Conor Colton

As Sage removed herself from the table, Colton puzzled over this peculiar herb. He had never come across anything such as it, not even a plant that resembled it. Despite it's simplistic structure it had various distinct factors that stood out to the pegasus as new and exciting. Perhaps this is why he took on the job on such an impulse in the first place; the image of the herb almost jutted out to him and Sparks, like a light in the darkness to put them back on the right path to their adventuring lifestyle. It was rare for Colton to consider such reasons upon taking up a job, it usually just involved money or a favour, but maybe his dry spell of his profession just led him to such levels of contemplation. He saw Sage come back and smiled pleasantly at her, nodding his head in approval, "[colour=#40e0d0]Thank you very much, Miss Leaf. This looks delicious.[/colour]" Colton replied, taking the first bite, surprised at how good it was for just a simple sandwich. He pondered to himself, "[colour=#40e0d0]If Sage here can make something this tasty from a sunflower and cucumber...or whoever made it...then why would she want this herb? Could it be for a collectors item? No no, of course not...she wants to make something from it, something unique and new...something that'll really draw in those customers...not a bad idea I have to say.[/colour]" Colton concluded in his head, feeling all the more excited about this adventure. He continued contemplating as he ate, and upon finishing quickly and wiping his mouth with a nearby napkin. He didn't always have napkins on hand but he felt it was nice to have table manners at least. There was still some things Colton sought clarification for though, so upon putting his plate to one side he rested his head on a hoof and began to inquire, "[colour=#40e0d0]So, Miss Leaf. From the way you've replied I'm guessing you want to come on this adventure too. That's fine with us, you would know this herb better than us but I have to ask, why do you want this herb? Is it something personal to complete this recipe or are you looking to draw a lot of ponies in with a new dish or what?[/colour]" the white pegasus inquired.

Oh I am sooooooooo looking forward to this The fact that something like this exists is a testament to awesomeness

Dawn was rather surprised by this mare. Not because of her cowl or her seemingly stoic appearance, but more so her appearance itself. It's strange to say but in all his years, the pegasus had never actually come across another pony that was...well, coloured like him. It took him a moment to compose himself in order to reply but he eventually did. "[colour=#b22222]That's quite lucky, I was just heading there actually, you can follow me if you would like.[/colour]" Dawn stated, about to turn back to his destination but not before introducing himself first, "[colour=#b22222]The honor is all mine, Asteria. My name is Darkest Dawn.[/colour]" he nodded, then turning towards the astronomy department. Dawn then began to wonder about this mare; who was she? What was her purpose here? How did Dawn never notice a pony with her colour scheme before? She certainly was interesting, if not questionable. The pegasus put aside such ill mannered thoughts however and opted to give the unicorn the benefit of the doubt; as he wished someponies would give him sometimes. He could see himself relating to this pony, which made him feel slightly better about this trip. In being in such an improved mood, Dawn sparked up some idle conversation as he led the way, "[colour=#b22222]So, what brings you to the university, Asteria?[/colour]"

Colton nodded response after Sage replied, "[colour=#40e0d0]Understandable, a lot of ponies make the same mistakes of focusing on the one particular thing when trying to look something up. I wouldn't worry about it though, the fact that you actually came across a recipe this old is pretty incredible on it's own.[/colour]" the white pegasus commented, making sure he didn't miss anything on the poster before putting it to one side. His thorough analysis of the parchment was nothing he hadn't done before, in fact it was relatively easy at this point, though he still tried to retain a sense of modesty and not boast about being able to read a piece of paper. Whilst waiting for a reply, Colton's mind drifted. He imagined what would come of this seemingly simple assignment. In his time as an adventurer Colton knew that things usually weren't as simple as they seemed, so his mind wandered with willful abandon, imagining what could happen next. The research would of course be the next course of action but past that, the pegasus had no clue. He imagined what this adventure would lead him to; possible new sights and sounds, locations unparalleled in their scope and magnificence, ponies he had never met...or maybe just some dark dreary cave with a shriveled up old herb. Naturally, he held onto his first instincts, with an excited smile. Before continuing he noticed Sage had that look about her again, and wasn't far off from what Colton was going through. Both had a seemingly large want to break free of the monotony of day after day existence, and actually to get out there and experience Equestria for what it truly was. Regardless of idle fancies, Colton replied once more, "[colour=#40e0d0]That sounds like a good plan. Adventures are great but a soggy and sniffling start probably isn't ideal.[/colour]" he grinned slightly, being greeted with the offer of free food. Of course, Sparks' eyes lit up like Canterlot skies on Hearth's Warming Eve but Colton kept himself a bit more contained, despite his love of food, "[colour=#40e0d0]Thanks, Miss Leaf. That's very generous of you.[/colour]" the pegasus retorted, looking at the menu, "[colour=#40e0d0]For now I'll have a sunflower and cucumber sandwich, please. Though if you guys have anything that can be taken on the road like biscuits or something that'd be great for this job. And I would suggest getting yourself something filling as well if you already haven't today, we're in for hopefully quite the adventure.[/colour]" Colton nodded, smiling once more.

"[colour=#40e0d0]Sure, I'd be able to have a look at that recipe and see if I can spot anything.[/colour]" Colton replied, smiling slightly, "[colour=#40e0d0]And the name's Colton.[/colour]" he stated, before looking into one of his saddlebags for anything that could help him in reading whatever was on that recipe. The stallion couldn't help but chuckle at Sage's response though. He didn't know if he was ever called 'Mister Colton' before; it seemed odd and overly formal to him. He made a mental note to tell Sage it was just Colton, and no need for formalities, if it ever came up again. As the mare made her way back to the kitchen, the pegasus prodded the sparrow with a hoof, inquiring to him about the whole situation, "[colour=#40e0d0]So, what you think, buddy? Good job or what?[/colour]" he questioned, to which the little avian friend nodded happily in approval, making Colton chuckle slightly once more, "[colour=#40e0d0]And another thing...is it just me or does Miss Leaf seem like she wants to come along on this little expedition? She had that look of excitement about her when adventure came into it all...you think she'd be okay to tag along? I mean, I wouldn't mind.[/colour]" the white stallion pondered, Sparks merely shrugging, feeling impartial about the situation. When Sage came back with the recipe, Colton took out his trusty adventurer's journal, flicking through to see if he could recognize or cross reference anything between the two items. He carefully examined the recipe, running his hoof over various symbols and what looked to be instructions, completely unable to make sense of all of it though. Letting out a few audible 'hmm's and taking a sip of blueberry juice every now and then, the stallion began to voice his analysis. "[colour=#40e0d0]Well, I can't find anything in my journal that matches exactly to these markings and symbols...but I know I've seen something similar to them. I'm not exactly an expert but these symbols here-" he stated as he laid the parchment down and pointed it out, "It means great cook, or some form of culinary masterpiece. The rest of these symbols could relate to various ingredients, like this one here would be some sort of flower, and a botanist could easily tell you which one. But then we have this one-[/colour]" the stallion continued, pointing to another, "[colour=#40e0d0]That would be your herb, and there's only gibberish instructions next to it...but, it isn't as hopeless as it may seem...[/colour]" Colton stated, continuing on, taking a breath and yet another sip, "[colour=#40e0d0]I've seen this form of parchment before, and right here, in the bottom right, that's likely a personal seal by whoever made this.[/colour]" the pegasus pointed out, pointing to a pot and spoon shaped marking. "[colour=#40e0d0]The paper obviously came from a long time ago but if we were to say check for this seal in any libraries around we could find somepony's family or group that would bear this seal, then we could see where that group was situated in relation to the time in which this parchment was made, which should be easy enough to determine. Looking at it now I'd say it goes back three, maybe four generations. Wherever that seal was all that time ago, is likely where we'll find your herb, Miss Leaf.[/colour]" the stallion proudly concluded, "That sound alright?"

Colton observed Sage's response, and to his surprise she had both a look of regret and at the same time, wonderment about her. He was tempted to raise an eyebrow but kept it down for politeness' sake. There was something about that sense of wonderment he noticed though...it seemed vaguely, familiar to him. He had no clue as to why but it was clear that that was contemplation for another time, and that there was more pressing matters to attend to right now. Colton did have to wonder if his previous reaction of surprise and suspicion was well placed or not, or polite for that matter. So for now, he was going to give Sage the benefit of the doubt, on account of she seemed nice. Now he was faced with what he figured as a possible employer, so he looked as professional as he could have been...which wasn't very much. He considered himself to be good at what he did but he never called himself a 'professional adventurer' or anything similar. Regardless, "[colour=#40e0d0]Yeah, I was considering taking it on. Me and Sparks here-[/colour]" Colton started as Sparks plopped down onto the table and bowed slightly before returning to Colton's shoulder, "[colour=#40e0d0]As I was saying, me and Sparks were in the neighborhood looking for some work...sadly the job center had nothing so we found one of your posters, and figured it'd be a good opportunity for some...well, adventure.[/colour]" the stallion replied, no longer covering the poster but crossing his hooves on the table. Now was the time for business. "[colour=#40e0d0]We're kinda unsure on where to start though. The poster itself isn't very damaged but we can't get much off of it other than the reward and the actual herb itself...[/colour]" Colton continued, thinking. "[colour=#40e0d0]Well, she obviously put up the posters for a reason, so she must know something about it more than it just exists...I think a bit of help is needed.[/colour]" he concluded before clearing his throat, "[colour=#40e0d0]We would very much like to take up this job for you, Miss Leaf. If there's any assistance you could provide us with it would be greatly appreciated.[/colour]"

The wide and grand Canterlot University was laid out before the approaching black pegasus, still as prestigious as he had remembered. Dawn hovered slightly before landing on the soft green grass below, sighing happily as the familiar sensation of campus grounds came back to him, "[colour=#b22222]No place like it in all of Equestria.[/colour]" he stated happily, making his way to the main campus building. As he did he looked around, spotting some familiar faces and some brand new ones; not really interacting with them beyond a wave and keeping on his decided route. He wasn't one for social interaction, especially publicly. Dawn's priority was to get into the campus, get his findings looked at and analyzed and possibly talked over by a team he could trust, then leaving just as quickly as he entered; like a mouse, making as little noise possible. This didn't mean he didn't pick up on a few things though. He had heard talk of some rival observatories, a concept he found rather hard to grasp. How is it that ponies can simply call themselves rivals just for the hay of it and not simply collaborate?, "[colour=#b22222]...Bits I suppose.[/colour]" Dawn thought, shaking his head. He was glad to be helping out with his own personal findings though. Before he made his way into the campus proper, he looked back at the entrance, mostly to take it in in all it's splendor. However, he noticed something out of the ordinary, a strange hooded figure. Now, Dawn wasn't one to make snap judgement, with his appearance that would just brand him as a hypocrite but he felt suspicious of this figure. Being an optimist however, he simply assumed that the pony was lost, given they were looking at an out of date map, "[colour=#b22222]Somepony really needs to fix that.[/colour]" Dawn said absentmindedly as he walked over to the figure. "[colour=#b22222]Uh, excuse me. That map's a little out of date so, would you like any directions?[/colour]" the pegasus inquired, wondering what had compelled him to simply ask such a question to an complete stranger.

Colton's eyes widened slightly as it was clear his attempts to hide the paper had failed. He didn't expect this random mare to ask him such a question, especially the latter one. The stallion was at a loss of things to say so he simply looked at Sparks for some confirmation, the sparrow simply shrugging with an unsure look on his beak. After some careful contemplation, Colton responded to Sage, not entirely certain if she was a pony he could trust. "[colour=#40e0d0]I uh...I found it outside, on a signpost. And um...I guess you could say I'm an adventurer. It's not something you readily say to somepony but, me and the bird here have been through some tough situations that could be called adventures.[/colour]" Colton knew fine-rightly he was an adventurer, but his natural modesty held him back from being overly extravagant and boastful, especially in front of a mare. Speaking of which, Colton now faced the challenge of determining all he could from Sage Leaf just from the few interactions they had together. To him, she seemed nice enough, but seemingly had an interest in whatever this herb on the paper was, "[colour=#40e0d0]...Why?[/colour]" he wondered. The stallion puzzled over possible conclusions. Perhaps she could have been an adventurer too? She didn't exactly look it, and then it would have to be questioned why she was working as a waitress. Maybe she was somepony also interested in the job and simply wanted to access the competition; this was a regular event for the stallion but she didn't look like that sort of pony either. He reached a final conclusion, still unsure but decided to seek some clarification. "[colour=#40e0d0]Why do you ask? Did you put these posters up?[/colour]" he questioned.

Sat at the table, Colton continually looked over the job offer, amazed at his luck. He never felt so alive in ages. All his recent jobs consisted of courier work, or Celestia forbid, office work. He considered himself to be a pony of a good range of talents but sitting behind a desk would have driven him nuts had it been done to excess. Regardless, the excitement that gripped the white stallion was well received. He spoke to Sparks, noticing the place filling up a lot more, "[colour=#40e0d0]This is it, buddy. This is exactly what we need! Think about it, a 'rare' herb, and a handsome reward? Imagine what we'd have to do to get this plant! Imagine all the stuff we'd have to see and things we'd have to do! It'll be a proper adventure, just like when we started all that time ago![/colour]" Colton beamed with a pleasant smile, petting the bird on the head. "[colour=#40e0d0]Only problem I can really see is that they don't say what the name of this herb is...all we have is a picture and the job offer...hmm..[/colour]" the pegasus puzzled, resting his head on his hoof, looking around a bit more at the restaurant, starting to get distracted by it's appearance. It was certainly nice, and had a certain 'flair' he hadn't experienced in a while from one of Canterlot's culinary establishments. Colton turned his head to the window next to him, even more lost in thought. The pitter patter of the rain against the glass gave his mind a metronome to work off. Back and forth his thoughts went, on a seemingly regular pace as he pieced together a solution to his problem. "[colour=#40e0d0]Okay...so we don't know what this plant is, but I'd wager somepony in this city does...we could try and find the return address and ask the pony who posted this but...[/colour]" he began, looking back onto the dreary streets, "[colour=#40e0d0]...It may be best if we head to a place we know we can find. A place to start would be Canterlot Library...maybe we can find some books on botany and just look for this thing...if that doesn't work then I guess we'll just...we'll just...[/colour]" Colton sighed, not being able to focus. He would have attempted to regain said focus, had a mare not shown up at his table. It took a few seconds for him to notice but he soon turned his eyes towards her; a unicorn, green in colour, and with a short and tidy mane. She looked slightly young than the pegasus, and seemingly took better care of her hair, as Colton noticed his wet mane slumping on his shoulder, "[colour=#40e0d0]Wonderful first impression.[/colour]" he thought. Taking his attention away from the paper, carefully covering it, "[colour=#40e0d0]Thank you, Miss Leaf. I uh-[/colour]" Colton started before looking at Sparks, "[colour=#40e0d0]We would like a blueberry juice please.[/colour]" the pegasus replied, still wondering over who he could ask about this herb. For now, he kept the paper partially covered.

A door in the city of Canterlot slammed shut, and recently thrown through it's doorway, was Colton Cloudkicker and Sparks the sparrow. The two had been ejected past the wooden frame and found themselves on the city floor outside. With a slight dusting off and a shake of their heads, the pair got to their knees, and approached the door again, banging against the wood with a hoof, "[colour=#40e0d0]Hey! Buddy! You can't just throw out two honest individuals looking for honest work like that! What's your problem?![/colour]" the pegasus questioned, only to be met with nothing. "[colour=#40e0d0]...Ugh. I guess the job center here's just tired of seeing us, huh Sparks?[/colour]" he asked with a look of disappointment, to which the small brown bird nodded, "[colour=#40e0d0]I know we weren't exactly 'reliable' on that courier job before but...you'd think they'd at least give us the benefit of the doubt...again.[/colour]" Colton sighed, turning around and walking away, shaking his head. Sparks fluttered next to him, eventually resting in his master's mane. "[colour=#40e0d0]The sad thing is though...I think our jobs have gotten just plain boring...where's the adventure nowadays?...Maybe we're just looking in the wrong place...or maybe that's just wishful thinking...either way, we best find some work, and fast.[/colour]" he ended, wondering just what would happen next. Sparks suddenly jutted from Colton's mane, flying off ahead. The pegasus raised an eyebrow and spotted where the bird was flying, towards a stuck up poster on a city signpost. Sparks returned with the poster in beak, and held it for Colton to read, "[colour=#40e0d0]...Rare herb? Let's see...rare herb wanted, no credentials necessary, reward of...reward of?[/colour]" the pegasus questioned, eyes widening at the reward, "[colour=#40e0d0]...Wow, that's quite a number of bits...[/colour]" the stallion grinned. A small drop of water appeared on the paper shortly after, Colton turning his head up and realizing it was raining. Not wanting to ruin this potential opportunity, the pair ducked into a nearby restaurant, not really bothering to check the name. It seemed nice enough, but he wasn't too intent on taking in the sights or tastes; Sparks was though, with a tiny grumbling stomach. They sat at a table near the window and set the paper down, continuing to read, "[colour=#40e0d0]Rare Herb wanted, rewarded handsomely....Sounds like some wealthy pony likes his herbs. Little buddy...I think this is exactly what we're looking for![/colour]"

Darkest Dawn was home...or, at least what he perceived as home for a long time, the grand city of Canterlot! Having lived in Ponyville for a while it felt refreshing for the pegasus to return to his place of birth, taking in the sights and sounds of constant familiarity. This visit wasn't for no simple reason of nostalgia though, this pegasus had a job that needed doing. Before he had moved he had worked briefly in Canterlot University in their cosmology department, a job which he valued greatly. He had made some recent findings in his own observatory in Ponyville just about a week ago, and was eager to share his data with some ponies he respected and who he knew understood. Ponyville denizens are nice but outside of the odd comet shower there isn't much talk of cosmology or the stars; he didn't mind of course, to each their own was a policy he lived by. The findings detailed a region of stars he had been researching for quite some time now, it could be viewed as boring or simplistic but Dawn was keen to go over his research with some like-minded ponies. Aside from that, the pegasus didn't have much business in the big city. He had of course visited his parents prior and spent some time with them but he was now off to the University, with an eager smile on his face. He expected a routine visit. That remains to be seen...

Sterling Silver, recently moved and aspiring young Royal Guard Cadette had been enjoying his time in the big city thus far. He enjoyed his job immensely and got great fulfillment out of serving both his city and land, finally thinking himself to be going somewhere in this big wide world of Equestria. The glamorous city was far from what the Ponyville born stallion was accustomed to, but he felt he was settling in nicely. He had made a few friends in the barracks, took in a lot of the sites and performed his job to the best of his abilities. However, one thing, or rather, one pony seemed to have made his relocation all the more comfortable. On one of his normally scheduled lunch breaks, the stallion had happened upon a small cafe, one he had passed by before but never really frequented. It was one of those days so he figured he may as well had tried new things. And boy was he happy he did. In this cafe he met a rather interesting mare, one, Bebe LeStrange. After some conversation the two of them visited a nearby park, talking about each other's pasts and future goals, as well as some cutie mark stories, along with a strange park environment of music and a picnic, one that was not premeditated...at least, not by Sterling He had to admit, he felt rather attracted to this mare, and evidently she felt the same way. After a rather nice display of affection in the park the two of them had arranged to have dinner together the following night. So now we find the young Guard stallion making his way to their agreed location of meeting, the same cafe they met. Admittedly, Sterling was a little nervous, but tried to keep his composure as he walked idly through the city lights and sights, seeing many other pony couples he assumed were having a similar experience to his own. He sported a rather sleek attire, considerably formal but slightly casual, wearing it proudly, and hoping he didn't dress 'too' formally for the occasion. The stallion had thoughts in his head, thoughts of Bebe. He couldn't believe he had worked up the courage to ask her to dinner, truly a new experience for him. Taking a deep breath, he continued on his walk, "[colour=#8b4513]Okay, Sterling...no need to be nervous...you like her, and she likes you...just two ponies who like each other having dinner...[/colour]" Sterling reassured himself, coming up on the cafe, "[colour=#8b4513]Just remember...be calm...be collected...be a gentlecolt.[/colour]" he concluded, standing near the cafe, keeping an eye out for his date, as closely as he would watch the streets of Canterlot for any misbehavior. He was certainly nervous, but also, incredibly happy.

"[colour=#40e0d0]Coyotes huh?[/colour]" Colton inquired, "[colour=#40e0d0]That's some heavy stuff, Telki. Speaks a lot of you that you could make it through that though, plus the experience certainly helps.[/colour]" he nodded, Sparks tilting his head slightly, "[colour=#40e0d0]That doesn't mean we're gonna go and seek out some coyotes, buddy.[/colour]" Colton clarified with a whisper, putting the small bird at ease. The pegasus was intent on being friendly to Telki but if he was anything, it certainly wasn't gullible. He felt the need to stay on his hooves; from what he had seen, random ponies appearing in the most unlikely of places meant one of two things: A new friend, or a potential danger. He hoped it would be the former. As for Telki's question, Colton had little idea as to how to answer. Admittedly the stallion didn't look over every single aspect of the job prior to finding Gerrard and didn't have ample oppurtunities to ask him about job specifics, given the current circumstance, and the possibility it was likely a boring topic of conversation. So he opted to keep quiet and let Gerrard handle this one, still trying to piece together in his head how he should see Telki.

Sterling nodded at Bebe's suggestion, sitting up as if he was ready to go, "[colour=#8b4513]That sounds great![/colour]" he exclaimed, smiling lightly. The stallion thought where they could meet up, since being in Canterlot too long didn't give him ample opportunities to see any good places for a good meal. "[colour=#8b4513]I'll meet you at around this time tomorrow-[/colour]" Sterling was about to explain before looking up at the sun yet again, "[colour=#8b4513]Ack, well let's say for now we meet up near that cafe, though we can always get in contact before then, if something needs to be changed I'll send you a letter.[/colour]" he finished, knowing he had to leave now, much to his dismay. Sterling sat up some more, getting to his hooves. He stared down at Bebe, and in a rather impulsive action, placed his hoof on hers. "[colour=#8b4513]I had a great time today, Bebe. See you tomorrow night.[/colour]" the guard smirked before making his way off to his patrols, occasionally looking back and smiling. He gazed back at his own cutie mark, remembering his earlier assumption of it's purpose, "[colour=#8b4513]Right place...right time.[/colour]" he though cheerfully.

Sterling sighed happily, feeling very content with his current situation. He turned his head to the mare as she rested, Bebe looking so peaceful to him. Sterling felt a sense of belonging and purpose sitting there with his hoof around the supermodel. The stallion was glad to say that his previous feeling of loneliness and isolation had faded away in just the short space of an hour or so. "[colour=#8b4513]All in an hour...[/colour]" Sterling thought, "[colour=#8b4513]...An hour...[/colour]" he mused over as he looked into the sky, noticing the sun's positioning, "[colour=#8b4513]Aw no.[/colour]" the stallion stated with a sigh. It was by now he realized his lunch break was coming to an abrupt end. Despite this though he knew a good thing when he saw it, and this situation was certainly a good thing. He couldn't just let this slip by and let it be a strictly one-time thing. "[colour=#8b4513]I have to see her again at least...[/colour]" Sterling concluded. He gently shook the mare's far shoulder, trying to wake her as delicately as possible, whispering slightly, "[colour=#8b4513]Um...Bebe? Listen, sorry to wake you but I have to get back to my regular patrol. This has been...well, amazing and I don't really want it to end here...[/colour]" the guard stated before mustering his courage. "[colour=#8b4513]Could we meet each other again sometime...maybe over dinner or something?[/colour]"

Sterling was staring idly off into space as Bebe said her response. His eyes widened slightly as he felt the mare lean against and rest on him. The stallion could hardly believe how events had transpired, smiling slightly as he too felt the warm air on his coat, what was exposed anyway. "[colour=#8b4513]Wow...[/colour]" he thought in response to the whole situation. He truly couldn't believe, even despite his lucky nature, that he could have been this fortunate. Yet, here it was, Sterling was sitting in the park, with a beautiful mare resting against him, the sounds of music and the faint smell of flowers in the air coupled with the warm sun made this situation all the more special. Sterling casually placed a hoof around Bebe, trying not to make it too obvious. "[colour=#8b4513]I like you too, Bebe....[/colour]" the stallion retorted, being very thankful, both for his good fortune, and for a certain stallion for setting all this up. He couldn't have pictured a better scene if he had tried.

Sterling almost sighed happily, content with the situation. He turned to Bebe and smiled back at her as she smiled at him, the stallion almost tilted his head, admiring the mare lying next to him. Sterling never thought that this move to Canterlot would bring upon some positive events, of course he was hoping for career progression, but never knew that something like this would happen. He couldn't complain in the slightest. The stallion was determined to continue being what he felt was charming and stretched a little in his seated position, casually resting a hoof closer to one of Bebe's than it had previously been before responding, "[colour=#8b4513]I can imagine. A mare of your talents and, well, prettiness is bound to stand out in a good way. I'm pretty happy with my move to Canterlot as well, such a great place, with such great ponies...or maybe I've just been lucky again. I'm inclined to believe either one.[/colour]" Sterling stated, still smiling lightly in Bebe's general direction whilst also taking in the view. "[colour=#8b4513]So, anything else you'd like to know or talk about? Or are you alright here for now?[/colour]" the guard asked, curious if Bebe wanted to know anything more.

A hint of concern came over Sterling when Bebe called her rise to a career a bit of a 'terrible story'. He listened on to her explanation, intrigued all the way through. She honestly didn't come off as a bratty person to him, having seen many in his time in Ponyville, particularly in bullies and spoiled privileged kids. Never the less, he continues listening, nodding every so often. To the unicorn, she certainly had an interesting back story, as he had never heard of such a career spawning out of just one day...then again, he supposed the same could have been said for him. Upon her declaration of her cutie mark being silly Sterling's eyes peered down for a brief moment, raising an eyebrow. He never really noticed it up until now, as he was tending to focus on Bebe's upper body whenever he would look. The stallion could have only imagined what situations a cutie mark like that had involved in, most likely awkward ones. Sterling smiled slightly at hearing that Bebe's career shot up incredibly fast, maybe it was confirmation that his own career would skyrocket, or maybe he was simply happy for her, it could have been either one. Sterling relaxed some more on the ground, trying to get as comfortable as he could with all these metal plates on him, he tried to not make his shifting about and readjusting too obvious though, less he look odd. He lightly chuckled at her squeaky yawn, thinking it to be adorable before responding. "[colour=#8b4513]Well, I'm not sure I'm one to say but...that doesn't sound awfully terrible to me. You seem to have come out of it alright, someponies I've met don't even know they're being spoiled. That's very...well, down to earth, and admirable, Bebe.[/colour]" Sterling stated. "[colour=#8b4513]Sorry to hear about the cutie mark thing though.[/colour]" the stallion stated as he lied down as well, resting his head in his hooves, "[colour=#8b4513]My one's gotten some attention before. You can't really see it 'cause of this armor but it's a silver coin with a horseshoe shape on it. Ponies can only ask when they see it, and I'm not entirely sure what it means myself...I guess it's sorta meant I'm always in the right place at the right time...lucky, I guess.[/colour]" he concluded, smiling to himself, thinking his trip to the coffee shop was a prime of example or right place and right time. "[colour=#8b4513]Beautiful park, isn't it?[/colour]" Sterling asked, taking in the sights as he did, "[colour=#8b4513]They have anything like this in Hoofington?[/colour]" the stallion inquired.

Dawn looked around himself, observing his surroundings and companions. It was now that the reality truly sunk in on just how out of his element he was. This wasn't some regal hall in Canterlot's prestigious university, nor was it a comfortable office, or the delightful dome of an observatory. To him, this was like another world, one that he never assumed existed, it was cold, most likely bitter, and had likely more secrets behind it than it appeared. It would appear his vigor from his previous cheer was still lingering on though, as the thought of mystery and possibly danger no longer intimidated him; if anything, it was challenging him. He wasn't sure whether or not to get better acquainted with this group at this current time, as he was afraid of seeming like an outsider with little to no knowledge of the journey and likely, hardships ahead. For the moment, he continued his duties of simply being the pony with the map and the medical supplies, directing when needed and not really speaking too much, opting for a more stoic guide approach. The pegasus couldn't help but wonder though...what was his motivation? At first glance it would appear it was out of spite for his superiors back in Canterlot or having nothing better to do, but there was distinctly something more there, something niggling at the back of his mind. "[colour=#b22222]What is in this place we're heading...? What will we find there? What are we all looking for?[/colour]" were questions that shot around in his mind, but one question that didn't occur was 'Was it worth it?' as he already had an answer to that. It was.

Sterling continued to take in the pleasing atmosphere of the park, enjoying the faint music he could hear playing. An odd thing he came across though, was an empty picnic spot...with a note. Curious, he couldn't help but investigate. He levitated the piece of paper so he could read and was shocked at the contents, but pleasantly so. He decided to sit and relax in said spot, indicating for Bebe to sit as well, "[colour=#8b4513]Want to sit here and continue our talk? It is a rather pleasant view.[/colour]" Sterling remarked, still smiling at Bebe. Upon hearing her question, Sterling felt a rush of nostalgia, one that he was glad of. The unicorn enjoyed talking about his past, and so didn't mind when Bebe inquired as to how he wanted to be a guard. "[colour=#8b4513]I'd be more than happy to tell you about my past, Bebe. I guess it started when I was a lot younger, and used to live in Ponyville. Back then I had no real idea what I wanted to do with my life and didn't have much incentive or direction, until this one day. A big royal parade rolled through town, and I dunno why but seeing all those guards in their uniforms looking all proud and dedicated...I'm not sure why but it seemed appealing to me.[/colour]" the unicorn led into, relaxing on the apparent set up picnic area. "[colour=#8b4513]So after that, I started getting interested in things like combat, magic, chivalry and stuff, and when I was old enough I came out here to Canterlot and signed up. So I guess my dedication came from my aspirations, I guess I just wanted to be known for more than just another foal from Ponyville.[/colour]" Sterling finished, smiling lightly at the accompanying mare, "[colour=#8b4513]What about you, Bebe? How did you first get into your career?[/colour]" the stallion wondered, adjusting his armor once again to get comfortable. He found himself almost at ease, obviously realizing he was getting more and more comfortable around Bebe.

Sterling nodded and listening intently as Bebe expressed her interests. The stallion knew there was something deeper beneath the modelling persona, and while that was a heavy mental barrier to break through, Sterling was glad to see she wasn't purely concerned with self-image alone and always looking for 100%. It was appreciable to see a mare with a good range of interests, and one that was seemingly well traveled as well. He wondered over her answer, smiling at her being so artistic and enveloped in the creative arts, a trait that Sterling had surprisingly not come across in abundance in this city, or any place he had been for that matter. He could see that Bebe had particular tastes, and at that point, hoped that he was appealing to her as much as she was to him. "[colour=#8b4513]That's certainly quite a selection of tastes you have, Bebe. I'm impressed.[/colour]" the guard stated, grinning at Bebe in response. It was clear that the mare liked talking about her interests, to a great level it would seem. Some ponies may have say that as a negative trait but Sterling didn't seem to mind it. He noticed she was blushing and giggling at something, though for the life of him he couldn't reason as to why. Regardless, he shrugged it off and started on his interests. "[colour=#8b4513]As for me...not too many hobbies to speak of I suppose. I'm interested in magic and combat styles really. When I was younger and wanted to be a guard I started training from a relatively young age, and started looking into a lot of magical and combat related techniques. My only hobby I guess is keeping up to date on my training, y'know, sword play, magic practice, exercises here and there. Not too impressive I know but it keeps me busy and certainly has it's benefits. As for taste, I do love some coffee as well, but, as for music I um don't particularly have a favorite style. If it's well made and well performed then I'd listen to it.[/colour]" Sterling finished as he noticed their walk had finally led them to the nearest park. "[colour=#8b4513]Ah, cool, here we are.[/colour]" he stated as he walked casually in, keeping occasional eye contact with Bebe, "[colour=#8b4513]So, Bebe. Is there anything you'd like to particularly know about me?[/colour]" Sterling questioned as he took in the lovely surroundings.

Sterling thought to be a gentlecolt and held the door open for Bebe as they made their way outside. The stallion had noticed the stallion he saw before, the one banging his head on the table had left. It seemed that in the conversation with Bebe, Sterling hadn't even noticed. Regardless, he greeted the outside with a smile as he turned towards the nearby mare, "Let's go, follow me." he stated simply but still with a slight grin as he began walking towards the nearest park. As they made their way there, Sterling thought to continue the conversation, it was of course the reason he suggested such a walk, "[colour=#8b4513]Good day today, wouldn't you say?[/colour]" Sterling asked, musing over what topics they could discuss. The next logical step would have been to share interests. "[colour=#8b4513]So, Bebe, I hope you don't mind but I'd like to get to know you better. You have any interests or hobbies or anything?[/colour]" the unicorn inquired, being relatively happy with the current situation.

Sterling smiled as Bebe replied, eager to spend more time with her. That's when he started to wonder, why did he want to spend more time with Bebe? It could have been easily explained by her good looks or supermodel status but there seemed to be something more there. Sterling had always considered himself to be in the right place at the right time in most cases, and this seemed like one of them. Despite him not spending so much time in Canterlot as of late he felt a real connection to Bebe. He couldn't quite put his hoof on it but there seemed to be more to her than met the eye. He agreed that she was of course beautiful, but Sterling could always read ponies, and could feel something more to Bebe, like an inner intelligence or sweetness, and that made him realize something, "[colour=#8b4513]Don't know whether it's the looks or whether it's anything else but...this mare is amazing.[/colour]" Sterling confirmed in his mind, grinning back at her. The unicorn ignited his horn and levitated his coffee up to sip it, putting both his hooves and crossing them slightly on the table, "[colour=#8b4513]Glad to hear it, Bebe. Shall we then?[/colour]" Sterling asked, motioning towards the door and almost standing up himself.

Sterling would have breathed a sigh of relief, had he the good sense not to. He continued to stand at attention after being examined, thankfully all the times he had checked his armor prior to patrol had payed off. It was at this point Sterling wondered exactly how this day was going to play out. He mused over some possible outcomes, thinking to himself, "[colour=#8b4513]Well, you're being told what to do by a Lunar Guard and somepony higher ranking than you...surely things can't go wrong...right?[/colour]" Sterling wondered. He knew he had not got off to the best of starts with Radiant but hoped that it was just a passing occasion, that wouldn't hinder any future success they would have as fellow guards, or even friends. Never the less, he stood at attention, not saying a word, ready for new orders.

(Hnnnng! That's adorable! Mighty fine work on that one ) Sterling's eyes nearly widened when Bebe answered, "[colour=#8b4513]Since she was a filly? Wow...experienced mare.[/colour]" he thought, idly tapping a hoof on the table. He was going to ask another question until he saw that Bebe was seemingly lost in thought. Sterling wondered if he had done anything out of the ordinary, or very much in the ordinary, or something to that degree, either or he had noticed she seemed like she was daydreaming. Furthermore, he noticed a slight blush and giggle from the mare, "[colour=#8b4513]Just what is she thinking about....me? No, surely...really?[/colour]" the unicorn wondered, feeling a tad flustered at that realization. He wondered at the time, and whether or not he'd have much more conversation with Bebe. The thought he was running out of time saddened him slightly, almost causing him to frown. He held back the visible indication of sadness though and instead decided to make the most of the break from duty he had, "[colour=#8b4513]Excuse me for a moment.[/colour]" Sterling stated as he got up from his seat, he approached the counter and ordered another black coffee before sitting back down with Bebe. He took a sip and mustered his courage, "[colour=#8b4513]Just keep going, Sterling. You're a guard, you can do this.[/colour]" the plated unicorn thought as he posed a question. "[colour=#8b4513]I hope this isn't to presumptuous of me, Bebe, but, do you have to be anywhere after this? If not, would we be able to continue this conversation say, over a nice walk through the city? My patrol takes me to some wonderful places.[/colour]" Sterling stated confidently, hoping for a positive answer.