'ave to get my other 'alf over to 'er with some soup. That'll fix 'er right up. Ten bits, love."[/colour]

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Stormwing counts out the coins and hoofs them over to the barista. [colour=#00333E]"Looking for some help around here, then?"[/colour] he asks, as he wanders over to a table by the window. The conversation carries on across the dining room between the two ponies.

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Vanilla Latte nods. [colour=#5D361E]"Cheerylou's quittin', she's off to the university in Canterlot soon. It's a bloomin' shame, too - she 'as just the right spirit for a job like this. But it'll be good for 'er. Anyways, I can't be runnin' the shop in the evenin', what with council business and the foals bein' at 'ome."[/colour] She places a mug of fresh-brewed coffee on a saucer and carries it over to the table after him. [colour=#5D361E]"Know anypony lookin' for a job in 'ospitality, Stormwing?"[/colour]

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He shakes his head. [colour=#00333E]"Nopony I can think of. I'm sure you'll find someone - plenty of students would love working for you, Latte." [/colour]

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[colour=#5D361E]"I 'ope so, I've only got a few weeks left afore she'll be leavin'."[/colour]

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Stormwing sips his coffee thoughtfully. [colour=#00333E]"Quiet afternoon, then?"[/colour] he asks, looking around the restaurant.

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[colour=#5D361E]"For now, though I expect it'll get busy enough afore too long. 'Ow's your sister doing, then?"[/colour]

But before the dusty blue pegasus has the chance to reply, their conversation is interrupted by the sound of the bell above the door as another pony enters the café.

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[Volt]

Although she still possessed some kind of hatred towards big, bustling cities, Lotus had to admit that her hometown had something... magical to it. All the infrastructure looking so rich, sometimes emblazoned with unique friezes developed in far Equestria past, other time supported by columns with magnificent chapiters. Trottingham really had some sentiment for past it seemed. As she made her way through the streets in this sunny day, she contemplated on how the day was going so far. It was one of those rare occasions she had a chance to leave Ponyville and visit her parents in order to renew family bonds and, of course, have a pleasant chatter. Funny thing was that she actually woke up before Aloe this time in order to catch the train. Such a rarity...

Though of course, since Trottingham was her hometown, she couldn't have denied herself the possibility of venturing into the city centre. She partially forced herself into doing this, but it was mostly her parents who made her pick this decision. Even though she explained them how she's not keen on experiencing all the city buzz, they insisted, supporting their idea with an argument that she can always visit "that peaceful café on the corner". She had a slight knowledge about its placement. Perhaps it would be easier for her to remember, if not the fact that she lived on the second city edge. But since she rarely left Ponyville, she'd probably feel wrong if she didn't give her birth place some proper respect. All in all she submitted to them. Lotus' parents were *really* convincing when they had an idea stuck in their heads...

After visiting all the important landmarks and witnessing how, if at all, the city has changed, she finally made her way down the Stratford Street. There was no reason for why she shouldn't take up on her father's suggestion. It certainly was a slow day, so a cup of coffee wouldn't do her any bad. Small, white hoofbag bounced on her side as she graciously trotted past other ponies. She also didn't resign from her headband. Through months and years of her work in spa, it somewhat became incorporated in Lotus' image. Upon finally reaching Tatterstall Drive, she took a closer look at the building to her right. She couldn't exactly recall when was the last time she visited this part of city, but the building itself really looked peculiar. It seemed to fit in local architecture, but at once it had its own, original style. Cerulean mare tilted her head slightly as a little smile appeared on her face. Whoever the owner was he, or she of course, had to have *some* kind of interesting personality.

Trotting onward and finally taking a step inside, she heard a bell ringing above her head as she pushed the doors. She raised her sight for a second, sparing it a little attention and giggling in mind at this little detail, before proceeding inside. The interior itself differed from what she had seen all around the city. It was rather simple and charming rather than rich and lavish. The bulletin board at the far end of the room was simply a cherry on the top. Perhaps her father was right? First impression was certainly positive in Lotus' opinion. More than that, it really seemed quiet and peaceful. Just what she needed.

[colour=#3399ff]" [/colour][colour=#ff99ff]'a[/colour][colour=#3399ff]fternoon."[/colour] - any local could notice that her accent had something more to it and was a bit off. The homely atmosphere of this place encouraged her to trot towards the table where two ponies were at. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]F[/colour][colour=#3399ff]orgive me my insolence, but mind if I take a seat?"[/colour] - she wasn't really in mood to be sitting alone. In fact, given how much she loved to gossip, she never was in such mood. Of course, Trottingham was a tourist city, so she might have made a mistake approaching them so directly, but in end what worst could have happened?

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[Derpyy]

((Don't have a banner for this OC yet ))

Heart was having just a wonderful day. Everything seemed perfect. The sun was just right and the clouds...well he didn't much care for the clouds but what they hay! They were perfect as well! Just then Heart had a breeze of that wonderful Trottingham air go over him. He inhaled and took in as much as he could. The exhale almost seemed to depress him. But he figured he would take another breath here and there.

As Heart was trotting down the street he took in all of the sights and sounds around him. Now today was a bit different for Heart. Normally he would be at his office in the small hospital he worked at. Either doing paperwork or doing what he loved. Which was not only being a doctor to sick and injured ponies. But it was making them happy again. He remembered when he had a young pegasus come into the hospital because she had broken her wing. He stayed by her side almost the whole day. And the next day. He always reminded her that she would fly again. But that was a while ago. This is now.

Heart was a small stallion. Not by age at all. He was a stallion. He was just built smaller than most of the other stallions. But he liked it. It didn't bother him. He saw no reason to try to get big.

But that was just who he is. As Heart was trotting along the street he decided to try and smell some of that wonderful Trottingham air again. Which was weird how much he loved the air today since he had lived here his whole life. But he then inhaled a big breath. But something else was caught in his nose. Not a thing but a smell. It was amazing! The smell practically lifted Heart off of the ground and moved his hooves for him. He seemed to be in a trance. Once he got out of this trance he found himself in front of a small cafe. He saw that he was on Stratford street.

He looked up at the sign on the building.

[colour=#8b4513]"Three Lakes Cafe? Charming." [/colour]He smiled and then went into the shop. When he trotted inside it was even better. The atmosphere was so welcoming and warm. He saw a few ponies sitting at a few tables. A few young and old and a few the same age as him. He trotted slowly a bit and then stopped.

[colour=#282828] [/colour][colour=#3399FF]"[/colour][colour=#FF99FF]F[/colour][colour=#3399FF]orgive me my insolence, but mind if I take a seat?"[/colour]

Heart looked over to see a blue coloured mare with a bright pink mane. Her mane looked as if it had white streaks in it. But the mare looked as if she knew a thing or two about beauty. She had an accent that Heart had never really heard before. He had never met this mare before. But there is no shame in trying. She was wanting to sit down at a table with two pones already at it. So Heart decided to try something. The light brown stallion was making himself nervous. His mane fell in his face a bit so he pushed it away and made it stay out of his face.

He moved over to a table close and pulled out a chair. He looked over at the mare and cleared his throat.

[colour=#8b4513]"Um Excuse me madam? But would you like to sit..um..here? I don't really like to sit alone you see..and I um.."[/colour] He let out a small nervous chuckle. He didn't want to make a fool of himself in front of a pony he didn't even know! But now he would have to wait for the mare's responese.

[Elderflower]

Trottingham had been a great city for the drifter Riff Run, but she was finally ready to move on to the next town. The vagabond jazz mare was a restless one and she hated to stay in one place for too long. Only her home in Corralwood Corral was dear enough to tempt her to stay longer than a week. The sun-soaked beaches, the steady rhythm of the ocean, the scent of chocolate and coffee wafting through the lazy streets…its many charms tugged at the charismatic earth pony’s heartstrings with impressive strength. Oftentimes, she would feel homesick for her island paradise, but every time she returns her hooves start itching for adventure and music yet again.

With a bounce in her step, Riff trotted through the crowded streets of the metropolis and hummed some hard bop with her eyes closed. Of course, with her eyes closed she had a tendency to bump into other ponies, but would that knock any sense into her? Unlikely.

Riff Run was a mare on a mission – she wanted to hit the dusty trail again as soon as possible, and nothing was going to stop her wanderlust. At least, that’s what she thought until the smell of fresh coffee smacked her in the face. Normally she would appreciate the unique perfume and continue on her way, but with thoughts of home flooding her mind the jazz mare couldn’t help but follow her nose. The familiar smell and the sun beating down on her was just too nostalgic to resist, and so without even looking up for the name of the place Riff found herself heading into the café with the tantalizing smell of coffee wafting from it.

THUNK.

Riff, having been walking with her eyes closed, had trotted headfirst into a walking muscle. At least that’s what it felt like. She opened her golden/brown eyes and peered up at the towering pegasus before her. He was large, muscular, and brooding. Totally scary. And his clothes looked really darn expensive! Oops! Hopefully she didn’t wrinkle it up too bad.

[colour=#daa520]“Sorry, kitten! Mare on a mission!”[/colour] was all she offered as an apology. To make matters worse, she rubbed her hoof on the stallion’s mane and charged on into the café.

[colour=#daa520]“Gooooood afternoon!”[/colour] she called cheerfully to the mare behind the counter, [colour=#daa520]“Gimme the strongest, most unforgiving brew ya’ve got, you bodacious barista you! Preeeetttttyyy please!”[/colour]

A wicked grin cracked Riff’s mouth wide open, showing off her pearly whites as she neared the counter.

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Lume blinked once. Then he blinked twice, and then a third time just for good measure as he stared down at the rather…oafish mare who had run into him. He tried to back away from her once he noticed she was barrelling forwards with her eyes closed, but it was too late. By the time he had seen her the collision was inevitable. He had to question if she was steam-powered! Such force!

He didn’t even have a chance to reply when she offered up a meagre apology, and instead found himself alone in front of the entrance to Three Lakes, brushing off his immaculate bespoke clothing and adjusting his spectacles. With a sigh, he entered the establishment and got in line behind the very…enthusiastic mare. Despite their collision, Luminous Charge was still determined to sample the café’s menu. He was in Trottingham for the opening of one of his own exhibits, and a few fellow artists had recommended this spot to him. Quiet, unobtrusive, with great service and quality coffee and food.

When his turn in line came, the stallion approached the counter and loomed for a moment before making up his mind.

[colour=#800000]“Good afternoon,”[/colour] he said, his deep voice a little flat and much less friendly than he felt he was being. The sculptor is gentle as a lamb but carried himself like a stern son of a gun, unfortunately [colour=#800000]“I would like the roast pumpkin soup and a long black if you please. My colleagues speak highly of your establishment.”[/colour]

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[Jane]

[colour=#5D361E]“See wot I mean then, Stormwing?”[/colour] Latte said with a smile, [colour=#5D361E] “Never Quiet for long ‘round ‘ere.”[/colour]

Now Vanilla Latte knew Trottingham better than she knew her two hooves, and she liked to think she knew all the ponies around these parts. Oh, it wasn’t a small town by any means; truth be told, it was a rather bustling resort town and some might even call it the big city. But that didn’t mean that the locals didn’t have a sense of community about them – quite the opposite. When half of your town’s population doesn’t actually live there, you have to get to know the ones that do if you want there to be any sort of stability in your life. That was her theory, anyways.

The blue earth pony with the pink mane struck a chord of familiarity somewhere. She wasn’t a regular – not like Stormwing whose daily schedule, sporadic though it was, she more or less had memorized. Latte couldn’t even tell if she was a local. She did have a rather – distinctive accent. But Vanilla Latte could’ve sworn she’d seen this pony on a previous occasion. An old school acquaintance, maybe?

Before she’d had the chance to even greet the newcomer, the mare inquired as to whether or not she could sit at Stormwing’s table. Shame on you, Latte, she thought to herself, not greeting a customer first thing on the uptake.

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[colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]F[/colour][colour=#3399ff]orgive me my insolence, but mind if I take a seat?"[/colour]

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Stormwing smiled warmly at the mare who had just entered the shop. Well, wasn’t he a lucky stallion? A beautiful mare with a sweet accent and wide eyes was asking to share a table with him? She was probably just another tourist passing through, but he wasn’t about to be fussy about minor details like that. [colour=#00333E]“Not at all. Please, sit down. Name’s Stormwing – what’s yours?”[/colour] he answered, probably a bit too eagerly.

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[colour=#8b4513]"Um Excuse me madam? But would you like to sit..um..here? I don't really like to sit alone you see..and I um.."[/colour]

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[colour=#5D361E] “Wot’s’matter, then Doctor?”[/colour] asked Vanilla Latte, pleased that she remembered this pony at the very least. [colour=#5D361E] “Cat got your tongue? Go on, ‘ave a seat wherever you like! I’m sure Stormwing an’ this lovely lady ‘here won’t mind ‘t’all if you take a seat with them. ‘S’good to see you in ‘ere – don’t think I’ve ever seen you in my little corner ‘o Trottingham ‘afore. Welcome! Oh, an’ jes’ so ye know, the little ‘un’s flu’s cleared right up now, thanks to you.”[/colour]

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Stormwing tried not to show too much disappointment. There was, after all, a third chair at this table and he could see no reason for the – doctor? Honestly, how did Vanilla Latte manage to know everypony in town? She even knew the ones who didn’t make regular visits to her little café. It was like unicorn magic, but freakier since the barista was no unicorn. He looked at the mare and shrugged. [colour=#00333E]“I don’t mind if you don’t mind.”[/colour]

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Vanilla Latte tried to feel sorry for Stormwing, but at the same time, she couldn’t help but snicker at what had just taken place. She bustled around back to behind the counter in her usual manner to retrieve Stormwing’s soup when the bell above the door jingled once more.

She definitely didn’t recognize this pony. Must be a tourist – Trottingham had more than enough of them around. Latte adopted her usual welcoming attitude but had barely opened her mouth before the tall brown mare began to order.

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[colour=#daa520]“Gooooood afternoon! Gimme the strongest, most unforgiving brew ya’ve got, you bodacious barista you! Preeeetttttyyy please!”[/colour]

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[colour=#5D361E] “Not a problem, love, not a problem at all,”[/colour] Latte answered the energetic mare with flourish as she set about brewing her extra-strong blend. [colour=#5D361E]“Now, love, I don’t think I’ve seen ye ‘round these ‘ere parts much. ‘ow long ‘ave you been in Trottingham? I ‘ope you’ve ‘ad plenty of time to enjoy everything our fair city ‘as to offer you. If the coffee’ll be all, then that’s two bits.”[/colour] She asked as she bustled about behind the counter, rushing in her usual way to get Stormwing’s lunch served up in a timely manner. Strange, the other two ponies hadn’t even ordered any food. Not that Vanilla Latte minded, after all – they were here for the atmosphere as much as for the eats.

Again, the bell above the door chimed as another customer walked in. As I said, never quiet for long around here. She smiled warmly at the distinguished stallion who approached the counter – a local artist, she was sure, though she’d never had the pleasure of meeting him in person. [colour=#5D361E]“Welcome, wot can I get for you?”[/colour] she asked with a smile. His reply was rather stiff, though very polite and not unfriendly in the slightest. Latte was instantly curious about this particular Pegasus.

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[colour=#800000]“Good afternoon, I would like the roast pumpkin soup and a long black if you please. My colleagues speak highly of your establishment.”[/colour]

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[colour=#5D361E]”Do they now? Well, I’m flattered, really – Three Lakes strives to be the best community centered café in Trottingham to be sure, and the food is of course most delicious if I may say so meself. My name’s Vanilla Latte, I own this ‘ere shop. It’s an absolute pleasure to meet you. Pumkin soup an’ a long black comin’ right up – seven bits is the total, love,”[/colour] she says, putting a shot of espresso on to brew before pulling the other pot off the back counter. She pours its contents into a mug for the mare who came in before, smiling to herself as its rich, strong aroma reaches her nostrils.

[colour=#5D361E] “’ere you go, love,”[/colour] she says, [colour=#5D361E] “the strongest brew we’ve got.”[/colour]

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[DamianMane]

((My, I've never been described as ever-awesome before))

The door swung open as an orange stallion trotted in, clad in grubby engineer's overalls. Copper had, at least, put on a (slightly battered) crimson waistcoat, in an effort to not look entirely unkempt.

However, he had more on his mind than just his appearance. Namely, that he desperately needed a cuppa.As he walked in to the café, he was delighted to see several other ponies inside.Many of which were new faces, but was that much of a surprise when one lived in a thriving tourist resort? He greeted the café's customers with a cheery [colour=#8b4513]"Good afternoon, everypony!" [/colour]before heading to the counter.

[colour=#8b4513]"Hello!" [/colour]He greeted the barista warmly, whilst studying the menu. [colour=#8b4513]"I'll take an English Breakfast tea, and a blueberry muffin if you don't mind."[/colour]

He rummaged through his pockets, finally producing some bit and leaving them on the counter. He then proceeded to sit himself at one of the window tables, and then, motioning at the blue mare, the dapper looking stallion, and the brown mare at the counter, asked,

[colour=#8b4513]"Are you lot just passing through here then? Can't say that I've seen any of you around before."[/colour]

[Volt]

In Lotus' opinion, the greeting she encountered was extremely warm. Not like she had anything against it, of course, but it was a bit unexpected. It was still weird feeling though. Generally, Trottingham business was revolving around tourism. Given that, most ponies used to ignore themselves, an attitude probably akin to that of Canterlot elites. But in this little corner of Equestria this approach seemed to be turned up-side-down. No wonder her parents suggested her coming here, all she really hoped for was at most 'Yes.' as an answer, meanwhile what she received was a complete, warm greeting accompanied with a wide smile coming from the dark-teal Pegasus.

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[colour=#00333E]“Not at all. Please, sit down. Name’s Stormwing – what’s yours?”[/colour]

[colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]I[/colour][colour=#3399ff]t's Lotus."[/colour] - she proceeded with an introduction while getting closer to the table. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]L[/colour][colour=#3399ff]otus Blossom, to be more precise."[/colour] She was about to sit down when she heard another voice coming from behind her back. She turned her head back to direct her attention towards the speaker. He turned out to be a brown stallion, an earth pony. Somehow, Lotus must have missed the sound of the bell ringing.

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[colour=#8b4513]"Um Excuse me madam? But would you like to sit..um..here? I don't really like to sit alone you see..and I um.."[/colour]

That really managed to catch the cerulean mare off-guard, as it made her raise an eyebrow for a moment, trying to understand the meaning, or reasons, behind this pony's action. She also didn't like to sit alone but... was he earwigging? Or perhaps she was so loud and she didn't even realize that. Thankfully, the light-tan mare who accompanied the Pegasus just a second ago came to her help. Listening to her words, blue mare came to a conclusion that she must be owning this place. She also couldn't help to smile after realizing that her earlier predictions were correct. Apart from strong, local accent, that mare certainly had a peculiar personality. Also, the idea she came up with was a really smooth way to resolve this contretemps. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]O[/colour][colour=#3399ff]f course I don't have anything against it, silly~"[/colour] - she manipulated her voice a bit as she responded to Stormwing, making it sound a bit playful in order to discharge the tension which had befallen her - [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]P[/colour][colour=#3399ff]lease, feel free to join us."[/colour]

As she positioned herself vis-a-vis the Pegasus (since she somehow preferred sitting by the window), the bell rang once more, announcing the entry of rather... lively and really enthusiastic mare. She'd probably spare her more attention if not the fact that almost immediately the bell sound spread across the room again. It greeted a stallion this time, who calmly trotted and stopped behind the energetic mare. Lotus had to hold herself from bursting with laughter after a few seconds of observing them. They'd make for a wonderful duo, 'Nutcase and a Sleepwalker'. At any rate, while observing the newcomers she removed her hoofbag and placed it on the table. She also removed her maneband, granting it a bit of freedom at last. One thing that brought her attention was the fact that ponies were ordering things on their own. That caused her to mentally facehoof. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]O[/colour][colour=#3399ff]f course! It's not Ponyville where we're taken care of individually by waiters..."[/colour] - she tried to remember the menu she caught a glimpse of earlier. Should she order a regular coffee? Or something more sophisticated? Or perhaps she should just stick with the tea for today? She couldn't decide for now... [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]S[/colour][colour=#3399ff]o, Stormwing..."[/colour] - she already had this question prepared - [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]...w[/colour][colour=#3399ff]hat can you tell me about Trottingham?"[/colour] - just then, the bell reminded them of itself, announcing the entry of yet another customer. It was so unbelievable to see all the ponies enter at once that it caused Lotus to doubt. She let out a cheerful laughter after a moment, addressing the brown stallion this time. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]I[/colour][colour=#3399ff] swear to Celestia, have you all followed me here?"[/colour] - the inquiry was made while still laughing.

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[Elderflower]

[colour=#8b4513] “Not a problem, love, not a problem at all. Now, love, I don’t think I’ve seen ye ‘round these ‘ere parts much. ‘ow long ‘ave you been in Trottingham? I ‘ope you’ve ‘ad plenty of time to enjoy everything our fair city ‘as to offer you. If the coffee’ll be all, then that’s two bits.”[/colour]

[colour=#daa520]“Just a few days!”[/colour] Riff Run responded, beaming as she reached into her saddlebags and placed three bits down on the counter,[colour=#daa520] “Keep the change, hun. Anyways, it’s been a blast. Being so near the water reminds me o’ home even if it ain’t the ocean, and the jazz scene here is hot! It’s burnin’ up! Makes things fun for a driftin’ jazz singer, y’know? I was just on my way outta town when I sniffed your brew - it smelled so much like home I had t’come in!”[/colour]

After saying her piece, Riff stepped to the side, tapping her hoof quietly (so as not to disturb the other patrons too much) and swaying her body to some tune she was running off in her head. It wasn’t hard to tell she didn’t like to be idle. When the dark, looming pegasus stepped towards the counter though, she stopped what she was doing and waved her hoof at him.

[colour=#daa520]“Sorry again ‘bout that crash, kitten! But can ya smell that brew? It’s worth stampedin’ for, don’tcha think?”[/colour]

Riff would have waited for the stranger to respond, but her brew was ready, so instead she stepped in front of him (just about bumping into him again) and picked the mug up in her teeth. She screwed up her expression, then, concentrating fiercely so as not to spill the brew.

[colour=#800000]"Good afternoon, everypony! Are you lot just passing through here then? Can't say that I've seen any of you around before." [/colour]

[colour=#daa520]“Hi!”[/colour] Riff called out, moving her mouth around the rim of the mug as she turned a little to face the pony the voice was coming from. It was somewhat impressive that her voice only sounded a little muffled. She lifted a foreleg slightly to wave her hoof at the grubby newcomer and nodded slightly to indicate she was indeed just passing through, then made to step away from the counter before the pretty blue thing two stallions had teamed up on began to speak.

[colour=#0099ff]"I swear to Celestia, have you all followed me here?"[/colour]

Riff Run grinned around her mug and turned back to the charming barista, wiggling her eyebrows devilishly,[colour=#daa520] “ ‘At one’s quite da babe, uh?”[/colour] she said in a hushed tone, this time her words were terribly muffled as grinning and holding a mug in your mouth made speaking a little difficult. She finally walked carefully to the table next to the mare and her suitors, then set down her mug and turned around to offer up the pretty blue gal a wink.

[colour=#daa520]“I’m willing t’bet they all followed ya here, these two, Glasses, and Overalls included!”[/colour] the mare laughed, indicating with her hoof the other two stallions who hadn’t taken a seat yet, [colour=#daa520]“I wouldn’t be s’prised if all o’ Trottingham didn’t want trot right in right after you – seems like these boys were the only ones with th’guts t’do it though! The name’s Riff Run, by the way – but you can call me Birdy! Friends call me Birdy!”[/colour]

Finally, Riff Run sipped the strong, hot brew – black as night, of course – and whistled.

[colour=#daa520]“Ms. Vanilla Latté! What a dish, what a doll – your brew is divine!”[/colour] she called out before taking another sip.

​

This strange, energetic mare was absolutely baffling to the solemn, suited stallion. Luminous Charge found himself completely at a loss as he tried to imagine where all that energy came from. Admittedly, he was a little terrified by the prospect of her drinking coffee. That might just be dangerous.

[colour=#8b4513]“Do they now? Well, I’m flattered, really – Three Lakes strives to be the best community centered café in Trottingham to be sure, and the food is of course most delicious if I may say so meself. My name’s Vanilla Latte, I own this ‘ere shop. It’s an absolute pleasure to meet you. Pumkin soup an’ a long black comin’ right up – seven bits is the total, love,”[/colour]

[colour=#800000]“Indeed,”[/colour] Lume nodded, [colour=#800000]“In truth, they have brought the name up before any number of times. Unfortunately, though, I don’t get out much while I’m in town. I’m usually between my studio and the galleries around town. I suppose I do to get out a bit more. Ah, my name is Luminous Charge, by the way.”[/colour]

The stallion placed down the 7 bits plus a few extra as tip, and found himself a little surprised. Normally, he wasn’t quite so chatty – perhaps the chatty made who had bumped into him had infectious energy or perhaps it was the atmosphere here, but for once Luminous Charge was speaking more than two words to strangers. He nodded at her second apology, not wanting to get pulled into a whirlwind conversation with her, then stepped out of the way to make room for the newcomer, just in time to avoid that same mare charge to the counter for his coffee.

[colour=#800000]"Good afternoon, everypony! Are you lot just passing through here then? Can't say that I've seen any of you around before." [/colour]

Lume nodded a greeting to the unkempt stallion, [colour=#800000]“I am from Trottingham, but while I am here I am typically swept up by work, so I don’t get out into the city much.”[/colour]

[colour=#0099ff]"I swear to Celestia, have you all followed me here?"[/colour]

Luminous Charge was at a total loss for words. Was she looking at him? Perhaps he was mistaken, and she was looking at the stallion in the overalls? Peacock though he is about maintaining an immaculate appearance, Lume is also terribly bashful in the right circumstance. This was one of those moments – though he didn't much appreciate being called "Glasses" it was lucky for him he was spared discomfort by the energetic jazz mare – Riff Run. Birdy. Whatever.

The pegasus sagged slightly and let out a small sigh as he awaited he meal.

​

[Jane]

When a pony's been running and working in a café of her own for ten years, some of the day-to-day tasks become second nature to her. She can do most of the tasks without even thinking of them. She doesn't really have to think about what she's doing - she just does it. Now Vanilla Latte would never claim that working in a café is a job anypony can do - on the contrary, it's not an easy job at all. It takes great skill to know at which point the milk is frothed to perfection, for example, or to know how to juggle multiple orders and handle the busier situations. And all the rushing about from the kitchen to the counter, to the tables and everywhere in between would be enough to make any pony dizzy the first few times.

But Vanilla Latte had been doing this for most all of her adult life and was well-versed in the art of customer service. Did she not own and operate one of the most successful cafés in Trottingham? Her hooves moved around the kitchen in a practised and precise movement, knowing every step of the well-rehearsed dance. And as she worked away, her tongue flapped twice as quickly as her hooves moved.

​

[colour=#daa520]“Just a few days! Keep the change, hun. Anyways, it’s been a blast. Being so near the water reminds me o’ home even if it ain’t the ocean, and the jazz scene here is hot! It’s burnin’ up! Makes things fun for a driftin’ jazz singer, y’know? I was just on my way outta town when I sniffed your brew - it smelled so much like home I had t’come in!”[/colour]

The older mare didn't even bat an eye at this enthusiastic mare's long-winded chatter. [colour=#5D361E]"Well, I'm very glad to 'ear that you're liking our city, miss. Got a few jazz musicians scattered 'round the place, but I'm afraid I don't know much about just 'ow 'ot the scene is. And I thank ye for the lovely compliments about my little shop - s'my life's work, this 'ere café."[/colour]

​

[colour=#daa520]“ ‘At one’s quite da babe, uh?”[/colour]

Latte chuckled, though she had to agree. The cerulean mare certainly was a pretty one. She'd certainly gotten Stormwing's attention. Latte still couldn't shake the feeling she had that she'd seen this mare before somewhere. Odd, Vanilla Latte never forgot a face.

​

“Indeed, in truth, they have brought the name up before any number of times. Unfortunately, though, I don’t get out much while I’m in town. I’m usually between my studio and the galleries around town. I suppose I’m do to get out a bit more. Ah, my name is Luminous Charge, by the way.”

[colour=#5D361E]"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Luminous Charge. I must say I'm a wee bit surprised we 'aven't met before. A local artist, active in the arts circuit. I don't 'ave much time te actively get involved in the arts culture 'round town, but I surely at least try to keep up to date. We've got a community notice board in 'ere, Mr. Luminous," she says, managing to point at the bulletin board while pouring his coffee. [colour=#5D361E]"If ye ever want to advertise yer work, just give us a shout."[/colour]

Stormwing's sandwich was ready, and the Pumpkin soup wouldn't be too far behind. Her hubby was the one hard at work in the kitchen, and he was just as experienced as she was at getting it done, and getting it done quickly.

She collected the coffee for Luminous Charge and the Sandwich for Stormwing on a tray and bumbled over to the table where the group of strangers had gathered. Stormwing was smiling widely at the pink-maned mare, and chattering away with what Latte felt was a bit too much enthusiasm.

​

[colour=#ff99ff]S[/colour][colour=#3399ff]o, Stormwing,[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]...w[/colour][colour=#3399ff]hat can you tell me about Trottingham?"[/colour]

​

[colour=#00333E]"Trottingham is a great city - it's a bit big, but I grew up in Cloudsdale so it's what I'm used to, and ponies here are quite friendly. For a town whose main industry is tourism and wineries, it's still got a feeling of friendly familiarity and community. Mostly due, of course, to Latte here. She and the mayor work extra hard to make this city as welcoming as it is. Also, it's filled to the brim with good looking ponies, mares and stallions alike, which is always a plus,"[/colour] he finished with a wink.

​

[colour=#5D361E]"'at the best you can do then, Stormwing?"[/colour] Latte asked as she set the sandwich on the table before him.

The little silver bell above the door jingled once again, and this time she did indeed recognize the customer clad in grubby overalls and a red waistcoat - a rather questionable outfit so far as fashion was concerned, but she wasn't going to say anything to the mechanic about it. He had repaired the espresso machine for her the last time it broke, and had done an excellent job with it, too - it now ran more smoothly and Latte felt as though the coffee it produced tasted a lot better, though most insisted there was no difference.

[colour=#5D361E]"Well, good afternoon Copper! 'ow are ye doin' this afternoon, then? 'Aven't see ye 'round much lately. Essie 'ere is workin' splendidly thanks to you!"[/colour] she announced.

She made a mental note of his order and collected the bits he placed on the counter as she set about preparing his rather simple order. Would be ready in a minute, no doubt.

​

[colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]I[/colour][colour=#3399ff] swear to Celestia, have you all followed me here?"[/colour]

​

[colour=#5d361e]"If that be the case then, love, I need to get you in 'ere more often. It'll certainly be good for business. Wot's your name then, love? You seem a mite familiar to me but I can't quite place ye."[/colour]

​

[colour=#8b4513]"Are you lot just passing through here then? Can't say that I've seen any of you around before."[/colour]

[colour=#00333E]"I've been around a few years now, myself. Of course Latte here is the definition of a local."[/colour] [/colour]Stormwing said with a nod, taking a bite of his sandwich. Delicious, as usual, and of course better than anything he could make himself.

Stormwing watched as the tall, rather dapper-looking stallion took a seat at a nearby table. He seemed to be wanting to avoid the rambunctious antics of the one called birdy. He couldn't quite blame him - Riff Run seemed to have more energy and gab than his own little sister, and that was saying something. Stormwing felt like he had an idea of who the Pegasus was - something his supervisor had said about an artist ordering storm clouds directly from the Weather Factory was ringing bells in his mind as he made a connection. The dusty blue pegasus couldn't help but wonder if this was said artist, and if so, what use did he have for electrically-charged clouds? Though his curiosity of everything storm-related was itching to know the answers, another part of him was fixated on the conversation at hoof with the mare named Lotus Blossom. Still, he made a mental resolution to talk to the heavyset stallion before leaving the café.

​

[colour=#b4b4b4]((OOC: Sorry for the late reply everypony. A combination between school being difficult and this post being - not the greatest in the world caused this reply to be rather more delayed than I would have liked. I shall do my best to have future replies done in a more timely fashion.))[/colour]

[Bellosh]

Ah, what a glorious day to patrol the streets of Trottingham! Thus thought Barley Mayberry, Sheriff of Trottingham. Well okay... the Sheriff was never officially granted the power to keep the peace by any voter or governing body... and everypony always seem to call him by his first name rather than his self-given title, but how could Barley let those facts get in the way of his mission in life? Without a Sheriff, who else would keep the town free from trouble making animals and other hazards?

As the Sheriff perceived things, menaces keep plaguing the fair town of Trottingham without cessation. Why just yesterday, one poor resident caught food poisoning from something they ate at a local restaurant. Therefore, the ever-watchful Barley resolved to conduct inspections of every eatery in town today, making sure that every place was safe to eat at. With some good ole’ persistence (at least for those places where he didn’t get shooed away), the Sheriff had so far judged every place he visited so far to follow proper health procedures... at least the tiny amount of those that he knew about of course.

Next up on the Sheriff of Trottingham’s health and safety inspection tour was Three Lakes Café, a place he frequented rather heavily. Even though the purplish-gray stallion considered himself on friendly terms with café owner Vanilla Latte, Barely wouldn’t let that impede him on his special task! The Sheriff therefore thought nothing of barging into the café, dressed gloriously in his trademark red jacket and cavalier hat (complete with feather), and marching up to a clearly busy Vanilla Latte. [colour=#dda0dd]“Good afternoon Mrs. Latte!”[/colour] Barley proclaimed, waving around a foreleg with a sweeping gesture suited for a dramatic play; [colour=#dda0dd]“If you can spare a moment of your time, I would like to conduct a thorough investigation of this restaurant and see to it that everything is safe to eat and drink.”[/colour]

[Volt]

A fierce storm of conflicting thoughts kept rampaging in Lotus' mind. Her mind was absorbed with one of the greatest issues she had encountered this week. Just a few more minutes, and she'd probably be driven insane. Should she order Mocha or Vanilla Latte!? [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]A[/colour][colour=#3399ff]RGH" [/colour]- truth to be told, Lotus experienced these kind if dilemmas on a daily basis. In end, she'd finally pick decision, but sometimes it required time for an idea to mature. Her inner, epic battle had to be postponed though, since reality called for her once more. In fact, it was somewhat impressive upon realizing that all these thoughts flashed through her mind in a blink of an eye, since Stormwing didn't wait a second to answer her question.

​

[colour=#008080]"Trottingham is a great city - it's a bit big, but I grew up in Cloudsdale so it's what I'm used to, and ponies here are quite friendly. For a town whose main industry is tourism and wineries, it's still got a feeling of friendly familiarity and community. Mostly due, of course, to Latte here. She and the mayor work extra hard to make this city as welcoming as it is. Also, it's filled to the brim with good looking ponies, mares and stallions alike, which is always a plus."[/colour]

Cerulean mare stuck her wide eyes in stallion's, listening in slight disbelief to what he's saying. She was unconsciously tapping her hoof on the table to some kind of rhythm which echoed somewhere in the depths of her mind. Was it possible that Trottingham changed so much since the days of her youth? It was the more unsettling that these days weren't actually that long ago. Or maybe it was just her? On second thought, she might have been a bit biased, seeing how she disliked big cities. She couldn't recall if she ever had any unpleasant incidents with Trottingham's inhabitants. Perhaps one day she'd eventually admit that she's just being biased, but today was not this day yet. Before she managed to answer though Stormwing was served his sandwich. After that the proprietor left to attend somepony else, while Lotus heard another voice reaching her ears from a table nearby.

​

[colour=#daa520]“I’m willing t’bet they all followed ya here, these two, Glasses, and Overalls included!"[/colour]

Spa mare turned around to locate the pony to whom the words belonged. To her surprise, it was that 'energetic' mare from before.

​

[colour=#daa520]"I wouldn’t be s’prised if all o’ Trottingham didn’t want trot right in right after you – seems like these boys were the only ones with th’guts t’do it though! The name’s Riff Run, by the way – but you can call me Birdy! Friends call me Birdy!"[/colour]

At first Lotus was stoned with these words, to a point in which she even stopped her subconscious hoof movements. It took a moment for the meaning of these words to reach her fully, after which she half-chuckled, half-laughed at the other mare. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]I[/colour][colour=#3399ff] believe that if they additionally heard that there's a mare with such a deep, vibrant voice, they'd swarm the place forcing us both to seek shelter!"[/colour] - at this point, Lotus already know that agreeing to pay this place a visit was a great idea in itself. However wrong her opinion about Trottingham could be, this small cafe was an island in the sea of boredom and stone halls. [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]F[/colour][colour=#3399ff]eel free to call me Lotus."[/colour] - it is well known that smiling speeds up appearance of wrinkles. At this rate, she'd look much, much older after leaving this place. That comment nearly made her laugh from ear to ear.

​

[colour=#8b4513]"If that be the case then, love, I need to get you in 'ere more often. It'll certainly be good for business. Wot's your name then, love? You seem a mite familiar to me but I can't quite place ye."[/colour]

The familiar voice returned once more after a moment, barely managing to draw her attention. Lotus calmed herself down a bit before proceeding with what already seemed to be a ritual. [colour=#6699ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]I[/colour][colour=#3399ff]t's Lotus. Although I'm not sure if we've ever met in person..."[/colour] - cerulean mare threw a quick, apologizing stare followed by a dedicated smile at the Pegasus stallion sitting in front of her - [colour=#6699ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]...s[/colour][colour=#3399ff]ince I've moved out from Trottingham along with my sister some time ago in order to open our own business elsewhere." [/colour]She could have probably pulled this little game a bit longer, but eventually she resigned from this idea, deciding that there'll be a lot more to discuss yet.

​

[colour=#b22222]"Are you lot just passing through here then? Can't say that I've seen any of you around before."[/colour]

[colour=#008080]"I've been around a few years now, myself. Of course Latte here is the definition of a local."[/colour]

That, on the other hoof, surprised Lotus. She believed that Stormwing was a local after what he said and how he behaved. Discovery that she was wrong wiped the smile of her face, replacing it with sheer puzzlement. She leaned forward, turning her head to the side what caused her to look at him in profile and pointing a hoof towards him from the height of her chest. [colour=#6699ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]W[/colour][colour=#3399ff]ait, so you're not a local yourself? Really?"[/colour] - it was unbelievable how hastily she judged him. It was so embarrassing that for a moment she wished to reverse time. At this point, Lotus already stopped paying attention to any newcomers appearing inside. She was too absorbed in conversations she partook in. Still, one more thing came to her mind suddenly. Young mare turned towards Latte and spoke in a bit unsure voice - [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]U[/colour][colour=#3399ff]m, excuse me, could I order Vanilla Latte please?"[/colour] - yes, that certainly was a good choice. She was more than certain of that - [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]O[/colour][colour=#3399ff]r actually scratch that, let it be Cafe Mocha."[/colour] - Well, maybe she was just a tiny bit wrong, after all - [colour=#3399ff]"[/colour][colour=#ff99ff]Y[/colour][colour=#3399ff]ou know what, in end I'll go with Hazelnut Latte. Definitely."[/colour] - deep inside Lotus' mind, a part of her sanity packed the cases, put on a stylish hat and left, leaving a note that it went for vacation and shall not be searched for. It would return eventually.

​

EDIT: Any ponies currently not interacting with Lotus are asked to refrain themselves from doing so until I clarify current situation. Thank you for your understanding.

[DamianMane]

One of the reasons Copper enjoyed coming to Three Lakes was the vibrant and talkative atmosphere that was present whenever he went, and this time appeared to be no exception. He had simply observed the hubbub around him for a moment or two, enthralled by the tibbits conversations floating about the room.

"Well, good afternoon Copper! 'ow are ye doin' this afternoon, then? 'Aven't see ye 'round much lately. Essie 'ere is workin' splendidly thanks to you!"

[colour=#8b4513]"Oh, I'm doing rather well, thanks . And you're quite right, I haven't been out and about town for a while," [/colour]he replied in his usual cheery manner.[colour=#8b4513] "Been in my workshop these past few days, making progress with my latest brainchild: the "Allows-you-to-chop-and-peel-your-vegetables-by-pedalling-the-pedals-and-pulling-the-levers" device!" [/colour]Copper announced this with a tone of pride, although he couldn't help but feel miffed that the name was a bit of a mouthful. He never had been very good at naming his inventions.

His train of thought about names was promptly derailed, however, upon the arrival of Barley. Sorry, no, the sheriff as he said he was. Copper had never been entirely sure about that title, as he wasn't really sure if Trottingham even had an official sheriff. Oh well, each to his own.

Now, Copper was not one to simply sit in silence in a place as lively as the Three Lakes, so he decided to strike up a conversation with somepony in the café. The barista was likely to be needing to speak with the sheriff, and the Dr Heart, Stormwing and the mare who had introduced herself as Lotus Blossom seemed otherwise engaged with each other. Copper decided to approach the brown mare with the coffee.

[colour=#8b4513]"So you said you're a jazz singer, ah, Riff Run, was it? Oh, you don't mind if I take a seat do you?"[/colour]

[TehBbqdPizza]

Carom had before crawled out of bed at noon, where the hour hand was perfectly facing in the same direction and above the minute. But she could not see that, as her vision was blurred, and blinking had little effect on clearing it. She had wondered why she had made the decision to get up in the first place, until she recalled why. It was for the rejuvenating "antidote" to her weariness.

She had not slept for a good deal of the night. Carom had been participating in a local pool nine-ball tournament in Trottingham which started in the evening, which spanned into much of Luna's night. Carom had won the tournament, but she had reconsidered whether the win was worth the trouble. Probably not.

But, her blurriness eventually faded, and she went on a journey, a five-minute journey, to the cafe at Tatterstall and Stampford. There was where she would finally find her remedy, and Carom had used what remaining energy she had inside of her to get there. As she continued to her goal, she had attempted to avoid sunlight where it struck; in fact, she had remained in the shadowy sections where Celestia's sun could not reach. She could not afford to blind her eyes once more by such brightness. When she finally reached her destination, she foggily stumbled onto a seat inside the cafe, taking a short rest, and proceeding to the "line", which was, thankfully, empty.

Carom, now at the counter, glanced at the menu shortly. She didn't care what she wanted. For all she knew, she could have every kind of coffee and shoot it all down, along with feasting on a large array of food and other drinks. Irritably, she took out some bits- for how much, she did not know- and placed them on the counter. Carom was notably using her hoof to pressurize the surface of the counter, almost if she is using it to pull herself up.

[colour=#66cdaa]"I'll want..."[/colour] she muttered weakly at first, until her voice rose once more a few seconds later. [colour=#66cdaa]"...the cappuccino espresso, two blueberry bagels, a chocolate chip muffin, and a cheese croissant. Coffee needs to be fa-[/colour][colour=#66cdaa]extremely [/colour][colour=#66cdaa]caffeinated."[/colour] Carom demanded.

[Derpyy]

This was crazy. Heart had spaced out for what seemed like just a few moments and suddenly..there were like...four billion ponies in the cafe! He wondered if he was seeing things or dreaming. He hadn't gotten much sleep last night so things were a bit crazy for him. So, when Heart thought he was not being watched..he gave himself a small hit to make sure he wasn't dreaming. He wasn't. So after that, he came back to reality and focused on the new ponies. He honestly had never seen any of these ponies before. He had no idea if any of them were or if they lived in Trottingham. He assumed they did since they were here.

Heart decided to look over the new ponies that had arrived. He knew of Miss Latte and Stormwing. He hadn't spoken to them that much, but he knew their names. He remembered the mare with the pink mane. She seemed to be rather heavily engaged in conversation. He noticed that a new mare had appeared as well.

[colour=#8B4513]"So you said you're a jazz singer, ah, Riff Run, was it? Oh, you don't mind if I take a seat do you?"[/colour]

Ahhh, she was a jazz pony hmm? Guess he should have been paying attention this whole time. Some of these ponies seemed to be really interesting and he had just left reality for a bit. There was no telling how much he missed. Celestia herself could have trotted in here and Heart would have missed it. He had to admit, catching up was going to be quite difficult.

Her name was Riff Run. She seemed rather energetic she did. There were two other stallions. One that seemed to be rather quiet and the one that had spoken earlier to Riff Run. He didn't know either of their names but he had to admit he really did want to know.

[colour=#DDA0DD]“If you can spare a moment of your time, I would like to conduct a thorough investigation of this restaurant and see to it that everything is safe to eat and drink.”[/colour]

[colour=#000000]​Heart turned his head towards the stallion sheriff that entered the Cafe. He looked as if he didn't mess around..and he looked serious. Heart figured he would have known all the sheriffs in Trottingham but he had never seen this stallion before. He said he was here for an investigation so Heart decided to stay out of his way and let him work.[/colour]

Heart noticed that pretty much all the ponies had something in common. They all had drinks or food..or were waiting on either item. He wasn't that hungry or thirsty...but then if he wasn't..whey had he come to this Cafe in the first place? To sit and ponder on possible life problems in silence? No! That wasn't who Heart was. Though he did love to talk about problems. He loved to talk about anything really. But he wasn't talking now. He decided to strike up a conversation with anypony that wasn't speaking or waiting on a response.

So, Heart noticed a stallion. He was brown like Miss Riff, but he was sitting in silence. Heart decided to speak to him. Heart then awkwardly got up and moved closer towards Luminous Charge. He pulled out a seat and sat down. He then looked up at him and decided to try something funny.

[colour=#008000]"Hello there. Come here often?"[/colour] Heart then looked away. Okay..that came out weirder than he intended...so in a attempt to recover from his nervous he stuck out his hoof to Luminous for a formal shake. [colour=#8b4513]"[/colour][colour=#008000]Apologies for that. My name is Heart Monitor. It's nice to meet you." [/colour]

[themanofpokemon]

Drake had been wandering the trails for about a week now. He had grown accustomed to longer trips but it still bothered him when his hooves ached so. Currently, he was reading through his notes. "[colour=#ffa500]While there are the main types of dragons, I conjecture that each has its own subsections of classifications. I will research more about this later. In the meantime, I need to find a city or town with some delicious food.[/colour]" He looked up from his book to realize that he had already entered the town of Trottingham, and find he was standing right in front of the Three Lakes Cafe. "[colour=#ffa500]Oh, finally! An eatery![/colour]" He put his notebook away in his pack, opening the door to the cafe with a jingle of the bell above the door. There were already many customers within, and the smells, oh, the smells! He couldn't hardly keep his composure.

He walked up to the counter, gazing at the menu for a solid minute before making his decision. [colour=#ffa500]"I'd like a cup of tea and an Orange poppyseed muffin, if you'd please"[/colour] He took a seat at a nearby table and pulled his sketchbook out. He began drawing the inside of the Cafe to occupy himself.

[River]

[colour=#008080].:Ri[/colour][colour=#008080]ver Song:.[/colour]

River scanned the list she held, pausing for a moment at the pavement. Her elder sister was having a rather busy day back at the shop so the filly had taken it upon herself to go buy lunch. The list was meticulously penned in her own hoofwriting and already half checked off. All that was left were to get the muffins. She knew there was a cafe somewhere here that her sister loved to buy from, though River herself had not frequented it yet. It was not very often that the filly liked to wander into the more touristy areas, for she preferred the calm of the lake side more. Just where was the cafe again? She swiveled her head around, brushing away her dark blue mane as it got into her eyes.

There was a small commotion up ahead as some other mare ran into another stallion, before rushing into a shop. The whole scene was rather amusing and River found herself chuckling silently. It was then that she noticed the name of the cafe the mare had rushed into. Her eyes lit up and she trotted forward, remembering this to be the place that her sister had mentioned. [colour=#008080]I[/colour][colour=#008080]t should be the one, shouldn't it? [/colour]Anyway, even if it wasn't, the smells wafting from the door of the shop were positively heavenly! After folding up the list carefully and returning it to her saddlebag, River entered the shop. Immediately the sounds of merry chatter and the scents of assorted food washed over her, giving the place a nice atmosphere.

River drifted over to the counter, studying the menu for a bit while the stallion before her made his order. What would her sister like? She could always get the chocolate chip. You can never go wrong with chocolate chip. With that decision out of the way, River retrieved her notebook and quill from her saddlebag before writing down: '[colour=#008080]Two chocolate chip muffins please. =)' [/colour]River knew that she might have gotten some curious stares, what with her being a mute and all, but the filly was used to it. it didn't bother her much, and why should it? It didn't hamper her excessively, and she still had her music.