The Business District is a ring of shops and stores surrounding the Town Square, and likewise surrounded by the Residential District.  The Business District holds all the forces of trade and economy for Ponyville.  Here Ponies ply their trade, buy groceries, and otherwise maintain their financial lives.  Besides the established shops like Sugarcube Corner, there are also a variety of temporary stands and stalls that come and go as supply is available.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:35, Sat 14 Apr 2012.

Entering from Summer Song Cafe

Fung Shui always liked these morning runs.  The view was great, of course, but that wasn't all he enjoyed about it.  Up in the sky, where the wind blew unrestrained, Fung felt more at home.  It was one of the first things he discovered about Ponyville: the wind might smell different, but it felt just the same as the wind in Neighpon.  He was so exhilarated by each fresh gust that he actually started practicing his stunts, performing graceful twirls and spins in time with the wind.  He wasn't up here to practice his routines though, so after those first ones he knuckled down and put some oomph in his trot.

As he picked up speed over the district, he could see what looked like some kind of commotion picking up around Sugarcube Corner.  He wasn't surprised, that place was always busy.  Didn't have much of a taste for it himself, most of the sweets they stocked were a little too rich for his taste.  His focus shifted to a small downdraft he felt approaching, and he rolled into it, picking up more speed as he 'surfed the wake', as Storm Skaters called it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:17, Wed 18 Apr 2012.

_{--> From Sweet Apple Acres}

Wandering in at a casual trot, Big Macintosh sweeps from side to side as he heads down the rows of the market looking for Applejack. He's figuring that if she wasn't just working from the cart that she'll have a makeshift stall set up. When he doesn't spot her right out, he just keeps looking for the time being; asking the odd ponies if they've seen her around.

< From the Town Square >

 Ace arrives with a casual gait. He looks around for some solution to his current homelessness problem. It's not that he doesn't care about the whole apple cart business, it's just he hasn't seen nothin' so what are you gonna do? He figures if the cart was stolen at best it's some two-bit thief who will caught in a few minutes or there is going to be some underground black market apple selling, which is kinda silly when you think about it.

---> From Town Square

Rainbow Dash cruised over the business district, looking below and diving down to weave in between the buildings. Stopping in the centre of the district, she hovered and narrowed her eyes as she concentrated hard on looking for any sort of clue.

The downdraft turned out to be a bit bigger than Fung had expected, and was starting to build up intensity as he moved closer to the Town Square.  Since he wasn't trying to go for a race, Fung had to drop some altitude to get out of the brunt before it caused a problem.  However, as Fung dropped down into the weaker wind closer to ground level, he was suddenly distracted by a streak of rainbow colors above him.  He hadn't seen many rainbows form in Equestria since his arrival, so it was rather distracting.  Distracting enough that he didn't realize there was a pony at the front of it, until she plowed through that downdraft he had been avoiding.

The sudden clash of wind dispersed the downdraft with a whooshing sound that also happened to throw off Fung's coordination.  Fung tried to recover by switching directions and following the stronger wind, but he was too close the ground, and he ended up eating it when one of his hooves clipped a large stone.  It wasn't a bad crash, but it was enough to get him riled up.  He'd gotten used to how Pegasi flew in Equestria, but flying at speeds like that was just reckless.  It didn't take long to see who had caused it, as a short distance away his eye caught the same rainbow color in a pegasus' mane.  He stomped his way towards her, keeping an even expression despite his irritation.
"Pardon me miss, but you may wish to watch your flying in the future.  Reckless speed like that could injure someone if they weren't prepared for it."

 Ace sees this is another dead end and decides to take this to whoever runs this jerkwater berg. Surely the Mayor could help him out with this housing crisis. He heads back to the Town square in particularly the Town Hall to try to talk to the Mayor.

< To Town Square >

Trotting in from the Sugarcube

Applejack led the charge toward the Business district, hot on the trail of her apple cart. Her mood was improved, thanks to Twilight's sensitivity and rationality.  She had a job to do now, and they'd be able to make some progress. She caught sight of Rainbow's streak across the sky with a grin. She was on course too! She called to her with a whistle. "Hay, Rainbow, Tracks are goin' this way!"

Lifting his head high from his search when Big Mac hears his sister's voice, he turns quickly over to try and spot her. He blinks at watching her dart past, then picks up to a trot again to try and catch up. He'll bend his course from side to side until he gets on her trail, then pick up the pace to try and keep up. He's pretty sure he'll see what she's up to when they get where they're going.

Rainbow Dash seemed taken off guard by Fung Shui's words and she gave him an odd look. "Excuse me? Watch my flying? I'm Rainbow Dash! There's no kind of speed I can't handle! You should have seen me flying in the Best Young Flyer Competition!" She grinned, crossing her front legs as she hovered above him. "And then there's--" She was cut off as she heard Applejack calling out to her. "Hey, Applejack! Wait up!" she dashed off, following the Earth pony and the cart trail.

[From Sugarcube Corner, and trying to compensate for the stuff after the exit tag I posted... XD]

"If this is how you want to play it..." Blue Shield had said as he accepted Applejack's "kind of" call for help. So to follow tracks would lead right to the business district, and he made sure that Applejack would keep up while they moved. Essentially, that meant no flying.

"I'm sorry if you felt I was taking things too far. You've been here a good long while. Honestly... I think Ponyville doesn't really need me." Blue explained to the pony he'd dragged around town following clues. "So, I guess I was just a bit excited. The lack of crime is good and all, but, especially with you and your friends... It's easy to see weeks go by without so much as lifting a hoof to do any work."

As they made their way in, there was Rainbow Dash. There was a dossier in his office filled with "Rainbow Crash" incidents. Nothing illegal, just... A hazard to look out for.

"Okay... From here, what businesses do you stop off at on your normal route? If the one in possession of your cart is going along your route, then that'd be the most likely path to follow.""

From Games and Tables--->

Despite slow business, it was a pretty nice day, Rook decided. The road through the district was fairly crowded. He spotted a small cadre of ponies making their way down the street opposite of him. He recognized one as Applejack, the owner of Sweet Apple Acres and Rainbow Dash, the town's head weather pony. He didn't recognized the third pony. An unusually tall pegasus, the colt was dressed as a police officer. They seemed to be talking to one another about something.

He shrugged. It wasn't his prerogative to nose in on official business. He continued down the road.

Exit to Summer Song Cafe --->
This message was last edited by the player at 23:59, Thu 19 Apr 2012.

".. Come ta' think of it, ah was goin' to make a stop at the Cakes..." she said. "And...." Applejack paused. "Ah wasn't really stoppin' anywhere else in particular.  Ah was gonna set up and sell to everypony here after that." she chimed.

At his Apology, AJ just put a hoof on his shoulder.  "Its awright. Ah know you were eager to help. Ah appreciate that. Let's just... find out what's goin' on and take care of it." she paused... she had felt uncomfortable about the open question for clues... it felt like she was being called out for losing it in the first place... but.... that was her pride, still stinging at the situation. Resolving it was more important.....
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:58, Fri 20 Apr 2012.

Fung looked surprised by Rainbow Dash's response, and had been about to deliver a rather scathing response when a high pitched whistle cut the air and sent Dash flying off towards another pony with apples on her flank.
"Wha- hey!  Hold on one...moment."
By the time he had turned, they were already out of earshot, going as fast as they were.  Considering the presence of an officer, there was obviously some kind of incident going on, but that didn't mean Fung was just going to let the Rainbow pony get away.  He took a few steps to get airborne, but as he did, he felt a sudden pain in the foot which had thrown him off that rock.

He lifted the foot gingerly and glared at it.
"Hay Bales!  I must have wrenched it when I crashed."
Wiggling the two halves of his cloven hoof, it didn't seem hurt, and when he put weight on it it didn't hurt too bad, but he was still moving with a limp.
"Well, so much for my morning run.  I'll have to walk back to my studio now."
Moving swiftly, but still with a slight limp, Fung made his way towards the Town Square, where he could go the swiftest route home.

-->Exit to Ponyville Town Square-->
This message was last edited by the player at 23:37, Thu 19 Apr 2012.

Following the tracks of the cart wasn't easy after a while.  At first it was clear where the wheels led since there was only a single given direction possible for the cart to have traveled through -- the other ways were too narrow for it to have fit.  But when the searching Ponies got to the Business District, that's when things got confusing.

There were tracks all over!

The Business District was just that -- a busy, full market of stalls, street carts, carriages, and ponies going about their daily shopping.  Any hope of following the apple cart's particular trail was dashed since it vanished amid the skids and dirt tracks of other almost identical carts along the road.

Blue Shield quickly found that his trail had grown cold. Or rather too muddled to follow. It definitely would have been a great time to have a K-9 unit. Biting his lip some in thought, he tried to think of where the cart would go. Between himself, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash, there were plenty of hooves on the case.

"Okay! I got a plan..." Blue Shield surveyed the area real quickly while he talked. "Rainbow, you and I are going to do an aerial search pattern. That cart could not get into any really tight areas, so it should be visible form the sky. Don't rush the search. Careful over quick. Applejack, talk to some of the other merchants, see if they've seen a sign. The ponies walking around won't have been here long enough. But the merchants would have been here early, so they'd be the mot likely to see something."

"Sound good to everypony?"

"Sounds good to me! Let's hit it! I'll find your cart for you, AJ!" She flew high above, stopping herself from going TOO fast as she circled around to look for the missing cart of apples.

"Awright." Applejack nodded. Wings were really better suited to this sort of thing, so she'd let the Pegasi do what they were best at. After considering who to speak to first, Applejack headed for the nearest merchant to the tracks course, around the middle of the district. He had a fairly wide range of view, maybe he could help.

As the two Pegasi took to the air, they'd get a much better look at the entire market from their new vantage point.  The problem became actually finding the right cart from there though.  There were lots of carts on the road being pulled by their owners, and many were empty after having dropped off their cargo.  Even worse was that many of the carts were virtually identical and could only be differentiated by a paint job or a name printed on the back frame.

Meanwhile, down below, Applejack would have a little more luck than her airborne friends.  While most of the merchants were too busy with their customers to chat or simply hadn't taken notice of any apple cart in particular, she hit pay dirt when she came across the stall belonging to her neighbor, Golden Harvest (more casually nicknamed Carrot Top for her vibrant mane and Cutie Mark).

"Your cart?  Well, of course I saw it!  I didn't see who was pulling it though, so I just thought it was one of you Apples since you're always here in the market this time of day." Golden Harvest seemed scandalized at the thought of a theft and nearly dropped a bushel of carrots at the idea.  "I noticed it just a few minutes ago, I think.  It was headed off to the south-east."

The south-eastern route led out of the Business District and had a main road that wove itself right out of town, though notable locations on the way were the School House and Sweet Apple Acres itself.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:32, Sat 21 Apr 2012.

"Aww, thanks fer' keepin an eye open." Aplejack put a hoof out to steady the fumbled carrots. "Ah'll be fine. If ya' see mah cart, though, lemme' know." She turned to rush after it, giving a sharp whistle, and pointing a hoof high in the direction of the cart, hoping to draw at least Rainbow's attention, and she could redirect the officer. Faced with the schoolhouse or heading home, Applejack decided she'd check the schoolhouse, and have Rainbow Dash fly on toward home. "Hay, Rainbow!" she called, hoping to catch her ear. "Fly on past to Sweet Apple Acres an' see if anypony there noticed it! It only vanished after ah' left this mornin'! Then meet me at the Schoolhouse!"

As Dash was circling overhead, she stopped when she heard her friend's voice. "You got it, AJ! Meet you in a few minutes!" Finally, getting a chance to stretch her wings, she took off towards Sweet Apple Acres in a streak of rainbow colour.

To Sweet Apple Acres --->
This message was last edited by the player at 02:30, Mon 23 Apr 2012.

From the air, the officer caught sight of Rainbow rushing back to center. His search hadn't been fruitful either. Rainbow was being sent to the schoolhouse. The little ones would still be in school. Rainbow was indeed faster than him, so it was best that she go searching. If Rainbow were more focused, she'd probably make a fine officer. Instead of following after, he located Applejack and descended to meet with her. "Nice job, Applejack." He offered as he touched down next to her.

Applejack raised a hoof as the officer landed. "Eyup.  Ah figured since ah got a tip the cart went that way, Ah'd send Rainbow to the farm to check there, and we'kin stop at the closer schoolhouse, and she can meet us there." She motioned with a hoof. "Ya' got any other ideas?" she asked, thinking that.. maybe the professional might...

Honestly, it was a good plan. Finding lost things just involved following clues and leads to more clues. By using Rainbow Dash to try and flank the position of the cart, there was a chance to avoid continuing the search. Using her speed like that was only natural. He wasn't too bad at being fast himself, but he'd never broken the rainbow limit. "You got the right idea there. We have to follow any leads we get." Sadly, he couldn't offer a better plan. "You all are used to taking care of your own problems. Pinkie was supposed to be at the schoolhouse, right? We'll be able to catch up with Twilight there too. We should be able to at least get one lead once we get there. After you, Applejack." The officer swept a hoof in the right direction, letting her lead the way.

[To School!]
This message was last edited by the player at 15:47, Mon 23 Apr 2012.

"Awright! We ain't far behind it now! Let's git!" She chimede, and took off at a brisk trot for the schoolhouse, one hoof thrown up for a moment to right her hat on her head.

To: Schooolhouse

--->From Summer Song Cafe

Once outside Rook walked down the street for a distance and down an alley until he was sure that he was out of the public and, more importantly, cafe's line of sight. Once certain, his (relatively) calm facade broke down as he crossed his forelegs over his head and a look of pure hysterical panic swept across his face.

'Oh sweet Celestia I have a date! I've never had a date before! What am I suppose to wear? What am I going to say? What am supposed to do?! I am so bucked!' His feverish mind wracked itself with various doomsday scenarios of himself making a complete and utter tool of himself that evening. This went on for almost a minute until a ray of clarity suddenly struck through the fog.

'Wait. Wait. Quick! Yes! My brother will know what to do! He's been on dates before! Surely he can save me from my inevitable failure!'

Clinging to that lifeline, he bolted from the alleyway, making a beeline towards the Games & Tables Game Shop, sprinting as if Nightmare Moon herself was chasing him.

To Games & Table Game Shop--->
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Tue 24 Apr 2012.

 < From Table and Games >

 Ace walks out to the busy marketplace and looks around for an "Easy Mark". Food, cash, or random doodad, somepony's gonna pay. He was in one of his shifty moods, the kind or instinct that kept him alive in Las Pegasus and Manhattan. Ace sees if he can trick one pony or another into giving him some free stuff today.

After floundering for a while trying to keep up with Applejack and the others, Big Mac ends up getting lost entirely in the crowd around the market. By the time they've spread out in their search, the workpony is entirely lost. Patting a hoof at the ground for a moment, he mumbles to himself and turns around to head back the way that he'd come. No sense in wasting anymore time wandering around when there was plenty to do back at the farm.

>> Sweet Apple Acres >>

--->From Games & Tables

Rook was once again on the streets of Ponyville , this time with his head on straight and a straightforward, if somewhat vague, plan of action. It was already some time past noon from the angle of the sun.

'Alright, first order of business. Flowers.'

He made his way down the road past the various stalls that dotted the thoroughfare. To his chagrin, many of them seemed to be closing early. Apparently, news of the Moon Raising had most of the shop owners closing up early in preparation for the event.

He quickened his pace, hoping that the flower shop hadn't closed as well.

To Sprout and Bloom Flower Shop--->
This message was last edited by the player at 18:36, Thu 26 Apr 2012.

Unfortunately for Ace, there weren't many easy targets around town.  There were plenty of ponies, sure, but none of them were sticking around long enough for him to strike up a conversation or figure out an angle to take advantage of.  Everypony was talking about the presence of Princess Luna in town and the Moon Raising that evening in Town Square.  It caused enough ruckus that everypony was in a rush getting ready -- they were either closing up early to prepare for a personal evening to enjoy the event, or the more enterprising were looking to set up shop later that night to make the most of the upcoming crowds.

However, as he went around making himself familiar with the merchants and lay of the land, he'd find free stuff to be quite easy to come by.  Everyone in town was surprisingly generous and kindly, even the gruff ones.  He'd get samples from local merchants easily or for an extremely low price since he was new to town and everypony seemed to value the idea of making friends with a potential future customer.  The only flak he'd get was from the out-of-town ponies who were just passing through as they had less sympathy for someone looking to exploit good nature.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:20, Thu 26 Apr 2012.

 Naturally Ace would take advantage of the freebies, and since it suit him thank them for the opportunity. That is interesting news though, a Princess? Royalty coming here? He isn't sure if he can use this to his advantage somehow, but it is definitely something to look into. He was off to the Town square to check it out.

 < To Town Square >

--->From Sprout and Bloom

Flowers acquired, Rook checked the item off his mental to-do list. Next up, he needed to return home and put on something... nice. He glanced down at plain blue vest. He loved it dearly, but it probably wouldn't cut it on his date tonight. He hoped that he still had something that would.

Well, one way to find out.

Checking his watch, he saw that he still had plenty of time before dusk. Nevertheless, he went into a brisk trot as he heads home.

To Games & Tables--->
This message was last edited by the player at 12:24, Sat 28 Apr 2012.

--->From Games & Tables

Once clear of the shop Quick took to the air, flying just clear of the thatched roofs of the neighboring shops.

Alright, first order of business, he needed to visit the bank and deposit the money.

Quick flew over the Business District streets passing over the heads of the milling ponies as he weaved up, over and around the various buildings houses and shops that made up the Business district. He waved to a few ponies that he recognized, but for the most part just enjoyed the wind flowing past him. He'd been cooped up at the store for far too long for his liking.

In the distance he could see the central spire of Town Hall. Flitting over one last building he entered Town Square proper.

To Town Square--->

<-- Enter from Ponyville Residential District

Just south of Town Hall sat a cozy little restaurant nestled up on a dale by the river.  Small and intimate, the location was better suited for limited groups and couples out on dates, so it got quite popular at certain times of year when it was better suited to spend time at somepony's side.  It was also one of the few places in town that hadn't closed up shop early yet, likely due to how close it was to the event taking place already.

"Here we are~!  The Rocking Horse Diner." Red Tape smiled at the familiar image on the overhanging sign; a signature rocking horse in stylish wood char.  "I come here every now and then... it's one of my favorite places."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:39, Thu 10 May 2012.

Quick looked up approvingly at the restaurant. 'This is perfect,' he thought.

"Wow, this is a really nice place. Can't believe I've never heard of it before. Thanks for the recommendation Red."

Quick walked into the restaurant, up to the reception desk at the front and cleared his throat. "Excuse me? Can I have a table for two?" he asked the pony manning the desk.

Red Tape kept in close with Quick Buck as they were seated -- the pony handling the front looked surprised to see her in the company of someone else, but smiled politely and led them along to a nearby table.  All of the seating was outside, so it gave the two of them a great view of the event going on just over the river.

"Quick?" she asked softly as she pulled her attention from the display over yonder and set it back on him.  "Um... thank you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:47, Thu 10 May 2012.

The venue really was a sight. Quick smiled. And it was made all the better by the mare he was sharing it with. He wish he'd thought of asking her out before. Some of his previous dates had been... less than ideal. (What had he'd seen in that blue valley-pony anyway? *shudder*)

 "You're welcome, Red. Quick said gently. It was the least I could do to repay the favor. Besides, you looked like you needed something special to pick you up tonight. His smile turned into a frown of concern remembering how tired she'd looked when he'd met her at Town Hall earlier. "When was the last time you took a break for yourself, if you don't mind me asking?"

The Earth Pony mulled over that for a moment -- Quick would recognize that look in her eye since she always had a particular way of furrowing her brows when she was doing math in her head.  She didn't even notice when the waiter brought over glasses of water and a complimentary basket of loose hay along with their menus.

"Ah... well, never." she finally said with a sigh and helpless laugh.  "That's sort of the cost of the job, y'know?  You have a Cutie Mark for specializing in litigation and you spend the rest of your life chained to a desk.  Don't get me wrong; I love my job.  But it's too important for me to ignore."

Quick nodded his head and took a quick sip from his water as he opened up his menu. "Yeah, I understand."

"Still, you should think about stepping back from your job every once in a while." He gave a tilt of his head. "Or at least get an assistant to help you with your workload. It'd be a shame if a beautiful mare like you burned out because she overworked herself."

He looked down at his menu. A lot of the items looked tasty but he wasn't sure what to get just yet. "Hmm, maybe we should order an appetizer first?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:07, Thu 10 May 2012.

As she was called beautiful, Red Tape's cheeks glowed as bright crimson as her Cutie Mark.  She quickly hid herself behind her open menu and struggled to get herself back under control as quickly as possible.

"Th-the daffodil crisps are good..." was all she could squeak out for a suggestion, barely able to get her head to work on any more coherent form of reply.

Quick had missed Red Tape's blush as he perused the inside of the menu. "Really? Well let's try those first then." He passed by the veggieburgers -probably not appropriate for the occasion- and went into the pasta-salads. Ooo, maybe the sautaeed dandelions in a honey-pepper sauce with some creamed alfalfa. That sounded fancy enough and hopefully it tastes as good as it sounds.

He took another sip of water and looked back up at Red Tape who was still hidden behind her own menu. "Have you figured out your order yet, Red?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:54, Fri 11 May 2012.

It was fortunate that Red Tape had a chance to keep her head down for a bit and calm herself.  She peeked timidly over the top of the menu and got relief when she found Quick busying himself looking through the meals.  Realizing she should use her menu for more than a shield, she skimmed its contents briefly before settling on an old favorite.  Comfort food would do her well right now, she figured.

"The buckwheat pasta in bitter citrus dressing sounds good." she repeated the order to the waiter when he came along to take their requests and also asked a flute of mulberry wine.

Once their orders were off to the kitchen, then came the part of the evening that made Red Tape squirm with barely suppressed dread.  Silent moments.  Internally her mind raced as she tried to think of things to talk about.  Hobbies?  Gossip?  The weather?  Gah!  All she ever had was her work and there was no way she was going to discuss data management and real estate regulation on the first date she'd had in... oh sweet Celestia, how long had it even been?!

"So... how's your brother doing?" she asked awkwardly.

His brother? Quick's head canted to the side. Well, that was an odd topic to bring up... but he quickly realized that Red Tape was just trying to make small talk and so he obliged her.

"Rook's been doing alright, all things considered. With the large sum of money we got today, he'll hopefully stop worrying about the store. Heh, another couple of days of slow sales and I was sure I'd find him climbing the walls eventually." He smirked from behind his glass at the mental image as he took another sip.

"Anyway, as I said before, he's on a date tonight as well. Probably enjoying himself down in the Town Square right now. I'll be honest, he surprised me when he told me about it earlier this afternoon. Of course it might have also been because he was on the edge of a emotional breakdown at the time." Quick laughed and waved his hoof as if was no big deal. It really wasn't. Although Rook was known for the occasional freak out, he always seemed to bounce back quickly.

"Anyway, I got him sorted out and last saw him getting ready for his date with China Saucer. Quick's eyebrows knotted. I think she's a waitress at that cafe down the street? Have you met her before? I can't say I know much about her, I hope she treats him well." A hint of brotherly concern crept into his voice at this. He didn't want to see Rook hurt by the wrong mare. Celestia knows, he himself endured enough of that in the past.

Red Tape shook her head at the mention of Rook's date -- she didn't get out of the office much and never had a chance to go to the Summer Song Cafe, so she didn't know of its patrons.  She'd met Merriweather when handling the mare's initial arrival to town and the property transfer rights that came with it, but beyond that she was in the dark.

"I'm sure they're having a good time.  Rook needs the chance to lighten up and go have some fun." she sighed, completely missing the hypocrisy of that statement's application to herself.  "What about you though?  I mean, you're in the same boat as your brother when it comes to slow sales and such.  Has life in Ponyville been treating you okay?"

"You're right. Rook has a good head on his shoulders _{-even if he has a tendency to lose it-}, I guess he'll do alright." Quick's concerned face relaxed and looked up as he tapped his hoof against his chin in contemplation as he though about Red next question.

"Well all things considered, life's been pretty good. Aside from the slowdown in business, we've been keeping up financially. When I'm not watching the store, I usually do the odd job around town. You know, run an errand for this stall owner, buy groceries for the old mare down the street. That kinda thing. Keeps change in my pocket and my hooves busy.

"The two of us are doing pretty alright living on our own. Thanks for helping us get through the paperwork buying the place, by the way. Mom and Dad are out and about. Mom's left on a courier job to Appaloosa yesterday. She should be back within a few days or so. And I... actually haven't heard from Dad in a while now that I think about it..." His face creased in worry again. "He's part the local militia and is supposed to be stationed somewhere between Ponyville and Canterlot. He's usually good at keeping touch though..." Quick coughed as an awkward silence fell over the table.

He quickly shook his head. Now was the worst time to be feeling melancholy."Ah anyway, tell me about you, Red. Here I am gabbing away about my life's story and you haven't even told me your favorite color yet," he said, putting on a teasing smile to cover his own personal worries.

Red Tape wondered if she hadn't accidentally opened up a can of worms as Quick went over his thoughts of his family.  They were obviously important to him and their health seemed to weigh on his mind, so she wanted to draw him off such a topic quickly.  The last thing she wanted was to get him in a funk due to putting a bunch of heavy thoughts into play.

"Well, incidentally, it's red.  Lucky for the both of us, hmm?" the mare said with a soft smile.  Before she could continue with a new line of conversation, music started up and Princess Luna's voice carried out over the neighboring Town Square.  For a few moments all eyes were directed toward the center of town and then skyward as the Moon was sent up into the night with such a wondrous display.  Red Tape didn't even realize that she'd stood at some point, wide-eyed and smiling at the sight like a filly... a little genuine happiness did her good too, making it look as though a few years had shed off her tired face that makeup couldn't quite cover on its own.

"Oh, I don't envy the town janitorial crew..." she finally sighed once the party started going and confetti rained down from overhead.

<<from Ponyville Residential District: Moonsong's Home; early evening<<

The precipitation may be light, but Moonsong is still water-slicked by the time she crosses a few rooftops to land in the market's ring.  The slivers and dust of gems sparkle in her wet mane, and her coat is at least two shades closer to black as she hurriedly tucks her rain-shined wings to her back and begins to rush about the market.  The rain doesn't bother her--Moonsong isn't sure that such mild weather has ever bothered any pegasus--but she isn't so sure that the vendors will be interested in keeping their shops open if the clouds and weather-working pegasi have a storm in mind.

She's picking out a half-bushel of vegetables when it occurs to Moonsong that eventually she'll have to not only see about getting a weather schedule, but find out what, if any, volunteer shifts she'll be working in helping with the weather.  The mare pays her bits and moves on, thinking that her best bet might be Town Hall tomorrow--just like she'll probably need to visit the library tomorrow as well, instead of showing up dripping and expecting to be allowed to hoof-through the books.

---> From Ponyville Square (Which is Really Circular)

The Doctor wandered about, frolicking a bit in the light rain. Catching sight of Moonsong, he wanders over to her, gradually soaking. "Hello, there. How about this lovely drizzle, eh? I've always liked drizzle. Reminds me of Trottingham."

--> Enter from Ponyville Town Square -->

Unsurprisingly, the market is mostly deserted of customers, considering most of Ponyville is populated by sensible ponies that stayed out of the rain.  Fung, on the other hoof, loved the rain.  It was cool against his hot muscles, and filled his nose with the fresh scent he loved.  On the downside, the short trot combined with the weight of the rain in his mane had knocked his top knot free, leaving his mane hanging free.  It was irritating, but he was in a rush, so no helping it.  He'd just have to take extra care tying it tonight.

He was practically sprinting from stall to stall, trying to purchase the things he needed before they closed up.  However, before he can even stop at his first stall he spies a pony he believes he recognizes.  It isn't the mare's black coat or mane, though those were certainly striking enough.  He recognized her wings quite well, though he couldn't place where, exactly.  Though she seems engaged in conversation, Fung feels compelled to approach.  It isn't often one spies a Pony so unique, and Fung has been feeling more bold lately.  Trotting up alongside her, he gave her his most polite smile.  Then he realized his wet hair had fallen into his face, so he shook the mane out of his face and tried again.
"Good evening Sir, Miss.  Pardon me for interrupting, but I feel as if you are familiar.  Have we met previously, perhaps in passing?  I ask only because you have a striking appearance, and though I can't place it, I know I have seen you somewhere."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:49, Thu 02 Aug 2012.

Not quite as bothered by the wet as she'd expected herself to be, Moonsong is between booths when she looks up from her tally of groceries at the sound of an unfamiliar stallion addressing her.  She glances around her just to be sure she is the one being spoken to, then offers a timid but friendly smile.  "Hello."  A pause, and then: "I don't remember much of Trottingham, but it was a long time ago.  I'm Moonsong."  She segues awkwardly into the introduction and extends a hoof in greeting.

When the kirin that she'd seen earlier in the sky over the Square arrives at her side she shifts and resettles her wings in surprise, then offers another shy smile as she listens to his words while a blush heats her cheeks beneath her dark coat.  "I-I don't think we have, no...?  I've only been in Ponyville for a few days.  I sang at the Moon-raising; is that what you're thinking of?"  The bat-pegasus looks from one stallion to the other, not sure what to do with the attention but trying her best to smile politely and not look uncertain.

"The Doctor," the Doctor introduced himself, nearly taking and shaking Moonsong's offered hoof. He was prevented from doing so by the one and only Fung Shui. Still, with weather this nostalgic, the Doctor could not even be bothered to be annoyed by the interruption, and he instead watched the young pony-folk interact. An easy smile spread across his face.

Fung's eyes brightened with realization when Moonsong mentioned the Moon-Raising festival.
"Ah, of course!  It is no wonder I remember you without a formal introduction, your singing left quite an impression.  My name is Fung Shui, formerly of Neighpon.  It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Though his introduction is stiff and a little uptight, it is clearly a bit more than just an introduction.  A ritual, perhaps?  Regardless, he accentuates the self-introduction with a polite bowing of his head.

Still riding the high from his competition, Fung flashes Moonsong a wide, slightly fangy grin.
"It's always a pleasure to meet another pony with a talent for the Finer Arts.  Your singing was quite divine at the Festival.  I think everypony would agree."
Fung hadn't forgotten that there was another pony present, and looked over at him passively as if to invite him to comment.

"Oh, indeed," the Doctor agreed, offering Fung his own, deeper, head-bow. "It was so lovely it very nearly distracted me from noticing that that big blue one--what's her name... Princess, or something--didn't actually raise anything of note. And I've heard the Sirens of the Uprunning Falls at the Spring Equinox."

Something about what he'd said didn't sound right, even to the Time Lord. He tried again, this time directly addressing Moonsong. "Your singing voice is the loveliest in the entire Universe," he said with certainty.

She seems almost stuck in place with one hoof still slightly raised in the expectation of the typical Equestrian greeting.  Even though the mare mentally wonders what the Doctor is a doctor of, Fung's self-introduction and praise for her singing--that lead to the bizarre but no less great compliment from the Doctor--left Moonsong a little mentally stuck.  Her raised hoof lowers and she almost prances in a nervous shuffle as her wings flex and settle against her back.

"_{D-divine...?  Entire... universe...?}"  She manages to breathe the words around an awe-tightened throat only to catch herself at stammering and shying a few seconds later.  Moonsong delicately clears her throat and offers a little bob of her head to both stallions.  The gesture isn't quite a mimicry of Fung but something similar that seems too relaxed to be atypical.  "It's... It's a pleasure to meet you both, Doctor, Fung Shui.  Thank you both so much for your kind words."

Maybe it was Moonsong's timid reply that tipped him off, but Fung realized that he was letting his elation from the competition get the better of him.  No wonder the poor Mare was so overcome, he was acting like some star-struck colt.  Taking a subtle breath to chastise himself and remember his manners, he wondered how he might salvage the situation.  She was grateful now, but her gratitude for the compliment may not last.  Then he noticed what the other Pony had said.  He shot him an incredulous look.

"Not that I disagree, Sir, but how exactly does one become that best at anything in the Universe?  Or discern as such?"
Normally Fung would discount that kind of comment as simple exaggeration, considering the predisposition most ponies around here had for that sort of thing, but The Doctor had said it with such conviction that Fung couldn't discount it.

"Oh, pish-posh. No need to thank the truth," the Doctor off-hoofedly dismissed Moonsong's gratitude.

At Fung's question, the damp brown stallion stopped. "Well," he said, gazing up and off into the sky in a nonchalant-sort-of-way, "Apart from travelling across most of time and space, all of the nobbiest of hobs tend to agree that the Sirens of the Uprunning Falls are the best singers ever. And yes, they are quite brilliant, but they lack that certain... humility, I think." he explained himself.

Moonsong listens as Fung Shui questions the Doctor, and though she's not entirely sure she should believe the brown stallion's answer...  She finds that she does.  Perhaps it's the way he sounds so very sure, or maybe it's just that Moonsong is a gullible mare, but the bat-winged pegasus realises she's more curious about what the Sirens of the Uprunning Falls are than she is interested in sorting out whether they're real or not.

She also finds herself looking skyward, just in case the Doctor is seeing something she isn't, but a light patter of rain on her face has her abandoning that glance rather promptly.  Blinking the rain from her blue-ish eyes, Moonsong looks to the kirin to see what he makes of the Doctor's answer, and her soft smile is suggestive of how dazzled she still is by the praise.

If the expression on his face was any indication, Fung was obviously still unconvinced by the Doctor.  Not surprising, considering the fantastical nature of his claims, and Fung's stoic down-to-earthedness.  Still, Fung remembered his manners and nodded amicably, smiling awkwardly.  What the heck was a 'Hob' anyway, and how are they 'Nobby'?
"Well, I can see what you mean."
No he didn't.  Not even a little.
"Er, perhaps we had better move along.  I believe the rain may be picking up soon."

Fung's rush was mostly on account of the Doctor's oddness, which he was actually willing to skip his shopping to avoid.  He still remembered his encounter with Pinkie Pie in his nightmares.  However, he stopped himself short when he realized Moonsong had a load to carry.
"Oh!  Curse my negligence, I didn't realize you were laden, Moonsong.  Please, allow me assist you.  I insist.  It wouldn't be right for me to leave a mare out in the rain with full hooves."

"Unless she likes it that way," the Doctor added, nodding in agreement. He didn't move forward to assist Moonsong as well, though; causing Fung any more obvious unease would only worsen everypony's day.

---> Enter from Loose Leaf's Home

Loose Leaf wondered about the business district, looking into windows, mentally jotting down any place that house interesting knick-knacks or home decor. Not that she was going to actually BUY things, more to find things she could probably make herself for half the bits. Still, her sense of direction in the unfamiliar town was sub-par and she wasn't really keen on where she was supposed to go. The stores were mostly closing and the rain meant most ponies were absent. Well, all but for a cluster of ponies down the way. She neared and recognized two faces.

"Moonsong! The Doctor! I mean, Doctor!" She stopped a bit short and inspected the other pony... or, actually, she didn't know WHAT he was. "Uh, sorry. Am I interrupting anything...?"

"Not at all, Loose Leaf! Have you met mister Fung Shui? He's come all the way from Neighpon," the Doctor introduced them, beckoning the artist forth. "Lovely country," he added.

When both Fung Shui and the Doctor offer to help her with her saddle bags, Moonsong lifts a hoof in a polite attempt to wave them off--only to turn with a little start at the sound of Loose Leaf's greeting.  It isn't so bad as last night at the moon-raising, with all those ponies packed into the Square, Moonsong tries to tell herself--but that fresh wave of anxiety makes her shuffle nervously in place all the same.  "It's f-fine, thank you."

Moonsong smiles a greeting to Loose Leaf and tries to still her fidgeting hooves before she splashes those around her.

Moonsong's polite refusal to his aid brought a small frown to Fung's face, but he respected her decision.  He hadn't noticed it right away, but she was obviously not used to being subjected to praise.  Fung understood that.  Though it was much more reserved in Neighpon, being the center of attention was hard to get used to.  Before he could try to lighten the load, however, he heard another pony approaching who seemed to know both Moonsong and The Doctor.  He had to smile.  It seemed he was meeting many new ponies today.  When he heard The Doctor introducing him, he took a moment to adjust his sopping mane before greeting the newcomer.
"Greetings, it's a pleasure to...meet..."

Fung's speech slowed to crawl when he laid eyes on Loose Leaf, before petering out in mid greeting.  His expression was entirely blank, broken by one or two twitches of his lower right eyelid.  For almost a full half a minute, Fung just stared.  When he moved, it was to point at one of the small metal studs in Leaf's ears.  And eyebrow.
"You...you have something...in...your face."

"Of course I've heard of it," Loose Leaf said, extending her hoof to the... not pony. She tried to shoot for a not completely over-exaggerated grin. Smaller, smaller, there we go. Not freaky. "Geography was never one of my best subjects, but they do make fabulous art supplies. It's nice to meet you. As the Doctor said, I'm Loose Leaf."

She nodded at both the Doctor and Moonshine in greeting, her smile cracking a bit at how adorably Moonsong was fidgeting. She was called back to attention as Fung Shui started his side of the greeting.

"My wha? Oh! That's a piercing. It's a funny story that is not really that funny now that I think about it." She laughed a bit thinking back at the whole ordeal. Her school years were a... special time for Loose Leaf. "I assure you they were on the absolute RAGE for disgruntled youths. Less relevant now, but still a part of me... literally."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:45, Sat 04 Aug 2012.

Those were a...a school tradition!?  And here Fung had thought he'd finally gotten over his culture shock.  Piercings and such weren't terribly uncommon in Neighpon, but they were always decorative, and mostly reserved for rich Noblemares.  This pony was definitely not nobility.
"I...see.  I cannot say I remember any such customs in my homeland.  Adolescent rebellion was fiercely frowned upon.  I don't recall ever doing anything I wasn't expected to do."
He couldn't help but flounder a bit.  This mare seemed quite personable, but in a different way from the other ponies he'd met.  She seemed eccentric, but not Pinkie or The Doctor's extent.  It made accepting her oddities a little easier.

"You mentioned Art Supplies...I take it you are an artist?  Or an art dealer of some sort?  I must admit, I have not encountered a great deal of artistic influence since coming to Ponyville.  No shortage of passion or interest though."
He reminisced fondly over his dance students for a moment, firmly believing he was enriching the town by giving it a hard injection of culture.  Even if his students didn't quite know that.

"Well, heheh. It's not that it was a... tradition. Or even really rebellion. I sort of hoped it would be, but there really wasn't much reception. You know, middle child life. Hot Wings thought it would be a statement..." Loose Leaf started to mumble. She stopped herself before she went off on the whole story. "But they help amplify who I am now I guess. Oh, but yes, I am an artist. If you're interested..."

Loose Leaf reached around herself. Her bright smile drained into slight disgust as her hoof pulled out something wet and spongy. Her business cards had not fared well in the rain. "Uhm, nevermind. But yes, I am an artist. I'm actually doing a mural for the Doctor soon, and have sketched Moonsong. That does remind me though Doctor, I will need to take a look around your home is it? Cause I sort of need to do measurements and design stuff and yeah..."

"Hm? Oh, yes, right," the Doctor said. "It seems I have places to be. Have a marvelous day, Fung Shui. Moonsong. Enjoy the rain while it lasts!" With that, he led Loose Leaf away from the other two ponies, and into a nearby alley.

---> To the TARDIS!

"Oh wait but we were, uhh, ok bye then?" Loose Leaf was barely able to finish her goodbyes before she was lead away into an ally by the Doctor. Something her parents had told her a long ago about strangers and dark allies and ally that itched the back of her mind. She mostly ignored it.

---> Exit to The TARDIS
This message was last edited by the player at 06:25, Sat 04 Aug 2012.

Despite himself, Fung was intrigued.  He hadn't known many painters or illustrators, even back in Neighpon.  It was almost enough to get him over her odd appearance.  Almost.
"Well, I can't say that I am in need of an artist, but I shall be sure to keep you in mind."
Before the conversation could continue, however, The Doctor quite suddenly lead Loose Leaf off down an alleyway away from Fung and Moonsong.  It was quite abrupt, and left Fung at a loss.
"Good...bye?"

With the other two gone, Fung turned back to Moonsong, looking a little confused, but not altogether unwell.  Considering his track record with wierdness thus far.
"...I find myself unable to remember why I came here.  This is becoming far too common for my peace of mind."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:56, Sat 04 Aug 2012.

Silent for the energetic dialogue of those around her, Moonsong was just as baffled by the rapid departure as she was by the initial appearance of the little gathering.  She lifts a hoof to wave at the Doctor and Loose Leaf as they go, and it's hard not to breathe a sigh of relief at the renewed quiet.

Giggling softly and shrugging her shoulders after placing her hoof on the ground again, Moonsong nods towards the vendors that haven't yet packed up for the day.  "Did you need to get groceries?  I was finishing that up, myself."

Fung brightened considerably at the reminder.
"Ah, yes!  I was going to get...oh."
His ears drooped when he turned back in the direction he had originally come from to find the stall he had intended to visit had closed during their conversation.
"No harm done, I suppose.  I will just have to get it in the morning."
Something about how he says it makes it seem like he doesn't enjoy the thought at all.

He brushes the dejected look off when he looks back to Moonsong.
"I must apologize.  You seemed a little uncomfortable earlier, and I did not have a chance to alleviate the tension."

Moonsong smiles in understanding as she recognises the expression the kirin wears; she doesn't look too thrilled to not be able to finish her shopping, either.  "If you want, I can share some of my groceries with you?"  The mare offers her grocery list as she speaks.  Each item on the damp paper that has been purchased has a small check next to it, but only a third the roster of foods have been checked off.

At the apology, Moonsong offers another little shrug and a smile.  "It's...  It's alright.  I wasn't expecting...  Well, when grocery shopping in the rain I guess I didn't expect to have so much company?"  She finishes as though asking a question and scuffs a hoof against the soaking ground.

"Absolutely not.  I'll not have you suffer for my poor time management.  I have enough to get through to tomorrow, at the very least.  If anything, I should be making it up to you for distracting you needlessly."
Though he refused, Fung was impressed by her selflessness.  It wasn't often you met a pony who was willing to go hungry because another had acted foolishly.  Unfortunately, Fung couldn't really follow up on his own declaration of fault.  He didn't have anything he could give her, and it was just too late in the day for him to suggest something else.

Hrm.  Unless...looking at her grocery list, Fung gets a thoughtful look.
"I believe I may have an idea.  If I am not mistaken, I believe I have most of these items that you're missing at my home.  And judging from what you've already purchased, I would be more than capable of cooking a meal large enough for both of us.  This way, neither of us need go hungry.  And I would be more than able to replace what you lost in the morning once the stalls have reopened."

"It wouldn't be that bad,"  Moonsong replies in light protest.  Even with only half her groceries to take home, the mare would be so much better off than she presently is.  As Fung Shui continues, Moonsong listens thoughtfully and with surprise, then amused delight.  "If you'll let me help you cook, then I'd be happy to share with you."  Her previous timidness is still there in the friendly request, but the mare is warming up rapidly now that she doesn't feel quite so surrounded.  "I could meet you here in the morning, too?  I need to finish my shopping anyway, and we could help each other cut down on the time it will take."

Fung answered her a with a quick nod and a small grin.  Somehow, Moonsong's stipulation that she be allowed to help cook makes him curious to see if her cooking is as good as her singing.
"It's agreed then.  Shall I bring the food to your home, or would you prefer to come to mine?  I will admit, my home is rather sparse in terms of amenities, but it should suit our purpose well enough."
Though he made light of it, Fung actually found himself a little anxious about the state of his loft home.  He'd always lived in a bit of a spartan environment, and didn't like having a lot of belongings about compared to some other ponies.

She considers for a moment before laughing in embarrassment.  "To tell the truth, my apartment is only recently unpacked.  It's pretty tidy, but I'd have to say it's probably fairly sparse too."  Moonsong admits, then goes on:  "I certainly don't mind to host our dinner, though.  It's probably as clean now as it will ever likely be."  She pauses just long enough to realise that her words have likely made her seem like a complete slob and hastily continues, stammering in her rush.  "Not that I don't c-clean!  I try to be tidy, just m-maybe not as much as my parents always are."

The bat-pegasus mare stops her rambling before it can get too far away from her, and instead scuffs the wet ground with a hoof once more.

Fung allowed himself a silent chuckle at Moonsong's flustered attempt to recover from her gaff, though he hadn't actually assumed that she was particularly slovenly at all.  In fact, judging from her rather fastidious personal appearance, Fung judged that she was probably quite cleanly.
"Not to worry, Moonsong.  I am certain your home will be more than sufficient.  And, in that case, I should hasten to my own home to gather the rest of our supplies."

He turned to make his way to his studio, but stopped when he realized he didn't actually know where she was living.  Coughing lightly to mask his slip-up, he smiled sheepishly.
"Or, perhaps you had better give me some directions first.  I don't believe I know where to find your home."

She nods in response to Fung Shui's words, and when he turned to go she very nearly did as well.  In fact it seemed as though she realised right about the same time as the kirin that he'd have a devil of a time finding her again without some sort of directions, and she looks almost as abashed for not thinking of giving them outright as he looks sheepish over not initially asking.

"If you fly straight in that direction it's hard to miss.  It's a small cluster of three apartments and mine is in the middle.  I'll keep the balcony door open for you unless the rain picks up."  Moonsong points with the tip of one briefly extended wing, its leathery surface glossy with the rain, and as she folds it to her back again the mare quietly laughs.  "I'll set some towels out, too."

---> Enters from TARDIS

Peeking out of the ally, Loose Leaf was thankful that the rain had subsided a bit. She closed her umbrella saddle and entered into the main road. Now that she thought about it, she hadn't gotten any of the decor browsing she had intended to do.

"Drat," she mumbled, looking about at all the closed shops. At least she got to see the inside of the Doctor's home. It had been WELL worth it.

Fung follows Moonsong's outstretched wing and marked the direction with a practiced eye.  One had to be good with sensing direction when flying out to sea was a common occurrence.  Satisfied that he could find her apartment, he nodded once in self-affirmation.
"Thank you, I think towels may be a necessity at this point.  I- Oh!"

By chance, Fung happened to notice that the pony from earlier, Loose Leaf, had suddenly returned.  She looked just as downcast at the closed stalls as he and Moonsong had been.  Still curious, he waved a cloven hoof in her direction.
"Hello again.  I see you survived your strange rendezvous."
That was Fung being polite.  He wasn't sure what he'd say if he wasn't being polite, but it would probably be in pretty poor taste.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I did... you guys are still out here?" Loose Leaf asked, pointing at the two. "It felt like hours in there."

For a moment, the mare wondered if the strange phone booth held it's own space and time dimension or something crazy. Though at this point, it wasn't exactly a far-fetched notion. She had seen quite a lot of "crazy" this evening, and figured it was better not to question them.

Her deep train of thought was cut off by a rumble in her stomach. She blushed and looked down at herself.

"Hush," she mumbled, hoping the other two hadn't heard her speak to it.

Nodding happily as the kirin clearly seems to find her slight directions sufficient, she's giggling a bit at his response to her offer of towels and blithely replying before she realises his attention has wandered.  "I should have brought one with me--you never know when you'll need a towel, after all."  As her words finish the bat-pegasus is half-turning to spot Loose Leaf as Fung waves to her, and she offers a friendly smile to the other mare.

"It's only been a few moments,"  Moonsong assures, though she does throw a surreptitious glance at the sky just to be sure that that time hasn't progressed further than she'd noticed.  She glanced back to Loose Leaf and almost asked about the sound before her own stomach, perhaps prompted by a fellow empty digestive tract, rumbled in soft protest.  Moonsong coughs softly to try to hide the sound, then looks to Fung with a silent question on her expressive face--to invite the hungry artist to dinner so that the three of them could share?

The mare found herself suddenly unsure as to whether or not she should have even posed the question.  Would it be rude?  Would it be rude not to invite Loose Leaf?  Fretting over the matter, Moonsong suddenly finds the squelching ground at her hooves to be fascinating in the hopes that Fung Shui will know the proper answer.

As her stomach grumbled, Loose Leaf peered around. Indeed, there was not a single vender of any kind open. Drat. No she regretted not socking up on cheap rations the day prior, or perhaps raiding her parent's pantry before moving (they wouldn't have mind too much, as their steadier jobs kept them and the lil' man fed). She wasn't so lucky.

"I see you guys didn't get much food either," she started eyeing their groceries in an attempt to make small talk. "There, uh, isn't anyone open this late is there? I mean, I'm sorry to cut into your conversation, but I sort of need to figure out my dinner plans."

Loose Leaf let out an embarrassed laughed and her stomach rumbled along.

The growling of Loose Leaf's stomach threw Fung off kilter for a moment, and he was unsure of how to respond without sounding rude.  When Moonsong's followed suit, however, he let out a laugh at the coincidence.  He also took notice of her sudden interest in her shuffling feet, and gave himself a mental nod.
"Well, I'm sorry to say that I don't think any other food vendors are left open for you to make purchases from.  However..."

Fung motioned between himself and Moonsong as he continued speaking.
"Moonsong and I were just discussing how to overcome out own dinner difficulties this evening.  If you'd like, you're more than welcome to join us.  We are all in somewhat the same predicament."
If nothing else, Fung knew how to be gracious and hospitable.  That smile could probably put an angry Chimera at ease.

"R-really?" Loose Leaf asked, obviously over-joyed by the idea. "I... I mean uhm... well uhm... I don't have any food to contribute."

She made an embarrassed smile at the two. She knew Moonsong well enough, and a part of her knew that the exotic pony would have no problem with her joining them for dinner. At the very least, she could pay her back with some art, or a job, or maybe - just maybe - make her dinner. The kirin, on the other hand, was a much different story.

Remembering the way he had eyed her peircings, Loose Leaf wasn't really sure how she stood with him. He seemed like a nice enough stallion, and he had offered for her to come along... still, she felt a bit bad mooching off of him. Actually, she felt bad mooching off of both of them, but at least she knew Moonsong would forgive her.

"Uhm, maybe I could help cook? Or anything else? I don't want to be dead weight or anything..."

Moonsong smiles happily as the kirin invites Loose Leaf to join them, though when the artist makes her uncertain protests she shakes her head slightly.  "We were going to share in the cooking, so I don't see why you couldn't help.  My kitchen might be a little small for the three of us, but maybe it'll be more fun that way."  She giggles softly as she speaks, then continues a bare pause later.  "You could either go with Fung Shui to help him gather his things, or you could come with me and help me tidy a little?"

"Well, I guess I'll go help Fung. Might be hard for him to get to your place without somepony who can fly. Besides, I don't really want to be in your way while you clean. Might as well make myself useful," Loose Leaf started. "you know, help him get his stuff. I mean, if that's alright with you."

Loose Leaf turned to the Kirin, waiting for his answer. Although she wasn't going to admit it, part of the reason for wanting to go with the unique stallion was because he was just that. Already, she was picturing what kind of modeling he might be able to do for her, if she had the time to talk him into it. If she played her cards right, she might even be able to sell a commission to him!

At the very least get some form of odd job. She couldn't mooch of her friend's cooking forever.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:34, Mon 13 Aug 2012.

Though one of his eyebrows quirked at Loose Leaf's comment that he would need a pony who could fly, Fung didn't correct her.  In fact, he almost seemed to be smiling.  It was clear from her earlier reaction to him that she'd never met a Kirin before, so he let the slight pass.
"Wakatta, understood, you'll assist me then.  With three mouths to feed, though, I would say time is of the essence.  We will meet at your house then, Moonsong.  Loose Leaf, if you would follow me..."

Wasting no more time, Fung trotted off at a leisurely pace that would allow Loose Leaf time to make a polite farewell and still catch up.  Of course, Fung was wasting a little bit of time because he wasn't flying yet.  He was still feeling a bit above the clouds from the race, and he felt like having a bit of fun at Loose Leaf's expense.

The mare starts to open her mouth to suggest that the kirin can fly, but when Fung doesn't make mention of it himself she lets the matter go.  Perhaps Loose Leaf didn't see the amazing star-chase between Fung Shui and Rainbow Dash, but Moonsong is at the moment already thinking about what potential messes she might have left behind in her apartment.  "I'll see the two of you shortly!"

She waves to Fung and smiles to Loose Leaf, and though the bat-pegasus means to give a moment for the other mare to reply, she seems otherwise quite eager to take wing and get out of the wet.

"Oh! Uh, ok, wait uh... hold on," Loose Leaf stammered, trying to sort herself at the pace the other two - especially Fung - were moving at. Her head was still in a bit of a daze after spending so much time in the Doctor's weird, not-so-little phone booth. A part of her felt like it was still trying to turn back an internal clock to re-calibrate the time difference she swore she felt. There was no time for lofty, mind tinkering now! Besides, she sort of figured it would be in vain.

Making sure not to slosh in any puddles, Loose Leaf trotted towards the Kirin, calling back to Moonsong her farewells and "see you soons". She followed the strangely jocund stallion. She raised her one pierced eyebrow at him a bit, because it seemed oddly out of character, even though he was a stranger. Looking at him a bit closer, Loose Leaf could have sworn she had seen him before. Bah, the notion was fairly impossible. At least she figured.

"Whatchu' so happy about?" Loose Leaf asked with a friendly smile.

"Hrm?  Oh!"
Fung is a bit surprised to find that he'd been smiling a bit too openly and caught the young pegasi's attention with his exuberance.  His mane bounced a bit as he bobbed his head at the thought of why he was happy.
"Well.  I suppose it's because I just lost a race."
The backwardness of that statement was almost enough to make Fung chuckle aloud, but he settled for a continuation of the happy smile.  He figured she would want a little more information than that, so he went more in depth.

"Before the Emperor selected me as the Ambassador to Equestria, I was rather prominent in Neighpon as an Arashi no Katsushi.  Competitions were fierce.  Honor was always on the line, and personal affluence as well.  The fact that I did as well as I did was partly due to my Mark."
He motioned idly at his flank, where the mark was.
"Since coming to Ponyville, I haven't really competed much as I did in the past.  To do so again, even losing, was nostalgic.  Enjoyable even."

"Oh, well I guess that makes sense, even though I have absolutely no idea what a... uhm..." Loose Leaf made a face as she tried to pronounce the foreign word. "Ah-rye-shee no Cat-sushi..."

It didn't sound that great of a tittle. Of course, it sounded a bit cooler and much less stupid when he said it. Loose Leaf blushed a bit at her inability to pronounce it properly. She figured it was better not to try again and butcher it any further. She wondered what that even meant. Sounded like some sort of sport, he did say competition.

But then again, he said sushi.
Maybe it was some sort of chef title? Or maybe the sport was like... sword fighting, but instead of fighting another pony, you fought giant fish! Oh wow, that sounded cool. Wait no, that didn't make any sense either. He had mentioned something about a race and it being nostalgic. It must have something to do with that then. Race... race... why did that seem so familiar. She hadn't seen any race recently. No wait, there was that one earlier. Granted she didn't watch it, but everypony their was. She remembered going to try to sell some art... FUNG SHUI!

Loose Leaf suddenly stopped in the street and pulled out her sketchbook, flipping though the pages ferociously. How could she be so stupid! Forgetful! Some other synonym that she was too stupid to even think of at the moment. He was that stallion guy! The one at the race!

Just as she had thought, on one of the pages of her sketchbook, right after the one of Rainbow dash, was a posed sketch of Fung Shui with his name sprawled across the bottom and Loose Leaf's signature.

"Sweet Celestia..." Loose Leaf mumbled, slapping her hoof to her face a bit. Now she was officially embarrassed. Awesome Loose Leaf. So very awesome.

Moonsong pauses a moment to watch the pair depart, then eagerly takes wing toward her home.  She doesn't mind the rain so much once she's in the air, but the mare does worry that the gem dust Rarity had so kindly brushed into her mane is going to drip away with the water.

>>To Residential District: Moonsong's Home>>

Oblivious to the fantastical voyage her mind was taking in search of some kind of meaning behind what he'd said, Fung continued on talking in response to her confusion.
"I believe in Equestrian Arashi no Katsushi translates to 'Storm Skater'.  Not as illustrious, I feel, but adequate.  It's a little hard to describe if you have not seen it in person but-

Fung cuts off when Loose Leaf suddenly stops and begins flipping through her drawings.  He watched, curious to see what she was suddenly so desperate to find, and leaned in over her shoulder when she finally stopped.  His brow arched in surprise to find a surprisingly accurate and well done sketch of himself.
"This is quite well done, Loose Leaf!  I am surprised you had enough time to sketch this."
He noticed her holding her face in her hand and finally did allow himself a chuckle.
"Forgive me, but I could not help but have a bit of fun at your expense."

Looking up at Fung Shui, she couldn't help but look confused. Really confused.
"What do you mean?" she asked, stealthily sneaking the sketchbook back into her bag before it got wet. In fact, the drops were starting to come down again, and she really wanted to move before everything on her got soaking wet. "Here, let's head to your place and we can finish talking their. Moonsong is waiting. Then you can inform me all about the apparent fun you've been having at my expense."

With that, Loose Leaf smiled and started trotting back in the direction they had been heading. Mostly, she just didn't want him to see how red she had become over her little... forgetful moment. That, and she could never help but be giddy when somepony complimented her work, especially when it was of themselves. A lot of ponies tended to be critics of themselves, and usually didn't enjoy any artistic casualties in their portraits.

<--- Exit to Fung's Studio
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Tue 14 Aug 2012.

Fung watched Loose Leaf stuff her drawings away and stalk off, a bemused look on his face.  Her sarcasm wasn't hard to pick up on, so he wasn't concerned about having actually offended her.  In fact, if he wasn't mistaken, that hint of red in her cheeks when she hurried off was something of a clue.
"As you say.  Let us away with haste then, my dear!"

A tone of light teasing still in his voice, Fung followed after Loose Leaf towards his home, floating lazily along in the air now rather than walking.

--> Exit to Fung Shui's Studio -->

<From The Equestrian Express Train Station>

Star Dust wandered the streets of the business district.  The little colt didn't exactly know where he was going and seemed to be heading in the direction of the residential district, rather than the place he was trying to go.  There weren't a lot of ponies on the street either at the moment.  As he wandered the streets the pony was starting to become more and more worried.  All kinds of thoughts began to surface in his head.  What if his uncle was no longer a resident of Ponyville?  What if he had gotten off the train at the wrong station?  What if he got lost and never saw his parents again?  Worried and frustrated, the little colt began to speed up his pace, starting to move at a trot... and then a gallop.  He would run all over town if he had to.

The little colt seemed to slow down until he came to a halt.  He had to get a grip and calm himself down.  At this rate he was going to stay lost.  Turning around, Star Dust looked back in the direction he'd come from.  There was the train station... besides that, the colt didn't really know where anything was.  His best bet seemed to be looking for an adult for help.  Star Dust began trotting back in the direction he'd come from.  There weren't very many ponies out yet, so the colt decided to try finding someone inside one of the buildings.  The colt paused at what appeared to be a cafe.  With a quick sigh, the colt entered.

<To the Summer Song Cafe>
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:43, Sat 01 Sept 2012.

--> Boutique

"Well, I'm very partial to sweets, but I tend to keep them out of the house to avoid temptation, you see," Rarity explained as she led the Princess to the Business District which was extraordinarily close, "Fruits, however, are my favorite. Strawberries especially. Mmm! And you cannot beat the apples from Sweet Apple Acres. You simply cannot. Though, I doubt Applejack will have her stand out in the market today, what with her hoof injury and all. Poor, poor, dear. Though, with her new relationship brewing, I doubt she will be feeling -too- sour."

The fashionista did have a tendency to ramble on about things everyone knew, not that she was exactly entitled to it. Some found it annoying, but Rarity had enough social consciousness to tell when she was talking too much and pull back a bit. At the same time, she was looking at the various food stalls, considering prices. She had more than enough bits to spare, after all.

"Mm, where to begin," Rarity mused, pausing in the middle of the square.

--> Boutique

Luna gave an eager little nod as Rarity spoke of sweets. Good, good, then asking for some for herself wouldn't be so tasteless. And good fruits too! Strawberries, Apples... Deciding that Rarity's tastes would suit her, she gave the other pony a grin. "Those all sound  wonderful, we'll just need to get enough for us both. Perhaps I should have worn a saddlebag to help...?"

Unlike most, Luna had been far too occupied with other events to have learned of the events of Rainbow's contest or Applejack's injury.  So when Rarity mentioned Applejack's injuries, and to a lesser extent her new relationship, the Princess looked concerned. "What happened to Applejack?" Luna asked with a touch of urgency.

"I could never ask you to put on a saddlebag, darling!" Rarity protested, looking over to Luna with reverence, "You are royalty, after-all. Besides, I am sure just one will suffice."

The fashionista cantered up to a strawberry stand and made a little polite talk with the vendor as she used her magic to lift the bits from one side of her saddlebag to pay for a few baskets of fresh strawberries which she deposited in the other side. Leaving the stall with a polite nod, she continued walking down the middle of the square, seeing if she should pick up a few vegetables and some hay, giving them both more options.

"It was simply awful! During Rainbow Dash's 'Special Somepony' contest, she split her hoof right at the end! She did not win, of course, but she seems to have won the grand prize, as I knew she would," she explained, looking over to her friend as they walked, "Though, I did not expect them to get together so quickly. Why, they haven't even had their date, and already they seem to be doe-eyed and gushy. It is a wonderful change for Rainbow Dash, seeing her break out of that tom-boy shell a bit, and the whole situation is beautifully romantic."

She let out a wispy sigh that held in twine both her admiration for the romantic scenario that unfolded and a tingle of jealousy. First Twilight, now Rainbow Dash and Applejack... Love was in the air, and it seemed to be snatching up all of her friends, but not her, not the romantic! She had every right to be just a little bit jealous.

Luna smiled gently at Rarity's sudden protest. "And I am also eating your food. I should at least help you carry more home." She said with an appreciative smile. As Rarity went on to detail what had befallen Applejack, Luna listened with concern. She had seen such injuries - never felt it, of course, but she couldn't imagine it felt altogether pleasant. It brought a shudder to her wings just thinking of it.

The princess waved a gentle wing to the shopkeeper as Rarity paid for her strawberries. She smiled a little at the fashionista's observations about her friends and romance. It seemed she'd brought love to Ponyville. Luna smiled gently, and nudged Rarity with a wing. "I believe somepony is jealous~" she teased in her clear, bright, regal tone.

"I insist," Rarity said, waving her hoof, showing that she would hear nothing to the contrary, "Just enjoy yourself!"

She was making a purchase at a broccoli stand when Luna made her latest remark in that beautifully regal, yet sing-songy tone. Was it really that obvious, or was the Princess just playing with her? It was hard to tell with Luna, most times, especially since she was still getting used to modern Equestria. Her cheeks burned lightly as she paid for the green veggie and put it away in her saddlebag.

"Can you blame me?" she asked, turning away from the stand to look at Luna, nuzzling against the wing rub, "Watching all of your friends pair off?"

Luna's smile became gentle as Rarity reacted to the slight tease. Gracefully, the Lunar Princess drew her wing back after Rarity's little nuzzle. "I suppose  I can't blame you, but I am surprised you've no Special Somepony of your own." Luna led them along to the next stand, though she paused, casting a hungry eye toward Sugar Cube Corner...

"I just... Well, I've been so busy. I just haven't the time to go out, meet somepony, sweep them off their hooves, and live happily ever-after," Rarity sighed, leading Luna over to the next stand, "I'm a mare with my own business; I'm lucky if I get out of the Boutique everyday, or get to see the girls. A Special Somepony just... Isn't in the cards, I'm afraid."

This stand sold hay and flowers, and Rarity purchased what she wanted from the stand and slid it into her saddlebag. She was nearly done now, and would have enough groceries for the two of them to last a week or two. Going out again wouldn't be a problem, if they ran out. The fasionista couldn't help but notice Luna looking towards Sugar Cube Corner.

"Speaking of the girls, would you like to see Pinkie Pie? Maybe get something sweet?"

Luna glanced back to Rarity with a light smile.  She wasn't sure what to think about the regret in her voice - she seemed both sad but resigned, and it seemed a little bit dreary. Luna nudged her with her wing, again, and nodded to her question. "Sweets are the best part of a meal~" She said warmly.  Honestly, she could be a bit of a silly filly when it came to her sweet tooth.

The opening was enough for her to take a bit of a lead this time, her own magic pulling the door open for the pair of them as she let Rarity in first.

---> Sugar Cube Corner

As Luna rushed forward to open the door, Rarity stood there, looking a tad bewildered. Suppose a love of sweets was something inherit in the family? Princess Celestia's love of cake was well known to their little group, and all of Ponyville once Gabby Gums had gotten their hooves on some of the footage from their trip to Canterlot for the dessert competition. She was even considering learning to make a cake herself to give to the Princess the next time she came to visit Ponyville, but her first attempt at practice had taken her all day. It just wasn't... Perfect.

"Perhaps I said the magic word?" Rarity mused to herself and followed Luna to the door of Sugarcube Corner, nodding politely as she held it open and let her go first.

---> Sugarcube Corner

<<from Moonsong's Home<<

As she over-flew the market in a slow spiral, Moonsong recalled the ponies she'd met during her original foray here.  Friends some of them would later become, and friends she hopes they still are, but one of them had been so...  Odd.  But he'd told her that her voice was the loveliest in the entire Universe, and Fung Shui had told her her singing was divine...

Sighing happily, Moonsong gracefully sweeps her bat-like wings to cup the chill air and bank her speed; her rear hooves touch the ground almost delicately.  It's spoilt somewhat by her right fore-hoof catching on a raised patch of ground, but the mare recovers from the stumble without further issue.  Looking around in the hopes that no one saw her foible, Moonsong takes a deep breath and tries to re-gather her confidence.  She'd missed out on so much before, she's sure of it.  Now, though, she means to make a better go of things.

Head high, the mare joins the morning crowd in her pantry-stocking quest.

<Beginning Fall Day 1>

Moonsong could not have missed the regal mare as she passed over the market. Princess Luna's dark coat and exquisite mane stood out in the morning light like a graceful void, absorbing the light that cast over her. She was presently at Early Birds' Breakfast Booth, levitating a delicious-looking bagel to her mouth for a delicate bite. Yet, the dark shade of black that glided across her peripherial vision drew the Princess's eye. It took her a moment to process - Bat wings, and such a lovely coat - and the n Luna eagerly trotted through the bustling morning street. "Moonsong? We haven't seen you for quite some time!" She called out the other mare quite openly - yet, even so, the 'We' in her voice lacked the edge of a 'Royal' one.

Of all the faces she had expected or even hoped to see, the regal visage of Princess Luna hurrying toward her through the press of ponies came as a total shock.  Suffused with shocked pleasure that the Princess remembered her name, Moonsong almost tripped herself in the process of lowering to a fore-knee.  "P-princess...!"  Moonsong giggles nervously as she bows, and her wings shift and flutter against her the wide straps of her saddlebags.  "It's a pleasure, Princess Luna; I'm so glad to see you again...!"  She wonders if that's too forward--but she can't take the cheerfully spoken words back, nor does she really regret them.  She is glad to see the Princess again, especially now that she's not so moon-struck that she can't think or properly speak.

The imposing alicorn let her features settle into a warm smil "I was surprised I hadn't seen you around the town, given how small it is."e. She delicately gave a shake of her head at that, and turned to peer across the market. "Here for breakfast? The bagels are delicious~" She punctuated that point by levitating her half-eaten meal along to her mouth for another light bite.

Unsure how long she should remain kneeling, Moonsong hazards that the Princess is unlikely to grow cross if she stands while breakfast is being discussed.  And eaten, she notices with a near-giggle upon straightening once more.  "I was away with my family, Princess.  They came along only a few days after your beautiful Moon Raising ceremony and wanted me to go with them on one of our usual vacations.  I was gone a little longer than I expected to be, but I'm quite glad to be back.  I'm glad to see that you're still enjoying Ponyville, too."

She turns her head to tug her saddlebags back into place across her back, then goes on with a smile and barely a stammer.  "I hadn't even thought about breakfast, actually.  My kitchen is empty so I wanted to do some shopping.  Is that one of Early Bird's bagels?  I think I remember hearing about how good they are, but if they meet with royal approval they must be outstanding...!"

Luna grinned gently. "Mhm~ You should have one. My treat~" The princess put forth a wing to draw Moonsong along with her back toward the booth. "I have actually had a personal retreat built for me in the forest nearby, since I have decided to visit much more frequently~"

"Th-thank you...!"  Moonsong answers, her eyes widening in surprise as she finds herself gently ushered along at the Princess' side.  She can't help but sneak a glance at the wing that draws her with: what would it be like to have feathered wings, like normal pegasus ponies?  She shakes away the thought and returns her attention to Luna's words, but Moonsong can't quite help thinking to herself that just a few months ago she'd likely be rendered speechless by surprise and timidity.  "That's wonderful!  But..."  Moonsong's words falter as she glances in the direction of the thick wood that edges against one of Ponyville's borders.  "...Do you mean the Everfree Forest?"

Awe touches her voice as she speaks, and is clear in her golden eyes.  She's never set so much as a hoof in the Forest thanks to all the rumours about its danger, but it hasn't stopped her from being curious.   "What is the Forest like?  Is it so dangerous as everypony says?"

Luna cheerfully purchased a bagel, levitating it over to Moonsong. "Hmm? Oh, yes. The Everfree. It's... not as dangerous as everypony seems to think - Not that it isn't more dangerous than the village, but not to the extent everypony seems to think. Zecora has lived there for some time, too."

She paused for a moment, and pointed her hoof off toward the forest. "I could show you later, perhaps. I made sure there would be room for guests."

Lifting a hoof to accept the magically delivered bagel, Moonsong nods her head in thanks to the vendor and then smiles up at Luna.  "Thank you," she offers before taking a little bite--her ears briefly lay to the side as the wonderful flavour fills her mouth.  She makes a soft 'mmm'ing sound, but still strives to pay attention as the Princess speaks.  "Zecora?"  Moonsong asks, her ears perked as she repeats the name.  In her short stay in Ponyville before her vacation, the bag-winged pegasus can't recall having met anyone by that name.

"Oh, no, I wouldn't want to impose.  But thank you for the offer, Princess."  She's quick to refuse, afraid that her previous comments have come across as though she were fishing for just such an invitation.  "I could come and sing for you some time though, if you'd like?"  She's not sure she should be making such an offer, but hopefully the suggestion of her showing up for a reason and not just being a gawking tourist is a more appealing one.  Taking another small bite, the mare again sighs as she chews and swallows.  "These really are amazing."

"'tis a lovely idea. I do enjoy your voice, so I'd welcome a performance." She nodded gently, at that. Laughing at he robservation, the princess nodded in agreement. "And they really are quite tasty, but no need to fill up. You were going food shopping, right?"

"Whenever you'd like, Princess!  I'd be happy to come and sing for you."  Even despite her cheerful excitement over the prospect, Moonsong can't help but wonder if the Princess is simply distracted with her own thoughts or if Moonsong herself is still being too timid in some things.  Distracted from her pondering, Moonsong has another nibble before nodding and quietly laughing at herself behind a hoof.  "Yes; my poor kitchen, until I cleaned it up, was only well-stocked on dust."

Even taking dainty, mare-like nibbles as she is, Moonsong's bagel is almost completely finished even now.  She hadn't realized quite how hungry she'd become, but this unexpectedly delightful breakfast will certainly keep her from shopping on an empty stomach.  "Thank you, Princess Luna, for breakfast and for the conversation.  I don't think I would have had the nerve to approach you on my own--I would have been worried about being a bother.  I'm so glad to have had the chance to see you again, and to know that you'll be in the area is really wonderful."

After their conversation drew to a close and the regal mare returned to her own morning tasks, Moonsong continued along the market.  Her belly full and her spirits high, the mare was almost floating even though her bat-like wings were tucked comfortably against her sides.  She stopped here and there to buy the things she needed, and once her bags are full she decides that a cup of tea might be the best way to finish out this little trip.  The Summer Song Cafe comes under her notice, and as though her groceries weighed nothing at all the leggy mare nearly pranced in that direction.

>>to the Summer Song Cafe>>