Smirk is a rogue (in the D&D sense), fresh from her break with a bad crowd, and looking to get some advice on beginning adventuring. Celestia is only to happy to oblige. Much Discussion occurs.
A My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic fanfic in The Weedverse by Kudzuhaiku, Q&A can be read here
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This short contains examples of:
- Affectionate Parody: The story is one for D&Desque adventuring, with Smirk seeking advice on how to get started.
- All of the Other Reindeer: Smirk has problems with other ponies, as her Mark marks her out as dangerous and sneaky.
- Ambadassador: Celestia describes Tarnish as this, practicing blunt-force negotiation. As in, you are honest and reasonable, or you suffer blunt-force trauma.
- The Atoner: Smirk is trying to make up for having run with a bad crowd in her youth.
- Because Destiny Says So: Smirk's Mark means that she must be sneaky and thievish. Of course, there's no reason she can't be on the heroes' side.
- Continuity Nod: Celestia mentions that she once was an admiral against an armada of pirates, events also alluded to in Lies, Damn Lies, And Statistics. Also, Tarnish is mentioned, as is his own start to adventuring.
- Dump Stat: Celestia cautions against this, firmly instructing Smirk to not neglect charisma.
- Escape Artist: As befits a proper rogue, Smirk is one, and she got her Mark by sneaking out of being grounded.
- Escort Mission: Celestia cautions against accepting these, for the same reasons many gamers find them frustrating.
- Experience Points: Although not directly referenced, Celestia mentions that Side Quests have a habit of preparing you for future endeavours, and strongly recommends that Smirk take every avenue to gain "experience".
- Fetch Quest: Discussed, as Celestia advises Smirk seek them out.
- I'm Taking Her Home with Me!: Raven ends up begging Celestia to keep Smirk. Celestia does indeed hire Smirk.
- Meaningful Name: Smirk has a perpetual smirk from a surgically-repaired deformity in her lip.
- Rat Stomp: Discussed Celestia mentions it as a good place to start as an adventurer, though not in Canterlot, as the local rats are rather more dangerous than your usual fare.
- Reformed Criminal: Smirk has this as her goal.
- Security Blanket: Her cloak has become one for Smirk, due to her shame at her Mark.
- The Sneaky Guy: Smirk is an archetypical rogue.
- Talk to Everyone: Discussed. Smirk is bothered that it might be a bit rude, but Celestia is adamant that it's vital for an adventurer.
- Taught by Experience: Smirk, due to the previously-mentioned woeful state of Equestrian public magical education.
