It comes to Grumpy’s attention that he had life insurance as well as the policy on his house, back when he was still alive. Canterlot Casualty and Life is a little late in paying his death benefit. Like FIFTEEN YEARS of late fees, penalties and interest! But wait! There is more!
Uhh???
I'd pay for an exorcism. This would be Defense Exhibit 1 if it came to trial.
"Feared I'd suffer death or grievous bodily harm". Self defense.
& Somehow, he finds it mysterious that ponies wanted to burn him alive.
Clarence has few other names (titles}. He is the Lord of the Dead (of which Grumpy is one), The Unavoidable One. or simply DEATH. Love to see the exorcism that would work on Him!
Thanks for liking him.
Actually, if someone you did no like was offering you lots of money to harm a good friend and you saw a way take the contract, deliver on it exactly AND help the friend in question at the same time, wouldn't you?
As for that past, Grumpy was friendly and helpful goat who was studying Equine Psychology by mail from Non Equine University (Chancelor. Princess Luna) and was only about six months from a degree and some decently paying work. The Celestian Church (detested by Celestia in person and in writing) pulled together an anti-goat mob and burned his home, studies, library and tried to stone him to death for being a goat. They were Unicorn Supremists who saw nothing wrong with attacking other "lesser sorts."