//------------------------------// // Software Branding (Part 3) // Story: The Adventures of T.O.B.O.R. // by The EnderPony Master //------------------------------// ...Last time on The Adventures of T.O.B.O.R... "Well, I hope you become successful on your first day, TOBOR. It ain't easy running a business if you're not careful." "I know. I need to watch out for HayBurgers. They will be a competition in this town." "I'm sure you'll pull through, and you know what? How about me and the others drop by later on at lunch? I'm mighty curious of what this restaurant of yours serve." "I'll be looking forward to it." ==================== "Cave, what's wrong?" "I'm sorry for scaring you, Derpy. It's just that I sensed a sudden large amount of energy forming in that field below us." "Energy? You mean like magic?" "Uh, something like that, lass." ==================== "Are you okay?" "I-I'M FINE... I'M JUST NOT USED TO RECEIVING THAT MUCH POWER BEFORE." "Um, miss? Who are you?" "MY NAME IS MAKOTO. ALSO, WHY AM I A PONY?" ==================== "Well, I would to welcome you all to Ponyville's newest restaurant, 'Bolts'n Grill'!" ==================== "Have you ever worked in restaurant before?" "Yes I have actually. I had to take multiple part-time jobs so I could save up for a boat ticket to come to Equestria." "Experience, I like that. You're hired! Welcome to the 'Bolts'n Grill' crew." "I am very thankful for this, Mr. TOBOR." "There's no need for formalities. Just call me TOBOR." "Very well then. Now, I do believe we have some orders to fill." "Indeed we do. Let's go." The Adventures of T.O.B.O.R. Software Branding (Part 3) Ponyville, Farmers Market Makoto was having the time of her artificial life. She never knew she would come across such a variety of colorful ponies before. They were all so cute and she just wanted to give every one of them a hug. "OHH! I REALLY WANT TO GO TALK TO THOSE PONIES!" Makoto said excitedly. "Calm down, lass." Cave said, settling the mare down. "I know you want to meet the locals, but first, I need to take you to your brother. I'm sure he would like to see you again." Right now, both robotic ponies were making their way towards TOBOR's restaurant. Makoto was excited when Cave told her that her big brother opened up a restaurant in town. "I STILL FEEL SO HAPPY THAT MY BIG BROTHER OPENED UP HIS OWN RESTUARANT. MY OTHER FRIENDS ALWAYS LIKED HIS COOKING." "I'm sure they do." Cave chuckled. "And I'm also sure that these folks will like it as well." As they made their way through the shopping center, ponies around stopped whatever they were doing and looked at the two unique ponies. "SAY, WHY ARE THEY LOOKING AT US LIKE THAT?" Makoto asks. "Well, you have to understand that compare to us and them, we just look really strange from what they are used to. I mean, I'm a giant robotic space unicorn while you look like something from an anime show." "SO MANY PEOPLE TOLD ME THAT SO MANY TIMES BACK HOME. I DON'T GET IT. I DON'T LOOK LIKE AN ANIME TO ME." "Well, you would be surprised." Cave chuckled. "Perhaps if you-- oof!" Cave was cut mid-sentence as he felt somepony bump into him. "Oh! I'm sorry." Said the random pony. "No, no. It's okay." Cave responded. "I wasn't watching where I was going." To the space captain's surprise, the pony that he bumped into was not a regular pony. They were in fact a Thestral mare. She had grey-ish blue coat with long black mane and tail. Her ears were pointy and her wings were that of a bat's instead of the usual feathered wings you would see on a Pegasus. "Hey... you're that large unicorn captain." The mare said with wide eyes. "Captain Cave Johnson, right?" Cave smiled. "Yes, that would be me. You heard of me?" "Yeah. I heard rumors from the other guards about you and the princesses." "Well, they are true. I'm just working with them to catch a criminal on the loose." "Wow, are they really that bad? They must be if the princess themselves are also involved." "Indeed they are. So, you're part of the Royal Guards?" "Yes. My name is Wing Beat, and I just joined the force about a week ago." 'Wing Beat?' Cave thought. 'She's the witness from last night's incident from Celly's castle. I better be subtle.' "That's interesting, Wing Beat. It is also nice to meet a new recruit. Say, what brings you out here in Ponyville?" Wing frowned from the question. "Well, something happened last night at the castle. So I was given some time off." "Does it have something to do with the murder of your inmate?" Wing flinched. "How do you know?" "Your princess have informed me of what happened last night." "Oh..." Cave could tell that the young mare's mood was dropping. He didn't want to ruin her morning. So he thought of something. "Say, what were planning on doing this morning?" Cave ask, changing the subject. "Well, after I booked myself some place to stay here in Ponyville, I was going out to get some breakfast. Well, in my case, dinner since I'm a Thestral. I am nocturnal after all. Our sleep cycle can confuse ponies." "Oh, in that case, how about I treat us to something to eat?" "Really?" "Yes, think of it as an apology from me for bumping into you." Cave turns to Makoto. "How about you? Unless, do you eat?" "YEAH, I CAN EAT. I WAS INSTALLED WITH THAT FUNCTION TO BE MORE HUMAN LIKE MY FRIENDS." "Well, then." Cave turns to Wing Beat. "What do you say?" "Oh, alright." Wing smiled. "If you insist. So, do you know a good place to eat?" "I do as a matter of fact. Me and my new friend, Makoto here was just about visit her brother, TOBOR. He owns a restaurant here in town." "That's interesting. Lead the way." Cave nodded as the three unique ponies continue their way to the upcoming restaurant up ahead. Ponyville, Bolts'n Grill Business was really booming for our robotic hero. Both TOBOR and his newest (and only) employee, Kuratchi were working left and right in keeping up with the orders that were coming in hot. Many of the ponies like the very unique design of the establishment. They even like the music that was playing in the background. Orders were ranging from the classic Hay-Bacon and Eggs, to Pancakes and Prench-Toast. TOBOR was really having the time of his artificial life in the kitchen. DING DING DING TOBOR's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of the counter bell. He looks out through a small window to see Kuratchi holding another slip in his aura. "We got another order for Prench-toast with a side of hash-browns." Kuratchi said as he levitates the order to his boss. "Coming right up!" TOBOR said happily. "I've got to say, Kuratchi. Business is really booming. I didn't think these ponies would like my food this much. "Well, what did you expect? Everypony around always like to try something new every now and then. Heck, I'm very curious of what your cooking is like." "How about after work, I'll welcome you to some dinner. Free of charge of course." "I'll take you up on that offer." Kuratchi smiled. As TOBOR went back to his station, Kuratchi headed back out to check on the customers. To whom where enjoying both their meal and the restaurant music. It was even growing to Kuratchi's liking as well. Anyway, just as the purple pony was about to check on one of the tables, he gasps as he sees one of the most strangest sights. At the front entrance of the clear double doors was three unusual ponies. The first pony was a Thestral mare. The second pony is an Earth Pony mare. However she was wearing a rather unique looking dress that Kuratchi has seen in a manga. The last pony on the other hoof was what surprised him the most. The last pony was HUGE! They are a Unicorn stallion with flaming mane and tail. What was weird was the lightbulb at the tip of the said unicorn's horn. "Hello, good sir." Cave smiled. "Are there any available tables left?" Kuratchi snaps out of his staring and finds his composer. "OH! Uh, yes. There is, sir." Kuratchi said nervously. "I'm assuming these lovely mares are with you?" "Indeed they are. Table for three, please." "Right this way then." As Kuratchi leads the group to their table, many of the other customers stopped their morning dining and stared at the large familiar Unicorn. The citizens of Ponyville have already seen Cave a few times in town, especially at the party Pinkie Pie has thrown him and TOBOR, but the sight of the huge robotic equine always gets them. Anyway, not long before Kuratchi gave the group a table in the corner of the restaurant. It was the only spot to fit the Unicorn giant. The group settles down in their seats, minus Cave as he sits on the floor. "So, what would you like to drink?" Kuratchi asks. "I WOULD LIKE SOME MILK, PLEASE." Makoto said. "I would like some sparkling apple cider." Wing Beat replied. "Uh, I'm afraid we don't have that. At least, not yet I think." Kuratchi said. Wing sighed. "Well, do you have any soda?" "Actually, we do. What would you like?" "Any kind will do." "Alrighty then." Kuratchi looks up to the Cave. The robotic was still taller than the waiter even when sitting. "What would you like, sir?" "I would some water, please." Cave said. "Okay then." Kuratchi levitates three menus from the nearby counter. "Choose what you all would like to eat while I get your drinks." The ponies nodded as their waiter left. Cave looks at the mares with a smile. "So, this place looks nice." He said. "Very modern in décor." "This place does look nice." Wing Beat said as she looks at the menu. "They even have a large variety of meals here. Some of them I've never heard of. Well, at least in the lunch and dinner section that is." 'Oh, believe me. There are even stranger food out in space.' Cave thought. "So, while we wait for our waiter to come back, I've wanted to ask you something, Wing Beat." "Alright." Wing puts the menu down. "What is it?" "Well, while it is not official yet, but I'm planning on training the Royal Guards." "You are?" "Yes. However, I am actually looking for some new recruits for the Galaxy Core." "Galaxy Core? What's that?" "YEAH, WHAT IS THAT?" Makoto also asks curiously. "I'm glad you asked." Cave smiled. "The Galaxy Core is a special fighting force that protects galaxies, dimensions, and multiverses." "WOW! THAT'S AMAZING!" "So are you like a soldier?" Wing asks. "Actually, I'm a captain. However, I can still give a lot in the battlefield." Before Wing Beat can continue, the groups' waiter came back with their drinks in his magical aura. "Here are your drinks, folks." Kuratchi said as he levitates the said drinks to the others. "Now, are you all ready with your orders." "I am. How about you ladies?" Cave asks. The mares nodded. "We are ready then." "Great. Now, what would you like?" The group all gave their orders. Cave ordered breakfast ramen with toast, Makoto asked for pancakes with a side of scrambled eggs, and Wing Beat ordered steak and eggs with oranges. Kuratchi raised a eyebrow at the last order. He never heard of that combination before, but still took the order. "Alright, just give us a few minutes and your orders will be right to you." Kuratchi said as he levitates the menus back. "Thank you, good sir." Cave said. With that done, Kuratchi turns around and heads back to the kitchen. Wing Beat turns to Cave. "So, what were saying about recruiting?" Wing asks with interest. In the kitchen, TOBOR was working really hard cooking all the food for his customers. So far, everything is going well in his work station. He hopes that his employee is faring well too. DING DING DING TOBOR looks through the counter window once more and sees Kuratchi. "We got another order, boss." Kuratchi said as he levitates the written orders. TOBOR looks over the note and looks back towards Kuratchi strangely. "Steak and oranges?" TOBOR tilts his head. "Also, breakfast ramen?" "Yeah, I was wondering the same thing. Some Thestral ordered the steak and oranges." TOBOR have read about Thestrals back in Twilight's library. He was amazed to know that there are ponies out there with bat wings. "As for the ramen, though. Some huge unicorn with flaming mane ordered it." Kuratchi added. TOBOR's digital eyes widen. He didn't know Cave would be visiting his restaurant today. "Is there something wrong, TOBOR? We don't serve ramen here or something?" TOBOR shook his head. "No, it's not that. It's just that I know that unicorn you mentioned." "Really?" "Yes. His name is Cave Johnson. I'm actually his partner." "You are? Then what do you guys do?" "Well, we are in some investigation on a crook name Morcubus." "Oh, so Cave is like some sort of space police or something?" "Err, something like that." TOBOR goes back to his work. "Look, I'll tell you more about it later after work. Right now, we have orders to fill." "Right, back to work." (If the music is still going at this point, then stop it. It ends here.) Back at the table, Cave and Wing Beat were still discussing about the recruitment from earlier. "So, are you interested?" Cave asks. Wing Beat pondered the offer for a moment. On one hoof, she just got into the Royal Guard just about a week ago. The pay was good enough, and she was just making friends back at the castle. On the other, she could give up all those months of training in the academy and work in the frontlines as a space soldier. Always going on inter-galactic adventures. However, that would mean she would be seeing occasional death. Wing knew that terrible stuff like the night before would turn up in her line of work, but it would be even worse if she joins the Galaxy Core. Plenty of space scum that will not take no for an answer. "I'm not sure to be honest." Wing Beat sighed. "I might think about it." "I understand." Cave nodded. "Take all the time you need. This is a big decision after all." "WHERE'S THE FOOD?!" Makoto complained. "It will come, lass. Just wait a little." At that moment, Kuratchi came back to their table with the said food. "Here is you order." Kuratchi said as he levitates the meals to their respective owners. "This smell good." Wing Beat commented. "I honestly didn't thing you guys serve meat here." "We do, really. My boss told me that they were just incase if any carnivores come in here. Mostly griffons and dragons." "Dragons you say?" Cave asks. "I honestly don't think dragons will come here, but who knows? Maybe someday we will have one that will visit here without burning down the town." "Won't that be the day." Wing joked. "THIS IS REALLY GOOD!" Makoto said as she already started eating her pancakes. "I KNEW MY BIG BROTHER'S COOKING WOULD BE TASTY." Kuratchi looked at the tan-colored mare in confusion. Big brother? Cave saw the small unicorn's face. "She is talking about your boss, TOBOR." Cave explained. "He is in fact related to this mare." Kuratchi was surprised by this. TOBOR didn't mention he had a sister. However, he didn't know whether to believe it or not. Considering the fact that his boss is a fake pony made of metal while this lovely mare is made of actual flesh and is clearly real. "Are you sure about that?" The purple unicorn questioned. "I mean, it's just that... I don't see the resemblance." "THAT'S BECAUSE OF MY SKIN. IT'S NOT REAL. I JUST LOOK LIKE AN ACTUAL PERSON, OR PONY IN THIS CASE." As Makoto says this, she lifts a hoof up to one of her eyes and gently pull on the skin under it. To Kuratchi's shock, it reveals the same white metal plating that his boss was made of. "Woah... you weren't lying." "SEE, I TOLD YOU." Makoto said as she lets go of her skin. "HEY, I KNOW THIS MAY BE ASKING A LOT, BUT CAN I GO SEE MY BIG BROTHER NOW?" "Well, I don't know..." Kuratchi sighed. While he doesn't want to be a jerk and not let this mare go see her brother, he knew from experience that is was against policy to let a customer in the kitchen. "PLEASE?" Makoto said sounding sad. "Come on, man. Let the filly see her bro." Wing Beat said adding her two bits in. "Well... I suppose... alright." Kuratchi gave in. "Just head to the front and you'll see the double doors near the counter window." "OH, THANK YOU!" Makoto said as she went of to find her robotic sibling. "That was a good thing to do, lad." Cave commented. "Trust me, he will be in for a big surprise." "I guess. So, is there anything I could do for you two?" "Actually, there is." Cave's horn glowed before a small orange glowing box appeared on their table. "I need you to do something for me." TOBOR was really enjoying himself at the moment. So far, he hasn't heard back from Kuratchi for the last 10 minutes. This provided him a quick break from the stove. Right now, he was reading his 'Mr. L' comic book. 'Maybe I really should invest in making this series myself.' TOBOR thought. BAM Suddenly, TOBOR's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of doors slamming open. He looks up from his comic to see who made the noise. However, the moment he lays his digital eyes on the culprit, they went wide as the robot pony drops the comic book. It couldn't be. The dress, the satchel, the coat color, and the bowl-shaped haircut. It just couldn't be... could it? "M... Ma... Mako--" "TOBY!!" Before TOBOR can say anything, Makoto pounces forward and lands straight into her sibling. The force of the impact was enough to send both robotic ponies out through the back door. Many ponies around saw the two roll right into the middle of the street. A moment after their worlds stopped spinning, the two ponies looked at each other. One was shocked beyond anything while the other was as cheerful as Pinkie Pie. "Makoto... is that really you?" TOBOR asks still in shock. "OF COURSE IT'S ME, TOBY!" Makoto replied. "I'VE BEEN LOOKING ALL OVER FOR YOU!" Makoto gets up off of TOBOR before pull him into a hug. TOBOR's shock was finally replaced with pure happiness and relief. "Makoto..." TOBOR then returns the hug himself, but much more tighter. Here he was for the last couple of weeks thinking that he would never see his beloved little sister ever again. However, it seems the universe decided to cut him some slack and give him his sister back. TOBOR silently thanks the Sims above for this best day. "TOBY?" TOBOR returns to reality as he realizes that he was holding Makoto longer than he intended. Not to mention, there were a lot of ponies looking at the two. Some where confused, while most of them were touched by the affection they were witnessing. TOBOR let's go of Makoto sheepishly. "Let's get back inside, sis." TOBOR said as they both go inside through the back door. Although, when they both went inside, they were surprised of what was in the kitchen. In TOBOR's kitchen was a floating metal ball with three long tentacle-like arms and three eyeballs. It was another robot! It seems to notice them as it turns towards their direction. "Ah, Master, TOBOR." It or he spoke in a British accent. "You have come back." "Uh... Master?" TOBOR said uncertain. "Wait, who are you?" "Oh, I apologies, sir. Might I introduce myself." The robot said. "I am a maintenance robot known as a Mr. Handy. However, I was dubbed with the nickname, Alfred." "Well, uh--" "IT IS NICE TO MEET YOU, ALFRED." Makoto greeted politely. "It is nice to meet you as well, madam." Alfred replied. "Wait, hold on! Where did you come from?" TOBOR questioned. At that moment, Kuratchi came into the kitchen through the double metal doors. "That Cave Johnson guy wanted me to pass this thing to you." Kuratchi said. "What? Where is he?" "He left about a few minutes ago. He said something about going back to base or something?" "Did he tell you why he gave me, Alfred?" "Well, he asked me to give this to you." Kuratchi levitates an orange tablet to TOBOR. TOBOR receives it as he balances in his hoof. Dear, TOBOR I wanted to say that I'm glad that you and your sister, Makoto are back to together. Hopefully, you two can catch up with each other from the past weeks of separation. Also, I'm sure you have already met Alfred. He will be your cook for your restaurant. Now, you can have some time to yourself on any day. Hope your restaurant will be a success, and be careful around HayBurgers. Go get them champ. Sinceserly, Captain Cave Johnson P.S. -- Here's a little tip for the breakfast ramen. Best serving I had in a long time. Beats standard military rations any day. TOBOR puts the tablet on a nearby counter. "Oh, well that was nice of him." TOBOR said. "How much did he tip us?" "Oh yeah, that's the best part." Kuratchi smiled. Kuratchi's horn glowed once more and soon levitates a brown sack into the kitchen. Curious, TOBOR looks inside the sack and scans its contents. His digital eyes widen in surprise. "He tipped us 5,000 bits?!" TOBOR exclaimed. "Yep. I was just a surprised as you. Guess you don't have to worry about finance any more. This will set you for about a month or so." TOBOR didn't say anything as his eyes suddenly turned black before falling to the ground with a few sparks flying. "OH! Master, TOBOR? Are you alright?" Alfred asks. "HE WILL BE ALRIGHT, ALFRED." Makoto said. "HE DOES THAT SOMETHINGS WHEN HE IS REALLY SURPRISED. TOBY JUST NEEDS TO REBOOT AFTER A WHILE." (4 Hours Later) After many hours of being in Sleep Mode, TOBOR finally rebooted power and awoken. It took him a few moments before realizing of what has happened earlier today. He still couldn't believe of how much of a good day he was having. His restaurant becomes a hit on the first day. He's reunited with his beloved little sister. And to top if off, he gets a huge tip from Cave. A tip that will make up for the spending spree he went through. He also gets a robotic helper, quite ironic. Anyway, after TOBOR woke up, he left Kuratchi and Alfred in charge of the restaurant while he and Makoto catch up on things. TOBOR went around town introducing Makoto to his new friends. The first was Fluttershy. She was really happy to finally meet TOBOR sister after hearing about her. Rarity was next on the list. The fashionista was fascinated by Makoto's dress, and wanted to make more like it in the future. When it was Rainbow Dash's turn, both her and Makoto spent most of the time talking about their favorite flyers. Rainbow's obviously being the Wonderbolts, and Makoto's the Sky Heroes back in her world. As for Pinkie Pie, she wanted to throw the female robot a party, but she would have to do it for another time since she was busy with somepony else today. TOBOR wondered why he didn't get a invitation. Right now, TOBOR and Makoto were both heading over to Sweet Apple Acres. "IT WAS NICE TO MEET YOUR FRIENDS, TOBY." Makoto said. "THEY'RE REALLY NICE." "Thanks. Speaking of friends, how's the others doing?" TOBOR asks. "EVERYONE BACK AT THE DISTRICT IS DOING TO SAME THING AS USUAL. NOTHING REALLY CHANGED." "Aren't they a little... worried about me?" "ACTUALY, I DON'T THINK THEY NOTICED THAT YOU WERE GONE. THEY JUST THOUGHT YOU WERE DOING MORE TESTS FOR DR. F." "Oh..." TOBOR sighed. Here he was thinking that the others back home would be worried about him. Guess it that wasn't the case. "Say, what has the old man been doing since I've been gone?" "WELL..." Makoto hesitantly says. "SINCE YOU'VE BEEN GONE FOR NEARLY A MONTH, ALL OF THOSE TESTS THAT YOU WERE SUPPOSE TO DO WERE PILING UP. SO, DR. F NEEDED A VOLUNTEER TO DO THE TEST FOR HIM WHILE YOU WERE MISSING." TOBOR eyes narrowed "I don't suppose he made you volunteer?" Makoto was starting to get nervous to TOBOR's suspicions. "WELL, UH-- HEY, WHO'S THAT?" TOBOR looked up ahead to see a familiar orange cowpony pulling a wagon. "That is actually another one of my friends I wanted to introduce you to." "OH! WELL, WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?" Makoto was about to go ahead when TOBOR grabbed a hold of her tail, making her 'eep' in surprise. "Now hold on there, sis." TOBOR said with clenched teeth. "This discussion is not over yet. We will talk about this after today." Makoto sighed before nodding in defeat. Satisfied, TOBOR spits out the tail before walking besides his sister as they head towards the farm pony. "Hey, Applejack!" TOBOR called out. Applejack recognized the voice as she stops and looks back. "Well howdy, TOBOR!" Applejack greeted. "I thought you were at your fancy restaurant of yours." "I was, but Cave gave me some extra help. So now, I can have some free time off when ever I want." "Oh, well that's great to hear." Applejack then notices Makoto. "Say, who's this?" "Ah, this is--" "HELLO!" Makoto interrupted. "MY NAME IS MAKOTO. I AM TOBY'S LITTLE SISTER." Applejack was surprised by this. "Well, shoot! It's nice to meet you, Makoto. I was mighty curious about you when TOBOR talked about you." "IT'S NICE TO MEET ANOTHER ONE OF TOBY'S FRIENDS." "Say, what are you doing anyway, AJ?" TOBOR asks. "You already done with selling the apples?" "Well, not exactly." "What do you mean?" Applejack sighed. "There was a little incident back at the market." "What happened?" "Well, from what I heard from Apple Bloom, she is the only filly in her class to have not cutie mark." "WHAT'S A CUTIE MARK?" Makoto asks curiously. "It's a mark that represents a pony's special talent." TOBOR explains. "OH." "Right, anyway, she wanted to get her cutie mark really badly. So, she thought she could get one by selling apples with me." "Something tells me it didn't go well?" TOBOR sighed. "Yep. She kept bothering everypony that comes near my apple cart to the point that I had to give away half of the load as an apology." "Where's Apple Bloom now?" "Probably off trying to get her cutie mark. I keep telling her that these things take time. She is just being stubborn." "Oh, I wonder who she learn it from." TOBOR smirked as he remembers the stories he heard from the others. "Oh, ha ha. Very funny." Applejack rolled her eyes. "Say, have you seen Twilight yet?" "No. I haven't seen her since yesterday when she and Spike left for Canterlot." "Well, I'm sure they'll come back soon. Somepony has to look about the library." Applejack turns around and starts walking. "Listen, I'll talk to you later, partner. I got some more work to do back at the farm. Again, it was nice meeting your sister by the way." With that, Applejack resumes her journey back to her home, leaving both robots to their own devices. "WELL, SHE WAS NICE." Makoto said happily. "Yeah..." TOBOR replied. "SO, WHAT NOW?" "Let's head over to the library. She did had a point. Someone has to look after it while Twilight and Spike is gone." "WHO ARE THEY BY THE WAY?" "They also another couple of friends of mine." "YOU HAVE A LOT OF FRIENDS, TOBY. YOU MUST BE VERY POPULAR AROUND HERE." "You don't even know half of it." TOBOR chuckles. With nothing else to do, both robot ponies decided to turn around and head towards their new destination. It didn't take long for TOBOR and Makoto to make it to the Golden Oak Library. Considering that TOBOR decided to fly back with his sister in his grasp. However, when they got to the large treehouse, TOBOR notice something different about it. "What the..." TOBOR muttered. "WHAT'S WRONG, BIG BRO?" "The door. It's totally repaired." "WAS IT BROKEN OR SOMETHING?" "Yeah, something happened the other day while I was gone." TOBOR sighed. "I'll tell you about it later. Right now, I want to check out the place and make sure everything is secure." "OKAY." TOBOR reaches over the door and opens it. However, once it was open, he was met with very familiar purple fire-breathing reptile, who was just about to open the door himself. "Spike?" "TOBOR?" Spike replied surprised. "Hey, how you been?" "I'm doing good, but I want to know why you guys came back. I thought you and Twilight were staying in Canterlot. Speaking of which, where is she?" "Well, we were, but Celestia decided to let us go home earlier. When we got back, we spent most of the afternoon cleaning up the library. It was really hard to get some of the ink stains." Spike explained. "As to where Twilight is, she went out to talk with the others. She just wants to let them know we were back." "Oh, well, it's good to have you guys back. I thought I had to watch the library by myself." TOBOR said. "Say, who is she?" Spike pointed towards the second robot pony. "Oh! I'm sorry. The mare beside me is my little sister, Makoto. Makoto, I'm sure you have heard, this is Spike. He is the one I mentioned on the way here." "IT'S NICE TO MEET YOU, SPIKE. I'VE NEVER MET A DRAGON BEFORE." Makoto finally greeted. "It's nice to meet you too." Spike replied. "Have you met my friends yet?" "YEP. TOBY SHOWED ME AROUND TOWN AND INTRODUCED ME TO HIS OTHER FRIENDS. I DIDN'T KNOW HE WAS SO POPULAR HERE." "Yeah, that's been going on for a while. Especially, now he opened up a restaurant." "Oh, you heard about it's opening?" TOBOR asks. "Sure did. Cave told Twilight and I about it back in Canterlot. He said that he was going visit you when he sends Derpy back home. I was just about head over there myself." "Well, in that case..." Suddenly, TOBOR pixels in a golden card from his Storage Unit and hoofs it over to Spike. "Here's a little VIP card from me. Just show it to one of my employees and you'll get a free meal." "Sweet! Thanks, TOBOR. I'll head over right now. Talk to you later." With that said, the little dragon went off to get lunch from his friend's establishment. TOBOR chuckles before motioning Makoto to come inside. Once inside, TOBOR then put on a more serious face. "Alright, Makoto." TOBOR said. "Now that we got some alone time, I need to talk to you about something." "OKAY." Makoto said. "WHAT DO YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT?" TOBOR leans forwards, making Makoto nervous a bit "Did Dr. F hurt you when you were doing his tests?" Makoto's eyes widen as she realized they were back to this discussion. "WELL... I DID GET HURT JUST A LITTLE--" "How? Much?" TOBOR asks with narrowed eyes. Makoto fidgets with her hooves before submitting. She then starts to take off her coat and under shirt. Now, normally, something like this would be very awkward and wrong for number of reasons as you readers can tell. However, since they were ponies and ponies are normally naked, TOBOR was unfazed by this action. Well... not as much, he still cringed. Anyway, when Makoto took off her shirt, TOBOR's digital eyes widen when he saw a large gash on her furry chest. He can see the white metal plating that was underneath the skin, which was also damaged with minor scratches. "Oh. My. Sims." TOBOR muttered in shock. "What happened?" "TOBY, IT WAS AN ACCIDENT--" "What happened!" Makoto flinched from the sudden volume, but complied. She explained that a few days ago before she decided look for TOBOR, she was tasked by their creator to fix the broken power line that was outside their laboratory. Now, this wouldn't of been a difficult task if the female robot knew about wiring safety. However that was the case as electrical wiring wasn't one of Makoto's functions. As the results, she made a mistake and shocked herself pretty badly. It was nearly enough to short out her system right there. "DR. F WAS DISAPPOINTED THAT I DIDN'T FIX THE LINES. HE'S BEEN GETTING REALLY ANNOYED THAT I COULDN'T PERFORM ANY OF THE TASKS CORRECTLY. SO, HE DISMISSED ME AND SAID THAT HE WILL PUT EVERY TESTS HE PLANNED ON HOLD UNTIL YOU COME BACK." Makoto explained. TOBOR's mood softened when he heard that last part. He sighed as he knew he had to tell her the bad news. "Well... I'm afraid I'm not going back. Neither will you." Makoto raised a brow. "WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?" "What I'm talking about is that there is no way back home. The rulers of the this place, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna both tried their best in finding a way to send me back home. However, they couldn't find it and said I was permanently stuck here. Same for you now." "BUT... BUT... WHAT ABOUT HOME?" "What about home, sis? We could just live here and start a new life." "WHAT ABOUT OUR FRIENDS BACK HOME? WE WON'T SEE THEM AGAIN." "Yes, I know. However, I've moved on and made new ones here in Equestria." "WHAT ABOUT DR. F?" Makoto questioned once more. "HE'S GOING TO BE MAD IF WE DON'T GO BACK." At that moment, TOBOR finally had enough and decided to put his own opinion. "I don't give a fuck about Dr. F!" He shouted. Makoto gasped as she heard her brother cursed in front of her. "Ever since I was created by that bastard, I've done nothing but test, test, and more test! I've been blown up, cut, zapped, and whatever damage possible and Dr. F doesn't care about me. Not to mention, everybody else outside of the Industrial District doesn't see me as a person but as simple machine that they can walk all over. Back in that world, I was never able to follow my dreams as a restaurant owner, but here, I did just that and now I'm happy for the first time in 20 years." TOBOR started to make his way to the exit as he pass by Makoto. "I'm never going back, sis. I'm happy here. Maybe you should reconsider and just accept this place." With that final statement, TOBOR soon went out the door and left an upset Makoto thinking to her self. '...TOBY... WHAT HAS GOTTEN INTO YOU?' TOBOR continued on down the road to... well, he didn't know where he was going. He just need to have a moment of alone time. All that stress that he has been bottling up all these years had finally been deleted from his system. To be honest, he is kind of feeling more better now that he vented his feelings about his lousy creator. However, he was starting to feel bad that he yelled at his little sister. He might of over did it a bit. TOBOR will have to apologies to Makoto later on when he comes back home. "I wonder what the others are doing today--" "Hi, TOBOR!!" "Gah!" By instincts, TOBOR whipped out Plasma Cannon and took aim. However, he found out that the "threat" was non other than Pinkie Pie who was still smiling widely. "Oh, sorry, Pinkie." TOBOR said as he puts his weapon away. "You gave me quite the surprise." Pinkie giggled. "Oh, silly filly. That's what I do, but I'm sorry too. I should of put out a warning next time. I don't want to be nearly shot like Dashy." TOBOR cringed from the memory. "Yeah, well, what's done is done. Anyway, what brings you out here today?" "Oh, I just wanted to give you your invitation." "Invitation? To what?" "A party, silly! I'm throwing a party for a filly name Diamond Tiara." TOBOR sighed in annoyance. He was familiar with the snobby little filly. She would label him as a walking tin can. Not that he wasn't called that before, but it still was frustrating. "Oh, I a familiar with her." "Well, she is having a cute-ceañera over at Sugarcube Corner." "Okay... Why should I go?" "Because I'm throwing the party. Nopony has ever resisted a Pinkie Party!" TOBOR stared at Pinkie before sighing in defeat. "Okay, Pinkie." TOBOR said in defeat. "I'll go. However, if that little snot-nose little brat starts something I don't like, then I'm leaving." Pinkie nodded. She didn't want to admit it, but she too find the little pink filly a bit... mean at times. "That fine, TOBOR. See you around." Pinkie then does a backflip before landing in a pile of hay. TOBOR stared before shaking away the unexpected departure. "Alright, let's get this over with." Surprisingly, the party was pretty well. Turns out, he was only invited because Diamond demanded that he served the food at her party. He was surprised by the sudden request considering that she didn't like him, but complied and took position near a buffet table. Everypony at the party loved the robot's cooking. It made TOBOR glad to know that his skills in culinary is appreciated. After a while of serving ponies left and right, a certain lavender unicorn made her appearance. "Twilight!" TOBOR said in delight. "How are you?" "I'm doing good, TOBOR." Twilight greeted back. "I was wondering where you were." "Well, I've been busy running my restaurant for most of the morning. However, Cave me some extra help and gave me a huge tip for the meal. Now, I can have some time to myself when ever I want to." "That's great, TOBOR." "Say, sorry for bringing this up, but are you okay?" "TOBOR, I'm fine." Twilight giggles for her protective friend. "I was just a little shaken up from the incident. Plus, my horn isn't aching anymore. Everything is back to normal. Well... what is considered normal here anyway." TOBOR chuckles from the joke. "Yeah. Hey, want to try a bite? Got a nice serving of grill hay." "I would like that." TOBOR and Twilight spent their time having a conversation about what they did during their time. TOBOR was interested to know that Cave and the princesses were planning on having bodyguards assigned for the others, even though it wasn't official yet. However, Twilight was even more surprised when she found out about TOBOR's sister being here in Ponyville. "Wow, I can't wait to meet her. Where is she now?" "She is probably still at the library. I kind of left her there to think." "You left her alone?" "I know. It was really mean of me to do, but she needs to realize that there is no way back home and this place is our new home now." "I feel bad for you guys." "It's fine. I already have new friends. You, Fluttershy, and the others. Not to mention, I finally get to follow my dream. I'm having a good time here in Equestria. I'm sure my little sister can adapt as well." "I guess. Hey, does she have a place to stay?" TOBOR paused. He completely forgot the fact that Makoto didn't have a place to stay. While he himself can go and stay up all night since he had a really long battery life, Makoto needed a place where she can stay. "Howdy, ya'll." TOBOR's thoughts were cut from the sound of a familiar cowpony. "Oh, hi, Applejack." Twilight greeted. "Glad to see that you made it." "Well, when Pinkie Pie throws a party, you got to go." Applejack said. "Say, have any of ya seen Apple Bloom anywhere? I haven't seen her when we came here." "Actually, no. I've been serving ponies some of my food and I haven't seen her once." "Something tells me that she is hiding because of her blank flank." "Is she still worried about that?" "Yep. I keep telling her that it's not so bad. She just needs to wait for it to show up." "She is being a bit impatient." Twilight added her two bits. "When I was visiting Pinkie Pie, I found her and Apple Bloom made a huge mess in the kitchen. Something about trying to get a baking cutie mark. She asked if I can make her cutie mark appear, but I told her the same thing. You can't force a cutie mark to come early." TOBOR nodded. After reading about cutie marks back at the library, he that it was strange to have a mark that tells ponies what your good at. However, he let it slide as he figured that they work in mysterious ways. Mysterious indeed as he too has one on his robotic flank. Which is strange because he is not a real pony. "Well, when you see her, tell her I need to talk to her. I'm gonna need to rethink about her employment." TOBOR said. "Wait, you hired Apple Bloom?" Applejack asks with a raised brow. "Well, not officially at the time, I was a little desperate to find help for my restaurant. However, thanks to Cave, I things will go a bit more smoothly for the time being. I hope she can understand." "It's okay. I understand." TOBOR turned to see Apple Bloom herself. However she had two fillies that TOBOR haven't seen during the party. "Apple Bloom, there you are. Where have you been?" Applejack asks. "And who are these two?" TOBOR also asks. "Well, I've been hiding because I was afraid of what Diamond Tiara will think of me still being a blank flank." "So that's why you wanted to get your cutie mark quickly." "Yeah. However, I soon found out that I'm not the only blank flank." Apple Bloom wave to the other two fillies. "These are my new friends, Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell." "It's nice to meet you, TOBOR." Sweetie Bell said politely. "I've seen you race Rainbow Dash many times before. You guys are awesome!" Scootaloo said excitedly. "Well, it's nice to meet you two." The group spent the rest of the party talking and getting to know each other. After a while in the evening, every pony was going home as the party was over. TOBOR was helping Pinkie clean up the mess. They were discussing about Makoto's living arrangement. "Are you sure the Cakes will let Makoto live with you guys?" TOBOR asks. "Of course!" Pinkie said. "I've already talked with them and they said it was okay, but she will need to help out around the kitchen." "Well, she won't have any problems with that. She can adapt really quickly." At that moment, the double doors that lead to the bakery opened to reveal, to TOBOR's surprise, Diamond Tiara. She trotted right up to TOBOR. "Hey, Tin Can." Diamond greeted. "Hello, Diamond." TOBOR sighed. "My daddy wanted me to give this to you after the party." Diamond clicks her little hoof on the ground twice before a stallion in a black suit walks in with a brown sack in his mouth. He too goes to TOBOR before dropping the sack and walking about outside. "What's this?" TOBOR asks. "Your payment." Diamond said. "I have to admit, your cooking is really good. So, you have my respect." TOBOR was surprised. Here he thought Diamond would always be a brat. "Wow... thanks, Diamond. I--" "But I'm still gonna call you 'Tin Can' though." TOBOR's mood deflated at that. Nevermind the previous statement. "Well, now that were done here. I'll be off." She said leaving. "Wait!" "What?" Diamond asks irritably. "Where is you dad anyway?" TOBOR asks curiously. "I thought he would of showed up to his daughter's cute-ceañera." Diamond visibly cringed from the question. She was silent for a moment before speaking. "H-He's on important business, and said he wouldn't be able to show up." "Business, huh? What does he do?" "Quite frankly, that is none of your beeswax, Tin Can." With that, the pink filly turned around and walked off through the exit with the stallion who was waiting outside following her. TOBOR turns to Pinkie as if waiting for and answer. All Pinkie did was shrug with uncertainty. TOBOR looks back out the exit where the rich filly left with confusion. Something wasn't right about her when he mentioned Filthy Rich. However, he decided that it was indeed not his business and just left it alone before going back to cleaning up. Manehatten, Bronze Industries Filthy Rich's Office Power Power was something that keeps everything in line. Like his staff for example. They would work day and night to fill his bank account with bits. Oh, he loved being rich. It was in his name for buck sakes. Rich will do anything that will give him control. Blackmailing rival businesses... Done. Scamming the poor idiots out there... Easy. Paying off law enforcers... Simple. Gaining trust... That... is rather difficult. Trust is another thing that Mr. Rich values. He will not tolerate betrayal. Especially if those who try to sell him out to royalty. Those who do... well, let's just say that they will learn a lesson. A painful lesson. An excruciating painful lesson. There were only a few that Rich trusts to have as a business partner. However, there is one particular individual that has caught his interest. And boy, he does not disappoint. "So... if I were to join your cause... what will I get in return?" "I promise you, if you help me fund my projects... you will be by my side as one of the most powerful ponies in Equestria. The world even." "..." "I understand that this is a difficult decision for you to make, but--" "I accept." "Hmm?" "I will have to admit, this is not the kind of risk I normally take. However, I've seen the technology you have at your disposal. I believe you are prepare for any errors we'll cross in the future?" "Indeed. Though, I can tell you want something else as well?" "Oh you read me like a book, and yes, there is. I will join you under one condition." "What will it be?" "If this so-called partnership of ours do fall apart, then you will not mention my participation in this little game. I have a reputation to keep." "That is understandable, and I accept this condition." Both stallions get up from their seats and shook hooves. "Glad to have done business with you, Filthy Rich." "The same to you, Lord Morcubus."