Conquest Horizon

If there was one thing that was different, was the rare sight of two people in the outpost town at a small tea shop. One was a zebra mare, having a wooden staff by her side, wearing nothing but a cloak, a saddlebag near her and two necklaces of tribal of feathers and wood. With the other necklace being a lead chain with a pearl ring in the middle of it. Most of her body was hidden by the cloak, which was what she prefer to have.

Zaki, the healing zebra glance to her companion as she sips her tea. Seeing the hippogriff sitting across from her as he held a yellow beak on his face, gray feathers and fur covering his body with leather armor showing. A stern look on his face as his brown eyes look around. His griffon heritage seem a bit eagle wise with tuff of ears showing on the top of his head. Looking to the zebra, he requested.

“Certain we’re fine here?” to which Zaki sighed with a gentle shake of her head, looking to him with a smile as she assured.

“Don’t worry Roc, we’re fine here. The people here won’t cause me, or you much trouble. Even more with me helping them with their sick and injured.” taking another sip of her tea, she told on. “We’re fine here, after all why should we worry since we aren’t in any danger?” Roc gave low grumbles, but she didn’t became concern. Roc was used to being alert, even more being accustomed to keeping a eye around for any danger.

Zaki took another sip, enjoying her green tea that seem to be almost common here in the Iron Holds. Zaki was glad she was able to visit here...although with how odd things were becoming, even dangerous with those demonic imps or creatures that prowl around the lands? It might be best to find a reason on the how or why, even if any need healing...Or if worse comes to worse, retreat to Equestria for a while until whatever is going on here stops.

Although Zaki ponder if they should stay longer, with a brief touch on the ring, she wonder if it was wise to stay….but it might be best until otherwise. There were still too many places to aid in the healing arts or alchemy. Who knows, perhaps there might be places she hasn’t visit yet to help heal wounds.

While Zaki consider these thoughts, Roc glance around, finding everything normal...for now. There was a gut feeling in him that something was off. He just didn’t know what yet. What he did knew? Was that he should be on his guard for Zaki sakes. Although with how things were peaceful, one would think Roc should have some relaxation himself.(done)

There was some giggling and laughter nearby, something Roc at first waved off as nothing for a moment. But when a group approached, he was a bit more aware of something. Mostly the slightly uncommon sight of something he and Zaki had seen little of, being a Kitsune, a herno, another a bit less distinguishable and a pony with what seemed to be a bandana over her head that slightly hid her eyes.

They mostly chatted in a tongue that was only heard in the Holds while heading into the tea shop, the group almost seemingly overly diverse with the Kitsune having a extremely overly fluffy tail and a bold red dress that looked scandalous on her person considering the style in the Holds. The unknown being that could be kitsune or herno, clad in dark robes hood and cowl with a steel staff. Even the much more properly dress white herno that looked the part of some royal with how she held herself. The pony just added to that slight diversity while saying something that had the kitsune giggling. (end)

As Roc gave them a glance over, Zaki held a rather surprised look. She never seen much Kitsune, much less Hernos in her travels in the holds. Or at least the kinds that lived in the further north. She didn’t knew where the Herno originated in clan, but she could at least guess the herno came somewhere far in the north. She could guess the one with the robes was a mage of sort, and it was...admitally unsettling that the Kitsune was wearing something scandalous compare to most other species…

Unless the Kitsune had their own way of ‘fashion’ like the Stripes do? Zaki mentally shake off the surprise that held her, but couldn’t help but be a bit surprise of the pony that seem to speak their tongue. She however heard a humming voice in her mind. “That pony seems so familiar...I sense her energy before….where did I sensed her energy?” hearing her guardian having a thoughtful hum…

The spirit within the ring could feel weak energy from the pony, not fully demonic like...but a taint feeling that the Kitsune also had. She could imagine they were haynus...but the pony one was so familiar to her, where did she last sense that energy? She didn’t had a answer yet, but Zaki partially wonder if her friend knew the pony from somewhere else? Or maybe in the past?

Then again, Nibbles rarely get people mistaken.

Kan however spoke on in the tongue, mostly coming along for the herbs to enjoy later on in the trip. She glance to the side and remarked to the other's. “~now there's a sight I never thought to see. A Zebra far from the Isles, and a hippogriff of all things. Both are extremely rare to see in the Holds, even more with one not in a collar and the other being a rarity himself.~” with the spirit in the ring muttering to herself about hearing that voice from somewhere.(done)

While the three gave glanced, both quick and observing, Najat was one to speak first on the collar bit. “~Collars are a rarity to use. You may be familiar with them in arabia for slaves, but here, the tradition for slaves is different. Held only for those that have done wrong or are in debt, perhaps in need of better living conditions. Regardless, this is the first time I have ever seen one.~”

“~Agreed. Much like you, but also very different.~” Mari nod along in slight thought. “~So many stripes of black and white. Is natural? And do they come in many color?~”

Shaking her head, Ash told, “~Just black and white. The ponies I used to travel with talked about zebra’s some.~” Then glanced slightly to add, “~though ditto on the rarity. Haven’t seen one of her, or even the hippogriff before. Wonder what brought those two here?~” (end)

“~Perhaps I should inquire.~” spoke Kan, trotting off from the group to walk by the two table, giving a nod to them as she greeted. “Hello there, I don’t mean to be rude-- but I never seen a zebra and a, hippogriff around here before. May I ask what brings you in the Holds?”

Turning her head with a pleasant smile, Zaki answered. “I am a traveler name Zaki, traveling where I am needed and give healing of magic or potions with alchemy. Our travels brought us to the Holds to see if any need aid, as well as seeing new sights as I am possibly the first Zebra from home to reach here.” Kan nodded as she glance to the silent male as Zaki giggle and told in amusement.

“Do not mind if my friend doesn’t speak. Roc isn’t much of a talker.” then asked with curiosity. “If I may ask of your name?”

“My name is Kan, traveling healer.” respond the haynu as Zaki heard the spirit gasped in surprised, or shocked.

“Kan!? So that's where I felt the energy from! How in the greater light she became so...off!? Zaki, asked if they need traveling companions, or need of a healer, stat! This I have to find out.” mentally sighing of her friends wants, she asked.

“If I am not imposing, but would you and you friends be willing for us to tag along? In either of need of traveling companions or of a healer? The roads are starting to becoming more dangerous with more of those...creatures that are becoming more frequent.”

Kan consider the zebra words, knowing deceit isn’t in the zebra nature...but something about this felt off to her, she however nod her head and said.

“I’ll speak of my friends of your request, Zaki.” turning to trot by the other's as she spoke in the different dialect. “~Apparently she’s a healer of both magic and alchemy, and the hippogriff is her bodyguard of sorts. She’s a traveler...but wants to travel with us with ‘creatures’ moving more frequent...and the only creatures that could warrant a need to travel in groups, are those abominations.~” (done)

Thinking to that, Ash said, “~Tyra wanted to keep quiet. I guess that ‘Vass’ guy you mentioned is really causing her trouble to start pushing her abominations out.~” Then half-glanced to the side and added, “~also explains all the Imp’s I keep spotting around.~”

Glancing to the zebra, Najat gave a solight nod and spoke, “~it would be rude to turn away a Healer that politely asks for companionship and extra aid. I am fine with such an arrangement.~”

Smiling, Mari agreed with a large smile. “~I don’t mind. I’d like to know more about zebra’s, may be hippogriffs? I don’t know much about either.~” Something that no doubt burned in the minds of all three locals. (end)

Nodding, Kan turn to trot back to the two to inform. “They agree for you to coming with us, apparently they have questions about zebras and hippogriff.” Zaki rolled her eyes in slight amusement, but joked to Roc.

“At least this time it won’t be younglings.” Roc snorted in annoyance, as Kan motioned a hoof to the three to come bring extra chairs to sit by the two as Zaki asked. “When are we leaving if I may ask?”

“Not too soon, we just arrived and are enjoying some tea.” informed Kan, moving to sit in a chair as she introduce the three with a pointed hoof while they were getting their drinks. “Thats Ash, Najat, and Mari.”

Zaki gave a brief nod, then look to the three as she spoke up more. “Thank you for allowing me and my friend to travel with you, especially in such dangerous times.” (done)

Taking point to speak first, Najat said, “it is not a trouble for us to let you travel along our sides.” Slightly surprising the Zebra they didn’t need translators for a moment. “It would be an honor to help give you safe passage to our next destination, Healer-san.”

Not taking a seat, Ash told, “I’ll go get the extra tea we want. Who knows when we’ll get a chance to get tea from here again?”

While she looked ready to sit, the kitsune looked between table and the darkly clothed mage before getting up and saying. “Will come. Wish for right type.” Then smiled to Zaki and Roc. “Be back, yes?” Giving a nod after her slightly broken speech to follow Ash in search of possibly bags of tea. (end)

As Kan settle in her spot, she heard Zaki speaking. “I thank you, Najat.” then introduce herself.”I am Zaki, and this is Roc.” the hippogriff gave a brief look as Zaki informed. “Do not mind of Roc, he isn’t usually one to talk for most times.” then asked in concern. “I don’t wish to be rude...but does the one Mari need to wear...such clothings?” however she heard from the spirit in the gem snorting in amusement.

“They have different means of clothing, Zaki-- but Kitsunes are good in deception, seduction, and trickery. I say she’s wearing that because it’ll fool whoever around them. Or cause the males to look at her more feminine assets and not figure out what she's up to.” (done)

Regardless of this ghostly input, Najat spoke with a level of dignity that was a bit more refined than even most Lions seemed to have. “Do not take in light of what you have seen. Mari-san’s people, the Kitsune, practice many a trade in the ways of being a Shinobi, or in Mari-san’s case, Kunoichi. Shadow warriors of cunning and sharp minds. Her wear is just a farce she holds in her line of life and work.” (end)

“Consider them as...a mixture of Blackmanes and Stripes.” informed Kan, surprising Zaki some, as Roc gave a glance to her as Kan told on. “I done enough business on the Isles to know a few things from the natives there.” Zaki however shook her head and said in surprise.

“I am more surprise that you even know what both groups are, it sounds like you met a few Blackmanes or Stripes to know their trade enough to make a comparison.”

“I never heard of the Blackmanes much from you.” remarked Roc as Zaki turn her head to explain.

“Black manes generally lived in the Northern Cornerstone, away from most other's in the Shadow Stone caves and cliffs inland. They generally keep to themselves and only travel around the islands to safeguard from the darkest corners.” then rolled her eyes in amusement. “It also caused them to be one of the only few on the Isles to not only interact with the Striped Hyenas-- but be on friendly terms with them.” (done)

Lifting a brow, Najat admitted, “Indeed interesting facts to know from the Isles. I was not aware of ‘blackmanes’ or their meaning.” Taking a moment to think and ask mostly to Kan, “they are relevant to the ‘redmanes’ you have mentioned, and the Lions as a whole?” (end)

Giving a firm nod, Kan explained. “The Lions have Prides. Imagine them like large Clans of sorts, but instead of spread out like Hernos, they live in a general area. Each area is controlled by a Pride, and the lesser Prides of their type, the smaller Prides acting much like lords do to a King. But all the Prides can be divided into five groups. Redmanes, Goldmanes, Brownmanes, Blackmanes and the Whitemanes.”

Glancing to Najat, she gave a small comparison. “The later of the group are like...the Ophenu in a sense, but much more integrated with the land and open nature. They never seem to have the need for temples or housing, only what the land gives.” added Kan as Zaki look more surprises she said in wonder.

“I never thought you would know about the Whitemanes-- since they’re more rare to see than Blackmanes themselves.” then asked in curiosity. “Have you been into their dwellings?” Kan shook her head and said.

“No...but I have encounter them in rare moments.” not adding that in those moments the Whitemanes were trying to banish her as she was utterly scared. The spirit however was laughing as she joked to Zaki.

“By encounter, she means running scared! Lions are a bit more scary when aggressive!” (done)

To that, Zaki had to agree. Living with predators much like the lions often showed that while they can be pasve-- ticking them off often made them bare fangs and roar in a manner that sent any prey-minded individual scrambling for safety. One did not just tick off a lion and stand still, running was normally the first thing you did.

“Kan-san is far-traveled.” Najat seemed to tell simply. “I am on a Honor Trial of sorts with Ash-chan. Mari-san and Kan-san are those that have been with us on such a journey, and continue to do so with some allies we will be returning to before leaving the holds entirely.” Thinking, Najat admitted, “to where, we are unsure. But, we will know when we regroup with the remainder of our friends.” (End)

“...Kan….with the word ‘friend’...in the same order?” said a partially confuse and contemplating spirit as she said to Zaki. “Ask them if they need a healer, knowing with Hernos, Kitsune, and...Kan. I’m going to guess there’s no healer.”

“Perhaps I might request to join with you? Me and Roc here are considering to leave the Holds for now, but would help in any form of healing that is needed.” spoke the zebra as Kan thought over it.

Sure they were fine for now...but Kan knew that they would need a healer of sorts...and who better than a zebra with alchemy and some bits of Prosperity magic? “I think having your aid is welcoming, especially more since not many of us know the healing arts like you do.” (done)

Thinking a bit, Najat agreed, “I am only so well taught in the ways of healing. Mari-san knows some magics, but they are not of a true healer. Even Ash-chan is only so experienced in such an area.” Then more firly nodded. “It would be wise to speak to Phobia-san of this matter, as you will be boarding his ship.”

Slightly being jard forwards in her seat, Najat was sure that it was Ash that was leaning over her some and saying, “Are you making plans without us? For shame.” The grin just projecting through the hidden female’s cowl.

“You would of been informed in due time, Ash-chan.” Najat spoke unfazed, as if this were normal for her. (End)

While Roc gave a glance over, feeling suspicious that he didn’t noticed her coming in quietly, Zaki blinked while the spirit snort in amusement. Still Zaki heard Kan speaking in. “Zaki asked if she and her friend could join with us on the ship, as she could help us in needs of healing and potential potions of alchemy.” then added in amusement. “Not to mention let you and the others ask their questions of zebras, hippogriffs and such.”

Zaki gently shake her head a bit at this, but sips her tea as she soon asked. “Who is this ‘Phobia’ you make mention? It doesn’t sound a name used for the Iron Holds-- or anywhere that I’ve been too.” Kan tried to hide the urge to frown, as she didn’t knew if Zaki knew or not of Phobia. She doubted it...but who knows if she heard word of the madman? (done)

Ash seemed to be the one to give it away, just not in the manner the former-demon expected. “Just this half-there inventor that I met some months back and is here because his ship got a bit banged up from a slaver-scavenger attack.” Kan was sure Ash was grinning as she told on. “Guy’s great at times-- not all there maybe and terrible at understanding females, but what guy isn’t in their own right?” (End)

Laughing abit, Zaki nod her head in agreement as she told. “Taht they are.” then glance to Roc and added with a smile. “No offense Roc.”

“You’re agreeing with a statement. Why be offended?” replied the hippogriff as he remarked to Ash. “An inventor that’s a few eggs short? Must be difficult to talk to him.”

Huffing, Kan told with a rolling hoof. “Like you wouldn’t believe.” the spirit however in the necklace gem hummed and said.

“Something's...off. They’re not saying the guy species...but they’re also making it simple...and Kan is agreeing in a okay manner...guess being turned to a hanyu really removed that indifferent nature demons got and made her more alive.” While Zaki consider that a bit, she did comment.

“A inventor? One that’s consider crazy?” giving a amused chuckle as she said. “If he got along with the Stripes back home, they would be considered friends, maybe a honorary clan member if work well enough.” (done)

Snapping her fingers, Ash said, “Striped, striped, striped…” Than pointed to Kan, “right, that’s what he’s called, isn't he?” Making the zebra blink a few times as Ash went on, “yeah, Phob’s is one. He’s doing a bit of traveling, touring the world, trying out his ship. You know, seeing what he can do with what he’s got. Wanted to make a point to everyone.”

In a sense, Kan had to be impressed. Ash didn’t lie about what Phobia was doing, but also didn’t say what Phobia wanted to do. She told them the striped was traveling on his own, but didn’t mention of his exile at all. And from the looks of it, Roc and Zaki were so off kilter, they didn’t have time to take that all in and pick it apart. (End)

Infact Zaki spoke in honest shock. “A...Stripe is away from the Isles?” then slightly shook her head in disbelief as she said. “I never heard of one actually leave the Isles by themselves, they mostly have to decide in a Clan gathering to figure out how many members to take, or those they consider friends from the other Cornerstones to leave the Isles in a traveling tour of the world-- with a granted permission from the Main Clan head.” (done)

Waving a hand, Ash told, “he’s not alone. He’s got his clan.” Technically, not a lie in Kan’s eyes, seeing as Scrappy is seen as clan by the mutt, and he did make ‘honorary clan’ out of Book, Sieg and Nowa. “And he’s gut us, his budd’s.” Ash then went on with a rolling hand, “he’s a bit homesick, I’m sure, but who doesn't get homesick after a bit? We’ve thought about heading that way-- but things have been a little crazy and you know how hard it is to get places when you get piled busy with work!”

Najat rolled her eyes to this, knowing that ‘busy’ was just a minor way of saying how things got so out of control recently. With everything that had happened, she was surprised she was able to put up with it all. She slightly notice Mari coming back and taking a seat, but remaining qute to let the group keep talking. (end)

Smiling more, Zaki gave a nod to them all as she said. “I’m glad some of his Clan is with him, even more found friends outside the Isles. For a moment, I was worried about Phobia, Stripes can’t handle being away from their home too long. Even more without their Clan.” then went on in a thoughtful tone. “It must of taken a lot of time to get through to him, Stripes tend to be rather picky on who they trust.”

“Oh believe me, we had to endure his short attitude.” said Kan as she decided to keep the conversation going as she switch it to general topics. “But despite working with him, I don’t know fully on Stripes, even the few who’s willing to work with me won’t say much on what their home was like.”

Giggling a bit, Zaki nod her head. “Oh that’s natural. Comes with the whole ‘pickiness’ and cautionary they give to other's. They generally don’t talk much of their clan home, unless of course they consider someone as trusted honorary clan members to their Clan, or somehow became their mate.”

Raising a brow, she teased in a grinning tone. “Oh? Have experience of Stripes yourself?” the spirit snicker to this as there was a bit of red on Zaki face as she quickly shook her head.

“No! No, no!” clearing her throat to explain. “No, most Stripes keep to themselves, even to other Stripe Clans really, and a friend of mine from the Isles told me what she knew from a Stripe friend she has.” (done)

While Mari tilted her head to this, ears flicking a bit in interest on what could be gleaned for certain, Ash told with a hidden smirk and rolling eyes. “Well, maybe they’re not so secretive. Kitsune are a lot more secretive, and the only time they talk about their village is when it’s either not around, or it’s a complete lie.”

Smiling, Mari gently spoke, “Clan hidden. Secret stay secret.” giggling some as Zaki turned her head a little abruptly to find the Kitsune, much like Ash, seemed to have come from no place. Smiling on, Mari told, “Metal-arm much like Kitsune. But not kitsune. Shame he not. Many would like.” Then giggled on, “still is good. Must speak again, much to say.”

“You tease him far too much for your own amusement, Mari-san.” Najat spoke calmly from her seat. Possibly even frostily much to the wonder of Zaki.

“See under.” Mari smiled. “Under the under, is good. See risk. Most fun.” Then spoke with innocents. “Is wrong to be nice?” (end)

Snickering, the spirit known as Nibbles joked without being heard. “Theres nice...and then there’s constant teasing and flirting to get a rise from him. Guess the Kitsune is interest on this Phobia Stripe. Although...metal arm is a bit new.”humming a bit as Zaki said in slight amusement.

“I feel you just enjoy prodding at him because Stripes aren’t good at hiding their feelings.” then asked. “What this of ‘Metal-arm’?”

“Oh, a accident Phobia had years back. He had to get a mechanical arm to replace the limb.” the zebra frown as she asked in worry.

“Did he mention when the last he got it checked by another Stripe and a healer?”

“No...why?” asked Kan as concern etched on her face as Zaki explained.

“Because while Stripes tend to use prosthetic limbs to help those who lose them...it’s also risky having them implanted in the first place.” (done)

Humming, Ash told while moving around her friend to lean on the table, “well… if it’s a big deal, we can head over to Equestria next.” Finger raised and going on, “I knew this one pony that visited the holds. I think she’d help f I called her up.” Then spoke to herself, “now… where did she say she lived again?” Scratching her head in thought.

Eyes to Ash, Najat questioned, “you know of a pony that would be skilled enough to work on such a thing?” a slight trace of confusion there.

“Oh yeah.” Ash waved to her friend. “Talked to them a whole night over it. She was in the holds to learn about the runic-stuff the minotaurs did and learning of the right metals to use to not hurt the patient. I think she’d be a great help and all.” (End)

Thinking a bit, Zaki had to agree to this. “It might be best in all honesty, unlike those in the Holds or in Equestria? The Isles have near to no metal resources to mine from. Most of the metal gain are scraps from whatever the Stripes take apart or reuse from previous failed inventions. So whatever metal they use for prosthetic? Would be contaminated and could infect Phobia later on in his years.” thinking a bit with a frown.

“We also...might need to have him knocked out. Stripes don’t like to show their blueprints to other's-- even strangers.” Kan rolling her eyes on that as she muttered.

“That was how he got our head engineer fired in a week time.” Roc glance to Kan at this, but didn’t comment as Zaki continued on with a sigh.

“We might need to remove the arm and its connection to the body entirely. Most prosthetic limbs need to be replaced every four months-- otherwise it’ll affect the body itself.” (Done)

Thinking to this, Mari spoke with a firm nod, “Help.” Getting some attention as she went on. “Need help. Will give. No know of metal-arms. Can aid to keep safe.” Smiling at her self assured manner, even if Zaki doubted.

It was here that Ash told, “Mari’s a Seal Master.” which, from the looks of Roc and Zaki, made little to no sense. Seeing she needed to explain, Ash told, “Are you familiar with the capital of Iron Holds and it’s wall’s said to be inpendrible by all attacks?” (End)

“Yes, we visit there once. It was...overwhelming.” admitted Zaki as she took another sip of her tea as she went on. “It was nothing like home, with everything so squeezed together and felt like we were in a prison of sorts.” Roc gave a agreeing nod to that as he comment.

“Make Griffin Kingdoms look easy access in streets.” (done)

Nodding a bit, Najat knew the story that Ash was giving. “The legion of those walls being unbreachable, are not a exaggeration. They were made with the aid of a student to Fuinjutsu-- a ninja art of Seals. They were just a learner, a mere expert in skill that the King had in their care.”

“The loan Kitsune Seal expert worked with the many to form the wall, placing a Seal of their clan on the very stone. The seal, so strong in it’s workings, held cannon, fire, stone and even rams easily at bay. To this day, the stone has yet to show ware of time, so is the strength of Seals.” Shortly told Najat.

“In short?” Asked Ash, “depending on how skilled, widely learned or practiced the kitsune with Fuinjutsu? The better their seals. And I’ve seen some at work. Containing things, stopping demons, banishing demons, suppressing magic-- it’s some pretty impressive stuff. And with Mari? She could help make the needed seals to keep that arm from killing Phobia, if she knows a bit of how the arm works.” (end)

Thinking a bit, Zaki heard Nibbles spoke in a amused tone. “If I read her right as best I can? She hold some intrest in the Stripe. All she needs to do is get the blueprint and know if there’s runes or not on it. Because if they are? Well, it might cause some issues.” the zebra thought on as she said.

“If he came with his Clan...odds are they would bring a blueprint of the arm, to make sure they have the knowledge of either fixing it, placing new runes on it if needed be-- or even replacing it. At best? Mari might need to be walked through it either by Phobia, or another of his Clan that know how it works. While the Stripes aren’t like the minotaur or unicorns with smith or magic-- one thing they excell is their innovation with machinery and runic arts, and its really tricky to handle their things.”

“For example, somehow making scrap parts work into a fully functional dinghy.” dryly remarked the haynu mare.

Zaki nodded as she added. “It would also be hard to find a blueprint like this without help, as something as special as a prosthetic limb-- especially custom made? Would be kept tightly close like most other blueprints.” Kan merely tease to Mari in a knowing tone.

“Oh with a few words and body gestures, I think you can persuade the mutt easily to show you the blueprints and guide you through them.” (done)

Mari only look on innocently and confusedly with those closed eyes and tilted her head as if she had no clue what Kan was implying. Ash however just chuckled and told, “or we can just make him a new arm.” Going on to say, “I mean… if he has to take off the old one anyways, take to apart, figure out how it works and then make it better. Sounds pretty simple really.” (end)

There was a sagged sigh as Zaki told. “Nothing is simple with Stripes. Especially with their inventions.” KAn consider their options...and asked to Ash.

“This pony friend of yours...think with her, this new engineer we picked up and with Scrappy-- a new arm could be made? It might be a bit pricey, but if we remove the old arm with it’s connection parts and added new and better metals-- we could actually make sure he won’t need to replace the arm ever again, even more with Mari seals.” (done)

To this, Mari told, “need book. Know why metal bad. What go wrong.” Placing her own input into the situation. “Seal work, only if know why. Seal no do, what Seal not made to.”

Gramancing, Ash nodded with a hand rubbing the back of her head, “yeah… Mari’s going to need a few books on the subject to know why it causes problems.” Then shook her head adding, “and they have to be in Kajuni.” Half adding to the non-locals, “the native written language of the Holds.”

Zaki frown to this...or at least until she heard Nibbles assuring her. “Oh relax...I know how to help. Although introduce me later on without other's watching.” a small smile on her face, as Zaki assured.

“I believe I can help in that regard.” gaining looks as she amend. “Or at least...know someone who can help. She's rather knowledgeable about things and knows many ways to acquire things.”

“You...know a dragoness?” asked a slight surprised Kan as Zaki shook her head.

“Less of a dragon and...something else.” then told with a smile. “A very old spirit.” (done)

This peaked the interest of all three local girls, Mari in particular perking her ears and seeming to intently focus about. Not that it would help, Nibble’s knew. The spirit understood the very young hanu was possibly using what gifts she had to sense her out-- but not only was she stronger, she was also in something. Something that was well outside a little half-demon senses. (End)

“A….spirit?” asked a surprised Kan, as she didn’t knew a spirit would be traveling with the zebra, otherwise she would of sensed her by now...she glance around to try to find them...but couldn’t sense a thing. She consider if the spirit was hiding somewhere...and pause. Looking at the pearl necklace...seeing it was so…

Familiar.

Kan eyes widen as she let her mouth gap as she said. “Nooooo…” then slam her head down as she let out a whimper. “Why her?” (done)

This, garnered a similar reaction all around. Ash, Najat, Mari, even Zaki and Roc gave the mare a odd and confused look… while Nibbles felt the need to laugh out loud. (end)

“..Pardon?” asked Zaki as Nibbles snicker and tried to hold back her laughter as Kan raised her head and told flatly.

“I know that ring anywhere.” causing a slight surprise from the two, even from the three as they switch focus from Kan to Zaki necklace with the pearl ring as Kan told to the three natives. “Who Zaki talking about...is someone who I...disliked utterly back then. Even more on what spirit she was.” then sighed and told in their native tongue. “~Her name is Nibbles, Spirit of Faith and someone a few centuries younger than Camous.~” (done)

That still made the three natives a little confused, seeing as they no doubt don't know who Camous was. Though for Zaki, her ears slightly perked at the familiar name. Mostly after Nibbles had used the same name in a sometimes fond, or even half-joking tone. As if she and Camous were ‘friends’ in some odd sense. Which was still weird, since one was a demon lady and the other a ascended spirit. (end)

Looking to the three, Kan explain. “~Camous is a very old demon...a demon lady for that matter. Someone who was older and stronger than I was. She made me-- even Tyra herself look like small children in power and magical abilities. And she is currently in a family contract with a filly.~” then rolled her eyes as she told on. “~she seem to mellow out and be more motherly to the filly-- probably been living among the family generation long enough or something.~”

“~As for Nibbles...Well, let just say from what I heard? Nibbles consider Camous as a sort of ‘friend’. Especially since they’re both...somewhat equal in magical strength and power.~” Snorting a bit, she added. “~Which is rare of a thing. It's one thing for a spirit to be at her level-- but for a Spirit of Faith, one of the ‘weaker’ spirits among the ascended? That’s near impossible.~”

“~Spirits of Faith are mostly weak, mostly since of them being faith, as you need alot of it to grow stronger.~”

While she was explaining this to the three, Nibbles was informing Zaki, who was a bit surprise of that tidbit. Nibbles never thought Camous would ‘mellow’ out, even more be more motherly than she was before. Guess that whole ‘being in a stone’ thing really paid off. Zaki was still wrapping her mind that this demon lady was...motherly to a filly. As for Roc? He just partially wonder if this whole ‘talking in another tongue’ was going to common if they’re traveling together. (done)

After getting a little caught up, Mari seemed to nod in some understanding with, “~truly a surprise, to hear spirit of such a virtue has grown in such strength.~” Slightly wondering what this ‘Nibbles’ was like in person.

Ash made a ‘huh’ sound of curiosity before half-shoving off the table to smile, “So… since we got most of that out of the way, we planning to go soon?” As if the whole situation was finally done and over with. “I don’t know about any of you, but we still got a few stops before reaching the ship. Nothing big. Just little things.” (end)

“Beside grabbing the tea for later on? I think I can conclude my business in this town.” said Kan as Zaki thought and shook her head to say.

“Neither I or Roc have anything more to do in this town, most who needed my aid are already aided. And anything they were having problems with in medicine is dealt with as well.” then smile to them. “We can leave if you all truly desire to leave so soon.”

Roc glance to them, then to Zaki, and soon spoke. “Nothing to do, might as well leave.” Zaki flick a ear, hearing Nibbles commenting on something as she added.

“And if you all wished...I can bring Nibbles out once we are somewhere a bit more private from eyes around us.” (done)

Giving a nod, Najat said, “it would likely be a pleasure. But for the time being, we should conclude our time here in this village before moving on.” Half looking to Ash to ask, “what is the remaining item on your list before we leave?”

“A few gemstones I know from in this area.” Ash waved off. “It’s a small distance away from here, we can just use the Ketch to get close, stop, gat a few of the shiny gems and then get going going. Nothing big.” (end)

“Gems?” spoke Zaki as curisioity filled her. “Is there a specific reason to find these gemstones?” (done)

Looking to the mare, Ash said, “oh yeah.” And seemed to smile while telling, “they’re sparkly.” Nodding to this information… then going on, “but, I guess they could be used for magic, spiritual attunement and enlightenment, purification, equipment for the inventor, ways to pay people off, make neat necklaces out of--”

“But I get them because they’re sparkly.” Finished the darkly cowled cat. (end)

Humming a bit, Zaki heard Nibbles agreeing. “Yeah, gemstones are quite useful, and knowing their vast varieties of uses? Could be made into nearly anything if used right.” Zaki visibly nod to this, as she recalled a few tidbits of what gemstones her other shamens or other magic casters use on the Isles, as well as some ponies use for them.

Kan however couldn’t help but snort in slight amusement and annoyance as she asked. “Just how many are you going to try to grab, Ash?” (done)

“A few.” Quickly told the cat with no real clear definition of what amount was. (end)

Shaking her head in slight amusement, she told as she got off her spot. “I’ll start up the Ketch then, if they’re going to be quick grabs, then we should make do.” then added with a slight glance around. “Beside...the better we leave now, the less trouble we’ll deal with.”

While Zaki furrow her brows to that in slight confusion, she heard Nibbles inform. “She means demon-hunters. Sure they’re haynu’s...but they’re still targets to demon-hunters since they got the blood of one in them. Really annoying sometimes, some of them like the Herno are constantly chasing them-- sometimes to the ends of the world!” having a huff adding. “Really, sometimes they mean well...but they’re a headache to deal with.”

While Zaki consider that in silence, Roc merely nod to the leaving mare, as he asked to the remaining three. “Is there anymore room in the ship? It might not have enough room for two more to stay in.” (done)

“It is fairly well sized.” Told Najat. “The two of you will not have any trouble fitting onboard. It is spacious enough for both of you to have no true problems.” then said more to herself, “it will be speaking to Phobia-san on allowing your stay that we may need to discuss at length over.” Reminding them the striped would have trust issues. (end)

While Roc felt a frown on his face, Zaki spoke in camly and with a assuring expression. “I know the Stripes are picky-- even more when they bring other's into their ‘home’. But I am certain he wouldn’t say no to another who was born on the Isles, even less who understand a bit of Stripe culture and ways…” then amended. “Or at least...with my friend helping me to persuade Phobia. She used to work with a Stripe once.” (done)

Seeming to nod, Najat said, “then let us hope that will be enough.”

Shipwork was going rather smoothly, if Phobia was willing to admit it. Already they had moved half the aft section around to accommodate their needs and most of the pipes drained for their refitting. There was work being done to make the piping more well protected and organized, mostly to be heated more efficiently during colder areas.

Jiru… was a interesting case. He was a effecent engineer, and had a large skill set in ship design, much like his adoptive father and sister. He even knew a very good deal about other advancements not ship-based, even if they were a little less behind. But considering that shipbuilding was a family thing, it was no surprise that Jiru only had so much time to learn other things.

Walking past some golems, Phobia was reminded of another… odd quirk the monkey had. “The parts and Jiru, move as one.” the strip having to pause to watch as a golem wheeled some parts along, the monkey on the top of the pile ‘meditating’ on the work to come.

Seriously, who meditated and made whitemane-like comments of the ‘harmonizing with the metal’ or… other spiritual stuff? It really confused Phobia more than once. (end)

Looking at the monkey, he called out with hand by his mouth. “How long are you going to meditated whenever my golems are moving parts around, Jiru?” sure he liked the guy, and was almost considering him as honorary clan...but seriously how does meditation work with engineering? (done)

“Time in not the matter. Merly the harmonizing of self and the unity made thereafter.” Spoke Jiru once more in his confusing riddles. Though for as well as Phobia knew, that maybe it translated to ‘when I reach my destination’. But the striped wasn’t really sure. How Jiru could fit so much meditation into work and still get all the work done was beyond him. (end)

Then again...maybe it’s one quirk I can look over at. I mean...at least he’s not like his sister and complain and prod at every ‘mistake’ of my ship. thought Phobia as he shook his head and reminded. “Just remember that we still need to go over the golem plans on improving them!” another thing that made the Stripe liked the Ophenu more. Apparently the monkey noticed something off his golems and suggest some things..

And it made the golems improve more...although it was debatable on how ‘improve’ they were. (done)

At the very least, they seemed less erratic in their work. Their Double matrix systems were more stable to be certain, and not so… stupid and clueless as before. If anything, they seemed actually competent! Jiru only told with a calming smile they needed to merely be given ‘reasons’ in the matrix of ‘whys’.

The other reason Jiru explained it was that the striped accidentally wrote a similar set of runes near the other and that’s what caused the whole… problem of stupidity, cluelessness and other quirky problems that caused headaches or trouble. A minor engineering problem that just needed another’s perspective to spot. (End)

Which...Phobia felt grateful of. Grateful for the Ophenu noticing the mistake and correcting it. Grateful that someone spotted it out for him before something worse happen...Grateful that he was near a engineer like before. He felt a familiarity, a nostalgic feeling while working with the monkey. He almost felt like working with a Stripe of all things. Which caused...both swelled joy and pain in him.

Still he push the thoughts aside as he turned to walk on, glancing around as he noted that since Jiru helped with the problem, the Grunts were more effective, able to handle the workload than before. The engineers were even faster in their work, cutting half a hour time, to twenty minutes worth. Sure it was a shave from the 30 minutes...but it was noticeable with how quick they change and replace the pipes.

Even the Soldiers and Knights were able to do minor work beside fighting...the only problem was improving their speed and mobility more. Something of which was due to their weight and size, even more with their limited systems. (Done)

On that note, Jiru had said a very odd thing on how to ‘improve’ them, which was… not at all… Phobia didn’t fully understand it. All he was told by the monkey, was the flaw was not in them, but in not using what they had. Which seemed odd to Phobia. He was sure he gave them all their needs to be effective fighters-- but they were still a joke. What could he have missed to make them less effective because they didn’t ‘use what they had’? It was something he pondered on, and felt the need to ask Jiru over about more-- when they had time. (end)

The only reason he didn’t ask, was the amount of work they still had to do. Especially more since they weren't even finish! It would take another two weeks-- three even due to the size and vastness of the ship. Even more removing parts and rooms to make adjustments...as well as connecting the second controls under his bed fully.

He honestly didn’t consider why he did that, it would be quick, fast, and able to take control of the ship if it was ever taken, or if something was damaged in it. For now, he had to work on the pipes and make sure the ship was ready to leave once the girls came back. He glance to Scrappy coming up as the mechanical wolf reported. “Reporting of repairs and adjustments. 34% has been made of the ship, repairs are at least 89% of the outside of the ship.”

Smiling, Phobia pat the head as he said. “Thanks Scrappy, come on. We still have more work to do.” taking the lead as the mechanical companion follow, as unbeknownst of the Stripe, Scrappy secretly came to Jiru if he needed to be ‘improved’ or if there were flaws in him. While he wouldn’t say there was anything that Phobia did in his creation was wrong…

He also knows that due to the odd errors in his system..he’s been partially concern if he was defective. However Jiru assured that scrappy wasn’t defective. Merely something so...different, that a few errors should be normal. Scrappy questioned and ask why that was ‘normal’ or why the errors even occured. If Scrappy was to perform at his full capacity in predicting and analyzing to his prime, he shouldn’t have the errors in the first place to cause his systems to be damaged. (done)

Not the monkey said much outside those riddles of his. Obviously, they were supposed to be clues. Or, at least Scrappy hoped they were clues. It was either that, or Jiru was just as mad as his creator. But it was hard to see him as ‘mad’ due to how… serene he could be. Like that moment of meditation with parts and ‘realizing their place’ talk.

Which was confusing, they had blueprints. Should’t Jiru already know their placing? (end)

Perhaps he give those clues, and doing those ‘talks’ due to him being similar to a Whitemane. Whitemanes tend to talk in riddles, vague clues, and being so odd. Perhaps he noticed something we do not and offer clues to let us figure things out. considered Scrappy, as he was using a template of a Whitemane with the Ophenu…

Then again there was just too many unknown data to make a comparison between the two species. Still, Scrappy felt within his core that these errors were becoming a problem, and could cause a problem for him later on in his systems. He checked over his systems countless of times and was trying to figure out why it was ‘normal’ for the errors to consider as nothing to be fret over? If Scrappy kept having theses errors, it could cause damage in his systems and be unable to calculate anything that could harm his creator…

Or father, as the Stripe was technically one to him due to his creation years back. Scrappy however place that to the side, mostly due to thinking on other things. Like the ship repairs, the improvement of the golems...And trying to figure out about Mari and her views on Phobia. From what he gather, she teased him and seem to make innuendos of sorts-- or ‘flirts’ as Book explained.

Granted Mari did the same to Sieg...but mostly involved discussion with the unicorn. With the stripe it was...different. Despite analyzing and relooking at the databanks, Scrappy couldn’t figure out if she was interested in his creator or not. There was too many unknowns, to many variables and factors to consider. Even more she was still viewed a ‘wildcard’ by him. It was hard to pinpoint on what she would do, or say. Even less due to her being a ‘secretive’ species that worked in the shadows.

So far Scrappy was feeling the emotion unsure… and it bothered him. He didn’t knew what could or would happen. What one thing was for certain, was that his stripe percentage rate was dropping slowly. Mostly due to Jiru working with him and being similarly Stripe. Including with the ship and golem improvement. However he consider that it could easily rise back up once the females were on the ship. Even more heading to Equestria for safety and more work on the ship.

While Arabia was a option, it was also a risky option due to the bounties, slavers, and scavengers. Even more with the bounty on Ash, Sieg, and Book that could be taken at any time. So Equestria was chosen due to safety in ship work than anything else. (done)

It was close, and it also had the parts they needed. There was a issue of conversion of funds, but that was something Kan could deal with in time. They also possibly had allies to help with such a project, namely this ‘benefactor’ of the Terror Fangs. It was a long shot, but Sieg and Book had mentioned the wealthy noble. If they could get Kan to him, it was possible to maybe broker a deal with him.

But there was no defining definition if that would work. But as it stood, it was their best option.