//------------------------------// // Chapter One: The Party // Story: The Clockwork Alicorns // by Frostling 02 //------------------------------// The sun was in the sky with some clouds. I stood looking at it, perhaps it was watching back? I wasn’t sure how the whole story worked, but I think it’d be a little more concerning to our creator if we were being watched. Then again, perhaps it’s the sun’s pride preventing intervention. From what the creator told us, no ponies could just look at the sun without having trouble. I shook my head a little bit. Today was not a day to get sidetracked. It was likely only a matter of time before the patrons arrived and I hadn’t done much in contribution to preparing the party. Not to mention my position was bad and I hadn’t polished and- “You look distracted, Whistle.” My thoughts were interrupted by the voice of another Clockwork. “I’m sorry sir, I was just taking in the environment.” I saluted really fast realizing it was Three, one of the early Clockwork who helped our creator make the rest of us. Her nickname is Level as she says. “Ease up,” The taller light blue eyed Clockwork tapped me on the head with a click. “We don’t have to be so formal yet. The guests aren’t here yet. In fact, I have to be formal before you. Though feel free take in the environment all you want, I appreciate it when you’re thankful for all of our work.” “S-sorry Level, I was distracted.” I eased slightly. “That’s understandable,” Level assured me. “From my understanding, this will be the first time you meet other ponies?” “Yes ma’am.” I confirmed. I knew only one pony my entire life, our creator. He goes by Chasy. From what I know about him he’s a wealthy pony from Equestria and must often go there. I recall him saying that he is not perfect, but strives to create it. I don’t entirely know the depth of his plan, but I suppose it doesn’t matter. Clock Face was a town that has made good progress from where I heard it was. Originating underground and all. We even had high class patrons to help pay for some of the technology. It was certainly costly, but it was probably worth it. I hear it’s far more advanced than what Equestria is like. The functions seemed efficient. Travel, energy purpose, mechanics, etc. “I suggest you get ready then.” Level turned to move on with her preparations. “I think Chasy may be even more angry with some recent events, he may want this to be a perfect day.” “Right!” I saluted as she walked off. I wasn’t sure what happened recently that would manage to make Chasy even more angry than usual, but I hoped I wouldn’t find out with how he is on a good day. I turned my own way and flew off towards my station. While flying over the city and through some turning gears, I thought about something peculiar. Level was an older model than most of the other Clockwork, yet she and a few others seemed to be stronger and better than us. I supposed that could be a choice as to keep around valuable around leaders when Chasy is away. I shrugged off the thought as I neared the castle. The castle had tubes and moving platforms all around it to quickly traverse for the guardians. There were also some Clockwork flying around and analyzing the gears down to the smallest cog making sure it was perfect. Of what I scanned, it seemed fine, but there were some small smudges that bothered me. I landed at the front door and started to whistle as I used my magic and cloth to polish myself. Looking around, there was a fountain in the center which was releasing water. It’s nice to look at, and there was a purpose behind it. The castle used a lot of water, some fuel, some as refreshments for the creator, and even to adjust the temperature of the quarters. The courtyard also contained statues of early models such as Level. I admired each of them when it came down to it. They were really good leaders. I couldn’t deny my attraction to confidence. I had finished polishing my plated metal. It was quite refreshing with my previous stress. Looking around, I decided I’d clean the courtyard some real quick like. There was a twilight color enveloping the air, no doubt the party-goers would arrive shortly. I polished the metal ground and the fountain before I decided to also polish the three statues of the early models. After cleaning the grounds to a point where I could see my reflection, I thought it was time to wait. I retired next to the doorway and looked at myself in reflection off the wall. I was about the same golden color as it, but I had a bronze tint. My plates were segmented by overlapping plates which connected to each other through bolts and the like. This is what science and magic creates I suppose. Despite how the Clockwork look, they can be quite agile. After all, Chasy did want perfection. The sun was just visible over the buildings and I was curious what took so long, but I soon realized I was done waiting. I pulled a switch the opened a small door that contained a strange device. I knew what it did, but not why. Chasy made specific orders to use the block like contraption on the right guests. It had a horn sculpted on it from that reflected the purple light from my eyes well. I picked it up with my magic and placed it on the floor beside me. A carriage pulled by some other Clockwork landed in the courtyard with some seemingly eager ponies in it. I firmed my stance to look formal. One of the ponies stood up and calmed them down so he could speak. “I know that you’re all excited,” He clarified. “But let’s keep this civil. I don’t want you being impolite or chaotic.” The old stallion was Chasy, a tan unicorn with a white mane. Despite his age, he still stands neatly. I adjusted my ID tag as he continued to pander the ponies. “I’m glad you’ve considered my ideas a valuable investment, but you must keep your end of the bargain if you want to be overseers of this operation.” He opened the carriage and unharnessed the Clockwork which proceeded past me into the castle. “Before we go inside, we need to meet some of my best crafts. They will answer any questions you have about this settlement. Within reason, of course!” Chasy tapped his hoof twice and the three tall elite models appeared in a flash before me. They stepped forward and bowed in unison. Of course, there was Level who analyzed the ponies promptly. Then there was Two, we call him Smoke due to his hot-headed nature. He kept silent as to save his patience for when he’d need it. My guess was that he’d get frustrated with these ponies fast. Then there was One, going by “Second Hand” because she was easily moved and very fast. She started by introducing herself in a “controlled” excited manner. “Hello little ponies!” She hastily began floating with her wings. “I’m One! Care to introduce yourselves?” Chasy reassured his crowd. The ponies had already been applauding the energetic Clockwork. There were some introductions and some questions asked. What I had a hard time ignoring was the smile that Chasy had. It was oddly genuine. I thought he would’ve been angry like what Level warned, but he seemed content. Even then, he still often forced a smile. After the questions were asked, mostly ranging in minor things, the ponies came over. I let Chasy pass and he whispered to me. “I’ll call you up with some orders later Seven-Two.” The ground in front of me opened up and a pedestal arose from it with a quill and ink. I asked the passing ponies for their names and scanned them. Pegasus, Earth pony, unicorn. There were at least two of the three types. They were all dressed in uniforms that were innovations to the modern fashion of Equestria. Unicorns had to go through an extra step. They had to encase the box-like contraption in their own magic. The unicorn that gave off the highest reading was a stallion going by Transfer. It was close though, most of the visitors were unicorns. Chasy had a… refined taste. One of the ponies complimented my eyes. They told me it was due to their lavender color. That’s about the only color except black in parts of my eyes when I “close them” if you could call it that. I personally didn’t see much importance in my eyes since they are pretty much stagnant lights. Level approached me and teased me a little bit over that compliment I got. I shifted slightly in embarrassment. Once the three big Clockwork walked inside, I was putting the magic machine into the wall back where I found it. The gold door shut and I heard some movement within the castle, just inside the wall. The sky was dark and stars were shone in the sky. I looked around, the city looked empty. Most of the Clockwork that weren’t busy were likely in the palace putting on a show for the ponies to wander around and see themselves. Probably some tourist route. My job wasn’t done yet, I needed to go in and follow the crowd from the back. I heard something and turned around quickly. Nothing was in my line of sight. Despite hearing it, I decided to pin it as nothing. I didn’t want Chasy thinking I was hearing things on such an important night to him. I quietly walked through the arched doorway and saw the spectacle that was taking place. The lobby was prepared for an eloquent dinner for the crowd. A stage had been set-up for the Clockwork to do a performance for the onlookers. There were three males and three females performing at the moment. They were doing a choreographed dance and singing a song. Gears turning through the ceiling and the walls. Some lights were off, but there were some low red lights so the ponies could see. The lights coming from our eyes should’ve been enough, but we had them set low so this place wouldn’t look like a rave party. The Clockwork on stage were showing off their unison and flexibility in their dance. It occurred to me then that this was just to show the talents and capabilities of the Clockwork. I wanted to face-hoof there, but I needed to look even better now. This was even more necessary when a couple of Clockwork in the air passed a plate of food by throwing it for some efficiency. They earned a quick applause with that display. I moved from standing in front of the door awkwardly to standing closer to the ponies dining area. There was something peculiar about one of the cloth covered tables. Transfer was sitting with a mare whom I don’t recall letting in. She seemed to be telling him something, but he looked distracted by the show the Clockwork Alicorns on stage were putting on. I’d be too, I found it difficult to avert my attention from their song and dance. It was very foreign in origin. Different language even. I managed to listen to the mysterious girl who seemed just slightly out of place with her shaded goggles. My question was how she could even see in here. “I’m telling you, you have to leave.” She narrowly avoids loudly slamming her hoof on the table. She still hit the small table. “Yeah, yeah. One moment.” He ignored her. “No, now!” The Pegasus was overshadowed by the singing and music. “It’s dangerous for you to be here, you have no idea what Chasy is planning.” It was no use. From what I could tell, he rejected her again. It was hard to hear what he said over the music hitting another crescendo, but the mare was angry. She walked off with a forced smile. I was about to pursue her when I got a brief message from Chasy through his magic connecting to mine. “Seven-Two, bring me Transfer, tell him I want to meet.” Just as he finished the message the song stopped and I lost track of the dark mare with the goggles. The Clockwork on-stage were in a stunning pose and the audience, ponies and Clockwork alike, applauded the group. The red unicorn was cheering. It was clear that Transfer was already seeing this as a miracle. He lifted his top hat danced around trying to imitate the lyrics, he seemed to be enjoying himself. I was hesitant on interrupting him, but that faded when I thought of what would happen if I displeased Chasy. “Transfer,” I caught his attention. “Chasy wants to meet with you.” “Really?” The young unicorn put his top hat back on and came to me a bit giddy. “I’m pleased that such a talented stallion wants to meet me! Lead the way Seven-Two!” “I’m glad you’re eager to meet him.” I turned and signaled him to follow. It was programmed into me to know where to go in this castle, but seeing it was something else. The palace had a lot of places to see, including a garden and another courtyard. We walked through, Transfer taking in the sights. I was whistling, which he complimented that it sounded nice. We eventually found ourselves in a large hallway with the symbol of a gear under a carpet and on the ceiling which has been recurring throughout Steam Palace. We walked through when I heard something behind us. I turn and see the dark Pegasus behind us. I tried to scan her, but it didn’t work to my surprise. She sighed and walked off suddenly. I left it alone, she already disappeared down the hall. I looked over to Transfer, who seemed frozen in place. I waved my mechanical hoof in front of his ridiculous face of awe. I sighed at my conundrum, but it was solved swiftly once I turned back towards the end of the hall where the door that Chasy was waiting behind. I saw the face of a stallion in his mid-age. He was grey with a black mane which was a bit messy and long. He was wearing a black top hat that his horn pierced, black cloak, black sunglasses, and had a drained dark yellow shirt with a chain coming out of a pocket on that shirt. The stallion smirked and there was a flash behind his sunglasses. I had a glimpse of a face I could only describe as insane. His grin was wide and crooked, but something about it seemed restless. Suddenly, as he had appeared, he vanished and Transfer was moving again. I glanced around quickly. “Is something wrong?” Transfer tilted his head. “No,” I quickly assured him. “I was just taking in the atmosphere.” “Alright, let’s go!” We walked to the door and I knocked. Chasy quickly answered and insisted we come in. Transfer graciously accepted his offer by prancing in through the big double door which had the insignia of a gear on it. “Top on!” Transfer exclaimed. “You too, Seven-Two.” Chasy beckoned. I stepped in and stood by the door which Chasy shut using his magic. The room was golden with a throne atop a stagnant gear, stairs climbing up to the throne. There was a transparent sliding door on the left wall. A portrait of a young Chasy hung on the wall. “Transfer,” Chasy seemed to ignore me. “I’m sure you’ve seen how these Clockwork function, yes?” “Yes! I think you are brilliant with their Alicorn design!” Transfer complimented reasonably. “You seem to grasp my ideas swiftly,” The old stallion remarked. His yellow eyes had a glint in them. “That’s why I want you to know what it is that I aim for. I want to create the perfect beings. These are the stepping stones. They have the speed of a Pegasus, the magic of unicorns, the power and endurance of the griffons, the fire of dragons! All stuffed in the shape of an Alicorn. I want to be the creator of perfection. Of course, I need your help.” “You… Need MY help?” I noticed a change in Transfer’s attitude and stance, he seemed to gain some pride and firmness at this revelation. In fact, he may have gotten a bit lusty presented this opportunity. I felt like I was a bit out of place there. “Yes lad,” Chasy answered. “You will help me there, and perhaps the other folks in the theatre area. However, the time has come for you to shine. Come along, this is the first step.” Chasy lead Transfer to the door on the left and they both entered. I saw Chasy’s genuine smile turn a bit more wicked as he entered. I watched until steam started filling the room and then I rushed over. There were brief screams coming from the room, and I saw the silhouettes of the two unicorns being on separate sides of the room. Transfer’s screaming quieted and eased while Chasy just stood calmly. I couldn’t tell what was happening, but it was concerning. The steam had begun to fade and the door to the almost empty room slid open slightly to let steam out. I was then able to see what happened. A younger, tan unicorn stood over an older red unicorn. Chasy had facial hair that was black like his mane now. He started using some more magic on the old Transfer. Transfer was slowly standing up and looked like he would pass out any second. On the bright side, he looked like Transfer was regaining his youth. “Understand this is a necessity for me, I would not have lived long enough to teach a descendant otherwise.” Chasy had restored Transfer to his previous youth. “This magic was forbidden by Celestia once she discovered I had this, but surely someone as smart as you can see the beauty in it. I can be immortal, and there is no permanent damage done to the one I use it on due to another spell she forbade my use of. She’s a fool who disapproves of the creation of these machines. I tried to get her approval and she turned my plans down.” Transfer chuckled lightly and lifted his head, his iris seeming a bit gear like. Chasy’s yellow eyes seemed to glow. “I’ll prove her wrong,” Transfer declared. “You’re doing a wonderful-“ “No,” Chasy interrupted. “Remember the deal we had before this? You don’t talk about what you see with anyone besides who you were here with. Wait until some loose mouth fools bring it up in public, then you can give us a good reputation. Of course, there is one person you have to look out for. For now, just wait on everything. I need the timing to be perfect!” I decided to hurry back to my spot by the throne room door as they started walking towards me. They said some parting messages and some more warnings and deals, but nothing else of importance. I opened the door for Transfer and prepared to escort him back, but I was cut-off by the now younger Chasy. “You are staying here,” The unicorn used some magic likely contacting another Clockwork. “I will have another Clockwork take him back.” Shortly, Three-B arrived. Three-B was also known as Bee, I was friends with her. She had pink eyes and some light blue plating. She waved to me a little bit, but then took a light-headed Transfer to his previous seat. She wished me luck with that wave I’m sure. “Seven-Two.” “Sir.” I saluted him. “Don’t think I’m going to be replaced by any of these ponies.” When he turned away from me, I glanced around. “I have the genuine feeling you think I’m mad, you heard of the news?” “I did sir.” I held my salute. “But not what happened.” He tilted his head and an eye managed to see its way in my direction. “It doesn’t matter now that our neighbor is in a good position.” “Our… Neighbor?” I hesitantly asked. “Yes,” Chasy replied surprisingly calm. “Queen Chrysalis is in the opportune circumstances of desperation. She could make a powerful ally. A broken Queen could always be used in one way or another. Besides, wouldn’t it just make sense?” I wasn’t sure how to respond to this, I hadn’t known about Chrysalis or what these circumstances were. “Wait… Why would we need her as an ally?” I finally asked. Part of me wished I hadn’t as Chasy had a very spiteful air about him after I spoke, but he remained calm. “You see Whistle,” The unicorn used my nickname to express him finding me simple. “There are many things that inhibit me, and I’m sure I know the big thing that Celestia holds me back for. I want to create the perfect being right? The fire of a dragon, the power and endurance of a griffon, the magic of a unicorn, the speed of a Pegasus. All that packed into the body of an Alicorn. To create the perfect being, I need everything. Celestia will despise one thing about your kind over everything else.” I stood still, I knew what ability he was talking about. “Chrysalis is the perfect ally now as we share a hate for Celestia, and she can understand your kind better than I! Along with your other great strengths, I created you with the numbers and shapeshifting of the Changelings!”