Of old friends and new ones [Private] (Dated)

[Syron]

November 12, Year 4
Dawn

Warm sunlight filled the room when Scintillance woke up. The clouds were gone, and for some time the sun would be able to light the room through the eastern row of windows, at least where no pipes casted their shadows, though it didn't do the atmosphere much good, it could only be described as dusty and gloomy now. It certainly wasn't the nicest place, but at least a relatively secure one, with no ladder or stairs leading to this floor. The old official entrance was a simple hatch, leading to the main factory hall with its three automatic looms, but without anything to climb down. In the wall were holes to hold the metal stairs that should have been there, but they were too small to get proper grip, the only other way would be via the outer walls.

Shade was not to see at first, but where she had stored her saddlebags, Scintillance could now find refilled food supplies, a wild collection of different vegetables, though not much of any single sort, and surprisingly fresh bread, certainly not from the day before. And certainly this wasn't the food from Scintillance last hideout, but she had already said that she woldn't go there.

A clang suddenly came from the only wall without windows, where also most pipes went together and disappeared in the floor. There, of course in the darkest corner of the room, Shadowstrike had chosen to get her sleep. She was definitely dreaming, though if it was a good dream was questionable. She had curled up and was constantly muttering something, always the same, but it wasn't understandable. The clang apparently had been caused by her hoof twitching and hitting a pipe.

[Lance]

Scintillance viewed the room with weary eyes, refusing to open them completely. He began his morning routine, starting to raise himself slowly, before abruptly saying Nope. and dropping back onto the floor. Though his eyes were closed, he was still awake, only letting his mind roam, recapping the events of the previous day, or night, or whatever he'd call it, so that he'd had some clue as to what he'd expect when his eyes truly opened. He'd been in enough situation where he freaked himself out, not knowing where he was nor why he was there.

[Scrapper]

Scrapper approuched his first scavange spot in the Industrial area. A somewhat old Weaving Mill, Still exhausted from neglecting sleep. It was how he worked. No place was safe until he knew his way around, and he spent the time from when he first arrived in Manehattan, getting to know the area better. Finally deciding to start looking for things, Scrapper chose the Industrial area. Still hoping for things to have been missed the last time a scavanger rolled through.

Alright now, where's a good entry point? The front entrance was always an option but traps are always possible, so Scrapper preffered to find alternate ways into buildings and structures. He finally spots various parts along the walls that can easily be held on to by his Claws.

Time for a bloody clambering session It seems. Scrapper takes the 2 Hoof-Claw gauntlets out of his bag and puts them on, double-checking they are secure and heads to the wall, checking various places on his way there.

It occured to him that there is a chance of other ponies or griffons being present in there. After passing a building with dead Griffons near it, He was already on edge.If I meet anybody up there, I'd best assume hostilities. That event I passed with those dead Griffons is warning enough for me.

[Lance]

Lance finally got himself to get up, satisfied with what he could remind himself, and prepared for the day. However, he was concerned about the still sleeping Shade, as she kept twitching her hoof and murmuring... something. He was curious to know what she was saying... Maybe if I got a little closer... no, no, as always, Shade'll kill me for doing anything out of the ordinary. Lance snuck as quietly as he could towards Shade, regardless. just like old times... he whispered, under his own breath. He perked his ears, hoping to hear her better

[Syron]

Upon coming closer, Scintillance would still have trouble understanding what Shade was saying, but from near distance it was even clearer how troublesome her dreams were. Despite the comfortable temperature in the room she was sweating and trembling. Suddenly she rolled around, accidently touching Scintillance, and by that giving herself a wake-up call. She jolted up, hoof reaching out for a friend who wasn't there.
SKY...light
Halfway through, her conciousness kicked in, reducing the distraught call to merely a whisper. For a moment her eyes had been filled with terror, fear for her friend, but she was fast with waking up, and quickly her mask slid into place, leaving back a neutral expression as she closed her eyes and breathed deeply while trying to win the fight not just to the outside. She hadn't had a nightmare for years, especially not this one, now it was coming back. Maybe letting Scintillance stay had been a bad idea after all, but she had given her okay and she wouldn't take it back without substantial reasons, and bad dreams didn't count into those.

[Scrapper]

As Scrapper got a better view of the wall he planned on climbing up, He saw a long pipe that lead directly to the roof of the factory. From there, he could simple go along the roof to the point he planned on entering and climb down the rest of the way.

Alright boy-o, Looks like It isn't going to be as hard as you thought Scrapper moved to the bottom of the pipe and without any hesitation, quickly began to climb up. Making little to no noise at all, despite his Hoof-Claws being made of metal.

Upon nearing the top of the pipe, and the roof, The pipe began to break from the top and started coming loose. Oh, well bugger!. Scrapper quickly climbed the rest of the pipe and grabbed onto the side of the roof just as the pipe gave way to the weight. It tipped over to a perfect lean, Not hitting the ground, making the simple noise of metal hitting the floor.

Oh well, good morning to whoever may have heard that. Scrapper grinned at his own remark. If anyone did hear that and looked at the pipe, They could easily mistake it for a simple break from the weight. Scrapper started to move along the roof to the ledge he originally wanted to climb down. Listening for any signs of life along the way.

[Lance]

Scintillance tumbled back when Shade awoke. Whoa now, Easy girl! He settled back onto his haunches and spoke softly, It's okay, Shade, It was just a dream. Apparently a very scary dream but just a dream... Lance was still worried about Shade's unusual behavior... but then, how could he know what Shade's behavior was, not hearing from her for years... Or, well, Vice Versa's more appropriate... Lance knocked his head with a hoof Focus, genius. Lance couldn't concern himself with his own mistakes, now. losing your only friends... must've hit you harder than it did me...
Lance set himself to high alert when there was a clang of metal from outside. His horn flickered for a moment before blinking out as his thoughts kicked in, no no no, if I flash now, it'll lure whatever made that noise in, and Shade's hideout would be compromised... No conjurations unless It's inevitable. Lance tried his best to hide among the pipe-drawn Shadows, And shade was already well hidden in her choice of sleeping-spot.

[Syron]

Shade didn't answer, too busy with her own thoughts, but when the sound came from outside was up on her hooves in an instant. There stopped the reflex, but her movement wasn't in the slightest interrupted as she continued quickly stripping her self made cloth sandals over her hooves and ran towards the direction of the sound. No hint of emotion was visible, in her pace she was incredibly calm as her blood red, yet ice cold eyes scanned the windows for anything unusual. She knew how the facade of the building looked like and where climbing possibilities were. She was sure that this sound couldn't have come from near the windows, and so she didn't care to stay in the shadows, until she finally jumped and grabbed a strong pipe directly under the ceiling, pulling herself up at a moment's notice. The most astonishing fact may be that she indeed hardly made any sound, it was like watching a silent movie, the sound was simply lacking. Not entirely, but Scintillance would have to concentrate to hear it.
Up there, Shade quickly went to a spot she had decided on directly after she had chosen this place as her hideout, from where she would have a good view on all possible entries, and a fast way to the important ones. The ceiling directly above her didn't leave much room for movement, but she didn't seem to have any major trouble with climbing. Some of the pipes she held herself on sabotaged her a little by being too old and making noise, clearly audible to Scintillance, but hopefully not to anybody on the outside. The light levels weren't on her side this time either, the sun still was too low to darkness some space, her main advantage was now simply being out of eye height, and at least some thicker pipes to give some kind of cover.

[Scrapper]

Scrapper was coming close to his entrance to the warehouse, Everything was as normal as expected, but his senses were on edge. Scrapper stopped in his tracks and listened at every sound he could gather. He was sure he heard something but it might have been something else, he wasn't taking chances. He diverted from his simple route to the way he planned on getting in and went to the opposite side from where the pipe fell.

Scrapper jumped off the side of the warehouse and hung on to the edge, peeking over and into the warehouse, shifting from time to time. If he alerted someone to his presence, It all depended on who saw who first. Just as the thought ran through his mind he caught sight of another pony moving inside the warehouse as he looked in through a hole in the wall, moving silently but quickly.

Looks like I saw you first. Scrapper climbed back up onto the roof. He moved from cover to cover, checking all around him in-case the other pony showed up somewhere. Looking up, over the sides of the warehouse and inside. Watching for any signs of movement as he went closer the his way in.

[Lance]

Scintillance mostly kept his gaze towards the window, and tried his best to remain quiet. He eventually turned his head to Shade, only to realize she had "disappeared" a few moments ago, before hearing a deaf creaking of rusty pipes above him. looking up, he could see Shade's black coat among the pipes, his eyes wide and awed. He knew, however, that there was no way He could follow her up there. not without causing some noise, at least. He couldn't help the feeling he was missing something, but there wasn't much more he could do without revealing himself, other than mentally prepare himself for conjuring the Martyr, or his other signature construct, Aegis, as the need varies.

[Syron]

Scintillance kept quiet and didn't start a light show, Shade noticed thankfully, but also she didn't hear anything from the intruder. Either he was generally careful or he was on alert. Her short shout could have easly warned him, it was safer to assume he knew that he wasn't alone. Which also would mean that he would take an all to careful look around when he finally entered, or took a careful look before entering. On the roof there wasn't much to hinder movement, one could quickly switch from one side of the building to another, there wasn't an opening Shade didn't observe, and finally saw something. It wasn't much, something moving out of sight just as she looked there, but it was enough. Moving away ment that he currently wasn't looking, and thanks to her hood he wouldn't know if she really had looked into his direction or not, this was the moment to disappear, and so Shade did. Sliding down a pipe she quickly was on the floor again and had closed the distance to Scintillance quickly. With her hoof she pointed into the direction the intruder was probably going - Shade had a pretty good idea where he could have climbed up - though his last known position wasn't directly visible from here. Which was good, but probably wouldn't work for long. Motioning Lance to follow her she ducked behind on of the bigger pipes and crawled into the direction she just had pointed in. Also this was the point when the mare decided that she could use her Shurikens. Scintillance might notice some of the stars being conjured, all in places safe from uninvited eyes. What he difinitely had to notice was that Shade's hood was unnaturally efficient at hiding her face. From large distance it wouldn't be really noticable, and from near distance it was possible to see her eyes jump around in search of other signs, but there was shadow on her face where the sun should have fallen.

[Scrapper]

Scrapper needed to know where the other pony was, Somehow. He picked up a small broken pipe and looked for a good place to throw it. It occurred to him that they could be in the very room he planned on entering from.

Scrapper tossed the pipe and it landed off of the roof onto the ground with a loud, easily heard noise. He then hid from view, waiting for anything to come into view. If nothing appeared, He'd go in the classic way. Hopefully He'd catch them by surprise If he did so.

[Lance]

Though startled, Scintillance kept his silence when Shade quietly landed near him. he looked in the direction she pointed, and figured she meant the window. He crawled towards it as well, though trying to find his way in parallel to Shade; if anything came in that way, they'd be at better odds if they flanked the target from both sides. Lance's ears perked as he heard another sound, though it sounded distant, on the outside ground, even. Lance wanted to chance a peek, but as long as he was focusing on stealth for a change, he knew that it would give himself away, poking a head out the window.

[Syron]

Another sound, that was a little suspicious. Shade was absolutely sure that the intruder was trying to mislead her or lure her out, she wouldn't fall for it. But if he wanted to lure her out, he would have to be able to watch, and he certainly still was on the roof. Combined with the direction the new sound had come from, she knew at which edge he most likely was. She still had the problem that he could quickly change his position, and he probably wouldn't chose to come from the direction he tried to point her in. It was a game of guessing again, but she couldn't change that now. Whoever was able to guess right without telling the other of his choice would win.
Shade's guess was... actually, she hated guessing and wanted to keep open as many ways as possible. She decided to simply let him enter and then try to find out where he was, until then she simply would make sure she wouldn't be seen or heard. She crawled under some pipes that blocked her view to all possible entry points, but would also hide her perfectly well. And she would be able to notice movement on floor level in most of the room.

[Scrapper]

Nothing. Not even a sound. Clearly he was against someone who was also as careful as he is, Something he can relate too.

The time came for him to go in, He's making no progress on the roof. Scrapper took some rope from his bag and tied it the edge of the wall, then tested it to see if it would hold. It did.

Scrapper held the short rope, It only had the length to take him to the second floor or the storage area. It was all he needed, he grabbed the rope tightly and sprinted for the edge of the warehouse, then jumped off without hesitation. The rope he held onto snapped tightly, dragging him to a stop. He then got brought back towards the factory windows and crashed through the window closest to the storage area, not being shy of the noise which could be heard from anywhere near the building. Shards of glass spread across the floor in-front of him as he landed perfectly in the room.

[Lance]

Scintillance turned his attention towards the sound of shattered glass. That was definitely not the window they had expected him to come in through, and that definitely wasn't a griffin A quiet part of Lance was disappointed, right then and there. But then, this could also mean that it was possible to walk away from this situation without any bloodshed. Scintillance looked to Shade, waved his hoof to the side, and exaggeratedly mouthed the word "Hide" before crawling closer to the Earth pony that just broke his way in. When Lance was a safe distance from both Shade and the other pony, he completely broke his own cover, getting up from his crawl and making himself bold enough. Well, that's quite an entrance! He offered a smile.

[Syron]

Before Shade could even hear him landing, she already had her head turned in the right direction. Most of her sight was blocked, but some specks of light shining through the pipes disappearing for short time was a clear sign of movement. She knew his exact position and could track him, he had already lost.

At least if Scintillance didn't do something stupid. The mare didn't stop him as he crawled away, but did the same into a slightly different direction. Lance was apparently trying to stay silent, it could be that he indeed had a good idea, and so she tried to make as much of it as possible by placing herself where she could intercept the intruder and possibly be behind him if he got distracted. To avoid being seen she had to track him constantly, which slowed her down, and before she was in a position she would have deemed acceptable, Scintillance once again confirmed every doubt Shade ever had about him.

This action was stupid, it was a way too risky guess about the intruder, but it had already happened. Still, it was something to work with: Hoping that the distraction had worked, she sent a Shuriken into the direction and silently slid out of under the pipes so that she could direct the star to the other pony's throat, not to cut it, but to convince him to do nothing stupid.

[Scrapper]

The sudden appearance of this Unicorn was completely unexpected. The pony Scrapper saw before definitely looked nothing like this one. This spelled the word "Trap" on an instant. It was a bad move to reveal himself to just start a conversation and be friendly.

At the corner of his vision, near a different window, a pebble was placed way to specifically at the edge of the window. He was used to seeing things that were out of place, It was a talent that came with his job. The link between that pebble and the fact that he was dealing with a Unicorn, or maybe two. Made that pebble a possible weapon, Scrapper remembered the building he went in with the Griffon soldiers bodies. He walked into a light trap that was just left there, that pebble was most likely one of those traps. If he was correct in that guess, It should trigger if he went too close.

He decided to use that as an advantage.
Aye mate, It was. And what exactly are you doin' here lad? This ain't a place to be camping out. Scrapper decided to point out his suspicion of a trap. Not knowing why, But he went along with it anyway. Y'know mate, this feels a lot like a trap. Because I bloody know I saw another pony that didn't look a thing like you. And this sudden friendliness coming from you definitely doesn't add up.

[Lance]

Lance's smile had yet to fade Well of course it's a trap, and for all you need to know, you'd be killed in an instant if it came to it. But, I don't even know who you are, and I'd rather not have to fight you If it turns out we're yammering over nothing. So it all comes down to the question: Who are you, Where are you aligned, and what reason do you have on intruding an inhabited building?

[Syron]

Just in time to support Lance's argument of "killed in an instant", Shade's shuriken reached it's destination, pushing firmly onto the skin above this pony's carotid artery, following every movement without actually making a cut. Do anything funny and it's over. Even without four additional stars coming from all over the room and floating around the intruder and cutting him off from possible escape routes, the message was clear. It would no time at all for her to put him out of action.

Shadowstrike closed in a bit, but stopped at about three meters distance, far enough to react should anything happen. She didn't say anything, just coldly stared at the earth pony, though he would only see hints of her face.

[Scrapper]

It never surprised him that he'd be the one with a weapon to his throat, It's what he was hoping for. Let them feel like they have the upper hand. If there was one weapon at his neck controlled by a Unicorn, there had to be more. Now he knew there was two of them. The one who controlled the small but deadly weapon at his throat was definitely more dangerous than the other in appearance, But you should never make the mistake of misjudging a Unicorn's abilities.

Aww, I'm sorry mate. Did I ruin a special moment between you two? His personality always kicked in on situations like this. Because why not have fun if your about to die? No point of dying unhappy. The shuriken at his throat would definitely draw blood if he moved, But they don't know how fast he is. That'll probably be a surprise to them when the time comes.

[Syron]

Don't get cocky, Shade said, her mostly monotone voice carrying a hint of annoyance. If I wanted you dead it would already have happened, so you should start explaining yourself, or I choose the easy way out for me.
No action was taken yet, the shurikens circling the earth pony kept at a steady pace, fast enough to make it risky to break through them, but not fast enough to make it impossible, and the pressure on his throat kept constant, despite his slight movements.

[Lance]

Scintillance showed signs of slight amusement from Ferrous' remark, though after Shade's answer he showed a slight concern for the stallion before him. Lance looked to shade with a frown Careful, I have no leash on her other than hope. He turned his head back to the Stallion

[Scrapper]

Scrapper grinned under his facemask. Oooh, Yeah. Your real scary. But alright, fine. I'll talk, I'm Scrapper. Scrapper T. Ferrous. And If you really haven't noticed yet, I'm a scavenger. That should tell you why I'm here.

It was all about timing. If he choose the wrong moment he'd get hurt way more than he'd need to. His plan was to answer there questions to a degree until an opening appeared. That's when his speed would come in very handy.

[Syron]

After a moment of consideration the black mare replied. I'm Shade, current resident of this place. And admittedly not very happy to meet you here.
She didn't let her guard down for a moment, she wouldn't give Scrapper any chance before the biggest question wasn't answered, and after that... that depended on his answer.
Why would a scavenger try to enter an obviously inhabitated and protected room?

[Lance]

Lance would have mentioned his name as well, although Shade had cut him off with her question. You've only answered one of my three questions. Even the griffins could use a scavenger... or a spy, to check out the area after that little scene up the road. Lance did not want to deal with spies. They would complicate everything. Lance was a lot less keen on just letting the pony go, at this point.

[Scrapper]

Oh, and I suppose I could bloody say a side I'm aligned with. Then end up dead in a ditch because you two are on the opposite one from me. Scrapper wasn't on any side. At least he isn't yet, he doesn't want to join a side. But points like this normally would have gone better with help.

And if I was a spy, Don't you think I'd have better things to do than spy on a couple of Griffon hunters? The shurikens that circled him were going at slightly different speeds from each other. A gap was slowly but surely opening up from the times that each one fly's by his sight. Sometime soon he'd stop answering these questions, and either run off, or try and fight these two Unicorns. depended on the situation at the time.

He remembered Shade's question and thought of ignoring it, But the position he was in, really didn't have time for ignorence. And as for why a scavenger would make his way in to a room like this, call it competition. It's not the first time I've had to compete over a place with someone like myself.

[Lance]

Harsh. Lance looked down for a moment, in thought. He raised his head, and eyed the Shuriken held up in levitation against Scrapper's neck. Scintillance trotted nearer to The earth pony, and turned his frown into a sudden smile. you can call me Lance. Scintillance, for all the unnecessary formalities. He turned and trotted back in the direction he started from. He made up his mind. Shade, let him go.
Scintillance trotted by the area he slept, and put on his green duster, expecting some response from Shade. probably something about him being insane. or an idiot. or both. but nonetheless, he felt felt the air was a little too thick , and the Shurikens certainly weren't making the moment any better.

[Syron]

Griffon hunters? So he had drawn the connection to the slaughter. He shouldn't have told her that, it was possible that he was aligned with the griffons, and supposed to find the culprit. Though it would still be unlikely that they would send a pony, too unlikely. His answers were plausible, and obviously Scintillance believed him. So far the only way to solve this problem without making a decision about Scrapper was to keep him here until nightfall, and then move to a new hideout.

That only raised another question, how to keep him here? It was unlikely that he would accept that, then Shade might as well kill him now instead of later when he's trying to flee. And Shade also didn't want having to keep close taps on him all the time. Would he understand her reasons? Unlikely, most ponies didn't care as much for absolute secrecy as she did. But maybe she could keep him here for at least some time and try to find out how much he might be trusted.
Alright, I suppose the chances are good that you're telling the truth, she finally said unemotionally. Don't prove me wrong.
The shurikens circling Scrapper moved off, three towards Scintillance, at a much lower and less worrying speed, one towards herself, before the one threatening to cut the earth pony open followed as well. The stars took positions next to and above the unicorns, ready to intercept, should there be an attack.
The next thing Shade said might have come surprising, suddenly her voice did sound perfectly good-humored, and through the unnatural shadows of her hood the other ponies might notice that she was indeed slightly grinning.
I suppose it really wasn't hard to guess our involvement in that little incident, huh?

[Scrapper]

Scrapper hadn't expected any trust from Shade or Scintillance. He guessed there is no real point in making enemies.

Not really Las, The fact that they were dead, and you two are hidin' here is a dead give-away. That and the pebble at the window reminded me of one of the traps a walked into when I was at the sodding building. It was placed to perfectly. Scrapper knew he wouldn't be getting let off his leash so soon, He guessed why.

So, Las. I take it I won't be leaving here so easily? I can understand that choice atleast. Sometimes not letting anyone know you exist is a better plan, I'd do the same. Scrapper turned to look at Lance. And Lad, If the pebble there is a trap like I think It is. Don't place them so neatly. Anything with a keen eye will catch them out.

At second thought, This sudden friendlieness was a rare sight to him. Most of the time anyone else he met would try and kill him. If he was going to be kept here, He'd easily understand why. He'd always been one for stealth when the war first started.

[Lance]

Not only was Scintillance surprised, but he was joyed to hear Shade in good humor, a clear and welcome response, for a change. He stifled a laugh as Scrapper mentioned his light traps. ah, but you did walk into it! he teased, I'll take that into account, though. normally I wouldn't make them so obvious, see I prefer attaching the trap to these... Scintillance reached into a pocket on his duster, and frowned when he recalled the reason he use a pebble for the spell the night before; he didn't have all of his gear with him. say, you were in that office building, apparently. Did you come by any... well, call me ridiculous, but... sticky notes? I prefer to use those as I can just stick 'em onto a low ceiling and no pony would know they're walking into a trap. I seem to have left two packs of them somewhere, likely at said buildingg.

[Syron]

First he entertained her, and now she didn't even have to explain to him why he would have to stay here for now. Shade raised an eyebrow in surprise, she was beginning to like that pony, but that wasn't enough for her to let him out of sight. However, the immediate action was gone, and while she was still on alert, her throughts weren't as focused anymore, and Scintillance once again reminded her of old times, causing her mood to drop immediately.

Shade and Skylight had often used sticky notes to give Scintillance the run-around. Usually when he came to hand around with them, he only found messages left for him, sending him through half of Canterlot and back at times, for the two fillies it always had been a great deal of fun. Now he used notes as traps. Shade guessed that the very reason he did it, was to have some reminder of Skylight, but she didn't want to think about it. The mare frowned at Lance.
I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell everything you do to somepony you only just met, she said. You're not the only one who's secrecy is compromised by that anymore.
Facing Scrapper again, she sounded much more relaxed, and sincere.
Thank you for understanding. I already feared I'd have to tie you up until the evening.
Though I probably really would have killed you before bothering with that, she added smirkingly.

[Scrapper]

That's thoughtful Las, I can tell your good a what you do. I can respect that. I wouldn't imagine the dead Griffons back there disagree much, Because they lost. Grinning under his face-mask, Scrapper turned to Lance and took 2 packs of sticky notes out of his bag, which he had taken from the building Lance was referencing.

It looks like it is your lucky day mate, I did happen to pick these up during my brief visit to that Griffon graveyard. Scrapper went over and put both in Scintillance's pocket. I think you'll find your misplaced notes back where you wanted them pal. He took a few steps back and sat down.

Don't worry, I'll be a good dog. He took off his Hoof-Claws and put them back in his bag. I'd hope that there won't be any need to assassinate me Las. That wouldn't be good for my health I'm sure. Scrapper made a friendly nod at Shade. Then pushed his goggles up, exposing his Moderate Cerise coloured eyes.

[Lance]

My Sticky notes! is what Lance would've said if he wasn't paying attention to what he was saying. He did not pay attention to what he was saying. after his peculiar outburst, Lance regained his composure, though without losing his grin. Thanks, you can't imagine how important these are... Scintillance removed the notes from his pocket and glazed them over, glad that this 'scavenger' had the decency of returning his findings to the owners. Or it could be Shade's Shurikens ready to fly into his skin. Didn't matter, he had his trap materials back, and something more... but then, what about the rest of the things Scintillance had left at the office building? If Scrapper's found the notes at the scene, then he may have found more. Although, these were actually hidden somewhat well, Scrappy might've saved him a trip back the slaughterhouse.

did you find anything else in this... brief visit of yours?

[Syron]

The shurikens around Scintillance instantly began moving when Scrapper began walking towards him. One of the stars placed itself directly in front of the earth pony, keeping some distance though and moving along with him, the other two flanked him. Shade let him proceed, but wanted to state a clear warning. When Scrapper moved away again, the shurikens flew back into their old position.

Shade returned the nod, but didn't do anything to reveal more of herself. Actually it was quite possible for her to disguise herself by removing her cloak, most ponies who meet her never see her without her hood pulled up and can only guess when they see a black unicorn. The plan was to wait for the night, send him away, and have nothing to do with him anymore. That also included him not recognizing her when she didn't want to be recognized.

[Scrapper]

Nah, I didn't mate. Like I said, It was only brief. I didn't want to be around when they came looking for those dead Griffons. If I stayed longer, I probably would have found everything that place had in it. Scrapper took a large shard of broken glass that looked like an Axe head, then took a piece of wood that was lying near him and tied both together to make a hatchet in mere seconds, He then took it apart and repeated the process. Making sure he could still do it as fast as he needs to.

I'm not with any side by the way, Or at least, Not yet. Scrapper talked while perfectly concentrating on what he was doing. I'm on the side of whoever needs me the most.

[Lance]

in that case... Shade, I'm going to have to head back there he gave it some thought, and he knew that he didn't leave the scene in the smartest of conditions. If any light traps haven't gone off yet, and the Griffins come across them, they are a danger if Lance could be tracked by leaving them around. that, and he's left food supplies that shouldn't be tossed aside; one would never know when an emergency happens by.

Scintillance eyed Scrapper as he took the glass shard. immediately, he was starting to reconsider this scrapper fellow, and his horn started to flicker on. Scintillance was already starting to form his Martyr when he saw the makeshift axe that was made, but but was thrown off concentration when he noticed scrapper had taken the axe apart. He stopped trying to conjure his martyr and calmed down, observing as scrapper skilfully made and remade the axe. it seemed to be almost a game for Scrapper; a way to pass his time. that's... impressive, actually. Nice hoof work. Lance thought about the situation. complimenting a possible opponent while he builds and rebuilds a weapon? well, maybe he shouldn't consider him an opponent, he's been a 'good dog' so far...

[Syron]

Head back and walk straight into some griffons examining the scene?, Shade said. The result from last night certainly wasn't her usual standard, letting the bodies lie around openly was a gross negligence, but she shook her head. I'd be glad if I could do some cleaning up, but it's too late now. Others have already seen it and we should...
She was interrupted by Scrapper picking up the shard, an action she found just as suspicious as Scintillance, and so her stars once again became active, four of them circling the earth pony again to hinder his possible movement. When he took the hatchet apart again, the Shurikens slowed down and left him more space, but didn't fly of completely.
We should make sure we don't attract anymore attention, Shade finished her previous sentence before addressing this little incident.
Scrapper, do you really think it's a good idea to tinker with makeshift weapons when you're survival depends on us not getting any suspicions?

[Scrapper]

Scrapper took the hatchet apart for the last time and scattered the pieces across the floor. I guess that's a fair point Lassie, But this is the first time I've been held... Well, not really against my own will in this situation I guess. He observed the shurikens floating around him and spoke again. Surely you understand the need to keep your skills sharp? Especially in your line of work. If that work is what I'm guessing it is at least.

Scrapper looked at Shade. Besides Las, I don't show my eyes to anyone I don't respect. He then turned to look a Scintillance. And I certainly don't turn on anyone who puts there trust in me, long before I put my trust in them.

[Syron]

Scrapper scattered the parts he was working with, and the shurikens returned into their guarding positions near the unicorns.
You have my respect so far, but it will need more than just good behavior to gain my trust, Shade said, she still wasn't willing to show her face. And regarding my profession, you're probably right.
Leavin it at that, she turned to Scintillance again, hoping for something she regarded as pretty unlikely.
Do I have the luck of having convinced you not to go already?

[Lance]

No Shade, you haven't. Scintillance almost facehoofed when Shade mentioned 'cleaning up.' if anything, he had all the more reason to go back. you can leave tactical advantages and dead griffins lying around all you want, heck, leave spare traps for the griffins to track us -or at the very least, track me- by, but I won't. cover your eyes. Scintillance didn't even have to cover his. He reached out to his light trap with magic, and set it off; the flash was bright, but Lance had seen the effect thousands of times to the point that he could stare at the sun for nearly a minute before minding the ordeal. I'm going to get a few things done, with or without you. he quietly whispered under his own breath, and it's about time I made myself useful.

He readied himself to conjure something that would make his way down, but then looked back to Shade and Scrapper; he forgot he was still uncertain as to how safe he was. Actually... Shade, can I trust you not to kill him by the time I get back? And Scrapper, can I trust you not to give her a reason to kill you by the time I get back?

[Scrapper]

Instinct told Scrapper that Scintillance was going for the light trap. He pulled his goggles back down just as the trap went off. The tint his goggles had blocked off a most of the flash effect and only left the room very bright for its duration.

After being told to not give Shade any reason to kill him, he grinned under his face-mask and nodded. Aye, aye Lad. I'll do whatever I'm told. He then thought for a meer second and said, Unless It's going to get me killed anyway that is. Other than that, I'll follow her.

[Syron]

Shade quickly lowered her head when Scintillance warned them, using her hood as eye cover. He was right, they shouldn't have left the scene like this, but unfortunately Shade hadn't been capable of doing a good job back then. And now it was too late. However, if he thought he had to do it...
Fine, I've warned you, Shade said impassively, then looked at Scrapper.
I don't think he'll give me a reason to kill him. Would be a shame, he's promising.

[Lance]

Lance nodded the two, before giving them another warning in relatin to their eyes. This time, Scintillance had to focus far harder than for any other conjuration Shade had seen thus far;

A long, length line of light illuminated the room, almost a beam of light, though it was not aimed at anypony, nor did it seem like it would harm. with great physical exertion from Lance, it had slowly coiled, bending bit by bit, every meter reflected in Lance's expressions, his teeth clenched and his eyes forced shut, until the hardset part was complete; a coiled rope of solidified, glowing light lay before him. he could use it physically, with his hooves, but his horned remained alight and he still had to keep the light within it held together in order to prevent it from dissolving. with better ease, a hook, with the exact same pattern as the one from his martyr weapon, had formed at the end of the rope, large enough to keep a grip on the window frame.

Lance turned to his... his friends, one last time and saluted before hopping backwards holding a quarter length of the rope. It couldn't be called a long drop, as it only took seconds for Lance's fall to be stopped in mid-flight. He then slowly climbed his way to the bottom. Once there, he released his grip on the conjured rope, and it dissolved, granting Lance a much less pain invoked expression. He turned to the road ahead, and started his trot back to the murderous scene. The sun was still rising, a decent while before reaching an afternoon's position.

[Scrapper]

Scrapper simply watched what was happening, his goggles protecting his eyes from the light. He gave a friendly nod towards Lance just before he went down the wall. He tipped his goggles back up once all the light had disappeared. Now, he was only under watch from the hooded Unicorn. Even then he wasn't planning on trying an escape. Friendly faces are a very rare sight for him, and he doesn't need to make enemies.

Scrappers eye's darted around the room, merely to get a better look of where he was. He recalled that Shade said he was "Promising" and he was. Fast, and most certainly crafty. He wasn't a common scavenger that's for sure. He kept it in his head that she said that, and what that could lead to. But he just hoped Shade didn't say anything that triggered his lost memories. Those give him a incapacitating head ache and some visions to boot, and they've happened a lot more frequently since he got to Manehattan.

[Syron]

To the outside, Shade was silently watching Scintillance leave. On the inside, she was on a heavy discussion about her decision to let him go. Alone and at day, to a place possibly griffon infested by now. Why did she allow that? Annoyance, she gave herself a fast answer. He was no close friend, and so she didn't object when he decided to leave, it would give her some peace and finally would take away all the light from her hideout.
But that was only a poor excuse. If she wanted or not, she had responsibility towards him. In the end, he was the one who had made Skylight's heart beating for him. Shade closed her eyes on the thought of her old friend. That was the real reason why she had wanted him to go, she didn't want to be reminded. But as much as the memories bothered her, her own love for that sky blue filly was what made it so painful in the first place. She couldn't allow herself to let the one's that had been important to Skylight run blindly into trouble.
We're following him, Shade said and levitated her saddlebags over. With a look at Scrapper, she corrected herself.
Or, I do. You're free to go.

[Scrapper]

Scrapper stood up, took out his Hoof-Claws and put them on, testing them again as usual to make sure they are good to go. I kinda had the same thought in mind Las. I couldn't because that would just draw more suspicion against me, and since your doing it anyway, mind If I go along with you?


Scrapper hadn't the highest expectation of It being a Yes, But that wouldn't stop him. If anything he was fast, very fast. He would probably catch sight of Lance a lot faster than Shade. But that was only a guess. If anything Las, I prefer the dark over light as well. I won't get you caught. Scrapper tipped his goggles down and waited near a window for Shade's response.

[Syron]

I was actually hoping you would come along, Shade answered noddingly. That gives me a chance to see how much I can trust you.
She took a careful look out of the window, checking for anybody who could see her.
Operation at day and no sleep. Scintillance, I hate you for this, she sighed while her shurikens all disappeared under her cloak, and motioned Scrapper to go first, herself following directly afterwards. She was quick, without any interruption in her movement she first reached the lower window to the storage hall, then simply jumped the rest. Once on the ground, she immediately ran to the next building. They wouldn't use the streets, Shade's cloak would draw attention, as well as Scrapper's mask. Ironically, if Shade had put off the cloak, it wouldn't have been any better for her. She heavily suspected the griffons to come to the right conclusion upon seeing her cutie mark.

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