Post by Mal on Oct 4, 2014 16:16:02 GMT -5
Shadow Dart drifted down from the sky, reveling in the cool, crisp air that had come with autumn. She was glad that the seasons had changed at last, and glad to be rid of the hazy heat of summer. Although while she was glad to have finally come out today, she wasn't sure what she was going to do. Except, maybe go to Ponyville. With Nightmare Night yet again on the distant horizon of next month, the ponies there would certainly be excited and working on decorations. A smile touched Shadow's face as she flew low towards the sprawling town. Her, hooves were nearly brushing the straw rooftops of the buildings until she perched upon one- in perfect view of the square.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but be both amused and impressed with some of the sights that ponyville provided. Many ponies were putting up quite interesting decorations, and best of all very few were staring at the 'strange' pony that had wandered into their midst! Perhaps they thought he was in costume? Whatever the reason, it helped him feel quite a bit more comfortable than when he had been around Canterlot. Then again it might be the jingle of bits that came from the bag at his side that cheered him to. It had been just a simple courier type job, nothing illegal he hoped, but he needed the money and the employer had provided it. He came to a stop at the edge of a building as he was forced to pause. There were more ponies bustling about the square, seemingly busy with more decoration work. It was a curious sight that he couldn't help but pause and take in. Ponies here were so different. He truly enjoyed that fact, but he couldn't help it if he was bemused by the sight at times.
Shadow Dart idly watched the colorful townfolk from her vantage point as they milled about or worked on something or other. Somepony else would probably think that pony watching was boring, but it wasn't! At least, not for her. Her eyes scanned the square as she pondered over other activities she could do for such a pleasant day.. But her gaze halted on a particular pony and she slowly detached herself from her distracting thoughts to consider them. What had drawn her eye so was that they were dull in color, and stuck out against all the other ponies. It intrigued her to find yet another pony of dark coloration.. Hmm. Shadow stirred from her perch, leathery wings beating as she took to the air to get a better look.
Hivaan Ironwing continued to watch the ponies, the quiet hiss of his gas-mask concealed by the hustle bustle that amused him so. One pony even offered a wave that he returned, chuckling to himself quietly. He wanted to join in, but.....the ponies would undoubtedly be unnerved by the mask and he actually didn't want to scare them. That, and he would have no idea what he was doing.....A movement out of the corner of his eye caused him to glance to the side, but there was nothing there. His wings shifted under the cloak as he slowly relaxed, attention returning to the amusingly colorful ponies and their decorations.
Shadow Dart's fluttering wings stilled as she settled into a silent glide overhead. What more she could glean up close told her that this pony was dressed.. a little oddly? There was something on his muzzle. Although whether they were new to Ponyville was beyond her, considering that she didn't exactly spend a lot of time here either. Shadow made a decision that she could try talking to him, even though she wasn't exactly a social creature.. But she was curious. The bat-winged mare beat her wings once as she swooped back around and landed nearby, clearing her throat. "Hello?"
Hivaan Ironwing flicked his tail a little as one of the ponies dropped one of the decorations only for the group to laugh and continue on. Due to the fact his gaze was mostly upon the multicolored denizens upon the ground he missed her until she returned and landed nearby. That sound caused him to start, and with the clearing of the mare's throat he turned his head. His eyes were immediately alight with curiosity as he took in the sight of bat wings, however he restrained the curiosity. "Hello..." he'd start, his voice only partially distorted by the mask. He was still easy to understand though. "Er, I hope I'm not in the way or something." he'd continue after only a moment, the fact that he'd been standing here for a good while hitting him.
Shadow Dart immediately noted how much larger the stallion was compared to her, now that she was on the same level as him. When he spoke, she noticed his voice sounded oddly.. warped? Not just muffled, either. "Oh, no, you're not in the way at all!" She replied, offering him a friendly smile when she heard his apologetic tone. "I didn't have anything else to do and I thought I'd come and see if you were new to town." Shadow added with a little shrug. "Forgive me if I'm wrong, I don't often hang around here."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but sigh a little when the bat-winged mare confirmed that he wasn't in the way. The friendly smile was returned on his own muzzle, however the gas-mask concealed. Thankfully, the expression in his eyes was typically enough to convey the smile itself. Back home most emotions had to be conveyed through the eyes since almost all wore masks, after all! "You aren't wrong, this is my first time here. A courier job from canterlot brought me here. In any case, I'm Hivaan." he rumbled, tail swishing under the back of the cloak.
Shadow Dart's tufted ears perked in interest. "I'm Shadow Dart. So, Canterlot, huh? What did you have to deliver from there?" She asked curiously, and paused as she reconsidered what she had asked. "That is, if it isn't too nosy of me to ask." The lady smiled apologetically as she eased back into a sitting position. With the questions she had waiting on her tongue, she'd probably be here a while.. Shadow just hoped she wouldn't overload the poor guy, especially if he had a job to do.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle. "Nah, you're fine. I didn't really ask, however I did take a peek and it looked like some teeth and perhaps some scales from something or another." he'd say with a bit of a shrug as he moved to ease into a sitting position himself. He had nowhere to be, and conversation would do him good! "I was tasked by a noble-pony to bring the parcel here, where I passed it to who I assumed to be an adventurer of some sort. I don't really know all that much, but I know that it paid well." he'd admit with a sheepish 'expression'.
Shadow Dart looked surprised, her eyebrows shooting up in response to the package's contents. "Ooh, sounds creepy." She replied, sounding amused. "But hey, sounds good that the trip was worth the money." The bat-winged mare paused to thoughtfully nibble at her lower lip; she hoped the next question wasn't rude. "So, I've been meaning to ask. What's with that weird mask thing you've got on your muzzle? I've never seen anypony wear anything like it before."
Hivaan Ironwing shrugged a little. "Well, from what I'm seeing I could easily assume it is some sort of decoration, but it is out of my hooves now." he'd say as he internally agreed about the fact that the trip was worth it. He watched as the bat-winged mare paused and nibbled at her lower lip only to ask about his mask. "It...well, it is actually a little something from home." he'd start with a tilt of his head and a reassuring tone. "It is commonly known as a gas-mask, or to few a respirator." he started only to continue. "Wearing it here serves no real purpose, I suppose. However, where I came from the ash in the air would suffocate somepony if they went outside without one for too long. I have only seen one of these masks since I left as of yet."
Shadow Dart listened with interest as he spoke of his mask, and his place of origin. "Your home sounds like it was a pretty dangerous place if everypony had to wear one." She gestured towards his mask with a hoof as she spoke, looking surprised. "I'm guessing you're just too used to wearing one, huh?" The mare asked and smiled a little. "There's no danger here in Equestria.. although, quite a bit of crazy stuff does tend to happen. Especially here in Ponyville, it seems. I have no idea why."
Hivaan Ironwing nodded a little. "yeah.....when somepony, gryphon, dragon, or whatever isn't out to get you - the environment is." he mused with a half laugh and a shrug. "Uh...I suppose you could say that....." he'd say with a sheepish expression to the statement about him being used to wearing the mask. He typically only wore the mask to conceal the teeth and the barely noticable distortion to even his normal voice. When it was said there was no danger although crazy things seemed to happen in ponyville, his eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Really? How....interesting. I might have to hang around here more... I rather prefer the ponies here to Canterlot so far, anyways."
Shadow Dart lifted an eyebrow in response when gryphons and dragons were mentioned. "Yikes. Well, it's nice here regardless. I've never been to Canterlot, although I could certainly fly there at any time.." The dark mare trailed off to lift her leathery wings, giving them a rustle to indicate, and chuckled. "I'm not sure if you have any kind of celebrations where you come from, but Nightmare Night's next month. It's pretty fun, and one of the reasons why I like coming to Ponyville during autumn. You'll be glad you stuck 'round here if you do stay."
Hivaan Ironwing looks thoughtful, though he glanced at the wings once again whenever attention was brought back to them. He studied them curiously, ears perking unde the hood of the cloak. "I've been doing my best not to start asking questions. I have to say I rather like those wings if you don't mind me saying. You are the first pony I've seen with that type. I can't help but wonder how they compare to feathered wings like mine." he mused with curiosity only to shake his head and smile again under the mask. "Mmmmmm.....alright, I'll stick around then. This...Nightmare Night...sounds mighty interesting." he mused with a tilt of his head.
Shadow Dart pondered that as she glanced back down at those odd wings of hers. "Heh, thanks. You know, that sounds like a pretty fun idea to test out sometime, since I don't know, myself. But hey, don't be afraid to ask me any questions. Celestia knows I've asked plenty as it is." She replied with a reassuring smile. "As for Nightmare Night, its a night in which everypony can just dress up and have fun scaring each other. Or just play games and get free candy by going door to door." Shadow explained with a little shrug. "I like the scares the most."
Hivaan Ironwing flicks his right ear and chuckles some. "Yeah...it probably would be rather fun to test out." he mused before he chuckled a little and listened to the explanation of Nightmare Night. "Oh, so I figure the fact that there are costumes is why I'm only getting the odd curious look." he mused with a smile. "Hmmm...I might take my mask off for that night....nopony would probably mind." he mused mostly to himself thoughtfully before shrugging. "Who knows.....anyways....questions." he started, thinking to himself. "First question I should probably ask before I get ahead of myself... is what is good to eat around here?" he asked with a sheepish grin. He had bits, damned if he wasn't going to eventually seek out food!
Shadow Dart lifted her eyebrows in a questioning expression, one that faded into a grin as he asked about food. "Welll, there is the market in one part of the town you can go to where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables. There are also various small restaurants, and a nice sweetshop that I adore for their confections called Sugarcube Corner." Shadow said as she sprang onto her hooves. "It's just a place to get dessert, but I'm sure I can point you the right way to get some good food somewhere."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle a little as the mare sprang onto her hooves after mentioning this....Sugarcube Corner. "Mmmm....I feel like something sweet though. Mind showing me there to grab something before I start in on what I'm wanting to ask? I haven't had anything for a while." he asked with a sheepish tone as he lifted onto his own hooves. Truth be told ever since he'd tried cake back in canterlot.....he was a happy patron to any establishment that had it. As long as it didn't break his bits that is!
Shadow Dart nodded in agreement to his idea. "Sure. Sugarcube Corner's a pretty noticeable building, hard to miss." She said as she looked around to check her surroundings and started off, pausing once to see if he was following. "It sort of looks like a gingerbread.. house? With a cupcake on top, or something." Her brow furrowed for a moment, but she shrugged it off. "So what else is it that you're looking for?"
Hivaan Ironwing wouldn't have been able to help but snort and shrug. "Hmmm....but it is likely that I'd wind up thinking it is someone's house. Even years after leaving the island I still find stores and restaurants odd sometimes." he'd say with a laugh as he moved to follow. The description made him blink though. What an odd design.....it was probably quite the sight! When asked what else he's looking for he furrowed his brow in thought. "mmmmmm... I suppose a decent place to camp would be good as well. I prefer to sleep out under the stars." he continued with a shrug. "Beautiful things, stars.....Could never see them because of the ashen clouds..." he continued before shaking his head. "Sorry...a little off track." he muttered before grinning. "The other questions I have are sheer curiosity sake so best left to while munching."
Shadow Dart glanced back at him as he spoke of how odd stores and restaurants were to him. "Yeah? Huh. I would say that your island sounds like a strange place to live, but this place is strange enough as it is. To you even more so." The bat-winged mare chuckled and shrugged off his later apology. "It's alright. I bet you could use the clouds around here to make yourself some shelter.. or just a bed. Nopony would mind." Shadow added with an understanding nod. She fell silent afterward as she focused on leading him through the worn dirt roads to their first destination at Sugarcube Corner. She'd pause outside it so she could get a look at whatever expression he'd make at the sight of it.
Hivaan Ironwing gave a nod followed by a quiet sigh behind the mask. "Yeah, between the bright color the ponies here take as well as the peaceful lifestyle. It is strange, but I prefer it." he happily quipped as he followed the bat-winged mare. He would have had a blank stare for a while when she said he could use the clouds to make himself shelter...or a bed. That was before he recalled seeing a pegasus pony reclining on a cloud once. How interesting, he never even thought of that! His thoughts continued to drift in the silence until she came to a stop and his gaze fell upon Sugercube Corner. His expression flitted between incredulity, shock, and amazement. If he hadn't had the mask on, his jaw likely would have dropped a little at how....unique the place was. Gingerbread house with a cupcake indeed!
Shadow Dart watched Hivaan's face, at least what little she could see of it, and chortled softly. "Yeah, pretty surprising huh?" The mare asked and turned to trot up the steps, pushing open the door with a hoof. "C'mon. You'll like the inside, it smells amazing." She prompted and slipped through the door. Shadow moved out of the way of it once inside to give Hivaan room and sniffed at the air- perhaps later she ought to fetch some bits from her home to get something.
Hivaan Ironwing tore his gaze off of the building and chuckled. "Yeah....even when you said it would be like this....I didn't picture....this." he laughed as he gestured at the place with a hoof. He moved to follow up to the building and once she slipped in through the door he moved to follow. He could smell it through the mask.....although barely. He could only imagine what it would smell like if he were to take the mask off! He gazed around and couldn't help but grin at the sight of different types of cake. All manner of cupcakes, regular cake...candied apples?...Mmmmm...what to get! "What would you suggest?" he asked the mare, head tilting. She knew what was best better than he.,
Shadow Dart smiled and tapped the tip of one black hoof against the floorboards in thought, pondering. "I'm not sure, really. There's so much to choose from! I guess it depends on your preference or what you're craving, yeah?" She asked, glancing up to him. "Although, had I remembered to bring some bits with me I probably would have gone for cupcakes. They'll definitely be something I plan on getting later, at least." Shadow said, and after a short pause, she shrugged. "Just go for whatever sounds the best, I guarantee you'll be satisfied."
Hivaan Ironwing looked around and nodded. "That is true." he started only to look around and sigh. "It all looks good though." he continued only to glance at the mare and tilt his head. Cupcakes do sound good, perhaps they are like regular cake? What is he kidding, they have to be related to cakes. "I'll go with some of those then." he rumbled onto to approach the counter and grab two orders of a 'dozen' cupcakes. The price was fairly good to....What could he say....he liked cake, and this would last him a while? Once that was taken care of he turned and took the two boxes with a hoof only to pause. He frowned, realizing he had no way to carry it only to sigh and focus through the gem, using it to cast a levitation and 'follow' spell. The gem lit up, and his eyes gained a more definitive glow. "Alright, know of a good place out of the way to go?" he asked as he turned to the mare.
Shadow Dart looked amused when Hivaan seemed to have just as much a difficulty in deciding, at least until the mention of cupcakes. The bat-winged mare stood by while he made his purchase and watched with intrigue as he.. somehow made the boxes float. Wasn't he a pegasus? She'd have to ask him about that too. "Sure." Shadow replied, turning and leading the way out of Sugarcube Corner. Once outside she paused to look around, considering which of the places here would be good enough. She hadn't exactly been to too many, considering the little time she actually spent in Ponyville.. but she was sure she knew of one. "I can't remember the name, but I know a place. This way."
Hivaan Ironwing followed the mare out of Sugarcube corner, one or two ponies looking at the floating boxes with curiosity only to turn back to what they were doing when they didn't get that good a look at him. Due to the fact he wore the cloak they didn't see the wings nor his head very well, and thus thought of him as an odd unicorn. He figured he'd have explaining to do since the mare already knew he was a pegasus, but he really didn't want to have to deal with carrying around boxes with one hoof and walking on three legs. Or whatever he'd have had to do otherwise. In any case he was more than happy to follow on, the two boxes floating behind while wreathed in dim green.
Shadow Dart had to pause a few times to remember which direction to go through Ponyville to find the place, but the familiar surroundings always guided her. She eventually lead him to a place, a small restaurant with a few tables and seats scattered just outside it. The food, she remembered, was pleasant and the place itself was nice and quiet. "Here we are. You can go inside to order, but we can sit anywhere we like. They've got like, assorted sandwiches, soups and such here. You might like it." Shadow said at last, turning towards the stallion.
Hivaan Ironwing let her take all the time she needed to remember which direction to go, he was in no hurry. Soon enough they came to a small restaurant with a few tables and seats scattered outside. "Mmm.. Okay, find somewhere to sit and I'll be back in a moment..." he rumbled through the mask as he moved to walk into the establishment only to pause and frown as he glanced back at the mare. "You want anything?" he asked. It felt rather rude not to ask! Strangely enough, though, even when he'd eventually enter, the two boxes continued to hover and would actually follow the mare to where she would sit.
Shadow Dart gave Hivaan a nod before she would move to take a seat at a table placed near a tree. In the summertime it probably would have provided nice shade, but for autumn the colors were just lovely to look at. The pony crossed her forelegs on the table's surface and glanced back at the cloaked pegasus in surprise. "Oh, well.. If you don't mind buying for me.. A sandwich would be nice. Any kind would do." Shadow replied with a grateful smile. Once he'd gone inside she'd turn away to eye the floating boxes for a moment with a raised eyebrow.
Hivaan Ironwing dipped his head and entered the establishment as the boxes continued to float about near the table. After a while he'd return with sandwich baskets floating along behind much like the cupcake boxes. Once he neared the table a flash of the green gem preceded the cupcake boxes setting down on the table as well as the baskets. One for the mare and one for himself. He sat down himself and sighed, happy to be off his hooves. On one hoof he was hesitant to take the mask off, but on the other hoof.....tartarus with it, he wanted the sandwich! The mask was coated in the glow and, once the strap was unfastened, lifted away from his muzzle. He took a moment to sigh as the delightfully fresh scent of the air hit his nose as well as the smell of the sandwich and the cupcakes. "Always smells so good." he mused in his warped voice as he happily picked the sandwich up in his hooves and took a bite. He was simply...playing it cool as it were.
Shadow Dart waited patiently outside, her attention shifting from the floating boxes of cupcakes to the tree in its full fall colors, and any ponies nearby. She looked up from them once Hivaan returned with the sandwiches and offered another smile for him as he set a plate down for her. "Thanks, I'm very grateful." Shadow said and made to pick up her sandwich, but was given pause as Hivaan pulled off his mask. His voice.. even sounded strange without it. Welp, add another question to the list! But she'd let him eat first. Shadow dug into her own sandwich.
Hivaan Ironwing happily took bite after bite of the sandwich. By the sun and moon he would have left the ashen isles just for the food of the old homeland. Well, that and the clean air...and peace. Anyways, he shook his head to let his hood fall back so if any crumbs fell, it wasn't into the cloak, hopefully. Soon enough he finished the sandwich, sadly, and he turned his gaze to one of the cupcake boxes. He moved to open one and happily took one of the cupcakes out and took a bite, sighing happily. Ah yes, delightful cake! "Alright....I'm sure you have questions." he'd start before offering a smile. Of course if she hadn't noticed while he ate, the mare'd wind up seeing the sharpened nature of his teeth at that time.
Shadow Dart looked around at their surroundings while she ate on her own sandwich, but she did occasionally steal curious glances at Hivaan. She smirked around the last bite of her food when he finally spoke up, mentioning her curiosity. The bat-winged lady held a hoof up to her mouth as she swallowed her food, giving herself a moment before she spoke. "You saw right through me. I do. I just wanted to ask how in Equestria that you can use magic even though you're clearly not a unicorn. Or an alicorn, unless you're hiding a horn somehow." Shadow's eyes flicked up to Hivaan's forehead, as though expecting to see one beneath the hood.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle and shift some where he sat to get comfortable. "As I mentioned I came from a land where there was almost constant conflict. This, in the years when I was a foal, quickly grew to include earth and pegasus ponies having to fight against hostile unicorn magic. I discovered my talent, as it were, by creating this style armor from several magically infused crystals the pony enclave had that were once native to my homeland. The gemstone itself has been enchanted and engraved with runes in order to allow me to use it as a focus for spells. It takes a great deal more effort to learn due to the fact it is an external focus, but in the end it is just as effective. While there have been...side effects....to prolonged use, spells come much more naturally than before. Sometimes I wonder if I even need the focus anymore on some spells."
Shadow Dart listened to Hivaan as he spoke of his homeland and the magical advancements that had been made. Especially for other pony species to use magic like unicorns! "That's pretty amazing. I'd say even beneficial, at least for you and your island. I'm not sure how well it'd go down here in Equestria, since ponies are so unpredictable. Not that everypony's bad but, you know." The mare gave a little shrug. "So what are these side effects you mentioned?"
Hivaan Ironwing gained a rather thoughtful look before shaking his head. "To be perfectly honest, the crystals are beyond rare ever since the mines ran out a long time ago, and the subsequent crash of the island's economy. The enclave simply had some in storage in the hopes of eventually trading some for food. Of course mischevious colts can wind up anywhere and I was bored at the time." he started only to sigh and frown. "The ponies here are much better than the warlords back home. One loses power to another and so on it goes. The current rulers, a group of magicals, noticed that some earth and pegasus ponies in my enclave could use magic. Several years later we were crushed." he finished with a shake of his head. "Anyways... the primary 'magical' side effect is the fact my eyes have a dim glow even when I'm no longer channeling. My other...unique...traits are caused by continuous overuse of what would be known here as dark magic. Except my wings of course, that is just how I was born."
Shadow Dart kept silent as she listened to Hivaan's answer, smiling faintly once when he mentioned that he had been 'bored at the time.' Her tufted ears tilted forward slightly as he reached the end, explaining his side effects. "Ooh, dark magic? Wow." Her first response came as her eyebrows lifted in surprise. "I'm sure an economy crash like that would cause a lot of craziness, but you wouldn't have to worry about any of that here. Our princesses have worked pretty hard to keep the harmony here, which is why everypony is as nice as they are." Shadow continued. "But having glowing eyes sounds pretty neat, and harmless for a side effect."
Hivaan Ironwing nods some and shrugs. "Yeah...Back then it was either survive or die along with friends and family. Early on the stigma on darker magics were forgotten and after a century or so there was no longer such thing as dark and light magic. Only healing, battle, and utility spells...Of course everyone attributed the side effects of the magic to stress and the environment." he commented with a shrug as he crossed his hooves and laid his head down on said hooves. "They've done a great job." he agreed and took a deep breath of the fresh air to calm his nerves after speaking of darker places. "If you could find a good sized crystal with the right magical density, I could probably fashion you a focus. But from what I understand crystals such as these are.......very rare, to put it simply..."
Shadow Dart pondered over this next batch of information, and the offer, tapping the tip of one of her hooves against her chin. "I guess you've just got to do what you have to to survive." The bat-winged lady agreed in a murmur. "I sort of know about a place that has a lot of crystals. I've only heard of it, and that Ponyville had been getting some visitors from it. Some place called the Crystal Empire..? I wouldn't know if the crystals there are the type you'd need though." Shadow rambled as she noted Hivaan had set his head upon his hooves. She hoped him telling her about his home wasn't bumming him out too much. "But it's alright though. I don't think I'd be able to manage using magic. Being able to control weather's good enough for me."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle at that, nodding. "I actually have heard some about the Crystal Empire.....unfortunately the only crystal I remember reading about that seems remotely similar to what I'd need would be the crystal heart itself. I seriously doubt anypony there would want a half-loon toying with that." he quipped with a chuckle. He would have been pulled off track there when she mentioned controlling weather. Any sort of weather manipulation that was semi-normal for pegasus ponies here had been forgotten long ago back on the isles since it was impossible to use. "How much control do you have on it?"
Shadow Dart released a laugh as he spoke of the crystal heart and quieted to ponder over his question. "I guess not more than any other pegasus. Although I do have a special touch with storms.." The mare replied haltingly and glanced in the direction of Canterlot upon its high mountain. "I wouldn't really know what much is different between my species and pegasi, except maybe a sensitivity to heat and bright light." Shadow smiled, looking amused. "And I think some of them work for Princess Luna from what I've heard.. if they're not crazy rumors."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but snort. "Much more control than I'd hope to have over it. Weather control wasn't taught back home due to the fact doing such wasn't worth the effort due to the ash clouds simply returning as fast as they were cleaned" he quipped as he paused to follow her glance only to look thoughtful when she brought up hearing about some of her kind working for Princess Luna. "I don't recall seeing any when I was there, but then again I was mostly out and about during the day and sleeping under the stars at night." he mused only to shrug. "I doubt they are crazy rumors....every rumor tends to have at least some form of fact along for the ride."
Shadow Dart nodded thoughtfully. "Night time would make sense." She murmured and refocused back upon Hivaan with a raised eyebrow. "You know, sometime I can teach you about controlling weather. I'm sure you still have the magic for it, it's just the matter of learning how to use it yeah?" The lady said with a little rustle of her own wings. Shadow smiled reassuringly. "It'd be another fun thing to do to pass the time, I'm sure."
Hivaan Ironwing shrugged a little and straightened up where he sat. "If I wind up in canterlot for work I'll take a look, hm?" he'd say as he paused and raised his own eyebrow only to dip his head and smile some. "That would be great, honestly..... I lilke learning more about the ancestral lands the more I'm here." he mused only to stand and stretch a little. "I'll be here at least until Nightmare Night....If I'm not here I'm probably on a job in canterlot, whatever happens I suppose." he mused before shrugging. "Sadly we must part ways for now, I need to find somewhere to crash before I fall asleep on my hooves. I'm....rather tired, actually." he'd say with a sheepish tone as the gas-mask floated up and fastened to his muzzle once again. "Thank you for your help....if you see me feel free to fly down to chat or get me for those lessons." he'd say with a dip of his head. "Oh...and have a few cupcakes, least I can do." he continued as several cupcakes floated from the box to sit in front of the bat-winged mare. "I'll see you later, though." he rumbled with a bit of a bow before, if given leave, he'd head on his way to find somewhere to collapse.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but be both amused and impressed with some of the sights that ponyville provided. Many ponies were putting up quite interesting decorations, and best of all very few were staring at the 'strange' pony that had wandered into their midst! Perhaps they thought he was in costume? Whatever the reason, it helped him feel quite a bit more comfortable than when he had been around Canterlot. Then again it might be the jingle of bits that came from the bag at his side that cheered him to. It had been just a simple courier type job, nothing illegal he hoped, but he needed the money and the employer had provided it. He came to a stop at the edge of a building as he was forced to pause. There were more ponies bustling about the square, seemingly busy with more decoration work. It was a curious sight that he couldn't help but pause and take in. Ponies here were so different. He truly enjoyed that fact, but he couldn't help it if he was bemused by the sight at times.
Shadow Dart idly watched the colorful townfolk from her vantage point as they milled about or worked on something or other. Somepony else would probably think that pony watching was boring, but it wasn't! At least, not for her. Her eyes scanned the square as she pondered over other activities she could do for such a pleasant day.. But her gaze halted on a particular pony and she slowly detached herself from her distracting thoughts to consider them. What had drawn her eye so was that they were dull in color, and stuck out against all the other ponies. It intrigued her to find yet another pony of dark coloration.. Hmm. Shadow stirred from her perch, leathery wings beating as she took to the air to get a better look.
Hivaan Ironwing continued to watch the ponies, the quiet hiss of his gas-mask concealed by the hustle bustle that amused him so. One pony even offered a wave that he returned, chuckling to himself quietly. He wanted to join in, but.....the ponies would undoubtedly be unnerved by the mask and he actually didn't want to scare them. That, and he would have no idea what he was doing.....A movement out of the corner of his eye caused him to glance to the side, but there was nothing there. His wings shifted under the cloak as he slowly relaxed, attention returning to the amusingly colorful ponies and their decorations.
Shadow Dart's fluttering wings stilled as she settled into a silent glide overhead. What more she could glean up close told her that this pony was dressed.. a little oddly? There was something on his muzzle. Although whether they were new to Ponyville was beyond her, considering that she didn't exactly spend a lot of time here either. Shadow made a decision that she could try talking to him, even though she wasn't exactly a social creature.. But she was curious. The bat-winged mare beat her wings once as she swooped back around and landed nearby, clearing her throat. "Hello?"
Hivaan Ironwing flicked his tail a little as one of the ponies dropped one of the decorations only for the group to laugh and continue on. Due to the fact his gaze was mostly upon the multicolored denizens upon the ground he missed her until she returned and landed nearby. That sound caused him to start, and with the clearing of the mare's throat he turned his head. His eyes were immediately alight with curiosity as he took in the sight of bat wings, however he restrained the curiosity. "Hello..." he'd start, his voice only partially distorted by the mask. He was still easy to understand though. "Er, I hope I'm not in the way or something." he'd continue after only a moment, the fact that he'd been standing here for a good while hitting him.
Shadow Dart immediately noted how much larger the stallion was compared to her, now that she was on the same level as him. When he spoke, she noticed his voice sounded oddly.. warped? Not just muffled, either. "Oh, no, you're not in the way at all!" She replied, offering him a friendly smile when she heard his apologetic tone. "I didn't have anything else to do and I thought I'd come and see if you were new to town." Shadow added with a little shrug. "Forgive me if I'm wrong, I don't often hang around here."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but sigh a little when the bat-winged mare confirmed that he wasn't in the way. The friendly smile was returned on his own muzzle, however the gas-mask concealed. Thankfully, the expression in his eyes was typically enough to convey the smile itself. Back home most emotions had to be conveyed through the eyes since almost all wore masks, after all! "You aren't wrong, this is my first time here. A courier job from canterlot brought me here. In any case, I'm Hivaan." he rumbled, tail swishing under the back of the cloak.
Shadow Dart's tufted ears perked in interest. "I'm Shadow Dart. So, Canterlot, huh? What did you have to deliver from there?" She asked curiously, and paused as she reconsidered what she had asked. "That is, if it isn't too nosy of me to ask." The lady smiled apologetically as she eased back into a sitting position. With the questions she had waiting on her tongue, she'd probably be here a while.. Shadow just hoped she wouldn't overload the poor guy, especially if he had a job to do.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle. "Nah, you're fine. I didn't really ask, however I did take a peek and it looked like some teeth and perhaps some scales from something or another." he'd say with a bit of a shrug as he moved to ease into a sitting position himself. He had nowhere to be, and conversation would do him good! "I was tasked by a noble-pony to bring the parcel here, where I passed it to who I assumed to be an adventurer of some sort. I don't really know all that much, but I know that it paid well." he'd admit with a sheepish 'expression'.
Shadow Dart looked surprised, her eyebrows shooting up in response to the package's contents. "Ooh, sounds creepy." She replied, sounding amused. "But hey, sounds good that the trip was worth the money." The bat-winged mare paused to thoughtfully nibble at her lower lip; she hoped the next question wasn't rude. "So, I've been meaning to ask. What's with that weird mask thing you've got on your muzzle? I've never seen anypony wear anything like it before."
Hivaan Ironwing shrugged a little. "Well, from what I'm seeing I could easily assume it is some sort of decoration, but it is out of my hooves now." he'd say as he internally agreed about the fact that the trip was worth it. He watched as the bat-winged mare paused and nibbled at her lower lip only to ask about his mask. "It...well, it is actually a little something from home." he'd start with a tilt of his head and a reassuring tone. "It is commonly known as a gas-mask, or to few a respirator." he started only to continue. "Wearing it here serves no real purpose, I suppose. However, where I came from the ash in the air would suffocate somepony if they went outside without one for too long. I have only seen one of these masks since I left as of yet."
Shadow Dart listened with interest as he spoke of his mask, and his place of origin. "Your home sounds like it was a pretty dangerous place if everypony had to wear one." She gestured towards his mask with a hoof as she spoke, looking surprised. "I'm guessing you're just too used to wearing one, huh?" The mare asked and smiled a little. "There's no danger here in Equestria.. although, quite a bit of crazy stuff does tend to happen. Especially here in Ponyville, it seems. I have no idea why."
Hivaan Ironwing nodded a little. "yeah.....when somepony, gryphon, dragon, or whatever isn't out to get you - the environment is." he mused with a half laugh and a shrug. "Uh...I suppose you could say that....." he'd say with a sheepish expression to the statement about him being used to wearing the mask. He typically only wore the mask to conceal the teeth and the barely noticable distortion to even his normal voice. When it was said there was no danger although crazy things seemed to happen in ponyville, his eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Really? How....interesting. I might have to hang around here more... I rather prefer the ponies here to Canterlot so far, anyways."
Shadow Dart lifted an eyebrow in response when gryphons and dragons were mentioned. "Yikes. Well, it's nice here regardless. I've never been to Canterlot, although I could certainly fly there at any time.." The dark mare trailed off to lift her leathery wings, giving them a rustle to indicate, and chuckled. "I'm not sure if you have any kind of celebrations where you come from, but Nightmare Night's next month. It's pretty fun, and one of the reasons why I like coming to Ponyville during autumn. You'll be glad you stuck 'round here if you do stay."
Hivaan Ironwing looks thoughtful, though he glanced at the wings once again whenever attention was brought back to them. He studied them curiously, ears perking unde the hood of the cloak. "I've been doing my best not to start asking questions. I have to say I rather like those wings if you don't mind me saying. You are the first pony I've seen with that type. I can't help but wonder how they compare to feathered wings like mine." he mused with curiosity only to shake his head and smile again under the mask. "Mmmmmm.....alright, I'll stick around then. This...Nightmare Night...sounds mighty interesting." he mused with a tilt of his head.
Shadow Dart pondered that as she glanced back down at those odd wings of hers. "Heh, thanks. You know, that sounds like a pretty fun idea to test out sometime, since I don't know, myself. But hey, don't be afraid to ask me any questions. Celestia knows I've asked plenty as it is." She replied with a reassuring smile. "As for Nightmare Night, its a night in which everypony can just dress up and have fun scaring each other. Or just play games and get free candy by going door to door." Shadow explained with a little shrug. "I like the scares the most."
Hivaan Ironwing flicks his right ear and chuckles some. "Yeah...it probably would be rather fun to test out." he mused before he chuckled a little and listened to the explanation of Nightmare Night. "Oh, so I figure the fact that there are costumes is why I'm only getting the odd curious look." he mused with a smile. "Hmmm...I might take my mask off for that night....nopony would probably mind." he mused mostly to himself thoughtfully before shrugging. "Who knows.....anyways....questions." he started, thinking to himself. "First question I should probably ask before I get ahead of myself... is what is good to eat around here?" he asked with a sheepish grin. He had bits, damned if he wasn't going to eventually seek out food!
Shadow Dart lifted her eyebrows in a questioning expression, one that faded into a grin as he asked about food. "Welll, there is the market in one part of the town you can go to where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables. There are also various small restaurants, and a nice sweetshop that I adore for their confections called Sugarcube Corner." Shadow said as she sprang onto her hooves. "It's just a place to get dessert, but I'm sure I can point you the right way to get some good food somewhere."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle a little as the mare sprang onto her hooves after mentioning this....Sugarcube Corner. "Mmmm....I feel like something sweet though. Mind showing me there to grab something before I start in on what I'm wanting to ask? I haven't had anything for a while." he asked with a sheepish tone as he lifted onto his own hooves. Truth be told ever since he'd tried cake back in canterlot.....he was a happy patron to any establishment that had it. As long as it didn't break his bits that is!
Shadow Dart nodded in agreement to his idea. "Sure. Sugarcube Corner's a pretty noticeable building, hard to miss." She said as she looked around to check her surroundings and started off, pausing once to see if he was following. "It sort of looks like a gingerbread.. house? With a cupcake on top, or something." Her brow furrowed for a moment, but she shrugged it off. "So what else is it that you're looking for?"
Hivaan Ironwing wouldn't have been able to help but snort and shrug. "Hmmm....but it is likely that I'd wind up thinking it is someone's house. Even years after leaving the island I still find stores and restaurants odd sometimes." he'd say with a laugh as he moved to follow. The description made him blink though. What an odd design.....it was probably quite the sight! When asked what else he's looking for he furrowed his brow in thought. "mmmmmm... I suppose a decent place to camp would be good as well. I prefer to sleep out under the stars." he continued with a shrug. "Beautiful things, stars.....Could never see them because of the ashen clouds..." he continued before shaking his head. "Sorry...a little off track." he muttered before grinning. "The other questions I have are sheer curiosity sake so best left to while munching."
Shadow Dart glanced back at him as he spoke of how odd stores and restaurants were to him. "Yeah? Huh. I would say that your island sounds like a strange place to live, but this place is strange enough as it is. To you even more so." The bat-winged mare chuckled and shrugged off his later apology. "It's alright. I bet you could use the clouds around here to make yourself some shelter.. or just a bed. Nopony would mind." Shadow added with an understanding nod. She fell silent afterward as she focused on leading him through the worn dirt roads to their first destination at Sugarcube Corner. She'd pause outside it so she could get a look at whatever expression he'd make at the sight of it.
Hivaan Ironwing gave a nod followed by a quiet sigh behind the mask. "Yeah, between the bright color the ponies here take as well as the peaceful lifestyle. It is strange, but I prefer it." he happily quipped as he followed the bat-winged mare. He would have had a blank stare for a while when she said he could use the clouds to make himself shelter...or a bed. That was before he recalled seeing a pegasus pony reclining on a cloud once. How interesting, he never even thought of that! His thoughts continued to drift in the silence until she came to a stop and his gaze fell upon Sugercube Corner. His expression flitted between incredulity, shock, and amazement. If he hadn't had the mask on, his jaw likely would have dropped a little at how....unique the place was. Gingerbread house with a cupcake indeed!
Shadow Dart watched Hivaan's face, at least what little she could see of it, and chortled softly. "Yeah, pretty surprising huh?" The mare asked and turned to trot up the steps, pushing open the door with a hoof. "C'mon. You'll like the inside, it smells amazing." She prompted and slipped through the door. Shadow moved out of the way of it once inside to give Hivaan room and sniffed at the air- perhaps later she ought to fetch some bits from her home to get something.
Hivaan Ironwing tore his gaze off of the building and chuckled. "Yeah....even when you said it would be like this....I didn't picture....this." he laughed as he gestured at the place with a hoof. He moved to follow up to the building and once she slipped in through the door he moved to follow. He could smell it through the mask.....although barely. He could only imagine what it would smell like if he were to take the mask off! He gazed around and couldn't help but grin at the sight of different types of cake. All manner of cupcakes, regular cake...candied apples?...Mmmmm...what to get! "What would you suggest?" he asked the mare, head tilting. She knew what was best better than he.,
Shadow Dart smiled and tapped the tip of one black hoof against the floorboards in thought, pondering. "I'm not sure, really. There's so much to choose from! I guess it depends on your preference or what you're craving, yeah?" She asked, glancing up to him. "Although, had I remembered to bring some bits with me I probably would have gone for cupcakes. They'll definitely be something I plan on getting later, at least." Shadow said, and after a short pause, she shrugged. "Just go for whatever sounds the best, I guarantee you'll be satisfied."
Hivaan Ironwing looked around and nodded. "That is true." he started only to look around and sigh. "It all looks good though." he continued only to glance at the mare and tilt his head. Cupcakes do sound good, perhaps they are like regular cake? What is he kidding, they have to be related to cakes. "I'll go with some of those then." he rumbled onto to approach the counter and grab two orders of a 'dozen' cupcakes. The price was fairly good to....What could he say....he liked cake, and this would last him a while? Once that was taken care of he turned and took the two boxes with a hoof only to pause. He frowned, realizing he had no way to carry it only to sigh and focus through the gem, using it to cast a levitation and 'follow' spell. The gem lit up, and his eyes gained a more definitive glow. "Alright, know of a good place out of the way to go?" he asked as he turned to the mare.
Shadow Dart looked amused when Hivaan seemed to have just as much a difficulty in deciding, at least until the mention of cupcakes. The bat-winged mare stood by while he made his purchase and watched with intrigue as he.. somehow made the boxes float. Wasn't he a pegasus? She'd have to ask him about that too. "Sure." Shadow replied, turning and leading the way out of Sugarcube Corner. Once outside she paused to look around, considering which of the places here would be good enough. She hadn't exactly been to too many, considering the little time she actually spent in Ponyville.. but she was sure she knew of one. "I can't remember the name, but I know a place. This way."
Hivaan Ironwing followed the mare out of Sugarcube corner, one or two ponies looking at the floating boxes with curiosity only to turn back to what they were doing when they didn't get that good a look at him. Due to the fact he wore the cloak they didn't see the wings nor his head very well, and thus thought of him as an odd unicorn. He figured he'd have explaining to do since the mare already knew he was a pegasus, but he really didn't want to have to deal with carrying around boxes with one hoof and walking on three legs. Or whatever he'd have had to do otherwise. In any case he was more than happy to follow on, the two boxes floating behind while wreathed in dim green.
Shadow Dart had to pause a few times to remember which direction to go through Ponyville to find the place, but the familiar surroundings always guided her. She eventually lead him to a place, a small restaurant with a few tables and seats scattered just outside it. The food, she remembered, was pleasant and the place itself was nice and quiet. "Here we are. You can go inside to order, but we can sit anywhere we like. They've got like, assorted sandwiches, soups and such here. You might like it." Shadow said at last, turning towards the stallion.
Hivaan Ironwing let her take all the time she needed to remember which direction to go, he was in no hurry. Soon enough they came to a small restaurant with a few tables and seats scattered outside. "Mmm.. Okay, find somewhere to sit and I'll be back in a moment..." he rumbled through the mask as he moved to walk into the establishment only to pause and frown as he glanced back at the mare. "You want anything?" he asked. It felt rather rude not to ask! Strangely enough, though, even when he'd eventually enter, the two boxes continued to hover and would actually follow the mare to where she would sit.
Shadow Dart gave Hivaan a nod before she would move to take a seat at a table placed near a tree. In the summertime it probably would have provided nice shade, but for autumn the colors were just lovely to look at. The pony crossed her forelegs on the table's surface and glanced back at the cloaked pegasus in surprise. "Oh, well.. If you don't mind buying for me.. A sandwich would be nice. Any kind would do." Shadow replied with a grateful smile. Once he'd gone inside she'd turn away to eye the floating boxes for a moment with a raised eyebrow.
Hivaan Ironwing dipped his head and entered the establishment as the boxes continued to float about near the table. After a while he'd return with sandwich baskets floating along behind much like the cupcake boxes. Once he neared the table a flash of the green gem preceded the cupcake boxes setting down on the table as well as the baskets. One for the mare and one for himself. He sat down himself and sighed, happy to be off his hooves. On one hoof he was hesitant to take the mask off, but on the other hoof.....tartarus with it, he wanted the sandwich! The mask was coated in the glow and, once the strap was unfastened, lifted away from his muzzle. He took a moment to sigh as the delightfully fresh scent of the air hit his nose as well as the smell of the sandwich and the cupcakes. "Always smells so good." he mused in his warped voice as he happily picked the sandwich up in his hooves and took a bite. He was simply...playing it cool as it were.
Shadow Dart waited patiently outside, her attention shifting from the floating boxes of cupcakes to the tree in its full fall colors, and any ponies nearby. She looked up from them once Hivaan returned with the sandwiches and offered another smile for him as he set a plate down for her. "Thanks, I'm very grateful." Shadow said and made to pick up her sandwich, but was given pause as Hivaan pulled off his mask. His voice.. even sounded strange without it. Welp, add another question to the list! But she'd let him eat first. Shadow dug into her own sandwich.
Hivaan Ironwing happily took bite after bite of the sandwich. By the sun and moon he would have left the ashen isles just for the food of the old homeland. Well, that and the clean air...and peace. Anyways, he shook his head to let his hood fall back so if any crumbs fell, it wasn't into the cloak, hopefully. Soon enough he finished the sandwich, sadly, and he turned his gaze to one of the cupcake boxes. He moved to open one and happily took one of the cupcakes out and took a bite, sighing happily. Ah yes, delightful cake! "Alright....I'm sure you have questions." he'd start before offering a smile. Of course if she hadn't noticed while he ate, the mare'd wind up seeing the sharpened nature of his teeth at that time.
Shadow Dart looked around at their surroundings while she ate on her own sandwich, but she did occasionally steal curious glances at Hivaan. She smirked around the last bite of her food when he finally spoke up, mentioning her curiosity. The bat-winged lady held a hoof up to her mouth as she swallowed her food, giving herself a moment before she spoke. "You saw right through me. I do. I just wanted to ask how in Equestria that you can use magic even though you're clearly not a unicorn. Or an alicorn, unless you're hiding a horn somehow." Shadow's eyes flicked up to Hivaan's forehead, as though expecting to see one beneath the hood.
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle and shift some where he sat to get comfortable. "As I mentioned I came from a land where there was almost constant conflict. This, in the years when I was a foal, quickly grew to include earth and pegasus ponies having to fight against hostile unicorn magic. I discovered my talent, as it were, by creating this style armor from several magically infused crystals the pony enclave had that were once native to my homeland. The gemstone itself has been enchanted and engraved with runes in order to allow me to use it as a focus for spells. It takes a great deal more effort to learn due to the fact it is an external focus, but in the end it is just as effective. While there have been...side effects....to prolonged use, spells come much more naturally than before. Sometimes I wonder if I even need the focus anymore on some spells."
Shadow Dart listened to Hivaan as he spoke of his homeland and the magical advancements that had been made. Especially for other pony species to use magic like unicorns! "That's pretty amazing. I'd say even beneficial, at least for you and your island. I'm not sure how well it'd go down here in Equestria, since ponies are so unpredictable. Not that everypony's bad but, you know." The mare gave a little shrug. "So what are these side effects you mentioned?"
Hivaan Ironwing gained a rather thoughtful look before shaking his head. "To be perfectly honest, the crystals are beyond rare ever since the mines ran out a long time ago, and the subsequent crash of the island's economy. The enclave simply had some in storage in the hopes of eventually trading some for food. Of course mischevious colts can wind up anywhere and I was bored at the time." he started only to sigh and frown. "The ponies here are much better than the warlords back home. One loses power to another and so on it goes. The current rulers, a group of magicals, noticed that some earth and pegasus ponies in my enclave could use magic. Several years later we were crushed." he finished with a shake of his head. "Anyways... the primary 'magical' side effect is the fact my eyes have a dim glow even when I'm no longer channeling. My other...unique...traits are caused by continuous overuse of what would be known here as dark magic. Except my wings of course, that is just how I was born."
Shadow Dart kept silent as she listened to Hivaan's answer, smiling faintly once when he mentioned that he had been 'bored at the time.' Her tufted ears tilted forward slightly as he reached the end, explaining his side effects. "Ooh, dark magic? Wow." Her first response came as her eyebrows lifted in surprise. "I'm sure an economy crash like that would cause a lot of craziness, but you wouldn't have to worry about any of that here. Our princesses have worked pretty hard to keep the harmony here, which is why everypony is as nice as they are." Shadow continued. "But having glowing eyes sounds pretty neat, and harmless for a side effect."
Hivaan Ironwing nods some and shrugs. "Yeah...Back then it was either survive or die along with friends and family. Early on the stigma on darker magics were forgotten and after a century or so there was no longer such thing as dark and light magic. Only healing, battle, and utility spells...Of course everyone attributed the side effects of the magic to stress and the environment." he commented with a shrug as he crossed his hooves and laid his head down on said hooves. "They've done a great job." he agreed and took a deep breath of the fresh air to calm his nerves after speaking of darker places. "If you could find a good sized crystal with the right magical density, I could probably fashion you a focus. But from what I understand crystals such as these are.......very rare, to put it simply..."
Shadow Dart pondered over this next batch of information, and the offer, tapping the tip of one of her hooves against her chin. "I guess you've just got to do what you have to to survive." The bat-winged lady agreed in a murmur. "I sort of know about a place that has a lot of crystals. I've only heard of it, and that Ponyville had been getting some visitors from it. Some place called the Crystal Empire..? I wouldn't know if the crystals there are the type you'd need though." Shadow rambled as she noted Hivaan had set his head upon his hooves. She hoped him telling her about his home wasn't bumming him out too much. "But it's alright though. I don't think I'd be able to manage using magic. Being able to control weather's good enough for me."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but chuckle at that, nodding. "I actually have heard some about the Crystal Empire.....unfortunately the only crystal I remember reading about that seems remotely similar to what I'd need would be the crystal heart itself. I seriously doubt anypony there would want a half-loon toying with that." he quipped with a chuckle. He would have been pulled off track there when she mentioned controlling weather. Any sort of weather manipulation that was semi-normal for pegasus ponies here had been forgotten long ago back on the isles since it was impossible to use. "How much control do you have on it?"
Shadow Dart released a laugh as he spoke of the crystal heart and quieted to ponder over his question. "I guess not more than any other pegasus. Although I do have a special touch with storms.." The mare replied haltingly and glanced in the direction of Canterlot upon its high mountain. "I wouldn't really know what much is different between my species and pegasi, except maybe a sensitivity to heat and bright light." Shadow smiled, looking amused. "And I think some of them work for Princess Luna from what I've heard.. if they're not crazy rumors."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but snort. "Much more control than I'd hope to have over it. Weather control wasn't taught back home due to the fact doing such wasn't worth the effort due to the ash clouds simply returning as fast as they were cleaned" he quipped as he paused to follow her glance only to look thoughtful when she brought up hearing about some of her kind working for Princess Luna. "I don't recall seeing any when I was there, but then again I was mostly out and about during the day and sleeping under the stars at night." he mused only to shrug. "I doubt they are crazy rumors....every rumor tends to have at least some form of fact along for the ride."
Shadow Dart nodded thoughtfully. "Night time would make sense." She murmured and refocused back upon Hivaan with a raised eyebrow. "You know, sometime I can teach you about controlling weather. I'm sure you still have the magic for it, it's just the matter of learning how to use it yeah?" The lady said with a little rustle of her own wings. Shadow smiled reassuringly. "It'd be another fun thing to do to pass the time, I'm sure."
Hivaan Ironwing shrugged a little and straightened up where he sat. "If I wind up in canterlot for work I'll take a look, hm?" he'd say as he paused and raised his own eyebrow only to dip his head and smile some. "That would be great, honestly..... I lilke learning more about the ancestral lands the more I'm here." he mused only to stand and stretch a little. "I'll be here at least until Nightmare Night....If I'm not here I'm probably on a job in canterlot, whatever happens I suppose." he mused before shrugging. "Sadly we must part ways for now, I need to find somewhere to crash before I fall asleep on my hooves. I'm....rather tired, actually." he'd say with a sheepish tone as the gas-mask floated up and fastened to his muzzle once again. "Thank you for your help....if you see me feel free to fly down to chat or get me for those lessons." he'd say with a dip of his head. "Oh...and have a few cupcakes, least I can do." he continued as several cupcakes floated from the box to sit in front of the bat-winged mare. "I'll see you later, though." he rumbled with a bit of a bow before, if given leave, he'd head on his way to find somewhere to collapse.