A Roegadyn in Equestria

A Roegadyn in Equestria.

Chapter 58: Rory! I’m Sleeping Where Now?

*Point of view: Brex Mith*
*Location: Canterlot*
*Time: Eleven forty-five in the morning. The day of the trip*

Canterlot was currently having one of its usual Immaculate days with hardly a cloud in the sky over the city, which allowed Princess Celestia's, oh so special sunlight to bathe everything in its radiance. All the Ponies around were all dressed up in either some over-the-top flashy outfit or what a servant would be found in. All of which, were happily smiling under the sun and going about with smiles on their muzzles. Although, Brex wasn't really feeling that at all, as he scowled from under his mask upon getting off the train, that just so happened to have recently arrived in the city.

It was easy for him to see through the fake smiles of these overly emotional beings, as to what they truly felt as he watched them walking by him in the full train station. It was obviously the ones with money that were truly happy and the ones that were playing the part of eager attendance or staff workers, were merely putting it on as a facade so that they could stay in the good graces of those that held power.

From where he stood near the benches, just several meters from the train. Brex could plainly see how obnoxious the nobles were with their silly demands and subtle hints towards those of the lower class that said that they were far more important. But he had to rain it all in because of the two Changelings that were standing on either side of him, along with holding onto a set of bags that could be wheeled around by them.

If they were to just get so much of a whiff of his displeasure towards the city. Then there was no telling what these two would end up doing if it meant they could alleviate him of such a negative emotion. Now, as for the reason he and is two attractive personal attendees were waiting in place. This was due to Zecora needing to check in with whoever was in charge of baggage, so that she could retrieve her personal belongings. As it turned out. The Zebra ended up bringing quite a bit more than they all had originally anticipated, so they had to pay for the space in the cargo car.

While attempting to keep his mind as calm as possible, considering the atmosphere. Brex went through a mental checklist of what they planned to do while in Canterlot. After leaving Ponyville on the first train going out at six thirty in the morning with Zecora to meet up with Rin and Lin. The four of them would make their way to the airship platforms that was located on the Southwestern side of the city. Of course, with the train station being on the south part. Then the walk over shouldn’t really take that long at all to get there.

From there, the ship would take them over to Las Pegasus and transfer to another airship that would head over the sea for a direct flight path to Zebrabwa. Of course, the second ship would end up being the Yuna. However, Brex had no intention of having that ship show up at Canterlot quite yet, so he told them to go on head to the second stop, as per his instructions only two days prior.

Under any normal circumstances, a normal airship would not have been able to make that type of a trek all the way from HQ in such a limited time span. But the Yuna was no ordinary ship by any means and was scheduled to arrive shortly before they did. Brex had even played with the idea of having Crystal coming along. Although, in the end, he wasn't too sure on how well she would handle a long-distance trip. She was also required back at HQ when dealing with the new Chocobo's that would be brought in. So, in the end he decided against it.

If it ever came down to it, Brex could just whistle and she would be summoned to his side in an instant. His musings came to a halt, when Zecora came into view and she was hauling behind herself, what was nothing less than a small wagon full of supplies. Some of which were giving off a particularly strong mixture of aromas that even had the instant effect of warding off quite a few of the nobles that were unfortunate enough to be within a few paces.

Now that they were all gathered together, Brex began to examine them quickly as his eyes roamed from one to the next. Zecora was wearing the same dark brown cloak that she normally would wear when going in and out of the Everfree Forest. So it was difficult to see what she probably had on her person underneath that. Although, she did have the hood pulled back to expose her face.

As for his two maids. They were of course, wearing nothing else but made outfits that had the skirts stopping right at the knees. No doubt it was essentially modeled after a French maid’s uniform, but nowhere near as skimpy if it were to be compared to those that required much less fabric. Long white gloves and matching stockings were worn, along with black chokers. The hoofs had covering that gave off a black shine with heels to complete the look.

Rin had her mane tied and its usual silver ponytail, that came nearly halfway down her back and this joyous expression on her face, as she had her eyes closed and beaming with a smile. As for her sister Lin. She was pretty much the opposite with how she looked quite serious with her duties, but was still happy none the same with just a small smile creeping on to her lips. Her hair was jet black and also tied in the same fashion. With all of that, the two of them were easily seen as twin gray Unicorns.

When it came to their personalities however. The two were pretty much the same as night and day. As Rin was all happy and bubbly for the most part. Her sister Lin was the more serious of the two. Although, when it came to their protective instincts in regarding Brex, they were pretty much a pair of devils. If one was to try and come up with a close enough comparison, then there was no other way to put it.

As the silver-haired Rin would casually mention dismemberment as though it was nothing serious at all. Along with a nearly endless amount of energy, which made it rather difficult for her to stand still for too long. The dark-haired Lin, would always give this intimidating aura and a sharp look with her eyes that could easily send the lesser fighters to run for the hills.

Unlike her sister. Lin was fully capable of restraining herself and would be so focused on her work, that she would even stand perfectly still at the side of her Lord for hours on end, without even twitching a single muscle if Brex didn't give a specific order to relax. And that was not a joke. Once he was so into some paperwork, that he looked up after several hours and found that she had not budged at all after coming in and serving him the very same papers.

Back with Zecora, she immediately spoke up as soon as she made sure that all of her belongings were still intact. “I do apologize for the wait, but the pony I spoke to, was rather irate. I'm sorry to say that most of my mixtures and brews could not be left at home alone. Or the effects later on, could be unknown.” While Zecora was saying this, she was gesturing towards the baggage clerk that was dealing with some other customers that could not have their things as carry-on items.

Brex gave a nod to this and gestured towards the other two with his head and began to introduce them. “Zecora, these are the ones I mentioned who will be traveling along with us. This is Rin and beside her, is her sister Lin.” As soon as their names were called. The Changelings in disguise started to give Zecora a small bow with their heads, before straightening themselves up and speaking in perfect unison as they stood right next to one another.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Zecora. We are the Lord's personal attendees and we look forward to being allowed to accompany him on such a long journey.” The elaborate way of introduction was now drawing some attention to Brex. By calling him their Lord, had the effect of calling the eyes of many who are within earshot. Most of those eyes, belonging to mare’s.

As a result, Brex had to try really, really hard as to not to give himself a facepalm at the situation and quickly gestured with his left hand in the general direction of the exit, before speaking rather hurriedly to the three girls. “Zecora, I suggest that we make our way towards the airship platforms now, rather than later. After all, time is required to load your small wagon into their cargo hold before the scheduled departure time.”

A short time passed and they were traveling through the busy streets of Canterlot and along the outer perimeter. Which meant that they could see the outer most walls from where they were, as it was in plain view between some of the larger buildings they passed. Mostly made of Brick and mortar. It would have been seen as any other large wall, but Brex Already knew that it had some heavy-duty reinforcing spells that were woven into the structure.

Brex couldn't help but to wonder as to why they would even put such a wall to begin with when they had a good section of the city protruding away from the mountain itself. Sure, it would have been wise to put some type of small railing in order to keep accidents from occurring with people falling off the edge, but what they had was a little too much with how it was easily three stories tall.

Of course, there were a few sections that allowed the residents to go to a small observation deck in order to look down from how high they were from ground level. Then there were the airship docks. Which utilized a combination of hot air balloons and the magic to keep the platforms from falling off, due to the number of individuals coming and going. As well as cargo being put on and taken off of the docked airships.

Although, the group was more than halfway through the crowds. It was painfully obvious that up ahead was about to become much more congested and Brex realized that this would be a problem for Zecora and her small wagon straight away. He then looked towards the upper right corner of his vision, to the clock that was displayed right above the mini-map and saw that it was getting pretty close to when the ship was supposed to leave. That turned out to be in about twenty minutes.

After looking around from his tall vantage point. Brex could see before the others could, that there was no way that they were going to make it through the crowd at the rate they were going. So, he instantly turned and began to grab on to Zecora’s cart, before saying to her over the crowds noise. “Zecora, please leave this to me.”

As soon as those words exited his lips. The wagon was instantly lifted, as Zecora had no other choice but to let go of the handle and watch as the entire thing. Along with all of her supplies, were now over his head and being supported by both arms. Of course, this had caused an odd shadow to form across some of the ponies that now had the light of the sun blocked and looked and his direction after a few seconds of looking around. Only to have their jaws dropping so fast that there should have been a cartoon sound effect to go along with it.

With their little problem of not having enough room to move seemingly fixed. The group of four made their way through the rest of the crowd. Only to get the same reaction from each new pony while doing so. At one point or another, on-lookers even started to part from one another in order to give him and the three girls a clear path down the street.

Although, there was one small snag as they got really close to their destination, that caused Brex to roll his eyes from behind his mask. This being in the form of a Royal Day Guard, that rushed up to them when they were only a few dozen paces away from the gate upon catching sight of them approaching. The guard mare happened to look like any other, thanks to the enchantment in the armor. Although, it did not hide what tribe she was from with how the horn could be seen protruding from the helmet.

She was giving the others at his side a harsh glare and without taking her eyes off of them, the guard would point towards Brex, before she started to angrily call out. “What is the meaning of this?! Don't you know that the law prohibits you from forcing a stallion to do menial labor that exceeds a certain degree of difficulty?” Brex could only raise an eyebrow as he was not too sure about hearing such a law, unless it was recently added within the last few months.

The mare in armor then continued on, as she lowered her arm in order to grasp on to the hilt of her sword with one hand and the other coming close to grabbing onto the handle. “You will be detained for questioning! Any resistance will be met with force!” During this, the two maids seemed utterly unfazed by either the words or the aggressive action being displayed by the guard. However, when it came to Zecora, it was a whole other matter altogether.

During the moment that the guard mentioned the law and being detained. The female Zebra was looking utterly terrified. As she was clearly beginning to show signs that she wanted to turn and run, if going by her body language was an indication. So, in response. Brex took one of his arms off of the carriage after first placing the other in a spot that allowed it to be balanced quite easily.

He then walked slowly so that he was placing himself between the guard and the rest and began to lean down ever so slowly. While keeping the wagon above his head with his arm that was just barely bent due to the way he was leaning in. On the guard’s part, she was now looking visibly shaken, as the hand that was going for the hilt was inching away while watching this happen in front of her eyes.

Brex continued leaning in further and further, until his mask was barely more than two inches away from the mare’s nose. After keeping this position for a few seconds, the guard began to show signs of breaking, thanks to the small amount of sweat that was beginning to build on her face. This was followed with Brex now speaking in a low gravelly voice, that was a strange mixture of irritation and one who was pretty much at their limit of keeping calm.

“I appreciate the diligence you are showing to the law... But I would have you know that I am not being forced to do anything that I don't want to do. And as you can see, this is hardly much of a problem for me to lift.” To emphasize his point, Brex lowered his arm slightly before bringing it back into place, without so much as grunting before continuing.

“I personally have kept up on the law for quite a while. Although… This is one that I have yet to hear. If you don't mind, could you please tell me as to when it was implemented then it would be very much appreciated.” The guard was beginning to show signs that she was about to start to stutter, but pulled herself together before answering him. “S-Sir, I believe it was put into effect close to a week ago.”

Brex gave her a slight hum before asking another question. Although his tone was a little lighter this time around. “My associates, along with myself have been out of Canterlot until just today. So, this new law was unknown to us.” That was when he leaned in just a little more so that they were pretty much touching face to mask and his voice began to turn a little husky. Then as he went on, Brex would use a new tone that was more erotic in nature.

“This is what happened. Our airship is due to disembark very soon and the streets were just too small for us to squeeze this here wagon through the crowd. And to make sure that we quickly got to where we need to be, so that I could put this big heavy load down again. We instead get stopped by you and I am forced to carry this a little longer than I had anticipated.”

“So, you could just imagine how much of a strain it must be on my muscles to carry such a HEAVY object. I dare say that I might be working up quite a sweat and will most likely require a shower in order to clean it all off.” Brex could tell that the mare was being affected in one way or another with how the sweating was beginning to become more evident. Along with a hitch in her breathing when he mentioned the Heavy bit.

There were also her eyes that was looking down towards the ground and slowly going up, as she was trying to take in his entire form that was still shrouded thanks to the clothing he had on. Only to stop after getting to his arm that was being pressed underneath the wagon right above his head. Her years clearly twitched back a little after that, along with her lips that were now quivering.

There was a slight tint of pink hue that could now be seen on the gray cheeks, that not even the illusion magic that was placed on the armor was able to keep from showing through. The guard then swallowed a lump in her throat. Without so much as even glancing down. Brex could tell that she was beginning to press her thighs closer together. Even the way she stood, showed that she was beginning to lose that stiff outer appearance that all the guards were known to have as she attempted to reply with her breath now being heavy, only to come out as nothing.

Now that Brex had her where he wanted her. He went in for the figurative kill with his next line that came just above a whisper, as he maneuvered his mask so that he was closer to her left ear and the hood of his robes was just barely brushing against her cheeks. “Although, I would like to get all cleaned up by running some water over myself. I don't believe the airship has a shower on board. As you can see, that leaves me with nothing else than to use a set of wet cloths to do the job.”

The mare was pretty much all locked up by now, with how her fur was visibly standing on end and she was also shuttering. Without so much as losing balance and carefully maneuvering himself so that he was standing on to her left side now, so that she can have a good view of the girls that came with him. Once this was done, he went in and said the following that obviously did a critical hit on the guard.

“I might even require the assistance of my companions here in order to reach those... Hard… To reach places.” Brex carefully emphasize the importance of the word, hard. When he spoke it. This caused the mare till almost hunch over as she was visibly vibrating even more to the point that her armor was beginning to rattle. From where he stood, Brex could see that her eyes were clearly darting from each of the three and shrinking into pinpricks, before she hurriedly called out in a strained voice that was very much laced with a growing need.

“I see! I-I can sympathize with not knowing the new laws! Y-You are free to go! Please do hurry in placing that H-Heavy… Load down, as it might strain your… M-Muscles a little too much if you keep this up! I have other important matters that require my attention. Good day!”

And with that, the mare began to walk away at a brisk pace, that only sped up upon reaching a few meters away and would turn into a sprint towards the nearest restroom that was on the other side of the crowd. From his higher perspective, Brex could see the guard becoming more anxious, as well as frantic as the many Ponies were making it even more difficult to get to her destination.

Brex then heard Rory threw the connection, as she was giving out a small snicker. “My oh my, Master! I can tell you've gotten a whole lot better with influencing these girls~.” In response, he quickly shot back in a nonchalant inner tone. “I'm not that much of a talker, you know that, right Rory? Honestly, it's really easy to mess with these mare’s when they're always thinking of what could go in them. All I have to do is put any idea in their head and they can run away with it thanks to them always being so dang horny.”

After talking to Rory. Brex turned his eyes towards his companions and saw how his maids were licking their lips and giving him the bedroom eyes. Which caused Brex to blush from underneath his mask. With them being Changelings, it was easy for Brex to determine that they felt everything that was coming off of that mare and it was beginning to affect them as well. As for Zecora. She was looking both confused and slightly flustered after averting her eyes from him for a few seconds, before she turned to look at him again as to make a remark.

“Truth be told, I feared of being put in the hold. To have such a disastrous effect on a mare. With that silver tongue, it does make one wonder if there are any out there that would have a prayer.” As he was placing Zecora’s belongings back down so that it was all resting on the wheel’s axles.

He casually replied with, “I don't usually make that a habit, although in this situation. I thought it best to make it quick and not cause too much of a commotion.” From behind his mask, Brex just couldn’t help himself from giving a small grin while answering her with a rhyme of his own. In turn, the Zebra gave him a small smile of her own.

Afterwards, they finally got to the airship and found it to be one of the larger varieties. It wasn't as if Brex was expecting a small craft or some type of luxury Cruiser. But this one was pretty close to being a floating oil tanker due to its overall size and shape. There were multiple balloons with thick cables hanging down to attach to both the deck and the sides of the ship. On the outer hull, about halfway down. He could see more that went from near the front and going to about two thirds of the way back.

The frame and overall aesthetics, were pretty much based off of sailing ships as most of them typically did. However, even before boarding, Brex did spot a few bits here and there that stood out to him almost instantly. Along all of the balloons, there were bindings of some type that glowed with a faint blue light to indicate that there was some electrical component, if not magical to be running through them in pulses.

Within his mind. Brex started to recall that he himself had devised this very concept a while back. In fact, he was sure it was during his time of being a guard for Sir Fancy Pants. There was a meeting where he gave his opinion when it came to the next generation of airships to Fancy Pants himself and as a result, Brex gave the notion of reinforcing the balloons, as well as installing a monitoring system that would alert to any type of malfunction or leakage. Not to mention, taking away the use of gas that would explode if there was to be an incident.

Those bindings not only gave off a magical field to act as an invisible shield. But had the added effect of sending an extra layer right into the balloon itself, that would cause the air within to be trapped inside of invisible pockets should the outer layer be punctured. The concept was not completely foolproof, as trying to do something like that would put an enormous strain on both the mechanism and the amount of power required to hold it.

At the very least, they would have ample warning and time to make any emergency stops or possibly repair it in route. With this world being so reliant on magic. Brex was sure that the idea might have been plausible and tossed it out there. But was surprised when he got word of it actually being applied to the ships that were now in service.

As for the propulsion system that would be in charge of moving such a behemoth. It was pretty much covered in dual bladed sets of propellers. Most of which were situated on the back half of the ship. As the larger ones replaced back, Brex could spot a number of smaller ones starting around and were presumably required to make the subtle slow movements in order to get it situated into its dock properly.

As he was still taking it all in. Brex did have his eyes lock onto a set of texts that were painted on the side that said the words, “Big Mama Imports”. Of course, upon seeing that, the Roegadyn started to feel his anger spiking for a moment. Along with his left eye that was beginning to twitch a few times before calming down. He then said to Zecora, as he pointed towards a group of ponies that had some crates being put into a sling, so the cargo could be hoisted up and into their hold right above.

“Zecora, go ahead and talk to them. All you need to do is mention that you're with Gambit and they'll take care of you. We'll wait for you over at the check-in desk that's right in front of the boarding platform.” After checking where he was pointing at, she nodded and went off to do as he said. As soon as the Zebra was well outside of earshot. Brex turned his attention towards Rin and asked, “Just how many happen to work for us on board?”

After giving a big smile. The silver haired Pony replied in a cheery tone of voice. “My Lord! Approximately four changelings and thirty-seven others are on board out of the total sixty-five that are required to run its daily activities. These include the Captain, the first mate and all of the key officers on board. As per your instructions, we have also taken the liberty of sprinkling a few in the lower job areas in case there should be any rumors starting that would otherwise be unknown to those higher up in the chain of command.”

Lin was the next one to speak up, as she stepped forward to be next to her sister. Along with her eyes being closed and standing up a bit straighter by comparison. “My Lord! As my sister has stated, those are the typical numbers. Although, this does not take into account the passengers. Thanks to an exact tally from one of our sisters that just so happens to be running the entrance. There are twenty-eight passengers, not including my Lord, us and Miss Zecora.” Lin’s eyes flashed for a moment before she continued. “Oh! My deepest apologies my Lord, make that an even thirty passengers now. Some last-minute tickets were just bought.”

He then lowered his voice just to be sure that they couldn't be heard if anyone was trying to listen in on their conversation. “By the way, how is the sister who is taking big momma's place right now?” Lin's expression was broken for merely an instant, as she had this deep cringe crossing her face before returning back to her stoic nature. This time, it was Rin that spoke up in her sister’s place. “Well... Uh… She has requested permission to alter her form. Perhaps even as far as to give the impression that Big Mama is going on a diet.”

Brex began to think of his interactions with the mare and ended up mirroring Lin’s reaction from behind his mask, before replying in a tone that clearly conveyed that he was sorry. “I believe that would be a marvelous idea. Although, it would have to be gradual. But as for the usual parties that she ends up throwing. I suggest that they be altered. It would probably cause a red flag to pop up if she were to suddenly stop having them. How about having it moved to the city and inviting the less fortunate to partake.”

“Lin was the next one to speak up, as she opened her eyes and showed a smile to the proposal. “Yes, yes. I can see it. Not only would it help with that company's reputation. But it just might pull in some extra workers off the streets. There have been reports now and then in response to a lack of employees as of late. Although, a majority of those that we saved from being sold overseas have already joined the now reformed company once the circumstances were explained to them.”

“We still have more ships than we do of those that are able to pilot them. Of course, this is all thanks to our Lord with the many inventions that have been constructed, including our other business ventures. Suffice to say that the trading industry has taken a big boom as of late is not enough to fully convey the scope properly.”

After hearing the praise from Lin. Brex began to feel a little bad that they thought of him in that regard, since he was just copying ideas that he remembered from his old life. It wasn't like he was actively creating one new invention after another through just plain imagination. Make something here, make something there. Throw in some tweaks with there being magic around and bobs our uncle, you’re the goose that laid the golden eggs.

But really, he knew that it was all the work of the Changelings. As well as the others that ended up working under him that put in the most effort. All he really did was to throw an idea out there with the best explanation he was able to come up with ahead of time and the researchers figured out the rest. Sure, there were some parts here and there that he contributed to, but it didn't really amount to anything that he thought would give him this type of image. In reality, he was feeling a bit guilty.

When Zecora came back after getting her belongings put away and was ready to be brought into the cargo hold of the ship. The four of them went and got their tickets and soon after, boarded their new temporary residence for the next few days. Once onboard, they were greeted by a pony that Brex had no idea was going to be there. This being a Pegasus mare that went by the name of Cross Pad. She was a white mare with a red mane and tail.

She wore a uniform that was similar to those that worked on the ship. Although, Brex couldn’t help but to notice it was more along the lines of a secretary or probably that of a cruise director. Right now, she had her mane tied up into a neat bun, along with a quill that was stabbed right through so it was holding it all together. On her left breast pocket for her uniform, was an embroidered symbol of a notepad with a number of check marks along the left side and a few markings to indicate some writing.

Her entire outfit was pretty professional, although when it came to the skirt. It was barely low enough that if she had any need to bend over even a bit, then there was a very good chance that her underpants could be seen from clear across the deck. If that didn't call for the attention of others. Then it would also have to be how her uniform was tightly hugging her form and accentuating her C-cup breasts that were just barely being contained.

Once the mare got around to noticing them all exiting the plank and beginning to spread out amongst themselves to take in just how big the deck was from where they stood. The mare quickly made herself known after running up while in her Pony version of high heels and stopping right in front of Brex. She then gave a slight bow before straightening herself up and pulling her skirt down at the front, then the back in order to cover up whatever she could while having a blush.

Before Brex could say anything at all, he heard Rory through the connection once more. This time she seemed to be humming to herself as if she were judging something. “Hmmm... hmm... Nice, very nice! I see she went and put it on just like I asked. This will make the trip more entertaining.”

All Brex could do, was to give a quick response. “Rory, don't tell me your-.” But his sentence was cut short as Cross Pad came up and gave him a hug around the waist, while at the same time, pressing her face into his stomach without so much as a warning.

As she did that, she would release a squeal and Brex was pretty much stunned by the sudden display. But even though he had his arms partially out in order to make sure he didn't accidentally make any sudden movements. He could still catch at the edge of his vision just how the rest were reacting to this. Rin was pretty much pouting with her cheeks being puffed up and was now crossing her arms.

As for her sister. Lin was looking as stiff as a board and slowly narrowing her eyes without changing the rest of her facial expressions. Although, Brex could have sworn he saw an after image of something behind her that resembled a demon's face mask, with two protruding red tusks coming out from the bottom lips. Although as soon as he blinked, it was long gone. However, she didn't look be all that phased as she watched and waited. Inside his head, Brex said in a scared tone. “Oh Fuck! Lin can get scary! It wasn’t aimed at me, but that nearly made me shit myself!”

But after a few seconds of this. Cross Pad finally got around to releasing her grip and took a step back before giving him a beaming smile, that could have put Pinkie to shame before she started to speak. “Miss Rory told me what you did and I can't thank you enough. I do hope that my attire is to your liking. My instructions were to have this on during your entire trip and to see to your every need, if any should come up.”

Brex was now looking a little bit more relaxed as he lowered his arms and took on his usual standing pose. He then said to her while slightly tilting his head. “Miss Cross Pad. I am unsure as to what you were told. But I do appreciate your help. Although, I was under the assumption that you were more of a desk worker and was more at home with doing the numbers in the books. An airship was not a position I would have ever thought to see you on for work.”

The Pegasus released a heavy sigh before her expression softened a little closer to that of normal as she replied to that. “Yes, that is true. Under the guidance of the counselors that helped all of us that were... Well, you know. Some time off from doing that would do me some good. So instead, I was stationed on this boat. It's not as if I do any real labor, but I do have an important job of managing the paperwork when it comes to the export that comes and goes on the ship. There are even times that I would be involved in the bartering process, which is quite exciting if I must say.”

The Roegadyn gave a quick nod to that and motion towards the rest of his group with his right hand and suggested that they should be shown their rooms so all can get settled in. Of course, Cross Pad was all too eager to do so and brought them to an area of the ship where the passengers would end up staying. Brex had expected that they would end up in the regular second class, or possibly the third-class bunks. But they were placed in two rooms in the first-class section.

Of course, it was really easy to tell what class they were in, with how everything was decorated. The second, along with the third-class areas seemed quite normal. But as soon as they crossed the threshold in the hallway that led to where they were staying. It suddenly felt as though they were on a completely different ship.

The wood on the floors and walls were practically sparkling thanks to the finish that was used to make them shine. The railings look to be made of a metal, close to that of gold but was possibly brass that was highly polished. Even the light fixtures looked as though they would cost a pony an entire month salary just for one crystal holder.

As for the rooms themselves, they were right next to the Captain's cabin that was at the very end of the hallway. As the Captain that was at the center door, Brex was given the room on the left side and Zecora took the one on the right. As for his maids. It became pretty obvious that they were going to stay in his room, which meant Zecora was going to be all on her own. But Brex wasn't going to complain about that, seeing as it was for the best.

By then, Zecora had entered her room after being given a key. At the same, time Brex, along with Rin and Lin went into his own room to see what it was like inside. To his surprise, it looked more than a small cabin on a ship. Instead, it gave off this feeling as though he was in some type of top floor penthouse.

From where he stood, there were clearly two big windows that pretty much took up most of the wall on the far side that was away from the door. He was pretty sure that there was nothing of the sort that that could be seen from the outside, so figured it was most likely a very advanced spell that would allow them to look outside, without there actually being the need for a real window.

There was even a bed that was big enough to hold more than six or seven Ponies if they were to share it and still have enough room to spread their limbs around without kicking the one next to them. It even had curtains that would come down from the ceiling to conceal whoever was inside. The sheets, along with the curtains were both a velvet red and when he went over to touch it. Brex was able to instantly tell that it was probably one of the best thread counts available out there.

There was even a personal bathroom with everything one could want. Not only was there a counter with two sinks, but there was even one of those seats next to the toilet that would spray water right onto your butt in order to clean it out. However, for the life of him. Brex couldn't come up with what the name of it was called at the moment. If that wasn't even enough. He could spot on the far end of the bathroom, what could have been nothing else but a jacuzzi. It was clearly big enough to be used in one of those rap videos back on Earth.

Within his head. Brex was utterly astonished and also screaming. “Just how much would it have cost me to pay for these rooms if I wasn't in control of this company! Also, how could they possibly fit this much on this one ship?! This is supposed to be a cargo ship, not a luxury cruise liner, right?!”

Rory responded to that in his head. “It can't really be helped Master. You did say you wanted to avoid any unwanted attention for this trip. It was decided among those who were in charge of the scheduled deliveries that we would just use whatever was available on such short notice. If we were to have one of the other ships to be diverted off its intended course, then that would of course have the result of draw the eyes of others.

Brex quickly shot back hurriedly through the connection by saying, “But still! Why am I in a room that looks like it's meant for the Princesses? It fucking looks like you have to be royalty to even breathe the same air in this room!” There was a slight pause before Rory spoke up again, although she sounded rather reluctant to do so.

“This ship was built several years ago... So... Um ... ... Its original purpose was to...” Rory took another long pause, before finally saying the rest of it out in one quick breath. “You are actually in a room that was built as the exclusive suite for Princess Celestia for whenever she would ever have a need for it!”

On his end. Brex was now completely silent. This went on for several long seconds as he remained completely motionless while standing in the middle of the bathroom. Off on the wall, where a large mirror was situated over the sink, one could see steam beginning to waft out of every crevice of his clothing that allowed any airflow to move in and then out again.

Over to the toilet. The water inside of the bowl was beginning to slowly come to a boil, as bubbles were now constantly flowing to the surface over time. Brex was clearly unaware as to how his left eye was beginning to shine brightly with a mix of orange and red and depicting the image of a sun in the center of the black area for the eye hole of his mask.

Brex closed his eyes after a few seconds of this and breathe very slowly in through his nose and then out again with his mouth in order to calm himself down. As he was doing this, the temperature in both his body, as well as the room itself was dropping back to normal levels, along with the glowing symbol of the sun fading from his masks eye hole. Now that he was back to his old self and no longer about the turn into an erupting volcano that could possibly blow a hole in the side of the ship.

He exited the bathroom and found that the girls had already unpacked their bags and place them into some of the drawers located near the bed. Not only that, they were already standing at attention and waiting for him before he had come out.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Ponyville, at the Golden Oaks Library*
*Time: Twelve-fifteen in the afternoon*

Inside of the Golden Oaks Library was Spike, who was in the middle of his daily chores that mostly consisted of dusting and cleaning up after Twilight on a regular basis, on top of everyday tasks such as cooking and sending letters to the Princess. Or perhaps in the strictest sense, one would essentially call him a go to helper.

The young dragon was just about to come down from a sliding ladder that was attached to the bookshelves and quickly gave an exaggerated sigh as soon as his clawed feet came into contact with the wooden floor. Without so much as turning around and still reorganizing a few books that was out of place. Spike spoke out rather disappointedly. “I wish he had at least come and said goodbye to me.”

A female's voice could be heard coming from a short distance away that turned out to be that of Rory and she was sounding a little apologetic. “Yeah, I know that he's sorry about that too, but with how the night went. It wouldn't have worked out too well. With it getting late and you already off to bed. There really wasn't much of an option. And with it being such an extended trip and all. We have to get a few things in order on such short notice.”

As Spike was continuing with his activities. The two of them would converse back and forth, while Rory laid across the couch and with a magazine in her hands that was being held over her head.

“So, where did you say he was going again?”

“I believe it's called Zebrabwa. it would take a little too long to go there by land, so he'll be taking an airship from Canterlot and from there, that would drop them off at Los Pegasus. Then he would get onto another one that would go over the South Luna Sea for a straight shot over.”

“Hmmmm. I do recall the name from one of Twilight's books. Although there wasn't a whole lot on it though. So, I only really remember it's general area. After hearing about Zecora, I did a little bit of light reading while everyone was out. That place is where the Zebras come from and there are quite a few other species that are only found there as well. There are the Cats, which have their own tribes just like the Ponies. Not to mention Rhinos, Elephants and some sentient Crocodiles. And that's just the name of a few.”

“Spike, when you say Cats and Crocodiles. Are you talking about the ones over here that are animals or truly sentient and walk on two legs and talk?”

“I think it's pretty much a mix. There are the animal types they’re just like Rarity’s cat and Applejacks dog that’s named Winona. But there's also the kind that are like you and me. Some are for lack of better words… Dumb as a rock while the rest are just Ponies, Dragons and Griffins as an example.”

“What of their culture, can you tell me anything about that?”

“Uh… I'm really sorry Rory but I have no clue. Like I said, there isn't a whole lot. It seems that there was a conflict a couple of decades ago and trade between the country and ours is not what you would say to be on the best of terms. I know from what I've picked up in the castle that we do have Ponies going over there and coming back, but it's not the same the other way around and they keep pretty much to themselves. Although, I do know they have a king.”

“Oh, is that so? Let me guess, their King is a lion. Isn't he?”

“Huh, how do you know that?”

“Just call it a lucky guess. There is an old saying that says that the Lions are the king of the animal kingdom or other such nonsense and I just use that as a basis. So, I take it you haven't even met the king, huh? All this talk about the castle made me wonder if you did.”

“Nope, not even once. I do hear that he comes to the Grand Galloping Gala whenever it comes up, but I've never been to it myself. I have no idea as to what he even looks like. But I have heard that he keeps himself surrounded by a bunch of lionesses at all times.”

“So, the king is surrounded by a pride huh. I suppose they have their own version of Herds over there. Anyhow, let's put that aside. Master was concerned that you might be lonely without him around. So how about you show me how to play that card game of yours?”

“What, REALLY?! Uh I mean… I guess I could. I am busy most of the time. You’re probably the same.”

“Of course. Although, whenever I'm not busy myself, the two of us could hang out as well.”

And just like that, the chores were done at lightning pace as Spike was overly energetic from the idea of being able to play his favorite card game with someone else. Spike had even brought out his collection of cards in order to start putting together a kind of, beginners set for the two of them so the basics could be taught to Rory.

All the while, the girl would watch him and even giggle to herself every now and then as she saw how he was so happy. As one small box after another was brought down from upstairs. Rory watched as they started to pile up on the main table until there was at least seven or eight of them in total that could have held on to maybe two hundred cards in each of the boxes.

Upon closer inspection, Rory could see that they were labeled for organization purposes. Instead of writing down their types. They were instead marked for chronological order of release dates. This prompted a question to the young dragon as to how he was able to keep it all straight in his head so he could find what he wanted. Upon hearing the question. Spike gave a nervous chuckle before scratching the spines on the back of his head with his right hand before answering.

“Oh uh, well. Can you promise me you won't laugh?” After giving a firm nod that showed that she was not taking it lightly. Spike reluctantly continued. “I've been a fan of these from the first day that I heard about them being released. Not only have I gotten them memorized to where I can literally tell you anything you want to know based on if a small description. But I could reach in there with my eyes closed and grab the card I'm looking for due to how much I got them memorized.”

Upon hearing this, Rory needed a moment to grasp the meaning fully. And when she did, her eyes went wide before they laid on the boxes and then slowly to that of the rest of the books in the library before returning to Spike once again. She then said, while raising an eyebrow questionably. “Spike, if you're telling me the truth. Then does that mean you also memorized everything in this library?”

The young Dragon waved his hand in front of him in a placating gesture, before replying in a joking tone. “Hahaha, of course not! You would literally have to be a super genius to do that. I can only really do that with these cards.” That was when Rory had this small glint in her eye as she leaned forward and gave Spike a small grin.

After that for a good while, Rory went and started to test Spike on his knowledge by calling out certain characteristics and some names of Adventures that she recalled from her Master's memories or even her own over the course of the last decade to see just how well Spike could back up his claim.

To her surprise, Spike was able to answer every one of them and even had a card to go along with what he was saying, as he effortlessly popped the lids off of the boxes. In one motion he would pull out the Adventurers respective card with every one of Rory's attempts to trip him up. Eventually, it got to the point where Rory had even brought herself up and was astonished that Spike had four copies of Rory that spanned over the course of several years.

As she got to look at the cards. She was capable of spotting some differences when it came to the pictures. Not only was each pose different, but the picture even showed her current acts at the time. Which came in different styles and colors that had subtle changes between them. Upon intently gazing at the first released copy. Rory recognized the weapon in the picture as being the first one made for her upon coming back to this world by her Master.”

At the time Rory was not only leveling her warrior class but also the paladin from dungeons and Dragons being her subclass. Even with her body being so powerful she was restricted to only using items that corresponded to her current level. That meant that they were not really strong enough to handle her full strength. As an end result, Rory would have to go through weapon after weapon on a regular basis with how they would constantly snap whenever she put too much force into using them.

Judging from the image on the card. It must have been taken almost immediately after she registered at the Guild. Any normal person would have questioned as to how they got it but, she already knew from the first interface she had with those level checking devices.

Not only did they register a person's stats and general information. But it also used a type of magic to take a selfie if one would call it for their files. It was kind of like getting a biometric scan so that a three-dimensional image could be brought up. Luckily for both master and herself. The image only showed what others could see from the outside so they’re appearance was kept hidden due to their clothing.

One was taken from when she started as rank “F” and then another upon entering rank “E”. As for the last two. The first was of course upon reaching rank “D” and the final must have been taken only a few months ago once she was notified that she was at the halfway marker for going up again. Apparently, once you hit rank “D”. They have it broken down into an upper and lower section of that letter and this would continue the higher one goes.

Once Rory was done with examining them. They were handed back to spike, who carefully placed them back in their proper place. The young Dragon was just about to place one of the boxes back onto the stack when the front door was pretty much kicked open by Rainbow, who was in the middle of talking to someone else quite loudly by the sounds of it.

Unfortunately, the sudden crashing of the library's door from hitting the wall from the force used in opening it, had caused him to stumble and spill the contents he was currently holding all over the floor. Rainbow stumbled a little upon hearing the small crash of tiny cards and turned on the spot to catch witness to the mess. She then scratched the back of her head while slightly wincing as she apologized. “Whoa! Take a tumble there little guy? Sorry about that, I had no idea you were still in here.”

Without so much as looking up at the mare. Spike went straight to picking up his things while replying to Rainbow with a hint of irritation in his voice, that he was trying very careful to hide but otherwise he sounded normal. “It's fine Rainbow, I really should get used to this by now...” However, unknown to any of them. One of the cards had slipped quite a bit further away from the others and was now underneath the corner of the sofa and only a small corner of it was sticking out to be seen if anyone was to look down at that area.

As for the one that was coming in behind of Rainbow. It turned out to not only be Twilight, but the rest of her friends as well, who were beginning to file in one after another. It also seemed as though Twilight was the only one who was not taking notice of the situation and was continuing with what they were just talking about before they even entered the library in the first place.

“And I'm telling you Rainbow! There's no way that it could be possible for Gambit to be doing all of those things that Gilda said and for Rory to be-. Uh... Uh oh hi there Rory! I had no idea you were here.” Clearly the purple Unicorn was quite flustered upon seeing the girl that she was in the middle of talking about, only to be sitting in her library and looking straight at her with a raised eyebrow. Along with giving Twilight this. Please, do continue look.

Of course, with that little signal, she did just that. “Hello there Rory... Hehe-Hehe~. Uh yeah, Rainbow was just filling us in on what Gilda mentioned about you and Gambit. Apparently the two of you have known her for quite a while and she said that you haven't aged a day since then. But I just got finished with explaining as to how that can't possibly be true and there has to be a logical explanation.”

Rory gave her a small smirk, as her eyes began to narrow slightly before she spoke with a slight hint of amusement in her voice. “Would you care to explain why it's so impossible?” With that, the rest of the Ponies in the room. Including Spike, now directing their full attention to the Unicorn as she was looking rather flustered and looking from one friend to another before returning it back to Rory as she replied.

“Well, it's just that, huh... Even for a Pony that lives for quite a long time. We don't keep our youthful image for too long. And even then, there are subtle changes up until we hit a certain age and then it slows down before speeding up again. This normally happens when we hit around twenty-three or even thirty and we continue with this cycle until roughly in our sixties. But in consideration of your youthful body, then I really doubt that you've reached the age of twenty-three for that to happen.”

Rory gave a slight hum before she said, “Oh I get it. Well, I'm pretty sure that number set doesn't really apply to me. After all, I'm clearly older than any of you here.” Applejack was the next one to speak as she raised her own eyebrow, before asking Rory a question. “And just how old are we talking about here?” Rory paused as her eyes drifted to the ceiling and she began to lightly touch her chin with one of her knuckles, before answering after a couple of seconds.

“Hmmm… I don't really feel like telling my exact age, at least for now anyway. Just going to have to trust me that I am older than any of you and keep it at that.” Applejack couldn't help but to give her a flat stair before she asked her next question, as if it was just hanging on the tip of her tongue and was waiting for any opportunity to pop out.

“Okay then, if you're going to be like that. Then what about Gambit, how old is he? Judging from his voice, he can't be older than twenty-five or so.” This had gotten the other girls to zoom in on Rory even more intently than they were when it came to Twilight. The girl merely shrugged, while half closing her eyes for a moment during the action before giving them a genuine smile to casually saying the next bit.

“As for my Master? I couldn’t even tell you even if I wanted to.” This got a confused look from the mare’s before she continued. “It's not that I don't want to. It's that I don't really know for sure. Honestly, I doubt he even knows for sure himself. All I can really say is that he is older than I am by far. Anyway, mind explaining as to why there are all of these sudden questions about our age?”

The farm mare looked over towards Fluttershy, who was standing near the back of the group. Said Pegasus noticed this and ducked behind Rarity after going wide-eyed for only a moment. After letting out a small sigh, Applejack returned her gaze back to Rory again and said, “Well, it's on account of the music the two of you sang last night at the bar.” After getting a clearly puzzled look from Rory, the farm mare continued after looking a little guilty by looking to the ground and using her hoof to trace a small circle.

“After the incident with Lyra and his promotion. Fluttershy and I both followed you to the Mare's Pit, and we got to hear the music being sung.” That was when the rest of the girls, which consisted of Twilight, Rainbow, Rarity and Pinkie Pie began to barrage the orange mare with a multitude of questions. Over with Rory, she was leaning back into the chair and watching the show while at the same time, going over last night's events in her head and having a small smile that was beginning to form as she slowly closed her eyes.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Ponyville, the Mare's Pit*
*Time: The day before, soon after going to the Adventurers Guild*

Brex, along with Rory, Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis. Entered the bar and took one of the booths that was surrounded by a half circular set of cushioned seating which was arranged in a way so that they could face the stage while enjoying their drinks and or meals. The two married lovebirds were sitting side by side over to the left and Brex and Rory were on the right, with her being on the Outer Edge.

Off at another table nearby, could be seen the flower sisters and they were already starting on some drinks. The eldest of the sisters who was Lily. Was already on her second drink and munching away at some peanuts. Rose was right at the moment sipping away at a rainbow-colored drink that had one of those small umbrellas sticking out of it. When it came to Daisy. Brex could see what appeared to be a small shot glass and what he could recognize as a large bottle of whiskey sitting nearby so it was within arm’s length.

As usual, Brex never really touched real alcohol, so the closest he ever got was the Brew that was being produced at Renegade Brewery. Of course, he did feel the slight buzz, but in no way did it actually get them tipsy. So at least he was able to seem as though he belonged there. It was all pretty casual with the four of them chatting amongst themselves, but making sure not to be too loud to be heard over everything else that was being said and done as the entire bar, as it was pretty much half filled with patrons.

From what he recalled from back then. The bar had gone under some recent renovations and went from one that was pretty close to being an old-style Saloon. To that of a popular hangout for not only the older generation, but some of the younger ones. This was made apparent when they got to look at the menu and saw that there was a kid section, which meant that this was not exclusively for adults.

From going off of some of the memories concerning Earth. Brex would have to say that the bar was pretty much a cross between a local diner and possibly a steakhouse. Although it was pretty clear that there was not a single ounce of anything on the menu that could be seen as meat in any way. But he was glad that there were options that he knew that Rory could eat on the list. Even with her taking on the image of a pony, the girl couldn't digest things such as hey and flowers.”

They pretty much spent the next two hours there and during that time. Brex got to see how Fancy Pants was beginning to loosen up as his somewhat laid back prim and proper way of doing things, was slowly fading with each drink he had. In the beginning, the stallion started off with some regular drinks. But halfway through, he switched out to the non-alcoholic brew in order to enjoy the taste and not end up passing out. Which turned out to be one drink which consisted of ingredients that was comparable to a regular Long Island Iced Tea and several of the Brew afterwards.

When it came to Fleur De lis. The mare was pretty much taking it down glass after glass, as though no matter what type of alcohol she had was no stronger than water. During the time that Brex knew this Pony. He had found out a few things and one of them being that she had quite a history when it came to going to parties.

Holding her liquor was something that she herself trained to do. Even with the society being completely reversed when it came to how the females and males were treated. It didn't mean that she was not going to be taken advantage of if she wasn’t prepared. After all, she is a very beautiful model.

Now, when it came to Rory on the other hand. The girl was pretty much drinking them faster than the waitress was able to bring them over to their table. So, in the end, they ended up ordering whole bottles to be brought over. Which Brex was really confused as to where she was putting it all. Unlike him, she needed sustenance and of course this meant bathroom runs.

However, she was able to hold it quite easily as if there was a parallel pocket dimension that all this was inside of until she was ready to go. With that being said, Brex couldn't even remember the last time he even needed a restroom to begin with, unless it was simply to get in a shower and to take care of some hygiene. Although, this didn't stop Rory from having some fun and putting on the image of being drunk just for the heck of it.

This was done by Rory giving an expression that she was tipsy and showing a light blush, as she would snuggle up against Rex and hold on to his arm to convey that she required him to help in keeping her upright. The girl would use pretty much any opportunity to get as close as possible so that she could rub herself onto him and on a few occasions, that her hand would even snake its way under his clothing in order to try and find his, not so little package underneath. Once or twice, she would grab onto his hand and try to place it between her legs so that he would have an opportunity to tease her.

Of course, with Fleur De Lis sitting right there less than a few feet away. the mare was able to pick up on Rory’s lust. With her currently being intoxicated and picking up on what was going on. The Unicorn would try to do the same with fancy pants on occasion which got the stallion to blush up a storm as he was trying really hard for them not to be noticed as she took his hand and tried to emulate Rory’s actions after seeing how much fun the girl was having.

On the other side of the bar. At a table meant for two, the pair known as Applejack and Fluttershy were sitting across from one another and having their own drinks, while keeping an eye on Gambit from a respectful distance. The farm mare was having some extra hard apple cider and Fluttershy was sipping on a small fruity drink that obviously had little alcohol in it, along with a small glass of water nearby in order to keep herself hydrated to help in keeping her from succumbing to the effects of alcohol so easily.

As Applejack was keeping her eyes on the group of four. She leaned in slightly so that she could be heard by Fluttershy over the crowds. “I can hardly believe that Gambit is level forty! Can you?” Fluttershy was in the middle of taking a sip through a red straw, when she heard this and instantly began to have a small coughing fit that lasted a second or two, before her gaze shifted towards Gambit and then back down to the table as she replied.

“I-I don't know... Is that a really high number? After all, I'm not even in the double digits yet.” Applejack was clearly surprised with the mixture of facial expressions she gave to the yellow Pegasus, before she answered. “It's a really big deal Fluttershy. The head mares at the schools from what I've heard are at level forty themselves. And I even heard that the Princesses are in the fifties or sixties if the rumors are true!”

Fluttershy was now playing with the straw with her right hands index finger and thumb. While hunching over the drink as if it was some type of life raft for the situation, before she answered back with that very soft voice of hers that was just barely made out by Applejack. “I don't find it all that hard to believe.” She then started to shrink into her chair a little bit, before saying the next part. “He can be pretty scary... Especially when he gets into fights.”

Applejack's face scrunched up for a moment as she tried to register what Fluttershy was saying before asking her next question, as she tilted her head in confusion. “When did you get to see him getting into a fight?” In response, Fluttershy's eyes began to roam around quickly as she pulled in her drink even tighter and was mumbling a few words to herself that couldn't be made out. However, there were a few times that her gaze would end up stopping as soon as it came across the table that Brex was sitting at.

Applejack was just about to try and press the subject, when the two of them were distracted by what happened next. Apparently, Rory had gotten up from her chair and somehow made it to the side of the stage and was talking to one of the staff members, who pointed at what appeared to be a karaoke machine.

There was a pair of speakers at either side of the stage that was big enough for maybe a small group of ponies to stand on at one time and still have plenty of elbow room. Right at the center and on top of a pedestal that was just high enough that one's hand could easily rest on it while they stood.

This just happened to be a unique round crystal that was enchanted to allow whoever touched it, to sync up with the strange effects of the world that would spontaneously cause music to fill the air when enough ponies would come together to sing. After talking to the staff member for a few more seconds. Rory approached the center of the stage and was about to place her hand onto the crystal before she pointed to the crowd and directly at Brex, who was still sitting at the table.

The girl started to speak loud enough to be heard by everyone there and in a tone of voice that was showing she was having a blast. It was even hard to tell whether or not she was actually tipsy or in a really good mood when she said the following. “Hello everyone! My name is Rory Mercury and I'm going to sing a song for the one I love tonight. And it just so happens it's one of his favorite songs that he heard when he was younger and took the time to teach it to me!”

Over with Brex. He had his hand slightly raised as if reaching for Rory, before slowly bringing it to his mask and giving a light shake of the head. Before lowering it back down to watch what was about to happen. Rory then proceeded to place her hand onto the crystal and this got the effect of a light glow to be emitted as the rest of the Tavern grew a little dimmer and the spotlights were turned on to illuminate the stage. After a few more seconds, everything went quiet as the song began to start and came out of the speakers for all to hear.

(Here is the song if anyone wants to hear it. Final Fantasy X-2. One thousand words.)

I know that you're hiding things.

Using gentle words to shelter me.

Your words were like a dream.

But dreams could never fool me.

Not that easily~.

Rory had brought up her hands to her chest and looked down with her eyes closed for a moment, before lifting back up and looking towards Brex with pleading eyes.

I acted so distant then.

Didn't say goodbye before you left.

But I was listening.

You'll fight your battles far from me.

Far too easily~.

This was when she looked towards the past. Everything began to show up as crude brush drawings upon a yellowish paper background. A past where her Master was completely alone in the old castle on the day that he truly needed her to be there for him. The image started to go hazy with the site of his mangled form after taking so many injuries. From there, the memory quickly caused her to shed a tear in response, which ran down the side of her left cheek and fell to the floor.

"Save your tears 'cause I'll come back"

I could hear that you whispered as you walked through that door.

But still I swore.

To hide the pain, when I turn back the pages.

Shouting might have been the answer.

What if I cried my eyes out and begged you not to depart.

But now I'm not afraid to say what's in my heart~.

The memory quickly changed yet again after being blown away like dust in the wind. Only to show that he and she were both standing tall, while being side by side. They're forms facing a bright light that was causing them to appear as nothing but black silhouettes. As for the crowd, they saw her expression shifting from that of sorrow into determination, with her right hand now balling into a fist.

Though a thousand words~.

Have never been spoken.

They'll fly to you.

Crossing over the time.

And distance holding you, suspended on silver wings.

And a thousand words.

One thousand confessions.

Will cradle you.

Making all of the pain you feel seem far away.

They'll hold you forever~.

Her attention was fully focused on Brex and thanks to this, all of those in attendance were following their gaze until they were locked on him as well. One of the spotlights on the ceiling had even turned so that the stage and his table were both illuminated for the performance. Rory threw out her hands to both of her sides, before her right hand motioned in his direction as the song went into a small guitar solo. She was even giving him this comforting smile as another teardrop fell to the floor. Although this one was clearly not made of sorrow.

The dream isn't over yet.

Though I often say I can't forget.

I still relive that day.

You've been there with me all the way.

I still hear you say~.

Rory brought her hands back in closer, so that she could cover her heart. Her thoughts went back to when he returned after eight hundred years and told her the story of what it was like in the other world and that he seemed so relieved that she was there upon his arrival.

"Wait for me, I'll write you letters"

I could see how you stammered with your eyes to the floor.

But still I swore.

To hide the doubt when I turn back the pages.

Anger might have been the answer.

What if I'd hung my head and said that I couldn't wait.

But now I'm strong enough to know it's not too late~.

The images in her mind quickly shifted from one to the next in rapid succession. Each one of them displaying fragments as time went by for the both of them. The way her Master would hide and not show his true self out of fear. No matter where he went or what he did, he always felt so alone even if he were to be surrounded by others.

No one else to have intimate relations with or to open up his thoughts too. Constantly closing himself away from any of those who would even attempt to come near. All of the times that he would have self-doubt and even Rory was unable to get him to feel accepted enough to show who and what he truly is.

After a few more of these scenes went by, it then showed Ryu while he was in his wolf form, for there to be many large pieces of equipment that littering the background. Most covered in valves and steam exiting them. Many of which consisted of vats containing liquid and one glass container with a vague outline of a person deep in its murky water. Where the lights would illuminate one area and also left others dark. In this scene, her master would be slaving away tirelessly on one task or another that had his full attention.

He would be jotting notes down and making diagrams on a large chalkboard, as papers went flying at the same time and covering everything in a blanket with the multitude of concepts. As though they were leaves being blown around by a heavy wind. Only to be erased and redone over and over, as he displayed his frustrations. Then it would go and fade into darkness when the final piece of paper flew by and displayed a new scene. This one being of him and herself standing side by side and holding hands, as they walk slowly into a bright light and their forms shrink and faded away through a doorway.

Cause a thousand words.

Call out through the ages.

They'll fly to you.

Even though I can't see.

I know they're reaching you, suspended on silver wings.

Oh a thousand words.

One thousand embraces.

Will cradle you.

Making all of your weary days seem far away.

They'll hold you forever~.

The memory quickly shifts again and this time, it was of them being together. Her master was laughing as the two of them went on adventures together, one after another, each one of them at different locations. Be it either a battle, traveling from one place to the next or doing the most mundane activities that others would take for granted. They were both so happy and smiling in her mind. And in these images of hers, he was without his mask and giving her a joyous expression that she rarely got to see of him when it was not just them together alone.

Oh a thousand words (a thousand words).

Have never been spoken (Oh yeah).

They'll fly to you.

They'll carry you home (Carry you home).

And back into my arms.

Suspended on silver wings (On silver wings).

And a thousand words (Oh).

Call out through the ages (Call through the ages).

They'll cradle you (Oh yeah).

Making all of the lonely years to only days (Only days).

They'll hold you forever.

Oh, a thousand words~.

When the song finally came to an end, as the entire bar laid in perfect silence when the final note was struck. The lights of the stage where the only ones that were fully Illuminating the spot in which Rory stood. As she was giving Brex a genuine smile, over the course of the next few seconds there was hardly a sound being made by the crowd. That was until it became a roaring chorus of applause that was strong enough to shake the very air, as well as the ground thanks in part to the stomping of hoofs.

At one point or another during the song that Rory was singing. Gilda entered the bar herself and was standing along one of the walls that was the furthest away from the stage. As well as positioning herself so that most of her form was being obstructed by one of the support beams for the building. Which made it pretty obvious that she was trying to keep herself from being noticed.

From there, the crowd called for an encore, but instead of doing so right then and there. Rory jumped off of the stage in order to land between a couple of tables that had enough space for her to do so and rushed up to Brex and pulled him straight onto the stage. All the while, he was obviously unsure as to what was going on and also trying really hard not to bump into any of the other bar patrons along the way.

Once on-stage. Brex was made to lean down so that Rory can whisper into his ear. After doing so, a few seconds went by and this got him to wave his hands in a placating gesture to indicate that he was not up for whatever it was she said. It took a little bit of effort on Rory's part and the chanting of do it do it from the crowd to get him to relent. Brex placed his right hand onto the orb and began to think of the song that they wanted for background music. Which turned out to be the duet from the animated movie known as, Shrek Two.

(Here is the song that Brex and Rory sang. Just skip the small parts at the start and end that aren’t for the song itself.)

As the music played. The two of them would dance and sing with one another in time with the beat of the song. Brex had even changed his voice in order to perfectly mimic that of Shrek's own for this. One move after another was done in order to mirror their partners actions.

At one time, Rory was spun in place and even dipped low to the ground. When it got to the parts of the song that required the harmonica to be heard quite clearly. The larger of the pair pulled out a harmonica from his sleeve and brought it to his mask. Which was surprisingly able to play right through it.

With the rest of the onlookers that were present. Many were getting into the tune and even got out of their seats as to dance with their respective partners. Even a few of the male patrons that were there that night, were swept up due to the harmony magic in the air and tossed in their own voices to act as the background singers for some sections of the music being produced from the speakers.

Even Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis joined as well. The mare herself being quite intoxicated in letting loose with how she danced and hanged onto her stallion. There were even a few times that the Unicorn would even go as far as to do a few provocative moves when getting really close to the Fancy Pants.

There were a few times that she would give him a very messy kiss whenever she could get close enough to his lips. Of course, this would always cause Fancy Pants to blush up a storm, but nonetheless he would reciprocate her advances by kissing her back with just as much vigor, if not more.

Over at the table that had two of the six element bearers sitting. They were already swept away and currently enjoying themselves as well. Applejack with vigorously tap her hoof and bob her head to the tune, as Fluttershy was lightly humming to it and giving a small smile as she looked across the crowd that we're having a good time and full of energy.

When it was time for the very last note to be struck. Everyone there gave their own versions of cheering. Brex and Rory gave a bow to that, while holding on to the other's hand before getting off the stage together. Although, as they were making their way back to their friends. Rory did catch site of a familiar Griffin, right as she was clearly leaving the bar in a hurry from the corner of her eye. She was even sure that Gilda’s eyes were solely locked onto her Master up until the door fully closed behind her after pushing past a few Ponies.

*Point of view: Third Person*
*Location: Golden Oaks Library*
*Time: Present time*

Now as for back in the present. As the rest of the girls were currently preoccupied with getting the full version of the story from the orange earth pony and yellow Pegasus. Rory took the window of opportunity to swiftly make an exit after saying goodbye to Spike and made a swift retreat, before she was even noticed to be gone by the time that most of the craziness had died down.

Over with Rarity, who was being fairly polite as to not push herself into the group of ponies in order to get her questions answered. Although, she did happen to see the Rory leaving, but was unable to get a word over the noise of Pinkie, who was trying to get Applejack to sound out the song that was used.

Quickly perceiving that something was poking out from under the edge of the couch, she went on over to pick it up with her magic, seeing as she couldn't stand the place being a mess if she could help it. When she brought it up to her face. It was found out to be one of the trading cards that Spike had in his possession when they all came in. Just as she was about to hand it straight back to the young Dragon.

The white Unicorn stopped just before doing so and narrowed her eyes, as it was brought closer to her face. With a quick glance around the library. She was able to quickly discern that no one was paying any attention to her. With the figurative coast being clear, and without looking guilty in the lease.

The card then vanished with hardly a single indication that it was even there to begin with and Rarity quickly got back into her previous position. All the while, Rarity would have this look of extreme contemplation as her eyes drifted towards the door that Rory only recently escaped through.

*Point of view: Princess Luna*
*Location: Canterlot, in Luna’s Bed Chambers*
*Time: Four-thirty in the afternoon*

Princess Luna was at this moment, getting herself ready after waking up just a little earlier than normal and in the middle of finishing the last of what would be her morning preparations, before she would start to walk about the castle. As usual, she was wearing her blue attire. Consisting of a blue dress, with her silver and black regalia.

While still looking at her full-length mirror that was right next to her bed. Her carefree expression turned somewhat serious, before she stopped what she was doing and turned towards one of the shadows of her bedroom. Which had a dark curtain next to it, as to block out the sunlight that would come in from the balcony.

She called out after taking a more regal stance. “Time for the shift in guards has not come up. What do you have to report?” From out of the shadows, stepped a mare with bat-like wings and wearing mostly leather and dark cloths. Her face was fully obscured with a hood that not only covered her head, but most of her face as well. So that only her yellow eyes were revealed. After taking a knee and lowering her head. A scroll was carefully pulled out from one of the pockets and presented to Luna without so much as saying a single word.

Once Luna took the scroll and her magic and placed it into her own hands. It was unfurled after the bindings were slipped off. She was taking her time to go over the message in great detail, before slowly lowering it down and showing a look of worry on her face before placing the scroll down on a nearby table and addressing her visitor directly.

“It would seem that my sister's spy will be otherwise preoccupied for the near future... It falls upon you to take on the task and see it through. With what has been reported so far, it is safe to say that a nocturnal surveillance unit will turn up very little. Gambit is not active at night and stays indoors until the sun comes up again. And when he does, he doesn’t do much aside from going to the park at night to look up at the stars.” This brought a small smile onto the Princess’s lips before she returned to her serious one once again so that she could continue.

“However, I do know that you are far better equipped when it comes to secretly gathering information. Please shift your responsibilities to keeping an eye on Gambit during the daytime hours and use the night to sleep. Request any items and funding that is deemed necessary in order to follow him to wherever it is he is heading for.”

“With the most likely increasing distance, the usual method of sending reports will no longer be as reliable and henceforth, all reports will be done through the Dream Realm. At set times, you will be ready to relay all you have uncovered so that I and perhaps my sister, could witness the events transpiring from your point of view. Is that understood?”

After giving a silent nod to Luna. She gave permission for the Thestral to leave after motioning towards the shadows with her head. With that, the mare leaped into the shadow that she came from without any hesitation. Once she was gone, Luna went to a more relaxed stance for a few seconds, before even that turned into a more depressing one. As her shoulders began to slouch and she couldn't help but to bring herself over to the bed in order to sit down.

After a few seconds of this, Luna's head began to lower as her hair obscured most of her face after flowing down off of her shoulders. She then said in a slightly disbelieving tone, that was also laced with some regret. “How could we have possibly missed a cult member that was so close to our capital... I'm so sorry for special agent Lemon Drops to have her own mare-friend to be a criminal.”

In the report. It was pretty obvious with the way it was shakily drawn up, that their daytime spy was quite shaken upon hearing the news of Lyra being detained after attempting to murder a stallion. More so, when it was completely uncalled for and in front of a large group of witnesses. After the details of the incident were relayed over to special agent Lemon Drops.

The mare began to investigate Lyra’s home and found a few items that were being tucked away inside of the house that the mare lived in. These items indicated that she was a fanatical member of the herd cult, that she already had a chance to read about in some of the disturbing reports across Equestria. There are even a few documents in there that implicated her own mother as one of the members as well.

But even with this going on. Luna couldn't help but to wonder why it was that Gambit would leave Ponyville so abruptly. She feared that they may have been the cause of his leaving. Maybe the attack of this Lyra was the reason. If it was any other stallion, then the notion of seeing such an incident would surely cause them to be fearful and run.

But deep down, Luna knew there was a reason for this decision aside from the attack. If he was able to send threats to both of the rulers, then this much wouldn’t have cause him to even bat an eye. But there was one last thing in the report that mentioned Gambit was boarding a train for Canterlot, along with a Zebra mare earlier this day. This caused Luna to let out an annoyed huff at the thought of missing the chance to see him in person, but being asleep until now was her own undoing.

*Point of view: Fluttershy*
*Location: Fluttershy's house*
*Time Five-twenty in the afternoon*

Fluttershy was just in the middle of getting ready to give the last set of dinner to the daytime critters right outside of her house. Which happened to be feeding a couple of squirrels and a skunk some nuts and berries. When that was done, Fluttershy packed up the bag that was holding on to the food and was about to fly off into her house. But was stopped by a couple of birds that swooped in and began to chirp wildly, while flying around her in order to get her attention.

After a few seconds of this going on. The Pegasus had a look of fright on her face, before zipping past the small flock of birds and disappearing into her house. Only to re-appear a few seconds later, along with a bag that had a strap going across her chest and a red symbol of a cross that was printed over the flap covering. The birds that were conversing with Fluttershy before getting the equipment. Quickly caught up and were now trying to lead her to somewhere to the south end of Ponyville.

After following them as quickly as she could, which meant that she was flying pretty close to the ground, yet much faster than normal. Fluttershy came to one of the less traveled roads leading into Ponyville and found a large creature that was laying down at the side of the path. When she had gotten closer, she could see that it was still breathing, although quite labored. As its chest raised and fell with each breath. The yellow feathers could be seen getting slightly ruffled.

Right as she landed, Fluttershy quickly got right to giving the creature an examination and was talking in her tender voice. At first, she was frantic, but became more relaxed upon finding out that there were no visible injuries such as cuts and signs of being attacked.

“The rest of you were right to come and find me. Oh my gosh! Everything is going to be okay, you're safe now, just rest. I had no idea that there was a nest of Chocobo's anywhere nearby Ponyville. Did you get separated from your flock? Hold on, you got a saddle on. Oh, I see you lost your owner. Let me take you to my cottage and we'll see about finding them. There, there.”

The Chocobo, who was aware of Fluttershy's presents, was slightly shifting as its short wings were weakly flapping. As for its legs, they could be seen attempting to move in a way to suggest that she was trying to get up, but had little to no energy left.

There was even some slight discoloration around her right eye to show that something had struck it recently and Fluttershy took note of this. After, she reached into her medical bag and took out what she needed to render first aid, before trying to take the Chocobo back to her place to recover.

Although, during all of this. Fluttershy couldn't help but to notice the strange insignia that was on the side of the riding harness, which had a saddlebag underneath. It depicted a curved black boat, with rowing oars situated underneath. All of it being on top of a red background. There were even some armored sections on the saddle to indicate that it was meant for protection, for both the bird and its rider.

On one of these metal bits, Fluttershy pulled off a stretch of white fabric that looked quite expensive, yet there was quite a bit of dirt smeared on it. She started to wonder if this was from the clothing of the rider, although her attention was easily pulled back to the large bird and pocketed it away.