Conquest Horizon

Once the two did arrive back onto the ship, and were lead by the golems to his room? Did Phobia brace himself as Kan nearly shouted. “YOU DID WHAT!?” her shout echoing in the room as the silence-runes proven their usefulness as nothing came out of the room of the captain quarters.

However that didn’t mean she was glaring at him with loathing and hatred as she snarl out, while she trotted back and forth as Phobia was trying to recover from the ringing in his ears and Sieg doing his best to look calm as the she-demon rage on. “You allowed a mage, one that you have no idea how strong, onto our ship, with idiot golems who can’t tell lies easily-- and was thinking of allowing her to side with us?”

Then jabbed a hoof at him, as she continued on. “Even more she could be a potential threat to us?! Do you have any idea how risky this was you idiot?! For a self-proclaimed genius, you are horrible in these thoughts!”

Taking a deep breath in, as well as holding back his urge to shout back as he told to her with narrow eyes. “Which is why I’m talking to you two. To figure out on if she could be persuaded or not.” While Sieg thought over to this, Kan took a deep breath and told in a irritated tone.

“At least you have enough brain cells to consider talking to us first, mortal.” then glare at him as she said. “However, if you are to say anything of allowing her to join? I must see her myself and learn if she is a threat or not. If she is strong enough in magic, she would learn of my true nature, and will either try to destroy me or capture me. If not, then I will learn from her.” then told darkly.

“Make sure your golems do their job, because if either happens, then good luck on trying to rule anything you mutt.” turning and slapping his face harshly with her tail as she trots out of the room. Keeping her thoughts inward as Phobia grumble from the hit and Sieg rolling his eyes, as he apparently wasn’t needed.

While the changeling head to his dorms, Kan took a calming breath and thought. Lived for over a thousand of years, seen various things on this world, make multiple deals with souls gained….and this single contract I’m in had made me so frustrated to the point I’m beginning to wonder if the Striped was cursed with such narrow minded stupidity? Its a wonder how mortals like him ever succeeded in life. Probably why he was desperate to summon a demon of all things to help him.

Taking the first path that would lead to their ‘guests’ location, she half wondered what was going through the idiots head when he agreed to let this mage onboard. Yes, mages could be extremely useful-- but they had ways with dealing with demons like her. Or even worse, have magics that could really setback well laid plans.

There was a small hope this was just some apprentice mage that was looking for a easy ride. But, she doubted it. Knowing the Strip’s stupidity and luck? It was a fairly competent mage with fairly competent enough magic to cause them all trouble.

It all made her sigh and soon take a moment to settle herself. There was no need to get worked up before seeing this… mage and assessing their potential… Now that she thought about it and paused in the hall, Kan realized… her ‘employer’ never told her what sort of mage this guest was-- or what species they were.

...I am going to wrangle that stupid, stupid STRIPE! thought the demoness in anger, as to who in their most sensible mind wouldn’t inform of what magic or species she was?! Taking a breath in, she consider that it was largely due to ignorance of the lands itself. Or ignorance of asking such simple questions! Next time, I’m going to hit him so hard it’ll leave a bruise. Maybe jab at his nerves more. Honestly who wouldn’t ask such common sense questions?

It made her lament on taking the deal with the Stripe in the first place, if she knew he was so screwed up in the head, she would of rejected the deal and let some other demon take his soul. taking another deep breath in, collecting her calm to set on her expression, she motioned to a moving golem. “Bucket of bolts. I demand you lead me to the mage guest right. Now.”

It saluted as it said. “Aye, aye.” turning to lead the earth mare as the demoness took another calming breath.

Maybe I should go out and enjoy some ‘me time’. Get some poor sod drunk, take a bit of his spiritual energy, and enjoy a good trick. Might ease my mood later on. taking the time of following the golem to calm herself, let her body be at ease as well as think of a good plan to prod at the mage. start small talk, be friendly, learn their name, what species they are, and ask how they learn their magic. Maybe make sure to keep myself hidden of being a demoness. As long as they aren’t a Kitsune or a Herno, it should be fine enough. although she honestly hope it wasn’t a Ophenu.

Those monks were a bane to beings like her, they were like the White-manes, but could defend themselves without even trying!

If that striped somehow accomplished getting one of them on-board? Then her pumbling him into the ground won’t be an option. She might be banished back to the underworld. And then he’d fail his little contract.

Thankfully, when the door was showed to her and the golem left, did Kan get a look at the mage after a series of knocks. The mage, easily figured to be female by the lean and thin body with a small bust, was also very concealed. It now made sense why the idiot didn’t know her species. Too tall to be a Opnehu though, that was for sure. The only real hints she had to get a species was the general body shape and the slightly exposed areas-- such as the fingers or the bit’s of face not covered or obscured by cowl and hood. Which only showed mostly the females dark brown fur and purple eyes that were definitely empowered by their own magic. Possibly without even meaning to from the looks of it.

“Yes?” Asked the mage, seeming to have a very keenly focus on the newcomer.

Giving a pleasant smile, she said. “Hello there, we haven’t met. I’m Kernel Kandas, or Kan for short. I heard there was a guest here on the ship and figure to introduce myself.” already guessing her to be a Herno, most species are small sizes, and not many races that are bipedal beside the minotaurs, dogs, and kitsune. Granted she could be a Kitsune for all she knew, but Kitsunes have slightly longer muzzles than a Herno does.

Again it was debatable due to the cowl hiding her face. this is going to be annoying. thought the demoness.

With a somewhat curt nod, the mage said, “Ash. Nice to meet you.” Though her tone suggested she was less of pleased and more cautious. If anything she was merely being polite at the moment.

Very competent. She might sense what I am. thought Kan as she kept on the pleasantry. “I never seen a mage from around here, even more on your species. If I may be so bold, may I ask what species you are and what sort of magic you use, miss?”

Blinking, something leaked out of Ash’s voice while she spoke. It was hard to catch, and it was sadly missed merely due to the response. “I’m a mammal. And I use spells”

Hrm, she’s keeping her species a tight lip. As well as her magic. clever. thought Kan as she tilt her head and asked curiously. “Mammal? Well that a term I haven’t heard before. There’s usually Minotaurs, diamond dogs, some of those monks monkeys-- even those famed Hernos and mysterious Kitsunes-- but never heard Mammal being used before.” using each species name to see if she got a reaction, but this mage was rather good at hiding her emotions quite well.

Didn’t help that her cloths were hiding much of her tells. She did however went on. “And spells? What sort of spells? Like arcane? Runic? Elemental? There is a varieties of magic after all.”

“I use the magical kind of spells.” answered Ash. “They make lots of flashing lights. A lot of spells tend to.” Then nodded along, “and yeah, there’s a lot of species.” Seeming to agree with Kan on that note. “I think you forgot pony though. I think they frequent the Holds, right?” Then seemed to realize, “oh, that reminds me. Are you from Equestria?” going on to ask, “what is it like there?”

“Oh pleasant really.” said Kan as she mentally scowl. Oh she’s good at hiding her tricks...she’s hiding something. going on to roll a hoof around. “Peaceful for the most part, wide space, mostly friendly in some places, other places normal or chaotic-- depending if Discord visits there or not. Been a while since I last visit in Equestria again, almost felt like years since I last came to it.” then asked.

“But you must have a few questions of this ship and the one who captains it. He is a rather, ‘unique’-- and I’m using the term loosely, individual.”

Giving an agreeing nod, Ash leaned on the doorframe and said, “he is different. Never seen something like him before.” Pausing to think and ask, “but would this ship be heading west anytime soon?” Then rolled a hand to go on, “I was thinking of maybe going to Equestria. But never really had the chance to.”

Raising a brow, she joked. “Wanting to immigrate to Equestria, or travel through it’s lands out of curiosity?”

With a shrug, Ash said, “still deciding. It sounds nice, but I don’t know too much about it. Might stay there for a while and learn about it, then make a choice.”

Nodding she did answer. “Well, we are heading east for a bit, traveling around, seeing the sights for a bit. Any recommendations of visiting areas or places to see at?” asked Kan as internally she was plotting if this mage was going to be a large problem. Especially with how evasive she was. Granted she would to in the female position-- but she had a feeling Ash knew what she was and was covering her angles.

“What do you want to see?” Asked the mage. “I know this place with rocks… and another place with geysers.” Then perked up, “Oh, and a place with trees!”

Shes doing this on purpose. darkly thought the demoness as she asked with a smile. “Well, a few towns, or cities really. Got to keep the fuel filled while moving around. Maybe trade posts to see what we can purchase or sell?”

With a solid nod, Ash said, “then a city.” Then paused to ask in a innocent enough manner, “but would that be a big city, little city-- or just a place to get fuel?” Then continued on, “because if you just want fuel, then maybe just stock up on it while we’re here. That can work, right?” Giving a slight shrug and thought out, “then you don't have to make so many stops.”

Very perceptive. thought Kan as she gave a agreeing nod. “It what we do mostly, stock up on fuel so that way we have enough for long trips. We are thinking of just visiting cites for sights or potential oppertunies.” then soon asked innocently. “But where do you want to go in Equestria? There are a few places we can drop you off at in terms of cites or towns.”

“I dunno.” Was the first thing out of the females mouth that made Kan slightly stumble in thought.

...for some reason my words of the idiot finding a female to lay in the next city is biting at my ass. Even more with this one annoying me with her evading my prods...I can see how that idiot wouldn’t know on her use of magic. She must be good at the word play. Annoying. Best to drop her off and be ready if she is a threat. nodding a bit, she said. “Very well, I’ll put it, ‘randomly dropped off’. Now if you excuse me, I have work to do. Good day ma’am.”

Tilting her head even as Ka was turning to leave. Ash asked, and pointed out all at the same time, “if you had work, why did you come to visit me?” Making the mare slightly pause. “I mean, couldn’t you have done work first then come to say hi?” Seeming to tap her chin in thought.

“Oh my sort of work is a bit different. Beside, I was rather curious of who this new guest was. But I should get going, much to do for these last two weeks.” said Kan as she turn to trot off with a pleasant aura, although within she grumble to herself as she thought out. When I see that idiot again, pumble him in the face with a hoof. This female will be a troublesome one. I can feel it. it didn’t sit well with the demoness, especially with the mage having a idea, or possible idea on what Kan was.

But what was done was done. She had a inkling of sorts, but nothing satisfied in terms of information. And there was a high chance the mage will be deported and won’t see them again...she just hope that this mage won’t set back their plans. Or her plans concern with the stripe with the contract. Mages were always annoying, especially the good ones.

The only description for Ash during her stay was easily defined as illusive. Mostly in the sense that once she had settled herself in, she mostly vanished and kept out of sight. She was either locked in her guestroom doing…. Something, or out and about in the city… doing something.

No one had to guess that the mage hardly told them anything. When you asked if she was going out, she’d only confirm she was going out. And if asked is she planned to do anything that day, she would give a vague ‘stuff’ or ‘Thinking on it’. It caused Kan no end of irritation. And while she wanted to know more-- she had more important things to deal with.

To some thanks, this same level of vacancy made it so she never seemed to be around to see Sieg's slave. Though, that was hard to tell if that was the case. The golems had expressed she had been through the ships. As to what parts, was hard to say. Mostly because she tended to be light-pawed.

It made Kan begin to believe this was either a Herno or a Kitsune. Mostly out of slight actions told. Though most told of a Kitsune, but she doubted it was a Kitsune at moments. Mostly because of how Ash moved, it was… too stable and self assured-- not all too alluring like most kunoichi kitsune liked to use.

Unless she was a odd kitsune. Again, hard to tell.

Still, this lack of being around made their work a bit more easier. It would of been harder to hide their intentions if Ash was around to overhear everything they said or did. So this was a slight blessing in a sense. She might be in the dark on their world domination plans, because she simply wasn’t around to hear them.

On the flip side, the female mage only paid half the total for her trip to someplace-- granted it was in clean and clear gemstones. Something that turned out a fair amount in the market once sold. She promised the other half of the payment once she had arrived in the next city or town she departs on.

It was however, still limited amount of gold, with a bit of silver on the side. Which meant they still needed a job to help bring in the money. And that, soon came in the form of something that was both tedious, and slightly fun. Bounties. And boy did the Holds have them. Sure, not in huge stock like Arabia, for sure. But the pricing on the bounty was what made them so nice. And there was a good listing of bounties.

Be they Bandit Chiefs, packs of slaver dogs or even a few dangerous people needing to be brought down. The wall of these bounties had drawn both Kan and Phobia in after Sieg came back with the news. There were only some 20 or 30 bounties available, but all of them were paying very well.

Phobia look over the wall of bounties as he hum a bit, as Kan was taking apart the most highest amount of bounties to take, or rather bounties they could do in a short amount of time due to Ash presence on the ship. Phobia look over the highest reward of bounties, be it to remove slaver dogs, bandits, or other people as while he hated on doing other people work, he did love the money.

As the two stare on, Phobia said. “Lets get all of them, we can move around and grab them all.”

Snorting, she told. “No. That's stupid, even for you. Let's get the ones we know we can grab and be done with that.” already seeing a few she knew they could handle as Phobia argue.

“But more bounties, more pay!” to which she jab back while keeping her eyes on the bounty wall.

“And more bounties, mean more work for us to do while around here and not dropping off the mage in Equestria!” then took a snort and told on. “Let's get a few to start with. The more we get, the more we need to scour around, which will be difficult since most of them will be in hiding.” it made Phobia grumble, knowing she was right on this, most of these groups will be hiding, or underground in the dog terms.

It made it all so tedious in searching for them, especially in terms of gaining rewards. Even more in a large place like the Iron Holds, especially with a lot of hiding spots or foliage to hide from any who hunted them.

While the two argued, Sieg took down one poster of what looked to be a herno, and a fairly high bounty as well. The charges were fairly lengthy. Like obstruction of law, consorting with demons, use of dark magics and even a fair amount of damage of military resources. By far, the herno was the most pricy of all the contracts… and hard to miss, considering the female in the page was covered in what looked to be black runic marks.

Furrowing his brows, he spoke. “Herr Phobia, Kan.” getting the two to pause as their attention direct to him as he lift the poster as they look at it and Phobia whistle.

“Damn...look at that price.” Kan eyes narrow as she said.

“Well...those I never thought to see.” gaining the two males to look as she told. “Those runes are old, so old they’re forbidden now. Most demons or ascend beings know how to use them. But those markings are altered, it’s definitely demon work at that...but if I guess right? Those markings are crafted by Tyra, one of the more high-ranking demoness.” then rolled her eyes.

“And a utter bitch at times.” then added. “She’s always so bitchy, the only way to make her play nice is to get her going on magical theory.”

“What about pissing her off?” asked Phobia as she glance to him and remarked.

“She turn you into a abomination, or make hordes of abominations of combined souls or a soul of your very body.” seeing the Stripe shiver and the disguised changeling looked disturbed as she nodded. “Yeah, she’s a pro at what she does... wonder who freed her in the first place? Probably tried what you did, but managed to succeed.” said the mare as she look to Phobia.

“Seriously? You’re using me as a example?” snorting some at this, he told. “I was smart enough to have a back up plan.”

“Yes, because you were also insane. Tyra however is a manipulative bitch, tricked whoever summoned her to release her and turned into her latest science project. You lucked out on me, she would probably dissect you while you were awake, she always was too enthusiastic on it…” then thought and said. “But...whoever this….’Demon Touched’ is? Was her latest project that escaped somehow. Tyra always like to leash her projects and keep them away from mortals if possible. Whoever this one was smart enough to escape somehow…”

Then furrowed her brows as she went on. “She might be planning to leave the Iron Holds, possibly far enough that Tyra won’t grab her…” then told. “Keep the poster, if we find her, ask more on Tyra is. If I know her well enough? She’s going to be a pain in you plans, idiot.” already knowing that if Tyra was involved, then Phobia plans would be set back, or destroyed.

While the Stripe took the poster to fold it up, Sieg however asked. “Here's a question, Kan. if she was hunted, where would she be safe at?”

Thinking over it, Kan admit. “Somewhere that she won’t be easily ambush by the demon or her abominations.” thinking more at it.

Really, if the poster and it’s being here told Kan anything, it’s that Tyra was within the Holds someplace. While the bitch was difficult to deal with 9 out of 10 times-- she could be reasoned with. It’s getting her to listen that was the hard part. Sure, she would be willing to let her pointy blue ear listen to a demon like herself. But Phobia? That was just asking the twisted demoness to trick him into a bad bind.

So if Tyra was possibly here in the Holds, then the only safe places would to go east. Possibly towards Arabia or Equestria-- maybe further? Tyra’s abominations and Imp’s did have a knack to travel, but they rarely were willing to go too far from home. Mostly to not risk discovery. Imps could, they made good scouts and thieves… but that was about it.

Though something nagged at Kan. While all this made sense, something about it nagged at her mind. It had to do with the runes on the herno too. What did they do again? Ah, that was right. Unlock greater magical potential. And for a herno, that meant they could actually cast spells without the need for a medium, like a blade or a spear to do a specialized technique. Granted, the markings were very bright and showy while in use. So saturated with magic and spiritual energy, only showing as black lines if not powered. So the poster did little good, as whoever this was would try to hide their being as much as possible to minimize their noticeably.

Then her thoughts came to Ash….and her entirely covered body. Thinking on the poster more and the eyes, she recalled that the eyes were saturated with magic…Well, well, well…. thought the demoness as she said. “Phobia, Sieg?” getting the Stripe full on attention as she didn’t insult him for once as she spoke in a business like tone. “I believe I have figure out who our mysterious guest is...to a extent.” then smile in a dark manner. “Lets go ask some questions to her.”

It made Sieg wonder what the demoness was cooking up this time, while Phobia grumble as he had a feeling there were going to be damages in his ship somehow! However he did suggested. “Can we grab a few more bounties like planned?” getting the mare to glance to them...and let out a irritable sigh.

“Fine. just a few.” already plotting of a back up plan while getting more cash later on.

As the three were walking out of the pub and headed to their ship, each had their own thoughts as Sieg caught on that Ash was this mysterious herno with black runes. He partially question if there was a potential fight with her, and this Tyra demoness. While the golems were fight able, they might handle against a mage with powerful magic. Part of him also felt concern for Book, while the mare was happy to be with him, he was concern that the ditzy like mare could be misled by Ash, or be used as a hostage.

Phobia was thinking over on the fact Ash was this same mage, and while part of him want to backstab to gain the rewards-- there was a larger opportunity of having her at his side in her gaining revenge on this Tyra. If she was given a chance for payback, then it could mean he could acquire her aid, or close to of paying him back. But if that doesn’t work? At least he’ll be somewhat assure that she won’t backstab him later on if he did her a solid somehow in removing this tyra demon.

The ship was a fairly large piece of hardware, one that Ash admittedly only understood so well. She had been learning though, mostly thanks to the many, many, many golems that were very easy to persuade in telling her how it functions… to an extent. They were only so intelligent after all.

There was also the mechanical wolf that insisted on guiding her-- or until she’d give it the slip. Or maybe tell that she wanted some ‘me time’. The lter case was true very true, she didn’t need him snooping on her all the time. Plus, she didn’t like being followed. Still didn’t stop it from stalking her at nearly every turn.

They might have been under her hood, but she still had ears to hear. And it was hard to miss the golem’s rather unique paw-steps. For the most part, she ignored him and made her questions careful-- if not innocently enough. She didn’t really trust that many on this ship yet. Phobia was odd and definitely up to something-- his golems let on plenty on that front in very inadvertent manners.

Kan was a demoness, one she easily picked out once her eyes landed on the false image of a pony mare. That was a big warning and danger that she didn’t want to bother or touch on just yet. And Sieg? She wasn’t sure what he was-- but he definitely wasn't a pony. She just wasn’t sure what he was, only that his pony form wasn’t what he really was.

Overall, the thought to leave this ship was starting to become appealing. Truthfully, the only reason she hadn’t left was to keep hidden. The tradeships were keeping a close eye out for her, and the gates had more guards checking all incoming and outgoing travelers. She had to get creative.

Making the next turn and into a new room, Ash let her eyes wander over and evaluate the new space. A library from the looks of the many books secured by carefully made rails. While she wandered in, she was distinctly aware of another presence, namely a unicorn of a brown coat, almost chocolate like in a sense. A darker mane of brown and even uniquely shaded hazel eyes.

She seemed occupy with going about and lighting her horn, books once left out or in the wrong place being whisked away and reorganized into their original places. By look alone, Ash could tell she was young. But the sight of a purple collar caused a slight tingle of hairs to go up and down Ash’s spine.

While slavery wasn’t a ‘big bad’ thing in Iron Holds, they were of a honor system. One that was gained if one was in deep debt or wished to serve a master, maybe in need of a stable life and home. Those were Honor Slaves or Honor Bound. This mare before her was a full slave, one that was possibly taken and made into one.

Maybe I should find another way out of this city. Ash thought while quitely padding up towards the happily humming mare. Slightly leaning over to the side, Ash asked while nearing, “hello?”

A eep escape from her as her horn glowed, as a bubble like shield form around her. Turning she blinked at the newcomer, as a sheepish expression came on her face as she lower the shield. “Apologies, you scared me with how quiet you came in.” then turning to introduce as the mare tilt her head and asked in curiosities. “Who are you? I never seen anything like you around the ship before.”

Gaze softening, Ash said, “I’m Ash. Just a temporary guest really.” Then glanced around before asking to the mare, “this your library?”

Blinking a bit, she soon giggle and said with a wave hoof. “This place? Oh no!” horn glowing again as she once more place the book she held by magic away as she told on. “No I work here, or wanted to work here.” then the mare introduce herself. “I’m Book Mark! I work here to make sure everything get organized and settle properly.” rolling her eyes in amusement. “You wouldn’t beleive how many books get misplace or shelved wrong by Herr Phobia.”

Slightly nodding, it was by a slight notting that was the same thing Sieg would say before Phobia name. Ash half wondered how they were related to the other, but shelved that to say, “well you do all the work. So to me, you own the library.”

Giggling more, she shook her head as she told. “Oh no, I just like to organize and shelve the books. Really this is mostly Herr Phobia library-- only because this is his ship.” then asked in a innocent manner. “Are you here to read something? Or merely to ask what sort of books Herr Phobia and Master Sieg gained within this place?”

While the last bit sort of unsettled Ash, she decided to tell, “I was just wandering around. I wanted some alone time and came across this place and you…” Then tilted her head to question, “Master Sieg?”

Nodding with a wide smile she said. “Yes, Master Sieg. You probably seen him in that military outfit he loves to wear, always giving Herr Phobia the respect he felt the Stripe deserve.” then gave a small giggle of amusement. “Personally I think the Master say it because Herr Phobia was willing to help him overcome the fact he wasn’t a military strategist anymore. Silly huh?” asked the slightly ditzy mare.

Smiling behind her cowl, Ash agreed, “guys can be really silly.” Then decided to ask, “so you and Sieg are a… thing?” As if the very idea was new to her. Which, in a way it was news to her.

“A...thing?” asked innocently as the unicorn thought and said in realization. “Oh! You mean with me being with him and helping feed him!” then nod her head proudly. “Oh yes, I am so glad that Master Sieg founded me, otherwise who knows what could of happen to me. Master Sieg always make sure I’m fed, care for and kept close to him.” then giggle in happiness. “Who knew that a changeling would be so wonderful if all you give was love?”

Changeling…. Is that what Sieg really is? By the name alone, it was pretty clear it had something to do with changing shape. So it explained why she felt and could tell the pony form was false to her eyes. But that begged another question. One that had Ash asking in slight concern, “what did you mean by… him finding you and what could of happened?”

Giving a hum, she sat on her haunches as said in obvious and thought. “Well, Master Sieg found me maybe...two months ago? I was suppose to be sent to some big meany Sultan, one who kept doing something, didn’t know what. Then the caravan was attacked and I was sold to another group of caravaners, who then had me to the auction and Master Sieg found me and decided to take me because I was apparently gonna be sold to some diamond dog, one with lots of scars on him.” then told cheerfully.

“I’m happy that Master Sieg took me from that mutt, because Herr Phobia really, really disliked him for some reason!”

Nodding some in thought and doing her best to piece things together, Ash looked at the unicorn and asked once more, “what about before all of that?”

Tilting her head, she asked. “Before that?” thinking with furrowed brows and said. “I...I lived at a farm I think? A small town...then I was taken and was sold…” a slight frown on her face. “Its been so long since I recalled my family, my friends and those in the small town. I barely recalled what it was, mostly because it’s been...too long since I recalled it. I was...6 I think when we were attacked...It was...horrible. Really horrible…”

Watching with near unblinking eyes, Ash eventually turned her gaze away and said, “sorry to hear that.” Letting her eyes wander about the floor and the two falling into a sort of silence. “Do you ever think about trying to find them?” It was enough to make Book look up at the very covered guest. “You know… so they know you’re at least ok. They might still be around, they might not… but I’m sure they’d be happy to know you’re alright after all this time.”

Giving a sligh low sigh, she shook her head and admit. “I...once. I thought if I could escape I could try to find them, my family, my friends...my parents...But…” then gave a somber look. “Arabia is a big place. Even if I could search for them, then what? Even if I try to find my friends, would they be the same? Would they still reserve their same personalities? Or they even be themselves or be broken by harsh masters?”

Being silent for a moment she told. “Its too late to try to find them all, especially in a large place like Arabia, it might take me years...and I doubt I’ll even find a tenth of the village I lived in.”

Thinking, Ash said, “if I had the choice, I would take the tenth, then nothing at all.” Looking up and telling, “maybe it’s better to not know, maybe it’s better or just easier to just.. Forget…” she looked aside and said, “but I know it probably still hurts not knowing. Maybe it’s best left in the past… but you’ll never know until you try.”

“And if you fail?” Asked the female before sighing, “well… at least you tried. It might have been for nothing… but you tried, and that’s more than just giving up on your friends or family.” going silent again before breathing in deeply and saying, “I… think I’m going to go and lay down for a bit. Maybe find something to eat..” Slightly wandering back before waving and saying with some cheer, “it was nice meeting you Book.”

Giving a slight nod she said. “Goodbye….” then quietly thought as her horn glow again, moving books back as she...consider on requesting her Master to maybe...maybe persuade Herr Phobia to find her family? Her friends? It's been...so long...maybe she’ll find some...and maybe she can either send them to Equestria...or stay on the ship? While she knew some of them might head to their homeland?

It was too late for her, because she chose to stay with the changeling...he was the only light in her life left. Her only reason to live in all sense.

When the three did return to the ship, Sieg had to quickly leave, mostly due to a golem informing that Book needed him, as the two glance in wonder on what happened...or at least until Scrappy informed to Phobia. “Ash spoke with Book, Phobia. Learn a bit from her of her past. Made her recall memories.”

While Kan frown in slight annoyance, mostly to the ditzy mare blabbing anything of Phobia plan-- or potential plans? Phobia grumble and thought. Great...now she might accused me of being a slaver. Sure I may be evil, sure I may plot conquering of nations...but making slaves and limiting them? That would be pointless! Even more if their usefulness is limited in my Empire succession!

Looking to the mechanical wolf, he asked. “Did she went anywhere?”

“No Phobia, beside the mess hall and her room? She hasn’t left. She grabbed the food from the mess hall and left to her room.” looking at him as it asked. “Did you found something unsettling?” he nodded as he told.

“Request her presence to the bridge...we need to talk and figure something out.” the wolf obyed, turning to rush off to the mage as the Striped moved to settle in his chair as he sighed out. “Worst case scenarios?” asking this to Kan as the mare hum.

“Best case? We continue on business. Worst case? We’ll need repair jobs and put some coffins on standby…” then as they waited...they soon realize that it took a bit longer than normal… as Kan asked in irrational. “Whats talking them so long?”

Meanwhile….

Scrappy just waited there as he already informed Ash of her required presence to the bridge.

There was just one sang. “He wants me to come to the bridge?” Ash soon questioned with her door open. “Why?” Raising a brow at the robotic golem.

“To talk, apparently he wants to talk and figure something out.” answered the mechanical dog as it waited before her.

Tilting her head to the side, the female further questioned, “Figure what out?”

Tilting it head as it responded. “I’m unsure of it. But 98% conclusion is potentially of talking of plans to head west and dropping you off.” Giving a nod of certainty to her in that regard.

Staring to this, the mage continued to ask, "why is he asking, I thought I was just riding along like I said.” Making a point that she did something along those lines before. She was just riding along for the most part.

Thinking as it soon responded. “Phobia is asking due to mostly statistical gain of location, and the best location to head while dropping you off at the same time.” bringing up a best statement in the mechanical wolf mindset.

Frowning her brows, Ash pointed out, “Why’s that? I thought you all got a map.” She was sure they at least got one of those by now. Otherwise if they didn’t? They would of had bad planning skills.

Tilting its head as it soon respond in a near deadpan tone. “Said the mage that give vague answers and responses to questions that will lead to random directions or misdirection while at the same time giving a certain amount of guess, but not clear enough intent.” stating the ‘obvious’ to the mechanical wolf.

With a blink and a slightly forming glare, Ash asked in a slightly aggravated tone, “Did you just call me a bimbo?” Looking a bit annoyed.

Shaking its head, it corrected. “No, if I did I would of worded it in another direction, I am merely calling you a misdirected and evading answer female that likes to be vague enough due to distrusting us.”

“Oh, now I’m a untrustworthy guest?” She soon railed and stood up with crossed arms, no longer leaning on the doorframe.

Calculating a bit, it soon answered. “Due to your responses and how you are at arms reach of Phobia, as well as giving misdirection answers to Kan and making things vague, the logical answer is that you distrust us due to certain factors that are played in. Now are you going to stop stalling and following me, or should I inform Phobia that he should come to you instead?” merely waiting in response of her answer and readying to inform another golem of Ash answer.

Holding the glare a bit more longer, Ash told with a finger out, “you’re strangers, alright? I’m still adjusting!” As if to get her point across before blinking and asking, “wait, what about Phobia coming here?” as if forgetting about the whole topic from before.

Standing firm, it soon told. “Should you fail to come with me within the next two minutes, a golem will be informed that he should come directly to this area to talk to you.” the glowing light filled eyes looking at her in a simplistic manner.

Arms still crossed, the female thought this over before puzzling to herself, and in turn Scrappy, “and why does he want to talk to me?” Raising a brow at it as she did.

Giving a quick thought as it soon answer. “Unknown.”

Staring, Ash said, “if you don’t know, and he could just come to me-- why didn’t he just…. You know… come to me?” Lamely motioning around the hall they were in.

Being rather blunt as it told. “Because Creator Phobia is addle-minded at times.” already seeing such things while growing up with the Stripe since his creation.

With a tilt of her head, Ash questioned, “and you didn’t bother to tell him because….?” Dragging off nice and long as if the answer should of been pretty obvious and easily figured out.

It thought of a logical means...and soon asked. “Would you try to correct your parent?”

With what could of been a eye smile and a definitive nod, Ash placed her hands to her hips and told with a definitive and confident nod, “yes.”

Blinking, it soon became silent...then remarked. “Must be a cultural dynamic.” Already figuring it had to be with how different Stripes were. Especially Phobia.

“Or….” Began Ash with a certain tone, “I was a good daughter to point out the obvious for my folks from doing something silly.” Leaving the mechanical dog to try and process this new line of thought…

Thinking for a brief moment, it soon spoke. “Conclusion: with great genius comes great insanity. It explains so much on the former parents of Phobia now.” then soon look to her as it asked. “Will you follow me now, since he is expecting you?”

Blinking down to the robo-wolf, Ash asked, “follow you where now?”

“The bridge. Like I mentioned before when I first asked you.” then added. “It has been five minutes since our little dialogue of back and forth, he is wondering what is taking us so long now.”

Waving a hand, Ash said, “right, right, right.” Nodding along and about to move-- though stopped and remarked, “wait… since when does this city have bridge?” Taking a moment to try and think back.

For a brief moment the mechanical wolf known as Scrappy felt something negative in its core. Before it was removed as it stated. “Either stop being evasive and pretending to be stupid, or I will request the golems to carry you into the bridge, guest Ash.”

With a frown, Ash said, “rude.” Then told while going back into her provided room, “you know, I have a feeling why half the golems here are so rude is because Phobia isn’t setting a good example.” Getting her staff to slightly walk along with. “You could of just asked ‘Ash, could you please go to the bridge of the ship. Phobia would like to ask something’.” Then prattled on while walking past the wolf, “And I would of been like, ‘oh, sure thing Scrappy. Give me a moment to get ready and I’ll go’.” Then shook her head, “Really Scrappy, you all could use a bit of manners.” Leaving the dog to slightly sit in place.

Calculating of her response as it went on it’s paws and turned as it soon decide that Ash had a defensive mechanism of prattling and evading potential scenarios due to distrusting them. As it did exactly that. Asked her to come to the bridge due to his creator requesting of her. She just wanted to stall for time and waste time. However it did add in the vocabulary of ‘please’ for future use if one was stubborn enough.

As it moved up by Ash it stated. “You are going at the wrong direction.” noticing she was hesitant at a crossing area and was heading the wrong way as it told. “Follow me.” talking the lead into directing her into the right path as it marked in it’s memory that Ash was really horrible with directions, its a wonder how she managed herself in this ship.

In some oddly twisted sense, by the time the two got to the bridge, Sieg was done speaking to both Kan and Phobia. Both of which had thoughtful looks as to what they were told of Book’s thoughts before noticing that Scrappy finally reached the bridge. Ash herself stopped by the door to lean on it and look around. “I still don’t get why they call this a bridge.” And giving her 2 bits on the situation.

Turning their attention, Sieg informed. “The reason they call it a bridge is due to long standing traditions of ship-crafting to name the place where the commanding officer takes command of the deck within this area. Plus it is also the most stable place within the ship.” then heard Phobia asking.

“Scrappy, what took you two so long?”

“Apologies Phobia. Ash took too long in our discussions and being nearly lost within the ship without my guidance.” then added as he move to sit by the Stripe side. “Plus she make one wonder how she can annoy others so easily at times.”

To which Ash said, “well if you were just polite and said please, maybe we could of been here sooner.” Going on, “you didn’t even say why Phobia wanted me here. I only thought I’d ask why he couldn't come to me, since… you know, that would of been quicker anyways.” Seeming to go off thinking. “In fact, why did we have to go through the whole thing? It would of been kinda simple to just come to my door, knock on the door and ask the question.”

Having a dry expression as the earth mare of the group told. “If we asked you now, you would of tried to lock the door and barred us out.” then went on as Kan gave a roll of her eyes. “Still, it would explain of your behavior, especially since you escape from Tyra clutches, ‘Demon Marked’.”

Eyes on Kan, Ash said while leaning on her staff, “Um… what?” Tilting her head to those words. “Demon Marked?”

Raising the wanted poster, she said. “Cut the stupid bullshit. We know who you are and who you’re running from.” then told on. “You know what I am, so why bother pretending in this whole charade, Ash.”

With a blink, Ash said, “What’s to charade? I think we all know that you’re kinda pushing the subject.” Then looked around, “because you all know that a Demon Marked can be anyone that gets marked by a demon, right? And I don’t know about you, but there’s quite a few demon marked around.” Then pointed to herself, “why me?”

“You have to admit, it is a bit of a stretch because of her wearing all of that, right?” said Phobia as Kan snort and told.

“A herno wouldn’t hide their heads, much less their faces. A herno wouldn’t hide their tails unless trying not to be found. A herno also wouldn’t try to go out of the world with how old she sounds of her twenties. A herno wouldn’t even cover their body from top to body, to the point not even their hands are seen.” eyes narrowing at Ash. “Not unless they have something to hide on their bodies.”

Ash then pointed out with crossed arms, “Or I’m a kitsune.” Making the hidden demoness trip up just slightly. “I mean… you’re just assuming I’m a herno and stuff.”

Staring at her, she took a breath and told flatly. “Prove it. Remove the cowl and convince me otherwise.”

“And Kitsune would reveal themselves… why?” Asked the mystery mage, only further grating on Kan’s nerves.

Sieg glance and questioned. “Could she even be this ‘Demon Marked’, Kan?” to which the demoness hissed out.

“With how hard she tries to evade the guard, evade us, and to the point remain hidden? Yes. you may think otherwise you two, but I’m certain she’s hiding those runes.”

Arms crossed and huffing, Ash said near moodily, “not my fault people forget I’m in the room.”

Taking a deep breath, she soon told. “If you really have nothing to hide to us, that you aren’t this Demon Marked? Show us your face.” already knowing that if she saw Tyra handiwork? She would of had some runes on the face at some point to control mages quite well.

“It’s called modesty, look it up.” Began Ash with some irritation. “I don’t ask people to start taking clothes off, do you know how rude or inappropriate that is? You just don’t demand that from other people.”

To which Phobia corrected. “She’s asking, well demanding in this case for you to take off the cowl, nothing else.” then shrugged as he said. “Honestly I don’t see the big fuss on a cowl, if you got nothing to hide might as well get it over with, right?”

Sieg felt the concerned and worried within Ash...but not much of deception as he remarked. “Odd...not a sense of deception...but plenty of concerned and worried.” glancing to Kan as he added. “Alertness coming from her too. She must be shocked for me to feel what she’s feeling.” then look to Ash as he request. “Please humor her, the sooner we can get this over with, the sooner we can go on with our lives.”

With no small amount of skepticism that only Sieg could feel, Ash told, “or I can just leave. That’s a option too if this is all just one big issue.”

“Oh really? And how long until you’re spotted by Tyra? Or better yet by the guards? Or even the traderships that you probably snuck on?” prodded Kan as she went on. “Sure you could leave right now and we wouldn’t stop you...but while you could easily handle yourself outside in the wilderness, its the citizens here you’re slightly concern of, aren’t you? Especially in causing collateral damage and raising the bounty on your head.”

“And suspecting me to be a person with a bounty on their head makes you a better option?” Rhetorically responded Ash with a somewhat flat look. “If you wanted me to leave, you could of just said so. Not go through all of… this.” Motioning at the room of the three.

Having a skeptical look, Phobia had to agree. “She is sorta right, I mean why go through all of this in the first place?”

“Because idiot,” snapped Kan as she glare at him. “Tyra wouldn’t let her projects roam free, she would have a tracker rune on their bodies, allowing her to send her abominations and imps to track her and bring her back. And I’m sure they’ll track into this ship and will be filled with either to seek her, or kill you lot. As of right now those runes could be active and she is inadvertently letting Tyra know of our position.”

“And the reason we are doing this in the bridge instead of her room and requested her with privacy?” asked Sieg with a raise brow.

“Because she could of shut the door on us and forced us to break it down.” jab back the demoness.

Nodding, Ash said, “oh yes.” Seeming to agree, “cornering my in my guest room while you accuse me of being a runaway Demon Marked would of made me feel so much more better.” Then asked to the two guys, “I don’t think she thought this through very well.”

“Honestly I would of asked where you wanted to get off in Equestria first-- then asked if you were a demon marked or not with how heavily clothed you are, since you know it does seem a bit suspicious that you are so heavily clothed.” said Phobia.

“Have you ever been north?” Asked Ash. “Because it gets pretty chilly up there.”

“And when she means chilly, Herr Phobia, she means actual snow and ice. Freezing temperatures to freeze your body ice solid.” informed Sieg.

Feeling the need to correct, Ash said, “Only during winter. For the rest of the year you just get occasional snow. But yeah, it gets cold farther north in the Holds. It’s a smart idea to wear heavy clothes around here.”

Both Phobia and Sieg were becoming doubtful to the demoness, as the Stripe was doubtful due to how things were different in the Holds than in other places he’s been to. While Sieg consider that Kan perhaps jumped a bit too ahead this time as Kan felt irritated at the two males as she heard Phobia grumble.

“Kan, I think this is the part where you fucked up on your assumptions. I mean really, I think with her wearing the robes and all, you’re kinda making yourself look like a bitch.”

“We’re in the summer time, mutt.” grounded out Kan. “Even if the air is a bit cold around here, it’s not that cold for someone to wear something like Ash is wearing.”

“Even less since they might be the only pair she has due to traveling conditions.” add in Sieg in agreement as Kan snapped.

“Don’t you idiots get it!? Am I the only one who thinks around here? Right now Tyra is looking for her project-- and is going to be a constant pain in the future, a future that will be happening soon once she comes across our path. And unlike me you Striped idiot, she is going to rip your soul and make you her new project with that mind of yours!”

Looking to the mare, Sieg felt the swelling of amusement inside the mage’s being, even if the female spoke evenly enough. “Do you like him?” Making the demoness next to splutter. “Because… you’re showing a lot of concern for him over me. And this Tyra.”

“Like...him?” eye twitching from Kan as Sieg wisely back away from the disguised demoness as a rising anger swell within her, a anger that would of put the wrath demons for shame as she repeated in rage. “LIKE HIM!?!” exploding as Phobia dropped back in his chair, with Scrappy coming before the stripe in a defensive manner. As Ash was no longer leaning on the doorframe this time, but standing with her staff grip tightly in a hand as Kan transform to her original form.

Curled black horns like a ram, dark red coat covering her body, a spade tail replacing the normal pony one, as purple flaming mane form on her head, and dark blue eyes glaring at Ash as she spoke in her original tone. “Now listen here you little bitch! The only reason I am giving a utter shit about this mortal, is because he made a contract with me! A contract of giving his desires in return of a large meal! And I can’t fulfill that contract, with him being the twisted insane idiot that he is, and with Tyra, a higher class demoness, putting him under her control!"

“Even more, the only reason I am even remotely care of this puny mortal, is the fact that the contract let me pretend of his puny mortal soul. If it weren’t the fact he was stupidity lucky, I would of consume his soul and done the contract with a rigged time limit. But apparently even stupidity like him has a brain with something! Now the only reason I am making a fuss on this, is because I want this shit over with, I want to get going, and I want to see if this idiot manage to succeed or fail in this contract one way or another!”

Then with a slam of her hooves she was consumed by hellfire from below, then with the flames gone she disappeared...and a golem complained.

“Nooooooooo, the floors were just washed yesterday.” seeing the now scorch marks on the ground...as Phobia slowly rise up and remarked.

“Huh...been awhile since I saw her that angry.” Sieg snort as he refuse to get up...mostly because he could feel his legs tremble some from witnessing the sight of a angry demoness.

After a moment and all responses that seemed ready for flight or fight-- Ash seemed to relax and ask, “sooo….. Was that a ‘get out’ or…?” Leaving the guys rather stumped if she even heard what the demoness said. “I mean, if she wanted me to just leave, she could of just asked.” Then paused to ask, “and I’m going to guess I can’t refund my advance pay.”

“Well...she didn’t exactly say get out…” said Phobia as he got on his feet, and onto his chair as he went on, trying to relax his heart rate. “It was more like, ‘I’m not going to give a shit about this anymore’. So she’s more or less just going to glare at you and just stop trying…” then thought and added. “And technically you could refund the advance pay, we haven’t really used those gems yet...but on the other hand a deal was a deal on getting you to Equestria…”

“You’re serious Herr Phobia?” questioned Sieg as Scrappy agreed.

“I must agree.”

Shrugging a bit, Phobia told. “Eh...yeah, I mean sure we still don’t know much on Ash and she could be just a unfortunate victim in Kan suspicious or potentially this demon mark-- but on the other hand? I’m starting to consider that maaaaybe Kan went a bit too far in this whole mess, I mean it can’t be coincidence that Ash is the same one on that wanted poster, right? I mean, that's a bit too far of a stretch if you asked me.”

While there was a blooming hope coming from Ash, it seemed to damper down with worry as she said, “maybe I should just go.” Getting looks from both as she said, “hey, I thought this was a somewhat normal ship. But, turns out there’s a demon onboard.” Then shaking her head, “I don’t want to be around when Border patrol and local patrols pull you over for a routine checkup.” Which, once more, had both pause.

“Wait...routine check up?” said Phobia as Sieg grimace.

“Routine check up...if I recall right, they are used for making requests on ships that aren’t part of the holds with certain calibers and make to be boarded with fast check up on crew, items, and papers of all official or not…” then look to Phobia as he told. “We would be fall under the illegal view as our ship will be impounded and us in jail until a proper court is held on crimes.

“Refusal of them boarding will result in immediate dispatching of possible guilty party...with firing as many cannons as possible.” then motioned a hoof to around. “With so many golems, and with me, Book, Kan-- even you Herr Phobia falling under the ‘illegal’ side? We will be forced to fight.”

Hands up, Ash asked, “wait…. Are you telling me that… you’re not even here legally?”

“...I may have brought up documents of traveling pass from a Sultan that may or may not had been killed due to his incompetence and may or may not used said documents under a ‘trial run’ for his new ‘research’ of this ship and golems.” said Phobia.

After a bout of silence, Ash seemed to toss a arm in the air and tell, “Sorry. Just… no, no. I’m going. This is beyond illegal, I could get in big trouble for this!” Then breathed in and said, “Sorry, but… just no. No. I’m going before I get in trouble for something I didn’t even know about!” Turning and presumably heading for her current room to grab her stuff and head out on her own.

For a few moments of silence, Scrappy added. “It also wouldn’t had help that Kan technically tricked the one who allowed us passage with her tricks. Or that technically forged future papers of travel.”

Sighing, Phobia pat his head as he said. “Well, a shame we won’t give passage to her, but I’m certain she’ll one day apparicate our assist…” then added to Sieg.

“As for Book request? Eh...I’ll consider it. Arabia is a big place, and there are so many slaves around.”

“That all I ask, Herr Phobia.” saluting as the Stripe dismissed him, as the changeling remove his disguise and headed to where Book was at, which was at his room. As the golems move to bring a mop and bucket as Phobia remarked to Scrappy.

“Guess things didn’t work out well in the end, huh Scrappy?”

“Negative Phobia. One thing worked out well,” gaining the Stripe to glance down as the wolf told. “Now we have ample reason to scourge the Arabia. Even more for potential new followers for you.”

“Hey you’re right! And sure they might not actually join us-- but they’ll remember the debt they owe me, so when its time to call it in, I’ll be successful!” giving a laugh as while he pet the mechanical wolf, Scrappy logged into it’s core that the best way to help his creator was to be a ‘good boy to point out the obvious’. Just like Ash said to him of her folks, he could help his creator improve to be a better being, a better ruler-- and a better Stripe by pointing out the obvious.

The perks of being a robotic loyal mutt.