//------------------------------// // Chapter 7: Sophisticated Assassin // Story: Elements of Honor // by SpitFlame //------------------------------// As Corvo entered his room, the first thing he noticed was a pale-white object resting at his bed’s feet. Corvo made his way to the center-top of the room, mentally moaning as the warm light shone through his gleaming window, warming his cheek and chin. The dark coat on his body felt it had tightened as he stood still; a black shadow stretched to the parallel wall, connected by his boots. Inside, Corvo perceived a sense of relief, and a pleasant burning came afterwards. On the outside, though, the grey shadow which so long was borne onto his expression had vanished. As his sable coat loosened against his torso, Corvo inwardly scoffed and wandered to his bed. As he approached, he saw that the white item was a scroll: long with a waxed quality, and firmly tied together by a lengthy bright red ribbon. He laid down, flat against his back, with his arms supporting the back of his head. He yawned and rubbed a palm to his forehead, wandering his eyes about the soft-hued ceiling. Whatever should betide here in Equestria, he thought, I just hope it is not permanent. Of course, once we obtain those stones, everything should return to normal. Whatever the normal here can be, that is. After half a minute of tapping his left ankle over his right while tracing lines on the ceiling with is eyes, Corvo rose. He snagged the lengthy scroll, its aroma flew up to his nostrils, and strangely, it burned. He pulled off the red ribbon which tied the parchment in place; and immediately, the scroll dropped to his very knees. He read: Dear Corvo, A huge congratulations for saving Canterlot! I sincerely give you my gratitude, and I hope you enjoy your stay for the rest of your time here. Anyway, please come meet us, here in Ponyville. I know we have given you a hard time, so to make up for it, I truly hope you are able to come and put off any strange stares ponies might give you. It would be incredibly nice to get to know you better, and we absolutely hope to save Equestria—with yours and the Princesses’ help, that is. Signed, Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy “Hmm, how about that,” whispered Corvo to himself as he whipped the parchment back onto his bed. “And just when I was planning on meeting them, too.” Corvo wandered to his front door, and he began to think. I guess I shall meet each of the ponies from the order of which their names were signed. That should keep me organized for the rest of the day. Once Corvo reached the lower hallway of Canterlot Castle, he began to witness the several stained glass windows he never seemed to notice. One was of images of the six ponies, all surrounding a larger, black and blue pony. Its colors were vibrant and effective, flicking small flashes of light the longer he stared while gaiting by. Several more came afterwards: one with the same ponies, each standing on their hind-legs, each looking upwards to a long snake of many body parts. The more he walked and stared, the faster he was able to descry and deduce its events. Quite intriguing, he thought. So these ponies must have stopped many evil forces of the past. Well, they are incredibly proud, after all. It would make sense. Corvo’s thinking was intruded by a dark figure in his peripherals. He shifted his gaze to his front, spotting Princess Luna. “Greetings, Corvo,” said the alicorn. “Where are you heading off to, if I may ask?” “I have been invited by the ponies. They each request an audience with me,” said Corvo, slowing down his gait. “It would be a good thing, would it not, to get to know the ponies a little better?” “And do you even know their names?” said Luna as her voice seamlessly became higher pitched. Her eyes bore a dark flicker, and a wavering red flame came to Corvo’s gaze, too. “Of course,” said Corvo. “Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Flutter—err, Fluttershy, it was.” There was a brief pause, until it was ended by Luna’s long sigh. The red and blue flickers in their eyes were replaced by vibrating pupils and calming stares. Luna, I know you do not like me, thought Corvo. But I shall not treat you as a child, for I understand you suspect what I know. Corvo, you should know that I do not trust you, thought Luna. Of course you would realize that fact. You are a fool, Luna, for thinking so poorly of me. I am aware that you think I am evil, though you should be conscious of it. Whatever you are planning, Corvo, justice—my sister and I—will prevail in the end. No matter what you do, it will all be pointless, exactly like the grudge you hold on my head. I promise you that! Both Corvo and Luna morally cried out in their heads. “Well,” said Corvo, breaking their mental debate, “I should be off now. Please, if there’s anything concerning these stones, let me know. Saving Equestria should be our uttermost priority.” He then walked by Luna as she turned to him. “Now, now,” she said, “if you are to befriend any of the Elements of Harmony, I shall send two guards to escort you throughout Ponyville.” Corvo wavered his lips, then lifted an arm and motioned back to Luna. “Of course,” he said. “I would appreciate that.” * * * As Corvo descended from his carriage—and he felt quite annoyed for using one—he approached Twilight’s tree house. He eccentrically danced his eyes round the tree, admiring the strong workmanship of its structure and the dark-bole bark. But as Corvo approached the small wooden door, a hoo! went by his ears. He looked upwards to spot a circular balcony resting on dark wooden beams. The balcony bore a large mechanical telescope, eyeing the sky, and a brown and pale owl next to it. The owl was looking at Corvo with unblinkable eyes; and as he decided to continue his gait forward, a shadow seemed to spread from the peculiar owl to him. What an eerie owl, thought Corvo bitterly. Corvo pushed the door inwardly, and ducked down for it was only two-thirds of his height. As he entered the main room, he raised his eyebrows. Meeting him was a whole plethora of books, all aligned neatly in a wall of shelves. Several tables and stools surrounded the book-filled walls, carrying even more stacks of books. On the opposite side of the room was a whole different section: the kitchen. Corvo could spot plates and other shining silvers, each upon a rectangular table in the center. The entirety of the cuisine was in a rectangular shape, with the bottom-right corner held up by a wooden beam. In fact, Corvo noticed how nearly everything was made of dry wood, with everything else made of books. Strangely enough, he find himself not minding to want to live there. “Hello!” said a voice. Corvo turned to see Twilight trotting down the curving stairs. Once she made it to the floor, Corvo said: “I admire the scheme of your tree-house. Absolutely artistic in its own way.” “Well, thank you so much,” said Twilight as she beamed a smile, but with a pinch of confusion. “Twilight, I have read your letter,” said Corvo as the two approached each other. “What do you have in mind?” “I was thinking we can study a few books together. Remember when you said you’d like to be shown a few thing about magic?” “Yes, I do remember.” Corvo then wandered to a nearby stool and sat down. “Please, what is there to know?” But Corvo backed up just the slightest as Twilight’s eyes glowed like two burning stars. “So much!” she said, louder than was necessary, but realized Corvo was leaning against a bookshelf and gave a sheepish smile. “Ahem, sorry about that.” Using her magic, Twilight levitated at least a dozen different books round her body. She lifted a hoof to her chin and hummed curiously, then her magic stretched a blue book to him. “Here,” she said, placing the book onto his lap. “The Study of Archaic Spells; one of my favorites. Maybe you would take interest in what this book has to offer.” Corvo picked up the book by its sides and inspected the cover. It was of a thin golden circle, roughly drawn round the edges; and inside the circle was a clunky white and turquoise title: 'The Study of Archaic Spells' he read. He then proceeded to open it, and was met with a fairly large index of black ink. “Imitation of Alchemy, Shadow Fusing, Illusions, Direct Hypnosis...” Corvo read out loud. “Quite the interesting amount of spells, but I am disinterested in this.” Twilight’s eyebrows outwardly lowered as her ears flattened. “Huh? But it can’t be,” she said. “These are the most interesting spells there are to learn. Half of these were invented by the great Star Swirl the Bearded himself. How can you be uninterested?” Corvo sighed, gently set the book to the floor, and got to his feet. “I never said that I was uninterested,” he said with tranquility in his voice, walking past the lavender alicorn. Twilight herself frowned and stared at Corvo with twitching eyes. I never knew how hard it was to please him, she thought. “What are you talking about? You just said you were uninterested about the type of magic you said you wanted to learn of!” “I said I was disinterested,” said Corvo, slowly sliding his finger across the multitude of books against the wall, “meaning I was simply impartial of learning archaic works. But of course, I am just a bit more interested in something like this.” He plucked out a book, and hovered his gaze over the cover. “Yes, this shall do.” “Corvo,” said Twilight with an off-toned voice as she remembered the title. “This is a guide to levitation magic. This is for fillies and colts!” “The simplest of things are the ones which become looked over the most.” Corvo began to flip through its thick pages. “I would appreciate it if I had the power of telekinesis. I really would.” “But, Corvo,” said Twilight, followed by a groggily sigh, “this book is for little unicorns who barely know how their horns work. How can you like this and not actual spells that I gave you?” “Because I much rather study the simplest of things. Besides, levitation magic is actual magic as you say, but it is a shame to see how underrated it can become.” Twilight was silent for an awkwardly long time, and could only watch with inattentiveness as Corvo quickly read through the short pages. “What a fascinating book,” said Corvo, breaking the tiring silence. He slid the book back into the empty space of the shelf he had left earlier. “What else would you like to show me?” “Oh, I don’t know,” said Twilight, waving a hoof in the air as she and trotted towards the kitchen. “Maybe you would like to read a book about changing diapers, too?” Corvo hardened his look and followed her behind. “No, I shall not,” he said thickly, “and please do not get upset with me. Maybe one day I shall read the books you hold an interest in, but for now, I am impartial of them.” “I’m… sorry,” said Twilight, bowing her head on the table. “You’re right, I was a little harsh—if not, somewhat taken aback—so... maybe you would like something to eat?” “Yes, I am quite hungry. Last time I ate was back in the Crystal Empire, I think” Corvo seated himself on the opposite side of where Twilight sat. “Listen, Corvo,” said Twilight, but Corvo was caught off guard. Her voice became softer yet more grievous. She kept looking down, rubbing her fore-hoof against her temple. “I need to talk about those windigos with you.” Corvo slid a palm over half of his face, and a greyness grew over his visible eye. “Yes, what would you like to discuss about them?” “Well…” Twilight rolled her eyes, looking round the kitchen, then set her look on Corvo, who too caught her stare with his own. “Thank you… thank you for staying behind and trying to save us.” Corvo didn't answer, but remained staring at the alicorn. Twilight gulped down the lump in her throat, and bit her lip as she noticed how ominous his eye seemed to be. But Corvo rested both of his arms on the table’s lip, and his face brightened. “If you don’t want to—” “You speak of bygone days,” he interrupted, “which would seem most unusual, though I shall speak along.” “Oh, um, great!” said Twilight, the sweat on her brow had cooled and vanished. “I just want to know: why did you choose to save us, after the way we treated you?” “Because I seem to care, I would have to say.” Twilight stood still for several seconds. A warmth enveloped from within her face as she looked down. “Well,” she started, “thanks for saying. But there’s another thing which confused me. Windigos are supposed to be extinct, and even if they weren't, the blizzards they produce only occur when fighting or hatred is present.” “Strange indeed,” said Corvo as he leaned in closer. “But then again, with all of these unexplained events appearing throughout Equestria, what is the surprise?” Twilight furrowed her brow and scoffed. “It is a big surprise!” she said. “Windigos are incredibly dangerous creatures, and if more were to come near Canterlot or Ponyville, I’m not sure how we’d cope with the situation.” “When I fought them...” said Corvo, but Twilight noticed a pain on his face. He gripped his chest and slowly breathed out. “When I fought with them, I began to feel a terrible coldness upon me. For the final moment, I could have sworn I would die. It was so close, yet letting go would only ensure it.” That’s when Corvo noticed how tight his jaw had become, and the hand which gripped his chest was shaking. He sighed and looked at Twilight; and once he loosened his arm, he said sternly: “Always have an adamant will to live. After all, if you don’t, what shall stop you from letting yourself be slain today, or tomorrow, or the day after?” Twilight was about to respond, but she was stopped by a grumbling in Corvo’s stomach. He looked down then back towards her and lowered his eyelids. “Perhaps we could have that food you have promised?” he said. * * * “I must say, that was a lovely casserole,”said Corvo. He wiped a white napkin over his lips, then set it down. “It’s great that you liked it,” said Twilight. “I’m not the greatest cook ever, but at least I didn't burn the kitchen like last time.” They both shared a laugh. Once Corvo cleaned the dishes, which Twilight thought was odd for him to be helping, and after he had thanked her enough times for her to lose count, he began to head for the door. “Wait, where are you going?” said Twilight. She jogged to his side. “Don’t you want to read about any new spells, or stay for dessert?” But that warmth feeling returned to her face once she realized what she said. Wait, am I actually insisting that he stays? “While I am grateful for your cooking and for the conversation,” said Corvo, “I do not have all the time in this day, and I must get to know your other friends.” “Oh,” said Twilight, a tinge of disappointment was in her voice. “Well, I hope we can all get along.” “And Twilight,” he said, ignoring her previous statement, “once we are able to find the six other stones and save Equestria, I am sure we shall get answers. Even if we do not, at least this land shall be saved.” And he was gone, out the door, leaving Twilight staring at him from inside. I really hope Corvo is right, she internally told herself while making her way upstairs. If we can all be in this together, then let it all be for something. “Twilight?” said a voice. Twilight looked up to spot Spike yawning on the very top of the staircase. “I heard talking from down there. Was somepony here?” Twilight smiled and continued to walk upwards. “A friend,” she said. “Just a friend.” * * * Corvo gaped at how intricate and stylized the Carousel Boutique was. Two enormous rhombus-shaped windows shone at each side of the circular building, with several patterned purple pillars holding together a grand sign of a golden pony. To Corvo, it was all very amusing to see. Even the purple door with its diamond-shaped windows bore two silver rectangular door knobs which gleamed in response to the yellow sun. This place looks to be quite lovely, Corvo mentally said with an internal sigh afterwards. Once he gently pushed the silver door knob inwardly and stepped inside, the jingle of a bell echoed over the room. “One moment please!” clamored a voice. Out of the further door from behind several lines of mannequins, Rarity came. The moment she spotted Corvo, her expressions jumped to one of shock, only for an instant. Then she beamed a smile and trotted forth. “Greetings,” greeted Corvo with a wave of his hand. “It is nice to finally meet you again.” “Why of course,” said Rarity. "It’s always nice to meet a recent friend." Corvo noticed two things. He noticed how busy she looked: her mane was quite distorted with several streaks poking out of her usual smooth style. Upon her eyes were a pair of small red glasses, and a withered measuring tape hung loosely over her neck. The second thing he noticed was her use of the word 'friend'. “I have read the letter signed by you and your friends,” said Corvo. “So I am here to get to know each of you as fellow companions.” “Well, since you are here,” said Rarity, “shall we discuss a topic of fashion proportions? I’m positively certain you will like the new uniform I have made for you.” Corvo cocked his head, then thought back to when he agreed to Rarity for making him a new suit. “Yes,” he started, “I would love to see your new design.” Corvo then scanned the current one draped over his body. It was like a black rag: withering with age and rips from his forearms to his legs. “I trust your creative intuition, after all.” “Oh, you flatter me,” said Rarity as she beckoned to Corvo with a hoof. He could only follow for a second before she used her magic to pull out a rack. It slid on its wheels to the assassin’s front; and a simple clothes hanger was in the middle. But what impressed him the most was the stunningly crafted uniform hanging from the metal rack. It looked to be a long coat, measuring at nearly six feet long. It was a sable grey, with white lines connecting from each shoulder to the center belt. Most of the folds were bound by golden buttons, so bright Corvo could have sworn they were glowing for the moment. A thick, brown cloth was attached under the coat, and bore a second sturdy belt beneath the first. A hood, too, was flipped forth and leaning down with two more patches of cloth bounding it tighter to the shoulders; and a pale-golden line went round the outer part of the hood and crossed over the chest. Overall, it looked incredibly durable and sleek; and it was of similar design to the one he wore, too. “Rarity, I…” but Corvo was at a lost for words. He bowed to his knees, crossed an arm over his chest, and said: “I thank you deeply for this absolutely stunning gift. I shall treasure it in your memory; and I, with the best of my abilities, will try to keep its appearance intact for the rest of the time of its use.” He then extended an arm, grabbed Rarity’s hoof, and quickly kissed it. As he rose to his feet, Rarity’s cheeks were burning from within, and she couldn’t help but let out a soft giggle. “W-well,” she stammered, “thank you so much for your appreciation. I worked all night, so it helps me all the more knowing you liked it.” “Truly, this must be your finest work—well, to me, anyway, since this is the only work I have seen from you,” said Corvo as he lifted his new coat’s arm. It felt like flexible steel, with a leather texture down to the very belt. “Yes, well I truly am glad you like it,” said Rarity followed by a nervous cough. “So, Corvo, we simply must talk this over tea. I have actually made some in advance, and we wouldn't want it to get cold, now would we?" “Yes, good idea,” said Corvo, and he followed behind her as she led them both to the kitchen. And Rarity and Corvo spent a full hour at the kitchen table. She told him of her business, and how she enjoyed the art of dressmaking. But to Rarity’s surprise, Corvo was incredibly intrigued. The entire time he was asking her about how the business of fashion went along with her, and they all but talked about him. “Now Corvo,” said Rarity, placing an empty teacup on the table, “while I more than appreciate the fact that you truly do take interest in my works, he haven’t but for a second talked about you.” “Truly, you are right,” said Corvo, almost whispering. “But my own thoughts must stay within my mind. Of course, that is my personal life; but we can talk about what I like.” He cleared his throat. “I am somewhat of a writer.” To Rarity, her mind fell into a haze of unexpectation. One of her eyebrows outwardly lowered, as the other creased inwardly. “You write poems?” she asked. “Yes, I very much do.” “Why, what a magnificent gentleman you are!” Rarity beamed, and grew a wide smile and brightened eyes. “I thought you would discuss your powers or how you manage combat, or something ruffians would say… err, no offense.” “None is taken,” said Corvo. She bit her lip as she noticed sweat to form upon her brow. “Ah, yes,” she continued and chuckled. “But as I was saying: I had no idea you were a writer! Please, you must tell me more. I have always been fascinated with the art of poetry, but sadly, I have never had the time to try.” Corvo leaned back on his chair, and as he began to serenely hum he softly sang: Of mountains and gold, I choose the riches not. The final sight to behold is one to be fought. The One shall come to aid, and when redemption is complete. The evil shall be unmade... In the land where there is no defeat * * * “Why Corvo, you too are into fashion?” Rarity beamed. “Yes,” said Corvo. “I always enjoy the softer colors over the darker ones, in contrast to my experience.” “And your tastes for fashion are so… divine!” Rarity bowed forth, and using her magic she levitated a gold and silver badge, in the shape of a pony mannequin, and set it onto the lapel tip of Corvo’s coat. “Please, keep that as a memoir of me. While I do love all my friends equally, none of them have ever shown such a powerful taste in proper sophistication.” “Rarity,” said Corvo, his voice was smooth as silk, “your generosity impresses me once again. First, you have given me a new coat of spectacular style; and now, a gift to remember a memorable encounter.” And then he began to walk to the frontdoor. “I must say, Rarity,” said Corvo, “you are the most mature of the past ponies I have met. I would love to meet you again—anytime you would like, that is.” “Of course we will,” said Rarity, waving at him. “I look forward to it.” And then he was gone. My, what a charmingly nice pony, thought Corvo. The next pony to meet shall be… Applejack. * * * Corvo wandered down the apple-field, oblivious to a large, red pony eyeing him from within the apple trees. Ahead, he saw a large red and white barn, standing tall with half of the sun resting on its slanted roof. As Corvo approached, he heard the sound of hard thumping within the trees, and several lighter sounds came after. As he glared out to the side, he saw Applejack bashing her hind-legs against a tree. “Applejack!” yelled Corvo. “I have arrived!” Applejack, wiping sweat from her brow, noticed the assassin walking towards the Sweet Apple Acres entrance. Removing her sun-drenched hat and swiping it to cool herself off, she wandered to Corvo and stuck a hoof out. “Nice to meet yah, partner!” she said. When Corvo grabbed her hoof, she shook with the force of an earthquake. His hand and her hoof became a blur as a dull pain ran through Corvo’s arm. She kept doing so until he pulled back his hand. “Yes, quite,” said Corvo, adjusting his shoulder. “Please, let us have talk. Preferably about you.” “‘Bout me, yah say?” she said, and threw a thoughtful look to her farm. “Maybe we’ll go for a drink, then we’ll talk. Ah got the best Apple cider in all of Equestria, if that helps!” Applejack said with a prideful grin. “And I’ll even introduce yah to the Apple Family.” “That does seem rather nice of you, Applejack,” said Corvo. “I would be more than happy to meet your family and begin a conversation over a cider. And I assume you shall rede over the event with a positively adorned plethoric attitude.” Applejack’s eyes remained with a glare of confusion, but ignored his words and trotted down the dirt road, with Corvo following. “Listen here,” she said, “I don’t know where yah get yer fancy talk, but here in Sweet Apple Acres, we all are as casual as can be.” Corvo sighed long but quietly and nodded his head. “Yes, I guess I shall simplify my words: I do hope we can get along, me and you.” Applejack chuckled and raised an eyebrow towards him. “Why do yah ask?” she said. “Yah ain’t gettin’ any better reception with mah other friends?” “Quite the stark contrast,” said Corvo matter-of-factly. “The first two I have met, Twilight and Rarity, seem to consider me a friend.” “Really now?” Applejack temporarily frowned and hummed suspiciously. “And did they tell yah this?” “Rarity did, but Twilight did not.” Corvo then raised a finger to his forehead. “Still, I could say." “Um, yeah! ‘Course it is.” Applejack laughed, and she did not say a single word on the rest of their way towards the barn’s front field. “We’re here!” said Applejack, thumping her head against Corvo’s waist. The assassin looked about to see a semicircle of trees about a white-fenced yard, and a wooden bench in the middle. On the bench stood several plates, each boring a piece of what looked to be pie, and several more mugs of cider. My, that went by fast, thought Corvo. As he wandered to the bench to seat himself, three ponies came about. One was a large red pony, with a great brown horse collar round his neck. The next was a very old-looking and frill pony, walking with a hunched back. The third was a smaller pony, boring a large red ribbon and the first to jump onto the bench seat. “Meet the family!” Applejack clamored as she through a hoof in the ponies’ direction. “This here is Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith!” She threw her head up and smiled as Corvo sat down. “My, what a strange creature yah got here,” said Granny Smith as she began to poke his bent knee. “Not even in mah days of old did Ah think Ah’d ever meet such a strange tall fella.” “Nice to meet you, Granny Smith!” said Corvo as he shot up, then bowed low. “Corvo Attano, at your service.” The elder pony squinted her eyes and chuckled loudly. “My, what a gentlecolt yah are, eh?” “Gee, I’d never thought I’d see a such weird-looking yet formal monster before,” said Apple Bloom as she hopped onto his back and threw her hooves over his shoulder. Corvo placed his palms to her hooves and rose upwards, supporting the filly on his back. “Apple Bloom!” Applejack scolded. “Don’t yah know it’s rude to call guests ‘weird-looking’?” But before Apple Bloom could frown, they noticed that Corvo was chuckling long but quietly to himself, before releasing into a short yet loud laughter. “I take no offense, dear Applejack,” said Corvo, followed by an inward laugh. “Please, this is one of the most... humours first impressions I have received as of lately.” Applejack herself was astounded by his reaction. Her eyes were round and her jaw nearly dropped as she fell to her haunches. Is this feller that lighthearted? I never expected him to be so cheerful when he acted so nasty at his first arrival. As Apple Bloom giggled in correspondence to Applejack’s expression, and as Granny Smith sat back in a rocking chair, humming to herself while seeming to be half dreaming, Corvo stared directly towards Big Mac. The red stallion stared back, with equal intensity, and had said not a single word to him up until this point. “Greetings, Big Mac,” said Corvo, extending his arm with an opened hand. “As I have said, I am Corvo. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Big Mac slowly latched his hoof to Corvo’s hand, shook once, then stopped. “So, I assume you are the brother of these two ponies?” said Corvo. “Eyep,” said Big Mac, dragging his word. “And you work about these fields?” “Eyep.” There was a cold pause as both sides stared with neutral eyes. Then, Corvo said: “You do not talk as much, though I can admire that.” He looked over to Apple Bloom. “Dear pony, might I entertain you by representing my speed throughout your field?” Apple Bloom lowered an eyebrow and raised the other; however, he said ‘entertain’, so she couldn't help but smile. “Yeah! Show me whatcha got,” she beamed. “Now hold on a min—” Applejack said, but Corvo disappeared in midair by the noise of rushing wind. Out into the applefield, she squinted her eyes, for she could see blurred movements, reeling and appearing and vanishing, and then reappearing again, half of every second. And she could hear the cheers of her little sister, crying ‘woohoo!’ with every dim movement. Big Mac watched with widened eyes, adjusting his head every second or so. After a full minute of this, from the eastward side of the white fence came Corvo, hunched over and walking down the dirt field back to the bench. Lying on his back was Apple Bloom; and her mane was scattered about and she bore a wide grin. Once they met the ponies, Apple Bloom hopped to the ground and said: “That. Was. Awesome! Me and Corvo kept slinking ‘round the trees ‘n goin’ super fast!” She then looked to the assassin with bright eyes and said: “Could we please do that again!” “I am sorry, Apple Bloom, but I must be on my way,” said Corvo with an unsure frown. “It was fun, so I hope to meet you again some other time.” And Corvo walked down the hill, before lowering below the horizon and into Ponyville. “Well,” said Applejack, “he has definitely changed. Ah’ll say that!” “Applejack,” said Apple Bloom with a face of joy, “maybe we could get Corvo to come by again. Ah'm guessin' he ran and kept teleportin' like Twilight does sometimes. It was super fun!” But before Applejack could respond, she looked to the plates and pieces of pie on the table. Then it hit her. “Why, that feller didn't even stay to try out our offerin’!” * * * A quick jet a water blasted through the pond, soaking Corvo’s face for an instance before he leaped to the side. “Gah, what is this!” he said, swiping a palm over his dripping hair. But then he heard a high-pitched laughter coming from within the pond; and another laughter shot through the low clouds above him. Looking into the water, he saw it rippling and his reflection danced, before changing into a pink body, jumping out and onto the ground. Pinkie Pie held a long blue tube, about half a meter long, in her mouth. She bore a large pair of goggles, a purple life-vest, and to Corvo, she appeared to be some delusional fool. But most noticeable, she was laughing loudly and hopping towards him. Rainbow Dash dropped down, and she too was laughing. “I do not find your definition of a joke to be humorous,” said Corvo hotly. “Oh, lighten up,” said Rainbow Dash. “Yeah!” yelled Pinkie as she backflipped onto her hooves, next to Rainbow Dash, and smiled to Corvo. “Me and Dashie do pranks all the time! Since you’re always so serious, I thought we could loosen you up.” “I am serious when it is appropriate, and that is most of my days,” said Corvo. “Of course, I have managed to befriend two of your friends; but I am not sure about the third.” Corvo then breathed deeply as the two ponies huh’d in confusion. “Very well. I shall attempt to be at your level, much for the benefit so we gain one another’s trust and to quicken the time it would take to save Equestria.” “Great!” said Pinkie. She bounced to his side and wrapped a hoof round his torso. “But Corvo, why do you always seem so sad? Wait! I got it! You secretly know the plans to rule the whole world but you can’t share it with anypony and that makes you sad but now you know that to rule the world you have to save Equestria but all your friends want to help you rule the world but you can’t see them because you’re here and if you’re here then that means—” “Ridiculous,” said Corvo, stretching the word in an annoyed tone. “Please be logical.” Pinkie frowned and said: “Well that’s no fun. Wait! I got it again!” “Dear lord," said Corvo again. “What you need is a Pinkie Pie Party! That’s sure to make you smile, smile, smile!” “Well, I... do enjoy parties.” Rainbow, meanwhile, face-hoofed and dragged her arm down to her chin. “Oh brother!” she said. “Pinkie, I don’t think Corvo knows what sort of party you’re talking about.” “Yes, a party,” said Corvo. “An exquisite tea-party of fine attires is my favorite. But I always try to be open-minded.” As if on cue, Pinkie tossed tons of confetti in the air, strapped a colorful party hat on Corvo’s wet head, and in a second, brought out a party horn and loudly blew into it. “What is all of this!” said Corvo thickly. As Rainbow and Pinkie shared laughs together, Corvo sat low on the grass, removed his party hat, and began to massage his forehead as he groaned. “Looks like Corvo got too much of your party, Pinkie,” said Rainbow, followed by another laugh. But Pinkie Pie ceased her laughter, and looking down upon the saddened Corvo, she slowly wandered to him. All the confetti was blown away as her smile vanished. “Oh, I’m really sorry about that, Corvo,” said Pinkie. “I just always love to make my friends smile; and I think everypony deserves a second chance, and I just really wanted to be your friend. I guess not everypony thinks in the same way me and my friends do.” Corvo rose to his feet and said: “It is fine, Pinkie. I understand your nature, but for me to smile, all you have to do is be a respectable friend.” And he let out a soft sigh. Pinkie smiled and embraced Corvo in a hug. “Great!” she yelled. “Now we’ll be the best of friends.” “I am glad now,” said Corvo. “But, Pinkie Pie, I beg of you to release me from your grasp. I find this to be most unnecessary.” “Oops,” said Pinkie, followed by a nervous giggle. “Sorry.” She smiled back. While Corvo adjusted his shoulder for comfort, he stared at Rainbow, for he noticed she had been staring at him. “So, Corvo,” said Rainbow with a grin, “are you ready for that sparring match you promised me? You know, the one back in the train to Canterlot.” But Corvo dropped his eyelids and sighed, and said: “I am much too weary for a sparring match, Rainbow Dash. A later time shall do.” And he began to head down the green hill, up into an appearing dirt road on the edge of the Everfree Forest. Rainbow’s smile dropped to a low frown and her eyebrows furrowed. “What!” she cried, hovering to him. “But you promised!” She then crossed her hooves. “Hah, I bet you’re just scared because you know you’ll lose," she said again, but much more arrogantly. But Corvo, very calmly and clearly, said: “Maybe you are right. Very well. I forfeit our match! And maybe I shall ask for a rematch in the future. Anyway, it was pleasant to talk to you ponies, but it is getting late, and I must be on my way.” Rainbow dropped to her hooves and could only watch as his figure vanished under the high hill. When she turned round, she spotted Pinkie giving her a wide grin. “Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash!” she said. “When the time comes, we’ll have all of our friends come. It’ll be super duper fun!” Rainbow sighed and smirked. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.” * * * Corvo heavily gaited up the earthy dike, passing by thin blades of long grass sprouting from its sides. Up he went, until reaching a downhill slope, curving right into a narrow stream of water; and it went under a stone bridge. A dirt road formed as he moved closer, and a large cottage was in his view. The entirety of its roof was covered in green, and dozens of birdhouses scattered about to nearby trees. As he drew near, several quick animals ran about. Each looked at him for a second, before running into a hole in the ground, jumping in the water, or flying into the birdhouses. Seldom have I witnessed so many animals before, thought Corvo as he slid his hand through green bushes at his side. He walked up to the red wooden door, knocked on it four times, and waited as the top part slowly swung open. Up jumped Fluttershy’s head, and she peered out with soft eyes into Corvo’s. “Oh, hello Corvo,” she said, stepping back and opening the bottom entrance of the door, too. “I’m glad you could come.” She smiled, but her eyes looked downwards as she recoiled back into the cottage. Corvo entered, ignoring the several animals hiding behind furniture or birdhouses. He proceeded to lie on a chair, and said: “It is nice to see you, Fluttershy, and a relief that you are the last pony to talk to today.” He gave a quick chuckle, though Fluttershy stared in confusion. “Oh, right,” she said. “Well, I just want to say that I’m really sorry things haven’t been going nicely for you. If only there was a way to help!” “Please, no need for that,” said Corvo. He rested his elbow on the armrest and his fingers on the side of his face. “I need no concern from you ponies, but I am glad you show it.” But Corvo noticed Fluttershy was hiding her face amid her pink mane. He rose up and said: “I am sorry, I did not mean to sound harsh. Please, what else would you like to discuss? Why have me come here?” Fluttershy looked up and sighed. “Sorry,” she said, “it’s just that you seem really scary when you talk that loud.” But Corvo raised an eyebrow. “Loud? My, I have just spoken normally… hmm, you are a shy one, are you not?” “That’s what I really think,” said Fluttershy, before she rested on a nearby couch. “I also try to be more assertive, and since you’re so assertive yourself, maybe you could teach me a few things. If you have the time, you know?” But Corvo hummed, and rose to his feet. “I am not as assertive as you make me seem,” he said. “I just know what it is like to not speak and stand up for yourself.” “What do you mean by that?” “It is nothing you should worry about.” Corvo then threw a smile. “Please, we should talk while he have the chance. I must be heading back to Canterlot in wellnigh ten minutes. Time runs short, as you can see.” “Of course!” Fluttershy’s voice suddenly jumped. “For my first questions: do you like animals?” “Do I like animals?” Corvo repeated the question. “Yes,” said Fluttershy. “I love the little critters, and I love to help them even more! One thing that I’ve learned is that every creature, big or small, has good to them. Whenever one of them were rebellious, I was always there to come through.” “So you believe that all of us has some good within our hearts?” Fluttershy happily nodded. “Well then, I appreciate that belief. I, too, think we can all achieve that true spirit with a little push.” “Why, thank you very much for agreeing.” But Fluttershy’s smile drew low as she leaned into the assassin. “I hope you can know this, Corvo, but do you really think we can save Equestria? Do you think it’ll all turn out well?” “I am not sure,” sighed Corvo as he looked to the ceiling. “If we veritably walk down this path you and your friends, and me and the princesses, so choose to, there is a chance; but gathering all seven stones will prove to be a hardened challenge.” “But what about all those, oh… scary things that happened?” She began to shake. “The windigos, what happened in Canterlot... do you think we’ll get an explanation?” Corvo looked down, and exhaled through his nose. “Maybe we will, and maybe it shall never come,” said Corvo. “Whatever it may be, let us just hope the answer will not cost anymore lives.” And for the next passing minutes, Corvo and Fluttershy changed the discussion to animals, which Corvo had no idea on what to say. After thinking about the future, he could only have faith in their progression. But time was short, and the assassin realized the sun’s light lowering through the round windows. “It has been rather nice to be here, Fluttershy,” said Corvo, “but I must be on my way. I shall continue my search tomorrow at the start of morning; and if your friends wish to participate, you all must get some rest.” “I guess you’re right,” said Fluttershy. “If we are able to save Equestria, me and the animals can throw you a tea party.” “And I shall come if time allows it.” And Corvo wandered back to the red wooden door. But Fluttershy said: “Corvo, I’d just like to thank you before you leave.” “Thank me?” he said. “What for?” “For showing me that to be assertive all the time, you need to know what it’s like to not be assertive. I've been assertive this whole time without fully realizing it, until now.” Then she threw a thinking stare. "Well, maybe fully some other day." Corvo waved a goodbye, and said: “May you never forget it.” And he was gone; but since he was as hasty as he was now, he decided to run and teleport as fast as he could. He wondered what Celestia would have to say. Out of Fluttershy’s mane hopped a small white bunny, Angel. He began to jump up and down on her back while trying to communicate through squeals. “What’s that, Angel bunny?” said Fluttershy. Angel sputtered out gibberish. “Why, what a cruel thing to say!” Fluttershy’s brow creased. “You’re saying you don’t like Corvo?” Angel nodded rapidly, followed by more gibberish. “That you think something bad will happen?" She then gave him a stern look. ”Come now. What makes you say that?" * * * The throne room of Canterlot castle was mildly dark, with not a single torch or candle lit, but only the red light of the setting sun resting against the walls. Two figures approached one another: one with a weary and selfless face, and the other with a stern yet brightened face. Corvo walked as formal as his legs would let him, but a heavy weight pressed against body. Celestia stopped, but Corvo seemed almost oblivious to her, walking past her and into the hall entrance. She pressed a hoof to his torso. He turned round and said: “Please, let me rest. I am much too weary to talk for long.” “We shall talk, but only for a minute,” said Celestia. They both wandered to the top-center of the wide room, and they both stood at each of the high throne’s side. “I have obtained the reports of Twilight and her friends about your encounters,” said Celestia again, but with a stiffness to her tongue. “I see,” said Corvo, followed by a yawn. “But I assume they spoke kindly of me?” “They did,” said Celestia. “To be honest, each and every one of them liked you enough to invite you for their picnic.” “I shall not attend.” Corvo dragged a palm over his eyes. “I shall be toiling hard for the next several upcoming days. The sooner we find the six remaining rune stones, all the better.” “Well, yes, but we must all relax from time to time,” said Celestia. “Twilight said you were kind enough to clean her dishes, but that you lack the interest in true magic works.” “Verily, she does not know me yet,” said Corvo. “But it is nice to know.” “Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie seem to be, as they put it, cool with you. I do hope you to be more lighthearted about their games.” “I shall be what I see fit for appropriateness,” said Corvo thickly. Celestia was taken aback, not knowing the sudden change of his mood. “Corvo,” said Celestia, “why are you so weary and… stern? What did you do for the day?” Corvo sighed and said: “I apologize. I do not know why I feel weighted down. I feel ominous, mostly.” “Odd indeed,” said Celestia. “We must discuss that later. But now, I have also noticed your new attire. Rarity said she made it for you, and she seemed most joyful of your arrival.” Corvo quietly chuckled. “Yes,” he said, “I do believe so. Now, I must be going. Thank you for the talk.” “One more thing, though.” Celestia interrupted his walk, and he turned round in annoyance. “While Applejack was the least fond of you out of the six ponies, her sister, Apple Bloom, wrote to me that she liked you very much so.” “She reminded me of someone,” said Corvo, but his next phrase was barely audible. “I always try to keep a heightened heart in those times.” “Tell me, Corvo, who does Apple Bloom remind you of?” “It is…” But Corvo found it hard to array his thoughts. He was much too weary, and he did not know why. “Because, well, it was someone I knew. I always… try to… to keep a heightened heart, and—” “Who?” said Celestia, louder than before. "Why must you care?" said Corvo grimly. "Truly, it was someone and that it is done. But now, anything else you wish to carry on before my departure?" Celestia breathed inwardly and scanned the assassin. "Why did you come, Corvo? Yes, you have told me before, and yes, you have insisted to keep it to the side of the road, but I still must get a proper answer." "I am just scared that something might happen to Equestria because of me," said Corvo. There was a long pause; and right before Celestia was about to break the silence, Corvo continued. "I am sorry if you may think this is a waste of time—me helping you ponies when I am hardly trustworthy—but I do not want to see anyone else getting hurt because of information I did not have—" "Information?" said Celestia. "If you are referring to—" "I am," said Corvo, though his voice hung low and heavy. "The information that you and Princess Luna are not telling me: you both are still deciding my fate. While it may not be a significant worry, it can help with my motivation, and all the more with these new powers I am obtaining." His voice began to break and drag. "But if you really believe that none of this can hurt us, and no matter how little you may trust me we shall be able to save Equestria... then I trust you with full respect." "But why care so much, Corvo?" Celestia noticed she and Corvo were subconsciously leaning in closer to one another. "I suppose it is in my nature." Lastly, Celestia re-asked her initial question. "While your trust is appreciated, I still must know: who Apple Bloom reminds you of? I would like to know all of your thoughts on the ponies before anything else." “If you must know,” said Corvo darkly, but his voice began to break again, “she reminded me of my… of… my…” Time froze as Celestia silently gasped. Her eyebrows lowered as she continued to stare. Corvo's eyes were still, and a grey shadow grew over his face. “Corvo,” said Celestia softly, “if you could just say it calmly. Another minute and—” “She reminded me of... someone I tried to save and failed to,” said Corvo, his words dragged into a low tone. “It is much too long ago for me to explain. She fell and was gone, but as well as many others I knew, so it can not really matter.” And Corvo walked down the hallway, back to his room. Celestia could not say a word, for she found herself deep in thought. It does not matter? How can he say that? * * * Once Luna was done with lifting the moon in the amidmost of the sky, she decided to check upon Corvo's doings. She remained suspicious of him, after all. Opening the door to his room, she remained silent while entering. Corvo was lying on his bed, his face pale, and his eyes could see things from far away. “Luna,” he said, but his call was ragged and low. “Is there something you need?” “Um… no,” said Luna with lowered ears. “There is news regarding the stones—but you shall hear it tomorrow. I recommend you to get some rest.” Whatever this assassin is up to, I will need time to figure things out tomorrow. He looks... terrible. Corvo wanted to hear the news at the moment, but he found his voice deceiving him as Luna left the room and slammed the door, much harder than was necessary. “I feel unreasonable weary,” said Corvo to himself, “but I find difficulty in resting. Hmm, it is probably just an illness. I hope to be good on my feet by the morning.” But then he looked back to his mark, and the edges of its dark grey blades were blurred. A chill arose to Corvo’s spine, and he threw his face onto his pillow and shut his eyes. What is happening to me? It must be just an illness, I hope.