> The Brotherhood of Equestria
>  by Jack2023
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 0 (Edited)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“This is how weak you, and you're kingdom is, Celastia and Luna!” A large griffon in full steel armor yells with laughter as he continues. “Look! My flag soars over you're castle!” He is right, as the once proud flag of Equestria has been replaced by a red flag with a white griffon skull and two crossed swords.

“What is you're reason for this pointless attack on my kingdom!” Celastia yells as she and Luna struggle against their bindings.

He laughs harder and more menacing, “because you are weak, and I am strong! Enough about me and you two. What about your Twilight Sparkle?” The griffon points to a large wooden pillar. The two princesses eyes widen in fear as they see Twilight on top of it with a noose around her neck.

“Do not hurt her! She has nothing to do with this!” Luna yells with no attempt to hide the fear in her voice.

“I want to make you suffer! So yes she does have a role to play.” The griffon yells menacingly with a laugh after his words. “Do it!”

A griffon next to the pillar kicks it out from under Twilight's hoofs. Celastia and Luna close their eyes.

SNAP!

The sound echos through the city. Celastia and Luna open their eyes, but are left suprised. A creature wearing white and red robes holds Twilight safely in it's arms.

The concuss Twilight looks into the face of the creature, but cannot get a clear look of it's eyes from the hood it wears. But clear as day, she can see it giving her a reassuring smile. Her mind is blank as she begins to feel safe from looking at it's smile.

It lowers itself to one knee and sets Twilight down on her hooves. It then raises its right forearm, with a loud noise similar to metal sliding against each other, it now has a blade sticking out of it's wrist. Twilight closes her eyes in fear as an image of her being stabbed by that blade rushes through her mind. 

She then feels pressure from her horn being released along with a thud of metal, along with the noose being taken off. She opens her eyes to look down at her hooves and sees her binding being cut from the blade that’s strapped to the creature wrist.

Again the sound of sliding metal occur as the blade slides back into a device on its wrist. Twilight can clearly see the noose and bindings preventing her from moving and using magic laying on the floor in front of her.

“What are you!?” The griffon that ordered Twilight's death yells out. “Never mind! Kill it!” As soon as thous words where said, the griffon that kicked the pillar lounges at Twilight and the robed creature.

SHING! THUD!

The griffon is now pinned to the ground by a pony. But this one had her face and body covered by a hood and robes that almost exactly resembles the clothing of the creature standing next to Twilight. But what was clear, was her pure red tail and gray slightly tinted with red muzzle showing from her hood.

Quickly she pulls her hoof from the griffons neck to revile a blade covered in blood.

SHING! THUD!

Another two griffons are pinned to the ground. This time by a diamond dog wearing the same clothing as the other two. He copy’s the same motion as the pony and reviles a blade on each of his wrists covered in blood.

At the same moment, the sound of metal sliding rings again as the blades on their wrist retract back into it's device. They step off the fallen griffons and pulled out weaponry. The pony holds a tomahawk in her mouth, as the diamond dog wields two short swords in its claws.

Twilight looks to her right to see the creature standing straight on its rear legs. It stood much taller then her, causing her to take a step back to clearly look at it's covered face. Again it looked back down at her with its smile. “Go unbound the princesses. Me and my brothers will deal with the griffons.” It speaks to her in a low and calm, reassuring male voice.

Twilight gulps down a lump in her throat before nodding and taking steps away. It smiles a little bigger and begins to walk towards the two other robed warriors, who are completely surrounded by griffon soldiers.

As the bipedal creature approaches the griffons, they take a step aside, allowing it to walk into the center next to it's 'brothers.' The griffons step back into place. The three warriors are completely surrounded by 30 griffons. The pony and diamond dog took a battle stance. The unknown creature pulls out a rapier sword and took its stance.

“COME ON!” The three warriors yell. The griffons respond with battle cry’s and attacks with swords and spears.

The city was filled with the sounds of clashing metal and flesh being cut. Every attempted attack made by the griffons to kill one of the warriors only lead to them quickly knocking the blade out of the griffon's claw from deflecting the attack, followed up by a slash or stab to the neck. Putting them out of the fight for good.

Twilight was successful in removing the bindings from the two princesses. But they stood there, not moving with deadpanned expressions as they watched the battle before them. Along with the griffon general that's watching in fear as his prized soldiers fall to the floor dead, one after the other.

Soon, only the three robed warriors stand. Blood splattered on their clothing, but not a single wound dealt to them. The pony and dog took a step towards the general, but the unknown creature put his arm out. The other two step back and holster their weapons.

The one still wielding his sword takes steps forward tell he was 10 feet away from the griffon general. He then pointed his blood covered rapier sword to the griffon. “A powerful warrior you are creature. This should be fun!” The griffon general smirks, trying to hide his fear that is clearly showing in his eyes.

He then pulled out his broad sword that was holstered to his back. In one flap of his wings, hes sent high into the sky. A battle cry can be heard as he comes down at the robed warrior with incredible speed. In a split second the warrior side steps out of the way as the griffon stabs the sword into the ground where he stood less then a second ago.

The warrior quickly stabs his arm into the griffons elbow as a blade came out the other end of his arm. He then quickly used his sword to stab the griffon in his right knee. He yells in pain and his wings expanded so he could fly away. This only lead to the warrior pulling his sword out of his knee, then stabbing it into his wing. He then pulled the blade from the griffons arm and stabs it into his shoulder. The warrior then spin the griffon the other way and gives a light kick to his leg, putting him to his knees in defeat.

The warrior places the tip of his sword to the neck of the griffon. “Why are you hesitating?” The griffon says in a calm voice.

“Because it is not my dissuasion.” The creature replays in a just as equal calm voice as he looks to Celastia.

Celastia began a slow walk to the defeated griffon, with Luna and Twilight following. “General Thunder Call. Do you have anything to say before I turn you to stone?” She says in a troubled but calm voice.

“Yes... That I regret nothing I have done. And that... the warrior who bested me fair in battle choose my fate.” The general says in a pained but still calm voice as he looks Celastia dead in the eye with a emotionless face.

Celastia nods. The warrior moves his blade to the side of his neck and stabs downward. Sending the blade straight through his entire body. As he quickly pules the sword back out, he places his hand behind the deceased general's neck and gently lays him on the ground. Then, uses his fingers to close his eyes.

The warrior stands straight up and holsters his sword, as the other two warriors take a spot in standing next to him. In perfect unison, the three warriors bow to the princess. Celastia then bowed to them, followed by Luna and Twilight.

The six raise to look at each other. “May I know who you three are before I gave my thanks?” Celastia said with a slight smile.

“We are members of The Brotherhood.” The unknown creature said with a smile.

“You have mine, my sisters, and my subject gratitude Brotherhood.” Celastia said with a big smile.

The unknown creature turns his gaze to Twilight. She was standing in the perfect spot to look under his hood thanks to the sun. She could clearly see that he had no fur and a flat muzzle. But what caught her attention where the blue eyes looking back at her. He nodded a little to her with the same smile she first seen him with.

The three warriors again bow, before turning around and taking their leave.

TING

Twilight quickly uses her magic to catch a silver coin that was sent flying at her by the unknown creature.

The three warriors where now out of sight as Canterlot Guards and citizens talk and collect their thoughts about the event that just transpired. But Twilight looked at the silver coin she was given. Questions on how they could fight like that, who they where, was that one an alien, and why did she feel safe around him, rushed through her mind. But her train of thought is disrupted as shes pulled into a group hug by her five friends.

“I hope to meet you again.” Twilight said to herself as she hugs her worried friends.


> Chapter 1, Silver Coin
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

One Month Later.

“So tell me again on where ya got that coin?” AppleJack asks Twilight as her and their friends walk thru town.

“The robed warrior that saved my life gave it to me as he left the city with the other two.” Twilight said with a mind deep in thought.

“Then why are ya wearing it like a necklace?” AppleJack spat a little with her western accent as strong as ever.

Twilight was shocked at these words. Why had she drilled a hole into it and strung a string thru it. “Um... well... because he gave it to me.” She knew that was not the real reason. AppleJack just raises her eyebrow. “Well, what else was I suppose to do with it?”

“Its okay to keep present you receive from you're knight in shinning armor AppleJack. Right Twilight?” Rarity said in her high class accent with a sly smile.

“You are correct Rarity.” Twilight said with a smile. But quickly her eyes widen. “Wait, WHAT!?” She yelled out as her face became blushed.

AppleJack and Rainbow Dash laughed as Rarity giggled. “Ya Twilight! You're knight in shinning armor.” Rainbow laughed harder as she landed on the ground.

“Wait? I thought we where talking about the alien, not Twilight's big brother?” The three laughing mares stop and roll their eyes to Pinkie Pie's oblivious words.

“Whats the real reason you wear the coin sugar cube?” AppleJack said with all laughter gone and concern in its place.

Twilight stood in place for a moment to collect her thoughts before continuing with her group of friends. “Well... I've never seen a creature like him before, nor is there any records that describe something like him. I want to know where he came from and who he is...” Twilight looked to AppleJack, her face announced that she wanted Twilight to say everything. “... I also want to thank him.” AppleJack nodded in gratitude that Twilight shared her thoughts. But Rainbow still snickered.

“Oh my... what time is it?” Rarity blurted out after another moment of walking.

“Its 30 minutes past 4.” Twilight replayed. “Where you suppose to do something today?”

“Yes, I was. Excuse me girls, I have to take my leave.” The group of friends said goodbye as Rarity returned to her boutique.

“She must have a meeting with her friend today.” Fluttershy said as the group returned to walking.

“Who Fluttershy?” Rainbow asked as she started to fly over the group again in a hover.

“I'm sorry, I honestly don't know. Rarity told me that somepony who live outside of town comes by once a month for some trade in goods.” Fluttershy said looking down to Pinkie Pie. “Is something wrong Pinkie?” Pinkie Pie was standing still with an emotionless face. “Pin-?”

“Ohmygosh, Ididn'tknowthatRarityhadafriendmeethereverymonth! That means... GASP thatmeansI'venevermetthemandIneedtothrowa Welcome To Ponyville Party!!” With a blur of pink and swoosh sound. Pinkie had dashed out of the four others sight. But they just shrugged and continued their walk thru town.

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Knock Knock Knock... “I wonder whats got Rarity to keep the shop closed so la-?” 

“I'll be right there Alice!!” Rarity's voice put a smile to Alice as she watched her in a light gallop to the boutiques front door. “I am terribly sorry for being late Alice. I was out on the town for a little with my friends... and I lost track of time.”

“No worry’s Rarity. I'm actually quite light on my errands list today, so I can take my time.” Alice said this with a smile at seeing one of her few friends.

“Very well then.” Rarity said with a slight sigh of relief. “Come in, come in. I want to see what precious jewels you have for me.” She said as she unlocked the door and waved for Alice to go first. Alice nodded and walked inside with her cart in tow.

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“I wonder who this pony that meets with Rarity every month is? And why was this the first time I heard about her?” Twilight said to herself as she carried a small plastic bowl with her magic.

Another moment of walking thru town in deep thought placed Twilight at Rarity's boutique.

Ding Ding The bell rang as Twilight opened the front door.

“Welcome to- Oh, hello Twilight!” Rarity said as Twilight walked into the store.

“Hello Rarity. I brought you some frozen yogurt.” Twilight said as she placed the plastic cup on the counter.

“Thank you Twilight. Oh, this is my friend, Alice.” Twilight's attention was turn to a earth pony mare that stood slightly taller then her. She has gray fur with a slight tint of red, as her pure red mane looked well groomed, but was still a little raggedy.

“Hello Twilight. Its a pleasure to meet you.” Alice said this with a bright smile in her lips and dark blue eyes.

“Hello Alice, its a pleasure to meet you too.” Twilight said with just as bright of a smile as all her thoughts have left her attention. “What brings you to town?”

“Some trade with Rarity. I did some trade with dia-”

Whistle

“Ah. Me and Alice where about to have some tea, would you like to join us Twilight?” Rarity said as she started to walk away.

“Yes please.” Twilight said as Rarity picked up the plastic cup and walking into the kitchen.

Twilight turned her gaze back to Alice, but her eyes widened at what she realized. Alice was wearing a pure white robe with red cloth around her hips as a belt. The robe had no detail in it, but it did tightly grip her fore legs down to the elbows, as it loosely hanged around her rear legs, perfectly concealing her cutie mark. “Is something wrong Twilight?” Twilight returned her gaze back to Alice's eyes to see honest concern in her blue eyes.

“No Alice. I just have a lot on my mind right now.” Twilight had a faked smile as she replayed.

“Dose it have something to do with the coin around you're neck?” Alice asked with a smile saying 'I already know the answer.'

“Yes... how did you... know?”

“Educated guess.” She said with a slight giggle. “When pony’s have something troubling them that involves something that can be worn as jewelry, they uselessly wear that jewelry.”

“That makes a lot of sense then.” Twilight said with a little giggle at how right Alice was. She nodded to Twilight before making her way to the kitchen.

'Why is she dressed like that? Where is she from? Who is this pony!?' Twilight nearly thought out loud as all her questions from before came rushing back to her attention. “Twilight! Tea is ready dear!” Rarity's voice only put a small pause to Twilight's thoughts as she walked into the kitchen.

The three ponies took a seat at the table and Rarity pored them each a cup. “So what where you going to say earlier Alice?” Rarity asked after the cups had been filled.

Alice's face stayed straight for a moment. “Oh!” She said as a flash of remembering came to her eyes. “Yes. I did some trade with diamond dogs for jewels, and Rarity is always in the market for them, so I came by for bits, and clothing tools.”

Twilight looked at Rarity in surprise, who had some surprise on her face as well. “You trade with diamond dogs for these jewels? Why haven’t you told me about this before?” Rarity asked trying to keep her anger down.

“You... never asked.” Alice replied with honesty in her eyes and voice. “I sense you have had a bad situation with diamond dogs.”

Rarity took a deep breath. “Yes, the last time I meet diamond dogs... they tried to enslave me. So I still hold a grudge.” Rarity said trying to keep calm.

“I've been there as well.” Alice looked away with some anger in her eyes. “So I'm not the one who actually trades with them.”

“Then who does the trade for you?” Twilight asked after taking a sip.

“Well... I hold a grudge against the pack that tried to enslave me, not their race.” The anger left Alice's eyes as a smile came back. “I actually have a diamond dog as one of my closets friends, so he does the trade with the pack.” Rarity and Twilight's eyes are full of surprise. “One thing that I learned is that being racist is not the right way to go. Just because a group that was a different race dealt harm to you, don't pin it on the entire race. That’s not fair to that race when it was only a few’s fault.”

The two mares were a little shaken by how right Alice is. “Well... this diamond dog you consider a friend... do you trust him?” Twilight wanted to change the subject because she felt guilty that she was being racist to the race of diamond dogs when it was only that one packs fault.

“Oh yes. I would give my life to protect him, as he would do the same.” Alice replied with a smile of pride. “I consider him a brother and he considers me a sister.” Twilight's and Rarity's jaws dropped but Alice took another sip of her tea. “Don't her that much, do ya?” Alice said with a giggle after the sip.

Twilight's mind had more question rush through her, to the point were a migraine was starting to form. “You are full of surprises Alice!” Rarity said with a little giggle which made Alice laugh. “Are you okay Twilight?” Twilight was snapped back into reality, and she only nodded to the question.

But she lied. Twilight can't help but think that Alice was that pony who saved her and the princesses from the griffons. “Alice. Do you know anything about the Brotherhood?” 'Did I just say that out loud!?'

Alice face deadpanned as she looked straight at Twilight. The stare Twilight was receiving greatly scared. But in another moment Alice was giggling with a smile. “I was wondering when you would ask. I was the pony that help save you and the princesses.” Twilight's jaw dropped again and Rarity gasped, which led to Alice giggling again.

“Why did you kill thous griffons, who trained you to fight like that, who was that creature!?” Twilight took a deep inhale to speak again, but was stopped by Rarity's hoof over her mouth.

“What do you mean creature!?” Alice voice went loud with anger. “And you have a great way of showing gratitude.” Twilight's ears fell to the side of her head. Alice took a deep breath and quickly calmed down. “All I can tell you is that I'm a member of the Brotherhood.” Her voice was calm and collected and she took another sip of her tea.

“Then thank you.” Rarity said with an joyful smile, but Alice tilted her head. “Thank you so much for saving the princesses and Twilight.” Alice nodded to Rarity. “But I have to ask. Equestria considers you a hero, why do you remain in secret?”

“The Brotherhood's porpoise is to insure freedom and peace to everypony and everything from the shadows. So we couldn't allow the griffons to take over this land while killing, and enslaving innocent ponies. So me and my brothers intervene... I just wish it didn't end in a blood bath.” Alice ears fell to the side of her head at her last words. “I'm not proud that I killed... but my porpoise is to protect the innocent... so I did.” Alice looked back at Rarity. “You're welcome.”

“I have to tell Celastia about this!” Twilight blurted out walking to the exit.

“NO!” Alice blocked Twilight's path. “You can't tell anypony about this! There’s reasons why the Brotherhood is to remain hidden!”

“Then why tell us?” Twilight said, taken back by Alice's reaction.

“Because you're the Elements of Harmony.” Alice face announced the fear she had of Twilight exposing a Brotherhood member. “I thought you should have the right to know.” Twilight looked to the ground in thought. “If you think that Celastia should know... then if something would go wrong... you must understand that I will not hesitate to kill in the need to protect my family.” Twilight was startled by these words. But Alice's face announced the guilt of hating to say that.

“I understand. I'm not going to tell the princess” Twilight said under her breath.

“Thank you.” Alice said in a huge sigh of relief. “Rarity?”

“My lips are sealed darling.” Alice sighed again as a smile came to her face.

“I hope this doesn’t destroy are friendship Rarity and Twilight.”

“Not at all!” Rarity said in a cheery voice. “But can I make a request?” Alice nodded with a smile. “Can we meet the other two that saved us? I would like to thank them as well. And Twilight here has been going crazy over the one that saved her.”

Twilight's face became blushed. “I'm not going crazy over him!”

“The last month you have been looking over every book in you're library about exotic creatures. Also, that coin never leaves you're side!” Twilight's face only became more pink. “Its okay Twilight. There’s nothing wrong in finding out who you're knight in shinning armor is!” Alice went into a fit of laughter as Twilight's face turned pink to red. “Alice, could you arrange a meeting for Twilight and her knight?”

Twilight looked to Alice in hope of actually meeting him. But Alice stopped laughing and looked to Twilight. “No.” Alice said blankly. Twilight's hopes just went right out the window. “And there’s a reason why.” Twilight rely didn't want to hear it. “Hes an alien.”

“What!?” Rarity's voice shot up in confusion.

“I'm not aloud to say any more. But for his, and the Brotherhood's safety, I cant allow that.”

The creature that save her was actually an alien! Twilight had no idea of what to think of this. It WAS an alien that saved her. Yes. That’s the only way to explain him. Hes not from this world. “Please Alice!” Twilight yelled out and made Alice face go without expression.

It was only a minute of silence in reality, but for Twilight it felt like an hour. “Fine.” A smile came to Twilight at that one word. “But! If you do anything to hurt him or my family.” Alice looked to Twilight in anger. “I will not hesitate to end you're life.” Twilight froze in fear. But she realized that the emotion in Alice's eyes wasn't anger, but the will to protect her family. Her stare was a motherly one that warned you to never hurt her filly, or else.

Twilight gulped a lump in her throat. “I would never.” She said under her breath.

A smile returned to Alice's face. “I'll see about getting you're knight in shinning armor to come and save you again.” Twilight groaned at that joke, and made Alice giggle. “His name is Connor.”

“Connor... When can I meet him!?” All the hope that was thrown out of the window flew back into Twilight. “I have so many questions to ask!” She began to jump a little in her excitement.

“I can't guarantee when Twilight. But soon.” Alice had a hard time holding her laughter at Twilight's excitement. “I never thought that anypony would get so exited over meeting their knight in shinning armor.” Twilight groaned again as she rolled her eyes, making Alice and Rarity laugh.

“Thank you for you're hospitality and business Rarity. But I must take my leave. Good bye Rarity and Twilight.” Alice said after the two mares laughter died down.

“It was great to see you again Alice. Good bye!” Rarity said as Alice walked out of the shop with her cart in tow.

“Rarity. How long have you been friends with Alice?”

“Three moths before you moved to Ponyville. Why do you ask?”

“I'm trying to get answers for so many questions...” Twilight put her hoof to her fore head. “Do you have any aspirin?”

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“So she wants to meet me? Really Alice?”

“Oh come on Connor. My friend Rarity was right, Twilight been crazy over you!”

“That’s not what worry’s me. How will Dad think about you exposing Brotherhood secrets?”

“Only Twilight and Rarity know. Remember, they are the Elements of Harmony.” Alice's words did little to settle down Connor. “Do you even want to meet you're princess?”

“Stop joking around or I'm not going to help when you get struck by Dad's anger.” Alice shivered at the thought of what her punishment will be. “So everyone is making the joke about me being Twilight's knight?” Alice just nodded with a sly smile. “Fuck you.”

“Jeez, it's just a joke... or is it?” The sly smile she had grew in size.

“Watch it little sister!” Alice only laughed. “You better tell Dad soon so it will get out of the way.” Alice just sighed. “I'm going back to training Lilly, have fun.”

“Thanks for the support.” Alice mumbled as Connor walked away.

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Twilight's been staring at the roof of her room for 4 hours. The only noise being her breathing and Spike's snoring. Finally her eyes get the better of her mind rushing of questions and she fell asleep.
> Chapter 2, Questioned Trust
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

3 Days Later

“Cannon Baaaaaall!!” SPLASH

“Nice one, Scootaloo!”

“Thanks Apple Bloom! Incoming Sweetie Bell!” SPLASH

Twilight and AppleJack are laying out on a white and red checkered blanket under a tree providing great shade to the mid spring sun. As the two mares watch the three filly's that form the 'Cutie Mark Crusaders,' playing in the pond, AppleJack couldn't help but notice that Twilight isn't as troubled as she was only a few days ago.

“Its not like ya to willingly get out of you're house unless its star gazing or saving Equestria Twilight.”

Twilight didn't move. Her eyes said that she was happy with something, but still under deep thought. So AppleJack gave her a sharp poke to the shoulder.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“You're in deep thought again Twilight. Wait... when aren’t ya?” She smiled with a roll of her eyes. “So whach ya thinkin' about so much?” She again ignored AppleJack's question, obviously unintentionally. But still made AppleJack poke her again.

“Ow! What!?” AppleJack raised her eyebrow. “Thinking about the Brotherhood.” AppleJack tilted her head that said: 'And?' “And some other things.” She tilted her head a little more. “... I met one of the members.”

AppleJack's eyes went wide. “When, where, how, who!?”

Twilight took a long breath. “3 days ago, Rarity's store, when I visited Rarity that day, shes Rarity's friend.”  The two mares stared at each other, tell Twilight realized what she just said. “AppleJack! You can't tell anypony about this!” Her face scrunched up in asking why. “The Brotherhood needs to remain secret.”

“What, you haven’t tolled Celastia yet?” Twilight shook her head.

'What have I done? I just broke my promise to Alice! I probably put many in danger!' Twilight closed her eyes to hold back a tear and fear.

“I wont tell no pony.” Her words were a whisper, but Twilight still heard it clearly and still gave her a face of confusion. “Ya heard me!” Twilight gave a hug smile. “Don't mean I like it.” All of Twilight's fears left her. “But!” Never mind, there back. “I want to meet them.”

“W-what..?”

“I want to know why they killed them griffons. And then just walk away like dang nothin' happened!”

“Alice told me that-”

“Hold it Twi! I want to hear it from their mouths!” She nodded to AppleJack, clearly understanding why. “Alice is the name of the pony, I presume?” Again she nodded. AppleJack let out a sigh, followed by Twilight.

Crack

Twilight and AppleJack look up into the tree they are shaded by. Fear gripped Twilight's windpipe preventing any breath at the sight of Rainbow Dash looking down at the two with her red rose eyes in curiosity. “Hey there!” She said with a sly smile.

“How much did ya hear?” AppleJack asked after a moment of staring.

“All of it!” Rainbow replayed boastfully as she jumped of the branch next to AppleJack. “Jeez Twilight. I honestly never thought you’d find out something.” She kept facing away as her ego talked. “But to actually meet one of the members! Wow, how much everypony would like to hear this!” Rainbow finally turned around to look at Twilight. Guilt rushed through her at the site of Twilight with pure fear in her face. At that moment Rainbow realized what she just said and looked to the ground.

“Rainbow...” AppleJack said looking dead at Rainbow. More guilt entered her body.

Twilight began to have pain in her chest from lack of oxygen. But she couldn't breath. The fear of Rainbow telling everypony about this was killing her.

Rainbow finally looked back into Twilight's eyes. Her guilt was only building at the sight of how much pain she was causing her, just by a few words. “I'm sorry Twilight...” Rainbow looked back down to the ground. “... I wont tell anypony about this... sorry.” She looked back at Twilight. Her face still had fear, but most of it was gone.

Twilight looked away, back to the pond to see the three filly's still playing, oblivious to the three mares conversation. She finally took in a deep breath. Her lungs yelled in relief at the spring air. “Promise me that you wont tell anypony... unless you have to.” She said in a whisper.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cup cake in my eye!” The two mare said in unison.

Twilight sighed in relief. Rainbow walked over and sat next down to her. She then placed her hoof on Twilight's back. She nodded with a smile in accepting Rainbow's non-verbal apology.

“Alright. No more mopping around. INCOMING!” Splash

AppleJack and Twilight laugh as the three filly's try to understand that they where hit by a Rainbow missile.

“So when can we meet them?” AppleJack asked after their laughter died down.

“I don't know... but soon.” Twilight replied while lying her head on top her forelegs. “I really do hope soon.”

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Without noticing it, Twilight fell asleep. But she was disturbed by somepony pocking her shoulder.

“Stop poking me.” She crocked as she opened her eyes to look at AppleJack. “Whats wrong?” Looking around showed AppleJack, Rainbow, and the three filly's looking at a single location with wide eyes. Twilight looked at the location to have her eyes widen.

Standing on a branch was the robed alien. The hood he still wore from the white and red robes covered his face in shadows. But it was clear that his sight is on Twilight.

Twilight's mind clicked. She knew why he was here. He wants her to ask him a question.

So she ask whats truly troubling her. “Do you trust me..?”

“No.” Twilight closed her eyes in thought. 'What have I done to show him I'm trustful? I just admitted the secret to two others when I promised not to. What will he-' “Prove me wrong!”

“What?” She said under her breath. He simply turned around and walked behind a tree trunk.

The world stayed silent and motionless, like it was questioning what just happened.

Swoosh

Rainbow had flown to his last seen location in fast dash. “He disappeared!?” She screamed out.

Twilight had her head fall back down on her forelegs and closed her eyes. All the questions she wanted answered came back. This time stacking guilt on her.

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“What do you mean, 'no'?!”

“I told her, 'no'!”

“Its Twilight Connor! The Element of Magic! For Celastia's sake, you watched over her ever sense the return of Nightmare Moon!”

“Alice. Shut up.” She kept her mouth close while the two stared down each other. “I told her no. BUT! I said to prove me wrong.” Alice's face deadpanned, making Connor chuckle.

“You crafty little bastard.”

“Its how we Assassin's work.”

“So you do trust her!”

“With my life.”

“Let me get this clear. You told Twilight that you didn't trust her so she would be more careful in the future, because you know that she wants you're trust!?” Connor nods. “How does it feel?” The smile on Connor's face went away. “Never mind. I got my answer.” With her head raised high in victory, she walked away.

“Do you feel guilty brother?” Connor simply nodded as his eyes announced his dislike for what hes done. “Better tell Dad about this. Sleep well Connor.”

“Goodnight Bruddon.”
> Chapter 3, Phase 1, 2, 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

6 days later

Its another day in Canterlot capital city, and Alice is enjoying every moment of her walk through it. The sounds, sights, and ponies, its so much more alive then her home. But she could never trade this for her peaceful and quite little place.

As her walk thru town continued she began to feel more comfortable. Connor was right, most of the ponies here wear clothing, so her robes haven’t attracted any attention to her. But Alice has always broken the rule of wearing you're hood when away from home. That, and she isn’t wearing all of her weapons and armor.

Sadly, she is here for a reason, and the time is now. As she stands in front of a very well known saloon at the edge of the city (because its the only one), she takes on last look over what she has. Her leather gauntlet with a hidden blade device, a single 3inch dagger, and a brown packet consistent of what this mission revolves around.

'Phase one.' She walked into the pub and took a glance around. 'There's Iron Blade.' After placing her hood on and walking into a crowed to remain hidden, she activated Eagle Vision.

The golden glow around the pony sitting in the back confirms the target. No pony else has a red glow. There’s a white glow from a plaque on the wall. Turning Eagle Vision off showed a list for when the saloon had shows on the stage.

The stage right now had a red curtain over it, but the plaque says a saloon mare dance will be at 8:40pm. The clock on the wall says 8:33pm. “7 minutes to kill.”

So she walked over to the bar. “What can I fetch ya?” A blonde mare wearing a black dress behind the bar asked before Alice even had a chance to sit.

“Got a hard lemonade?” She nods and places a bottle on the counter. Alice places a sliver bit, and quickly takes a large sip. Looking back at the target showed more of her information as correct. The stallion's eyes are jumping between mares that have their flanks to him. 'He is a perv.'

The tactic of keeping her face hidden behind her hood worked as she was completely ignored by everypony in the bar. A piano began to play, making a couple stallions whistle, then the curtain raised. And as planned, the saloon mares came out with their on stage dance.

Almost all of everypony's attention has been turn to the stage, including the target who had a big smile at watching the show.

Taking the last sip of her drink she made a walk over to the target. 'Phase two.'

“Hey there! Mind if I join ya?” Alice said keeping her hood a little back so he could see her eyes, but also keeping her face and body language in one saying, 'I'm looking for a good time.'

He took a longer inhale, smelling the hard lemonade Alice just drank. “Please do!” He yelled out with a smile. She took a seat across from him, being separated by a very small table. “So whats with the robes?” He said with a pervy smile.

“Its something I like. How do they make me look?” Alice said keeping the same body language. 

“Very mysteries and attractive.” His eyes where now shooting across her body as he said this.

“Ooh, just what I wanted!” She said using her 'marehood' to make her body seductively shiver.

He noticed as his smile only grew. “What makes you want that sweet heart?”

“Its a lot of fun. Its almost as fun as finding something special about somepony.”

“What kind of special?”

“You know... what they don't want others to know... their, secrets.”

“The dark ones?”

Alice leaned forward, placing her hoofs on his knees and their faces only being inches apart. “Their deepest and darkest ones.” She moved her head so she could whisper in his ear. “Like how you aided the griffons into Canterlot.”

Shing

“I only wish you died in a much more suffering way for your treachery.” She slowly pulled out her hidden blade from his neck before retracting it. Then placing his lifeless body on the table with his head facing away from everypony else, who were enjoying the show, oblivious to what just happened. Pulling out the brown packet she had and placed it on the table, then stabbed her dagger into it, pinning it down to the table.

'Phase three.' She then simply got up and walked away. “Thank you and please come again!” The mare bartender yelled as Alice walked out.

Alice walked around a corner, making the saloon go out of sight. She pulled her hood off and quickened her pace.

“Ticket please.” Alice handed the conductor her ticket. He stamped it and moved aside and Alice walked into the train. She then walked to an area were she couldn’t be seen and took off her robes.

Placing the robes into a knapsack, but still keeping her gauntlet on (just in case), she walked into a cart and took her seat. Looking out the window, she spotted some Royal Guards run by. Announcing that they just discovered the 'assassination.' The train whistled and started to move.

Alice got away with nothing on her tail. 'Contract completed.'

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

13 hours later

“So how did it go sister?”

“Just how Connor planned, Bruddon!” This made the two other assassins smile wide. “What time to get there, the drink I should order, timing of the show, being seductive, and leaving the evidence of the guards treachery, my escape. Everything went just as how you planned, perfectly.” Connor did a little fist pump in his accomplishment. “But all be honest. When I was sizing him up for death, I don't know if I was a good liar in what I said, or he was that much of a fucking perv!” The three went into a fit of laughter.

“By the laughter I'm seeing and hearing, I can tell it went perfectly.”

“It did Father!” Connor said trying to stop his laughing.

“Well Alice, please come with me.”

“Right away Dad!” In a winners trot, she left her two brothers.

“That's one. My turn.” Bruddon said with excitement at whats to come. Connor only nods with a smile.
> Chapter 4, Newspaper
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Next Day

Knock Knock Knock!

“Spike! Get the door!” Twilight called out.

Knock Knock Knock!

A groan comes from the small boyish purple dragon as he moves towards the door, “Hold on!” He gives a simple yawn as he extends his clawed hand to the door, but as he does his face lightens up to the two mares standing at the threshold, “Oh, good morning Rarity, AJ...”

Spike’s warm welcome comes to an end as he notices the mare’s slightly angered faces, “D-did I do something wrong?”

“No spike, but we need to talk with Twilight.” Rarity said trying to give Spike a reassuring smile.

“I'll be down in a minute!” Twilight yelled from upstairs.

Spike showed the two mares in and they took a seat on the couch as Spike ran into the kitchen.

Soon Twilight came down the stairs. “Good morning... is something wrong?”

“Yes. But we don't know if we should be worried because of it.” Rarity said pulling out a newspaper and levitating it to Twilight.

After getting off the stairs, she used her magic to hold the newspaper for her to read.

The front page read, 'Canterlot Guard Murdered.'

She gave a quick glance to her friends before continuing.

'One of the gate keepers of the Canterlot Guard, Iron Blade, was found murdered at the Royal Saloon in Canterlot City last night. Ponies that attended the saloon that night said that the murder probably occurred around the time that the saloon's popular on stage saloon mare dancers were performing. Some ponies said that they spotted Iron Blade talking to another pony that was wearing white robes that included a hood that perfectly hid their face.'

“You don't think that its-!?”

Applejack's voice breaks through Twilight’s as she speaks up, “We do Twi, and there’s more!” Her hoof comes to the newspaper still in Twilight’s purple puppeteering as she finishes her comment, “...Just keep read’n.”
Twilight follows the mare’s hoof as she turns her eyes back to the news print. 

'A small brown packet and dagger were found on the table that Iron Blade was next to. Canterlot Guards confiscated the packet before we could see what was inside. But asking one of the Canterlot Guard Detectives about its contents only lead to him saying, “It holds the reason why the pony murdered Iron Blade.” He would say nothing else after.

“I got you coffee.” Spike said, walking back into the room holding four mugs. AppleJack and Rarity picked one up with their hooves as Twilight used her magic to levitate one to her. Spike took the last one and sat on the couch between the two mares. As Twilight continued to stand in the center of the room reading.

'Asking Princess Luna about the murder lead her to say, “whomever did this knew what they were doing... This was planned and not some random bar fight.” She would say nothing after this. We could find nothing else about the murder and ask if you know anything about who and where the killer could be found, please go to the Detective Office of Canterlot Castle.'

“T-t-that doesn't make Alice the prime suspect!” Twilight yelled, setting the newspaper on the coffee table.

“That's why we came to you Twi; we don't know if she did or didn't” AppleJack’s words come back in a rushed tone as she holds her concern to her friend.

“Well she didn't... err I hope she didn't. I can't tell if she did unless I have evidence from the scene.” She said walking around the room.

“Can you ask Celestia for that packet they found there?” Rarity said. “You do know, you still have that coffee darling?”

Twilight gave a glance to the mug she was still holding with her magic. She took a quick sip before talking. “I'd rather not. Celestia might think I know something about the Brotherhood.”

“Wait!? You three know about the Brotherhood and who did this!?” Spike said slamming his mug on the coffee table. “Why haven’t you told me anything!?”

“Reasons Spike. And don't tell anypony about this!” Spike only crossed his arms to Twilight's words. But the stare he was receiving from her made him nod with a growl. “Good. But I don't know what to do. I want to make sure that it wasn't Alice or the Brotherhood that did this, but I need evidence. But Celestia has it, and if I ask her, she'll get suspicious that I know something!”

“Its okay Twilight. Maybe something will come-.” Rarity said, but was interrupted by.

BURP! A green flame came from Spike's mouth as he burped, making a scroll re-materialized in the flame.

“Looks like that 'something' came early.” AppleJack said with a smile as she picked up the scroll. “Yep. From Princess Celestia.”

Twilight used her magic to pick the scroll up from her hooves and levitate it to her. Unrolling the scroll, she read out loud.

“My faithful student.
I am sure that you have heard about the murder of Iron Blade.
So I will have one of my detectives coming to your home tomorrow with all the evidence from the crime scene and I want you to look over it and see about finding the culprit. As you know, crimes like this are extremely rare in Equestria and this is probably your only chance in showing me your detective skills.

Princess Celestia”

“... GAH!”

“What's the matter Twilight?” Spike asked as Twilight slammed the letter on the coffee table.

“That's great! I get a chance to look over the evidence, but Celestia apparently, wants to test my detective skills! So that means I have to tell her everything I learn. And if Alice did do it, then I have no choice but to make her the prime suspect!” Twilight’s yell comes to an end as the lavender mare starts up in a nervous and thought driven trot. 

“Its okay darling, I'm sure you'll think of something.” Rarity holds her hoof up as she tries to shoot a warm smile to her friend, through her own concern building face and tone.

“I might have no choice but to expose the Brotherhood.” Twilight said with her head low.

“Hold on Twi. If it does turn out to be Alice, then you need to find out why!” AppleJack said getting from her seat.

“Rarity, do you have a estimate on when Alice will visit again?” Twilight said as her pacing around the room continued.

“She comes by once a month during a weekend. Other then that, I have no clue.”

Twilight's pacing was forced to stop as AppleJack placed her hoof on the lavender mare’s forehead. Making her drop the mug she held. Spike growled and walked away to the kitchen and back with a mop in claw.

“What we should be worried about is the detective that Celestia is sending here.” AppleJack said as she gave a little bop on Twilight's head to make her stay out of deep thought. “On that note. When did Canterlot have detectives?”

“Well they have always been part of the Royal Guard. But the reason they're not well heard of is because crime in Equestria is at an all time low. Most of the members consist of veteran Guards that have great skill in tracking and other attributes that would make them effective crime solvers. Some have had served in special forces missions.” Twilight's eyes widened. “For a crime like this, Celestia... oh no.”

“What's wrong Twilight?” Rarity asked as she got off her seat.

“For a crime this severe, Celestia is going to have one of the best detectives on the case. And if his skills are as good as I suspect. There's a good chance he's going to get information out of me!”

Rarity did a quick trot to Twilight, and placed a hoof on her. “Then you need to harden yourself up!” Rarity moved her face close to Twilight's. “You can't tell him anything.” She only nodded and looked to the ground.


The rest of the day was spent trying to get Twilight's spirit up for tomorrow. She is going to need the support.
> Chapter 5, Detective 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 Hour After Alice's Escape

“Any idea on the culprit?” The princess of the night, Luna asked to the pegasus stallion that accompanied her to the destination. But no answer comes as he stares blankly to the street laying in front of him. “Night Blade?” Her voice announcing some annoyance.

His trot comes to a brief end for the moment as he turns his two colored gaze to the princess. “Ask after my inspected of the scene.” The stallion's pace increases as the saloon begins to came into sight.

As Night Blade and Luna move towards the saloon’s entrance, the two guards at their post began to shiver; only stopping after the double doors behind them closed.

“Shining Armor!” The princess of the night calls to a white coated and three toned blue mane stallion, wearing purple and gold armor. He bows to the mare’s words as his eyes move to set upon the dark nightly blue mare. “Princess Luna, Have you been able to-?”

Thud

Luna’s voice doesn't get to come back to the stallion as her words become interrupted by the corpse of Iron Blade being thrown to the floor by Night Blade.

Shining Armor and Luna are disturbed as Night Blade pins his head to the ground and begins to closely looks over the wound in Iron Blade’s neck. “Hm...The moment this killer got close to him, he was guaranteed dead.” 

He gives a short glance to the others, quickly noticing the disturbed looks on their faces. “The blade they used was the perfect size to slice the jugular...” Night Blade’s tone holds almost impressed to the surgical precision show in the cut as he continues to talk,  “...All breathing was certainly lost within moments, and without making a huge mess...Whom ever we are dealing with is most definitely trained in this form of killing.”

“B-But why kill a gate guard?” Luna asked as she gets a closer look of the wound.

“I bet they left us the answer.” Night Blade says as he points to the brown packet with a dagger stabbed into it. He pulls out the dagger to take a closer look as he speaks up, “Hmm..Simple iron, simple design. Nothing special. Can go to any blacksmith shop and find a blade like this for two gold bits.” He tosses  it over his shoulder without a care, making it stab into the ground right in front of Luna.

Picking up the packet showed it had no identification on it, but it was heavy and seemed to have many different sizes of paper in it. Opening it showed his suspicions to be correct. “Paper?”

But a closer exception of the seemingly simple paper turns his eyes a little wider,. “Luna, Armor. Look.” Night Blade says as he stands from his spot where none of the other guards in the room could see. They came around and read two of the papers that Night Blade holds; only to have their eyes widen in the same disbelief as Blade’s.

“Iron Blade... was..?-” Shining Armor’s shakes a little as he loses his focus to his words.

“Apparently so... I'm going to take this to Celestia ASAP.” Night Blade said, quickly trotting to the exit with Luna and Shinning Armor following.

The door opens to random flashes of light and yells. “Reporters...” Night Blade said with a growl at the sight of about thirty ponies with cameras and notebooks.

“Sir! Guards have told us that a brown packet was at the scene of the crime. What are its contents?” A blonde mare with a fedora hat in the front of the crowed asked.

“It holds the reason why the pony murdered Iron Blade!” Night Blade said with another growl that made the reporter take a step back. “Now get out of my way!” He said spreading his wings. All the reporters jumped back, but their banter comes back with the same prodding tone within the moment. Night Blade doesn’t pay mind to their words as he simply takes to the air above their hungry ears with only the thought of his destination of concern. .

It only takes the nimble stallion a few minutes to land on the balcony of Celastia's quarters. “What have you discovered Night Blade.” The princess of the sun asked with a calm voice. He makes his way in to see Celestia slowly pacing around the room.

“Iron Blade was a traitor.” Night Blade yelled out, slamming the packet onto the desk in the middle of the room. “I knew the pony was useless and stupid, but to betray your home like this!?” He continues to yell in anger as his miss match colored eyes began to glow red.

Celestia's stare goes wide to the stallion’s anger. But she quickly used her magic on the packet, making every piece of paper in it float around her.

The room stayed silent. Celestia quickly looking over each piece of paper, as Night Blade's eyes slowly dulled in their anger filled glow.

Celestia lets out a sigh, breaking the quiet room. “How long did you know Iron Blade?”

“I was there when he started training.” His voice still growling in anger. “For somepony with 'Blade' in their name, he was only decent with a sword.” Celestia closes her eyes in sorrow. “I don't know how he got into a uniform with his reports. The vision test was probably the only reason.” She gives him a stare. But the stallion’s words trail on, unaffected to the Princess’s gaze. “He was worthless in a fight, but with his sharp eyes, he was perfect for a gate guard, do to only being good at pulling a lever. Even with his gift of sight, he paid more attention to mare's flanks then watching for attack... Turns out, he let them in.”

“Have you discovered the culprit?”

“The culprit can wait for a moment. We need to act on this!”

“You didn't even have to analyze the scene to know who did it?”

“Its the Brotherhood. Could it be anypony else?”

“I'll send you a letter with what I plan to do.” Without another word, Night Blade walks out. “How much do you know about the Brotherhood, Night Blade..?”

Night Blade couldn't help but have a smirk on his face as he walks through the halls of Canterlot Castle. “More than you would ever guess.”
> Chapter 6, A Little Visit
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

2 Days After The Murder

“Thanks for breakfast Spike!” Twilight called out as she made her way to the front room.

“You're welcome. When is the detective going to arrive?”

“I don't know Spike. Maybe at-” Knock Knock “... at this moment.” Twilight's heart begins to race as her mind starts to convince her of the risk she may have of the detective discovering what she knows about the Brotherhood.

But the lavender mare holds her thoughts at bay as she brings her hoof to the library's door as another now slightly less patient knock sounds from the other side. “Hello Twilight Sparkle. Celestia is having me deliver the evidence of the crime scene to you.” A dark gray pegasus stallion, with pitch black mane having dark blue streaks running through it. In front of his eyes sit a pair of sunglasses that reflect the day’s sun to them, which slightly takes away Twilight’s attention to the large piece of right ear the stallion seems to be missing.

To the mare’s stare he brings his hoof to push a large brown suitcase in front of Twilight. “Thank you, um..?”

Twilight’s horn sparks up in a faint purple glow as the suitcase is floated from the stallion’s hoof and now comes to float next to her with a low magical chime. 

“Night Blade.” His voice is low and raspy, but calm and collected. “I need to be elsewhere in town at the moment, Twilight. I'll return in a hour so you can ask me any questions.” He quickly turns around before Twilight can even blink from her faint confusion to the stallion’s brief introduction.

But as Twilight closes the door she lets out a relieved sigh as she starts to look over the case floating next to her.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Night Blade’s tort through the marketplace of Ponyville holds a steady pace as he slightly swings his eyes from behind their concealed position behind the stallion’s sunglasses. The rays of Celestia's sun are warming to the back of the dark pegasus, as the area around him begins to have a little more traffic to the day’s start.

His trot thought the much smaller and quieter city is brought to a halt as he turns his gaze to a mare with a big smile that slightly waves him on. It only takes the stallion a millisecond to recognize the mares red mane and dark blue eyes. A smile comes to his face fast as he holds it to the sight of his friend again.

“There you are Night Blade. How have you been?” She said, embracing him in a hug.

“Mission wise, everything is going as planned. Personally, very good. How about you Alice?” They broke the hug and Alice continued to hold her big smile.

“I'm excited for the future. This'll tell you what we got planned.” Alice said handing him a brown packet. “Those sunglasses look good on you.”

“Thanks. Hows our brothers?”

“Bruddon is excited for the next mission. But Connor's mind is a little troubled right now.”

“You involving the Elements of Harmony hasn't kept my mind at ease either.” She rolls her eyes and lets out a slightly defeated sigh. “What about Lilly?”

“She pushes her limits every day. Her determination to out do all of us is quite impressive.”

“I've never seen a pony with such determination in all my years.” He lets out a small chuckle while taking a quick look around the market. “When you killed Iron Blade, did you enjoy it?”

“You really do know how to throw the conversation into the opposite mood.” Her ears fall to the side of her head as she lose her smile a little.

“Its alright. You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. But what about Bruddon and Connor after they defeated the griffons?”

“Bruddon is troubled by it. He may be voracious in a fight, but he's never enjoyed taking the life of an intelligent creature. Connor..” Night Blade stays silent, waiting for Alice to finish her comments. “... I don't know. Its like nothing even happened that day to him... other than Twilight.”

“What do you mean by, 'Other than Twilight'?” Alice put a sly smile on her face. “... Connor must hate you.” She went into a loudish laugh as a smirk comes to Night Blade's face. “So, has the decision been made to hit the pack?”

A burst of anxiety comes over Alice as her voice comes up. “Its not safe to talk about it here.” Night Blade quickly surveyed the area again before nodding to her. “How is Celestia?”

Night Blade raised his eyebrow. “The only thing troubling her is the murder. Why do you ask?”

She gives another sly smile as she pokes to the stallion’s expression. “Because you are the only pony I know who is always 'close' to her.”

“Not funny.” His voice growls a little as he pulls out a brown packet from under his wing. “I'm expecting Father would like this.”

“Of course!” She takes the packet almost with a filly like joy as she gives Night Blade a hug. “It was good to see you again.” Her voice holds a low and sweet tone as she holds the hug.

“I'm happy that we could talk again sister.” They break the hug with a smile on their faces as they nod to each other. “Good bye.”

“See you soon, brother.” Alice turned away to the main street of town as Night Blade turns back to set off to Twilight's home.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

It been an hour since Twilight received the suitcase. Her search through every detail about the murder has lead her to a single conclusion. It was in fact an assassination, and they left no clues for any pony to follow. There is no way to catch the culprit with the evidence she has now.

She let out a defeated and relieved sigh, with her head throbbing in pain from the conflict shes emotionally been striving with. She's grateful that there is no evidence that ties Alice or the Brotherhood to it, but she feels guilty for letting Celestia down.

Knock Knock Knock

Her mind clicks to the sound of the hoof to the door as her hope to the thought of some much needed time away from the suitcase current topic continues to ring through the house. The lavender mare is quick to open the door as she looks over Night Blade standing in her house’s threshold, “Have you discovered anything?” He said with no emotion.

“No...” Her head falls low as she looks to the hardwood floor of the library.

“Celestia won't be disappointed in you, Twilight.” She stops her words as she just thinks his comment over, “But I couldn’t find anything about the culprit. If I couldn't, then what chance do you have?” Twilight's eyes announces her insult she felt from the stallion’s words. A smirk came to his face.

“Then why did Celestia want me to discover the culprit?”

“She believes you know something about the Brotherhood.” Twilight heart began to race as sweat starts to bead on her brow. “And I know you do.” Her body shiver with a cold reality brings shake as the stallion’s voice continues. “I think its time to tell you why the Brotherhood must remain secretive.”

“What..?” Night Blade walked into the house and closed the door behind him.

“You should know some of the reasons why you can't expose the Brotherhood.” He took off his sunglasses, revealing his two color eyes. His left eye is a deep crystal blue, while his right eye is a dark blood red. “Any questions you would like to ask about the topic?”

Her mind begins to race as her questions start to scream to her head. Night Blade waits quietly for her question, knowing that she has so many to ask. “When can I meet Connor?” But her mouth betrays what she actually intended to asking as her words come to an end.

Night Blade raised his eyebrow. “I said, ask any questions about why you must keep your knowledge of this secret, not about its members.” Her heart sinks as she loses some hope. “What would happen if Celestia would discover secrets of the Brotherhood.” Twilight's mind was put into thought again as she looks to the floor. 'What would Celestia do..?' “See, you don't know.”

“How do you know so much about the Brotherhood?” Her words start up fast to his ending comment as she squints to his sure voice.

“Wouldn't you like to know...” Night Blade was tempted to tell her secrets about the Brotherhood to put her mind at ease, but he knows too well that would only benefit the wrong ponies. “Think of this. How brutal are the griffons?” She tilts her head to the question, but the answer came quickly to her. “What would happen if they found out you and your friends knew secrets about the Brotherhood?”

Twilight's eyes went wide in fear. “They would...”

“Do you understand now? If Celestia found out about the Brotherhood, she will expose it because the council, citizens, and the Griffon Kingdom would demand answers, Luna would too. And if the wrong group discovered that you have knowledge of their enemy, they won't hesitate to come after you and your friends.” Twilight faced announced that she realized the position she is in. “You would put you're friends in grave danger, not to mention me, Alice, and Connor too. And any other members.” Twilight sight fell to the floor. She has no idea on how to react to the situation she, and her friends are in. “I see you understand. Do you have a report for Celestia about the murder?”

She simply shook her head no. “Get to it, I have to hoof deliver that to Celestia.” Twilight rose her head to look at the stallion to see a smile on his face. “Like I said earlier, don't worry about disappointing Celestia if you haven’t discovered anything.” She let out a sigh, using her magic to levitate a stack of papers and quill to her.

Two hours passed as Twilight looked over the evidence again, while writing a report to Celestia. Night Blade walked around the library, taking a quick read over any book that caught his attention so he can see if there worth making a mental note to read it fully in the future.

Night Blade's wait finally showed signs of ending as Twilight set down her quill and started to read over it.

She let out a sigh, as she placed all of the evidence back in the suitcase, along with the report. “I wanted to ask you. I've never seen you around Canterlot, and I knew almost all the guards there.”

“That's simple. I went missing in action for four years.” Twilight gasp to the words, but he keeps his face emotionless. “I’ve been back in service for more than a year now. I wasn’t around the castle much in the first place, since I'm not really a guard, more like soldier. We properly did see each other around the castle, but never properly met.”

“Soldier..? You were part of the special forces training program that Celestia and the council agreed to do?” Her mind starts to fill with new questions as she just stares to the stallion in the room.

“Sure was. I can't tell you any details, but I'm probably one of the greatest warriors you've met.” His voice was still emotionless, but sly smirk cracked over his face a little.

“That explains why you are being a detective... How well do you know Princess Celestia?”

His eye twitched. “What do you mean by that?”

“Like... being a detective for her...” Twilight said a little rushed, from the coldness that appeared in his voice.

“I'm special forces, so I don't see much combat. But the skills I have makes me a good detective for this kind of crime. So Celestia sent Luna to take me to the crime scene. After I inspected the scene, it's standard protocol for me to go and meet her, no matter where she is or what shes doing, to give her a small debrief, then head home and right a full report.”

'No matter where she is, or what shes doing..?' Her eyes fell back to the suitcase on the coffee table in front of her. “Are you a member of the Brotherhood?” She said under her breath.

“What gave you that idea?” Twilight was sure she said that quietly enough to not let the stallion hear. She gave a sheepish smile to the stallion, who gave back a smirk on his face. “In a way.”

'Did he just admit that he is!?' “What do you know of the Brotherhood!?” Her ears perk up a little as her wanting mind craves for more information.

“Twilight... what did I say a couple of hours ago?” Twilight’s ears falter a little as she realizes his words mean her cravings will be left unsatisfied, as she remembered the danger she was in for what she knew. “I'm not going to say anything for the safety of you and others.” She nodded in understanding.

Night Blade brings his trot up and over to the coffee table as he picks up the suitcase with his hoof, putting it under his left wing. “Its time for me to take my leave.” He turns to the front door as he starts out the door. “Take care of yourself and your friends Twilight.” With those words, he closed the door behind him.

Twilight moves to the couch with her mind contemplating the conversation she had with Night Blade. To her, this day has been tedious and uneventful...Letting the Princess down from not being able to discover the culprit, and finding out how much danger she and her friends are in.

“Are you alright Twilight?” Her eyes are turned to the front door to see Spike walking in. She looks to the clock hanging on the wall, and shows its been about a hour after Night Blade's departure. “You seem really down.”

“Come on Spike. We need to go somewhere.” She got off the couch and made her way to Spike in the front door.

“Are we going to Rarity's!?” His eyes brightened at the thought.

“We are, then to AppleJack's.” She walked right by Spike and closed the door behind them.

It was clear to Spike that the lavender mare’s determination eyes show there's something troubling her. Twilight would usually let Spike ride on her back when they went out together. But she just trots by him like he wasn't there. He picked up his pace so he can walk next to her so he can ask what's wrong, but his gut feelings stop him from asking anything as he just follows. He just hopes that Rarity or AppleJack could put Twilight in a better mood.

(Take a look at Author's Notes, please!)
> Chapter 7, Sending Another massage
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“How long is it going to take him?”

“A week.”

“Shut up, Bruddon! Connor?”

“There's a reason where hidden in trees. He'll find it Alice.” She let out a sigh, as Connor's well trained eyes followed a small black speck that soared over the sky.

The sound of paper from Bruddon caught Connor's ear, but his eyes never left the sky.

Alice's eyes follows the pen that Connor holds over a map. The pen moving with the movement of what Alice knew to be the speck in the sky. She looked to the sky for the speck and even with her 'gift' of eagle vision, she couldn't spot it. She looked back down to Bruddon, and spotted the diamond dogs dull blue eyes jumping across the blue sky. She let out a sigh; even the diamond dog with the same gift can’t see him.

Her gaze turned back to the human. “Can you really see him Connor?”

The pen continued its hover over the map in the human’s hand. “I can Alice...” She lifted her sight to his face. His hood was down so she can see his blue eyes having a light glow to them.

“How can you, and not I and Bruddon?” Her tone come back as her annoyance springs too Connor’s ears.

A smirk comes over his face as he nods his head, “Its naturally flowing in my blood. I didn't have it injected.” Alice's eyes began to sting as she remembered that painful event. “Boiling Touch already told you, since I've been born with it; I'm naturally three times stronger with it then you.”

She let out a sigh, announcing her dislike for never being able to get as strong with eagle vision as Connor. But the fact she had such a powerful, heritage only, and 'alien' ability, she agreed to herself that she is in no position to complain.

A blur of black in the sky caught all three of the members’ attention, and quickly the sound of pen touching paper after. Alice looked down to the map to see a black circle was drawn on it.

Connor kept his eyes to the sky for another moment. “Alright, he’s out of my sight.” Connor said as he pushed the map between Alice and Bruddon. “Is that the paper Night Blade dropped off?”

Bruddon nodded as he handed the paper to Connor. The diamond dog's and pony's eyes were glued to the map as they memorized the area and the location marked, but Connor had already memorized it and was focused on the paper given to them by Night Blade, when he dropped it over head by tying it to a rock.

Twilight Failed to discover that Alice, or anypony else was the 'assassin,' as I would have with only the evidence. Still, Celestia has no clue of the assassin, and only suspects the Brotherhood, but she does suspect me of knowing something. Like I told you in the past, it’s hard to keep things hidden from her. I also announced to Twilight that I do play a role in the Brotherhood, but told her how much danger she, and her friends are in. She quickly realized it once told and even went to warn her friends soon after I left her home. It’s safe to say that we can have some more trust in her group. Keep safe, Alice, Connor, and Bruddon.

“Alright.” Bruddon said under his breath.

“Are you sure you want to do this Bruddon?” Connor asked giving the dog a worried look.

“I have no connections to the East Pack.” His voice had a growl in it, “I could care less for this pack anyway. My home is with the West... even though I despise them.”

Connor realized he needed to change the subject, so the conflict in his friend's mind would be put to ease. “Let’s get to the destination.” They both nodded, quickly folding up the map, Connor placed his hood back on his head. Taking the lead, he started jumping through trees as his friends followed.

After a few minutes of running through trees, they reached the desired location.

Hidden behind the dense brush of the trees was a tunnel inside a hill with one diamond dog acting as a guard.

“There's no way for a normal pegasus to spot this from the sky.” Alice said with her breath being taken a little.

“Unless you’re Night Blade.” Connor said with his breath still under complete control, which made Alice chuckle, as her thoughts started to wonder. “Are you ready Bruddon?”

He simply nodded as he started to take off his robes, while Alice started to shuffle through her saddlebag as she mumbled to herself.

With that, Connor jumped through the few other trees that laid in front of him as he tries to position  himself right above the diamond dog.

The guard dog is sound asleep as Connor leaped down from a tree with a light thud.

The human slowly walked towards the dog as it let out a loud snore. Some guilt hitting Connor, at what he will have to do.

Grabbing its muzzle tightly, Connor slammed the dog onto the floor and stabbed his hidden blade into its lower spine. He then pulled out his blade and stabbed it into the dog again in a different location along the spine. Not in brutality, but to make the dog's death quicker.

With the deed done, Bruddon jumping out from his spot in the trees. It was weird for Connor to see Bruddon without clothing on, as he would at least wear a t-shirt if he didn't have his robes on.

Bruddon picked up the body and walked to an area with a large amount of shrubbery, as Alice leaped from her spot in the trees.

“Let’s hope Magenta and her dads’ prototype works.” Alice’s voice started up as it shook a little from her anxiety. 

“Don't worry, we made sure you had all the practice you needed” Connor said with a light laughter from the excitement to see the invention at work. “That and their inventions have never let us down before and it's not going to today.”

“I believe you Connor, but still... this is the weapons first time on the field. One of them being a combination of your human technology with pony magic.” Alice said, with her eyes focused on a long cylinder shaped object, which was made from spruce wood and metal sling on Connor's back.

“Better sooner than later for things like this.” Connor said with a light clap of his hands.

After another moment, Bruddon walked out from the shrubbery, wearing a black vest, a red scarf that he is using to cover his muzzle, and his leather and metal gauntlet with the his hidden blade hooked to it. “The guard had a pocket watch on him.” Bruddon then tossed a heavily damaged silver pocket watch to Connor. “Its counting down, with less than thirty minutes left.”

Connor opened the device and set it on the floor. “It’s of griffon designed. Everyone set your clocks.”

The three friends slid a piece of metal plate off their gauntlets to reveal watches. “Set your time to what’s on the pocket watch. Alice, add twenty seconds.”

Connor and Bruddon set their watches to twenty-eight minutes, Alice to twenty-eight minutes and twenty seconds.

“Set.” Three clicks came from the group and their watches started to countdown. “Take the pocket watch Bruddon. The griffon will ask for it as proof that you’re the guard.” Connor tossed the watch to him, and he stuffed it into a pocket that was on the vest.

Alice let out a sigh as she walks towards the entrance. “Good luck.” Connor said as he went back to the tree branches. Alice looked to Bruddon and received a nod from him. With that, she descended into the tunnel.

Inside the Tunnel

“For the love of Celestia, please don't blow me up.” Alice whispered to herself as the cool, dust filled breeze from the tunnel hit her. She gave a quick glance behind her, the sun coming in from the entrance being the only light.

With a sigh, she reached into her saddlebags and pulled out a metal ball with a stake coming out of it and a magenta colored crystal with a marquise cut.

Alice eyed the wall for a moment before slamming the metal ball into it by its stake. She let out a sigh as she took grip of both ends of the crystal and put force into each side.

A loud snap echoed through the cave as the now two piece crystal glowed a deep magenta color.

She let out a little 'ooh' as she moved the two pieces apart, having a magical string like energy connecting the two pieces. Temptation to spin one side around and enjoy a little light show from the crystal was great, but the job at hoof prevented that enjoyment.

Her gaze fell back to the metal ball sticking out of the wall, and remembered that she’s on the clock.

Quickly she took one side of the crystal and used the string to tie it onto the metal object.

With that done, she looked deeper into the cave and started to walk forward with the other side of the crystal in tow as it gave of a magenta glow that lit her way.

After a couple of moments of counting her steps, she pulled out another metal object from her saddlebag and stabbed it into the wall. Then wrapping the string of energy from the crystal around it and continuing through the tunnel.

She repeated the process twenty more time before sun light could be seen in the tunnel. Her lips tighten to a smile as she looked inside her gauntlet to see that there is a minute left on the clocks countdown.

Her pace quickened the closer she got to the exit, but a loud snore made her hesitate. Slowing her pace to a silent walk, she got close enough to look outside of the exit to see a single diamond dog acting as a guard.

She set the crystal down and continued her stealthily walk till she was standing behind the dog.

With a silent sigh to herself, she punched the dog behind its knee, making it fall to the ground with a thud and stabbing her hidden blade into its neck, silencing the dog before it screamed in pain.

Quickly after she performed the deed, she backed away and closed her eyes while attempting to block out the noises of the dying dog from her ears.

Slowly, the sounds of the world died to silence as guilt began to take grip of Alice at the sin she performed. Her thoughts became numb with pain at every breath she took in.

A loud thunder clap like sound in the distance made Alice jump out of her state with a yelp in fear. The sound of its echo and birds chirps of fear came after as her mind gripped on what is going on in reality.

With a quick blink of her eyes, she looked down to her gauntlet and reviled the clock, to see it having ten seconds left in its countdown.

Her heart began to race as she ran back to the entrance of the tunnel and picked up the crystal that still glowed bright in the mid-day sun. Then running away to a safe distance before placing the crystal on a flat surface rock.

She drew her tomahawk and stared into the entrance of the cave, praying that this will work while she threw the weapon into the air and having it land back into her hoof with the blunt side facing downward.

She raises the tomahawk over her head as she focus her hearing on the gauntlet.

click

With a loud grunt, she brings the tomahawk down on the crystal. A loud bang and red flash emitted upon impact as the once magenta colored string turned deep red as a small white light traveled along it from the crystal into the cave.

She quickly holstered the tomahawk before running as fast as she could in the other direction.

Tunnel Entrance

The small smile on Connor's face went away as he looked to the tunnel entrance behind him to spot Alice's red tail for a brief moment before she disappearing inside the tunnel as Bruddon leans against the entrance wall as he closes his eyes.

“Stay safe Alice.” Connor whispered as he went into a jog towards the tree that they were in earlier.

As he got close to the tree's trunk, he went into a full sprint and used his momentum to run up the tree and reach a large branch to pull himself on top it.

He continues to climb the branches of the tree tell he found a leather satchel that was hanging of a branch.

Quickly snatching it as he sits down on the branch it was on; he opens but is taken back a little as he blinks too the white cloth inside. Instantly recognizing it as Bruddon's robes, he slings the satchel over his shoulder.

With a sigh, he pushed away some leaves that was blocking his view and was clearly able to see the entire area in front of the tunnel entrance.

His heart begins to race as he takes off the wooden and metal object from his back. “I hope this musket works.” He whispered to himself as pulled the hammer back tell a light click emitted. With another sigh, he raised the musket to his shoulder as he placed the other side on a branch for support.

The sound of birds singing and the light breeze was the only noise in the area as Connor put his heart beat and breathing under complete control.

Time seemed to slow down for Connor, and he couldn't help, but get bored as he continues to look down the iron sights. He took his hands of the gun, and it stayed in the same spot thanks to the branch and Connor's shoulder. With a little hum he looked at the clock inside his gauntlet. Five minutes left.

He made a pop sound with his mouth from boredom as he places his hands back on the gun. But the boredom was too much and he let out a sigh as he looks down.

“Shit...” He whispered to himself at realization of how he was sitting in the tree. Quickly he moves around the tree to put himself in a better position, his legs whining with pain from the fact that he was motionless for more than twenty minutes.

After some shuffling, he finds a satisfying new position and let out a sigh, and made a mental note to always check his stance when using this musket. His right shoulder felt a little numb as a pass event starts to run through his head.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

“Careful Connor, it might have what you humans would call... recoil!” A female voice yelled to me as I set the new musket prototype to my shoulder. “Are you even listening to me!?” Her voice rose with annoyance clearly there.

“What was that Magenta?” I replied with a smirk on my face, which earned me a groan from the magenta colored mare. “It’s alright. I've been using firearms my entire life.”

With that said, my breathing became light as my right eye focused down the muskets iron sight.

My target was an everyday red apple sitting on top a fence. Silence was all that could be heard, but I couldn't help myself. “Anyone in the mood for apple sauce?” I said with a smile on my face.

I get another groan from Magenta and one from Alice as well, along with a light chuckle from two stallions.

“Shoot the damn gun!” Bruddon yelled out, a slight smile on his face from my stupid joke.

I let out a chuckle as I place the iron sights over the red apple. My breathing came close to nothing as I place my finger on the trigger.

A cricket could be heard to my left... oh, shut up you little shit.

I took a long exhale, the moment my lungs ran out of air; I put force down on the trigger.

Click, BOOM!

The guns boom echoed through the forest as the apple exploded from the metal and magic bullet hitting it. Along with me stumbling back with my shoulder throbbing in pain from such a huge amount of recoil.

With my footing under my control again, I look to the group of friends behind me. All of them rubbing their ears. I couldn't help but smile at the fact that their ears are much more sensitive than mine and this was painful for them.

I set the musket down on the table that was next to me and moved my arm around to force out the pain.

“Come on, the recoil couldn’t be that bad?” Bruddon yelled out with a smirk on his face as he was still rubbing his left ear.

With him saying that, I picked the musket of the table and tossed it to him.

He snatched it out of the air with his paw, and he and I traded are spots. Him next to the table and I next to are group of friends.

“That was quite loud Connor, but you don't seem to mind the noise.” A Jamestown blue stallion with a gray mane, standing next to Magenta said as I took a seat on the ground.

“I've been around bangs louder than that, so my ears are used to it. The recoil is a different story though.” I said, repeating the process of rotating my shoulder.

“Can you give me an example?” Another stallion asked, this one having a navy blue fur color along with a dark shade of gray mane.

“Hurt like a bitch!” The stallion just raised his brow. “Felt like someone hit me with a haymaker punch in the shoulder.” I said flatly, which got me an approved nod from him. “When do you think it can be put into the field, Steel Dust?”

The navy blue stallion just rubbed his chin while he hummed to himself. My eye twitched, I fricken' hate it when people hum as they think.

A loud click got all of our attention, and we all looked ahead to see Bruddon raising the musket to his shoulder and aimed for the another apple on the fence.

The four ponies around me quickly covered their ears as a smile came to my face in knowing the misfortune Bruddon was about to receive.

click, BOOM!

The guns explosion echoed through the forest again, but the apple on the fence stayed in tack, as Bruddon was thrown to the ground on his ass with a loud grunt and thud from him.

I fell on my back and laughed, as the two stallions chuckled, but the other two mares ran to Bruddon and help him back on his rear paws.

After another moment I sat up still laughing to see Alice suppressing a giggle and Bruddon with a smile on his face. But Magenta Dust was giving me a glare... which shut me up instantly.

“What in torturous are you ponies doing over here!?” Me gaze is turned from Magenta's position to a dark gray stallion, with a black and dark blue mane walking towards us.

My eyes shot to the bandages he had over his right eye, before going to his left eye that was crystal blue. A smile came to my face as I waved to him. “What’s up, Night Blade?”

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Connor opened his eyes, as the sound of birds announced his return to reality from the flash back.

He tightens his grip on the musket as he moved his head up to look down on the gun's flintlock. The rest of the gun looked like any other, put the hammer was right behind the barrel instead of being on the right side, as a lever system was there instead, and a metal block was sticking out the left side of the barrel.

“That happened about four years ago,” Connor whispered to himself as he took a slow blink. “How can you evolve an alien technology so fast is beyond me Magenta?”

His eyes close as he began to remember the first time he had to explain what a musket was to her. But the sound of multiple loud footsteps put that day dream on hold as Connor placed his finger on the trigger.

He looked to Bruddon to see his gaze was focused on an area under the tree Connor was hiding in.

The footsteps continued to get louder with each passing second.

Connor was motionless as he kept his left eye closed and his right eye aiming down the guns iron sight.

A light click came from Connor's gauntlet as a group of three griffons and three diamond dogs came into his sight from under the tree.

“Clock!” The griffon in front of the group yelled out in a deep voice that would be common for his species. Bruddon pulled out the pocket watch from his pocket and held it up for all to see.

“Now get out of my way!” It spat at Bruddon, and he complied by walking away from the tunnel entrance to a tree that was close by and leaning on it. “Hurry up and finish dogs! I want to head back to camp!” It yelled again and pointed to the tunnel, and the dogs quickly ran into the tunnel.

The griffon turned around to look at the other two behind him. Connor smiled as he spotted a golden crest that was hooked to the griffons vest.

“Have a nice day bastard!” Connor whispered as he put force on the trigger.

The hammer hit the back of the receiver, and the metal block sticking out the left side of the barrel slammed inside, instantly followed by a thunder clap and bright flash of light.

The griffon was sent to the ground with a huge amount of force as a large mist of blood came out of the giant wound in its chest.

Pain hit Connor in the shoulder, but his eyes went wide at how much damage this gun was capable of doing.

The other two griffons just stood there confused and afraid at what just happened as they stare at the corpse of their commanding officer. Bruddon took the opportunity and went into a full sprint in the opposite direction of where Connor was.

With a blink of his eyes, Connor moved his hand and gripped the lever of the gun and pulled it back. The metal block that was inside of it shot out with a loud ping. With his eye and hand coordination, he quickly pulled out another metal block from a pouch and slammed it into the gun where the last one was at just half a second ago, and then quickly pushing the lever back into the locked position, then pulled the hammer back.

Quiet booms came from inside the tunnel, quickly followed by the diamond dogs inside yelling that the tunnel was caving in.

At the moment the dogs came into the sun, Connor pulled the trigger.

The guns process was repeated and the other griffon fell to the ground with a huge mist of blood and a giant wound in his chest.

The last griffon and three dogs yelled in fear as they booked it towards Connor position, but ran underneath the tree as they continued their... actually, their yelling sounded more like girly screams.

Connor quickly turned around in the tree and moved some leaves out of his sight. The griffon had taken flight on a straight course.

A smile came to his face at how the griffon just exposed the almost exact direction to their camp.

With a sigh, he slings the gun over his shoulder and booked it in the direction Bruddon took, knowing that the griffons will send half of the camp here at the moment they get the news.

After about thirty minutes of running through trees, he saw the outline of the village known as Appaloosa. A smile came to his face knowing that the griffons would not go any farther to chase him beyond this point... if they even gave chase in the first place.

After some more running through trees, he got close to the train station, and with his skills, he was able to sneak into the cargo cart without a problem.

He closed the door behind him, then making a sluggish walk to a very large wooden crate that was inside the cart, and sat down on it with a loud sigh.

As he starts taking off the satchel and musket, Bruddon and Alice revealed themselves. With a flash of movement, Connor tossed the satchel to Bruddon.

He got a thanks from the dog as he walked away out of sight, as Alice took a seat next to Connor.

“How well did the gun work?” Alice said with her voice a little shaky as she stared at the gun lying in front of her.

“It worked too well.” Alice did a very quiet gasp as her eyes went a little wider. “It blasted a giant hole into the two griffons I shot.” She let out a barely audible 'oh' as her gaze met with the floor. “From the damage this gun deals out, it’s safe to say that they had a quick death. “

“How well do you think Magenta will take this?” Alice said with a deep breath after.

“She’s going to be piss as all hell. Then she'll probably have an emotional breakdown... would it be okay if I ask you for help there.” Alice nodded to Connor. “Thanks.” He said with his tone announcing guilt.

Bruddon walked around the corner he was just at, now wearing his white robes. “Much better!” He said a little loudly as he gave off a smile.

“Do you have the map?” Connor asked as he tried to push the last subject talked about to the side for now.

He nodded and handed the map over, which was quickly unfolded by Connor as he pulled out his pen. “The griffon I didn't shoot flew away in panic, announcing the direction to the camp.”

“Can we drive the griffons out of Equestria faster with this knowledge?” Connor simply nodded to Bruddon's answer. “Good. Let us get some sleep for now.” He said as he laid against the box that Connor and Alice was sitting on before placing his hood back on and letting out a sigh.

Alice gave a glance to Connor, who was drawing down an arrow with it pointing south-west from the circle he placed there earlier.

With a sigh, she curled up into a ball as she watched Connor place the cap back on the pen before placing it and the map on the floor.

He then stretches out his legs and arms, giving off multiple pops before he threw himself on his back with a light thud.

Alice continues to eye the pen, its silver shell shimmering in the light, as the blue streaks that run through it giving of a glow in the dull light that entered the cart through a small window.

The only noises being in the cart is the three assassin's breathing, and the sounds of a busy village outside that penetrated the walls.

Alice's ears pierced up to the sound of a stallion screaming, 'all aboard.' A smile came to her face at the thought of a home cooked meal and sleeping in her own bed tonight.

The train suddenly jerked, announcing its time to move locations, but Alice couldn't help but let out a little yelp as her eyes went wide open from the sudden movement.

Some movement next to her caught her attention, and she lifted her head to see Connor with his legs dangling over the edge of the crate along with his left arm as he was flat on his back.

How he could fall asleep like that, I will never know. Alice said to herself as her sight returns to the pen. Magenta is going to be so piss when we get home. With that thought, she closed her eyes and let sleep take over her body as she remembers the day Magenta gave Connor that pen.


> Chapter 8, Back Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Connor laid on the sofa in his room, his eyes completely focused on the silver pen hes spinning around his fingers. The thoughts of today’s events playing through his head... Well, more like how much drama that occurred when he got home.

His eyes finally diverted from the pen to his bed. A unicorn mare with a magenta colored coat and deep violet mane was sound asleep, tightly wrapped with blankets. The stains on her cheeks from tears she shed earlier was easily lit by the single candle in the room.

With a silent grunt, he picked himself up from the sofa and set the pen on a coffee table that was to his left before heading to the door.

As he placed his hand on the door, a loud sigh came from the mare. He turned his head around to see her snuggling her head closer to the pillow before lightly snoring, announcing that she finally has fully fallen asleep.

Connor left his bedroom, making sure that the his interactions with the door would barely make a sound, as well as his foot steps down the hallway to the staircase on the other side. But his attention is adverted to the grandfather clock that was next to a window. Its clicks making a light echo through the small hallway as its hands pointed to 'one forty eight.'

He stood there, staring at it like its the most interesting thing in this house... but it got boring quickly, and he turns his gaze to the window.

Through the maroon red colored curtain, he could see light coming from the other side.

Moving the curtain to the side, he can see Bruddon sitting on the patio with a piece of the musket prototype in his paw. The rest, was laying out on a table, all lit by a single candle on the table.

Curiosity got the better of him, and he walked to the door that would lead him outside.

Right when Connor got half way through the door, Bruddon had placed his full attention on him.

“Weren't you the one that wanted to sleep the most?” Connor said as he closed the door behind him, making sure that his voice stayed at library tolerable level.

“Yeah yeah yeah. Well you were focusing on your fillyfriend so much that you forgot to clean the gun. That, and I still don't know exactly how this thing works.” Bruddon said as he rubbed a piece of the lever with a small white towel.

Connor took a seat at the table across from Bruddon. The scent of flammable powder and oil hits his nose as he looks over each piece of the gun neatly laid out. “Thanks. Any idea what we're going to do tomorrow?”

“I'm gonna sit on my ass all day. Alice is probably going to train Lilly. What about you?” The dog said as he silently read a small book on the table.

“Try to get Magenta in a better mood... are you seriously reading the manual she wrote?” Bruddon just gave the human a deadpanned look. A smirk came to Connor's face as he looks out into the forest of spruce trees.

The sight of a small yellow glare caught his eye. He got up and walked to the railing to see a wolf staring at him.

Connor picked up a small rock from a potted plant next to him and tossed it at the wolf. The rock pelted the wolf in the head, making it let out a yelp and run away in the opposite direction.

“Was that necessary?” Bruddon asked as his eyes never left the book.

“Most humans would of shot it. I have no grudge against wolves, but I want them to stay away from our home.” He said while placing his arms on the guard rail of the patio.

“Understandable. Especially after what happened.”

The two became silent as Connor enjoyed the scent of the forest as Bruddon pieced the gun back together.

The sound of the guns lever sliding back and forth caught Connor's ear, making him turn around and look at the dog, who has a smile on his face as he looks over the firearm.

“Did ya actually get the gun back together this time?” Connor said as his tone announced he was in fact mocking him.

“It looks like it to me... I have a question. Why do we still call this thing a musket?”

“Well... Magenta created it, so shes the one who needs to name it.” Connor replied as he scratches the back of his head.

“I'm not gun smart, but the only difference between this and your human made ones is how it fires the bullets?”

“Yeah, that and some other things.”

“I watched Magenta make the... whatchamacallit?”

“She likes calling it an 'ammunition clip'.” Connor replied as he took his seat at the table back.

“Yeah, that. Its a delicate process just to make one of those. But how fast you can reload this thing is astonishing compared to normal muskets. And it hits so much harder.”

“Most people would take about twenty seconds to reload. Me, about thirteen.”

“How long did it take you to load this?”

“A little over a second. I can put lead down range quite fast with that.”

“What was the word you humans used for people who were trained to shoot somepony's head off with one of these at very long distances?”

Connor raised his eyebrow a little at the dog using both human and pony grammar in his question. “We'd call them 'marksman,' or 'snipers'.”

“I'm still not a very good shot with firearms.” Bruddon said with a sigh as he brought the gun to his shoulder and look down the sight. “Well... I shouldn't complain. Alice can't use anything like this.”

“I'm honestly surprised she hasn't gone on a rant about it.”

“Same here. What are Magenta's newest projects?” The dog asked as he placed the firearm back on the table.

Connor let out a sigh as he leans back in the chair. “She refuses to tell me anything... can't blame her though...”

“Yeah. She has good reason for creating these tools, but we keep using them for murder.” Bruddon said as he opened a small plastic container and started rubbing his hands with some of its contents.

“Me and Dad aren’t helping much there.”

“Don't knock yourself down. Its Dad who keeps ordering us to do so.” Bruddon said with a small reassuring smile as he wiped his paws with a towel. “Now about Magenta and the situation you and her are in... have you-?”

“Don't even go there!” Connor snaps with his normal level of voice.

Bruddon put his paws up in a attempt to defend himself from the human's death glare. “Alright... forgot that’s a subject you don't like talking about.”

Connor's turns his gaze to the spruce wood planks that made the patio’s floor. “There so much in the way for that to work...”

“Sorry for bringing it up.”

“Its alright... just don't...” Connor let out a sigh as he put his face into the palm of his hands.

Bruddon just stares at the human, wondering when there drama will sort out, but a snarl came from him as his paws were still stained with oil.

“Its hard to get oil out of fur. Even with that soap.” Connor said as his face was still in his hands.

“But I eat with these!” Bruddon yelled with a childish tone, making Connor take his hands away from his face with a chuckle and small smile. “Don't you laugh ape!”

Connor raised his brow as a big smile came to his face. “Oh, you want to go that far mutt?!”

The two friends just stared at each other, goofy grins on their faces before breaking out into a light laughter, making sure their noise wouldn't disturb the two mares inside... especially Alice.

“We should call it a night. I'll put everything away.” Connor said as he got up and started to place the cleaning tools into a metal box.

Bruddon got up with a yawn and pops in his legs. “Thanks. Good night.” He said walking away to the door and into the house.

“See ya in the morning.”

The sounds of crickets and the breeze running through trees was constant as Connor cleans the tools and puts them away inside the metal box.

Eventually, he made his way to the door with the firearm and tool box in tow. The stock of the gun hitting the door's frame, making a loud thud that echoed through the hall.

After closing the door and cursing at himself silently, he made his way down to the front room.

He gave a glance to the candle that dimly lit the friends main area of gathering before going to a door that resided right next to the staircase.

He opened the door to be met with darkness, and with natural reflex, he hit a small switch on the wall. The sound of electrical spark came for a brief moment, leaving eight candles lit in the large room.

Connor blinked his eyes hardly to the sudden change of light, but he quickly adjusted and made his way to one of the cabinets made of rosewood.

He placed the firearm on the floor and opened the cabinet’s bottom shelf and place the tool box inside and closed it. He let out a sigh as he picked up the gun and placed it on a set of hooks inside the Cabinet.

He steps back and crosses his arms as he looks at the entire Cabinet. The top hooks had the musket from earth that Connor had when he arrived in Equestria, its use was easy to see from the aged oak wood with multiple scratches and some cracks residing on the stock.

The two sets of hooks below had identical muskets. Both made of spruce wood, copper and iron. The difference of these two to the other one was its designed to use pony magic and resources for its ammunition.

Below them was the musket Bruddon just finished cleaning. To Connor, this firearm looked out of place when put to the other three.

I wonder how long its taking humans to make a firearm like this? He whispered in his head as a smile came to his face. Your ancestors better be damn well proud in what you accomplished Magenta!

His eyes came down to bottom shelf of the cabinet. Three flintlock pistols are neatly laid out. The one on the left couldn't be more than useful in battle with its double barrel design. Next in the row was a Royal Navy Sea Service flintlock. The last one was a spruce wood flintlock that resemble the first one, except it has only one barrel, and it being Magenta's attempt to make a hand held model of her musket.

Connor picked up the double barrel musket and aimed it at a portrait on the other side of the room.

“Bang.” He whispered to himself as he acts the guns recoil.

With a loud sigh, he placed the firearm back in its previous spot before walking to the portrait that he aimed the weapon at.

His eyes contains anger as he stared at the griffon that was expertly painted on the canvas. Connor let out a little growl as he remembered his first encounter with the war criminal.

… No! I don't need to think of that right now!

He quickly turns his gaze to a case that laid on a shelf right under the portrait.

Seeing through the glass shows a golden crest with silver trimming. Its shape of an eagle skull giving off an intimidating look as it laid on top of a maroon red cloth acting as decoration and cushion for any mementos Connor and his friends will collect over time.

I brought two of you down... this road is going to be long.

With that thought in his head, he walked out of the room, making sure to hit the switch again so the magic stands the candles rested on would put them out.

His steps remained quiet as he made his way back to his room.

With only the door in his way, he sighed as he pushed it open.

The room looked the same as he left it. The single candle, his pen, and the mare still sound asleep.

A slight smile came to his face that the pony was actually able to fall asleep after an emotional outburst like last time.

With a sigh to himself he flops onto the sofa and close his eyes.

Next Morning

Connor opened his eyes to his everyday room, but his guest has already left by the signs of the empty and messy bed.

With a loud yawn, he got up and made his way to the door.

The scent of eggs caught Connor's noise as he made his way down the stairs.

With his last step down, he can see his three friends all gathered around the dining room table.

“Good morning Connor!” Alice called out when her eyes laid on the human.

“Morning Alice, Bruddon, and Magenta.”

“Good morning Connor.” Magenta ads with a warm smile. Bruddon just waves as he continues to eat his meal.

Taking his seat at the table between the two mares, Magenta uses her magic to place a plate full of scrambled eggs in front of him.

“Thanks.” Connor said as he immediately started to eat the meal. Its every day scrambled eggs seasoned with salt and black pepper.

“So when is Lilly going to get here?” Magenta asked before taking a bite.

“Some time close to noon. Like always.” Bruddon replied.

Magenta eyed Bruddon's plate, then Connor's. “Why do you two eat so much?”

Connor and Bruddon made eye contact and smile. In unison, they flex their arms.

Magenta rolls her eyes. “Yeah, right.” She said statistically, making the others at the table laugh before laughing herself.

The rest of the meal was enjoyable for the group. Socialization, in what they they plan to do today, how are friends back in Tall Tale doing, and new projects Magenta been thinking of.

“So you really have nothing planned today Connor?” Magenta asks the human who was laid out on a couch in the living room.

“Nope! Today should be about how lazy we can be.” Connor replies as he stretches his arms out.

“Bruddon has us beat already.” Alice added who was sitting on the other couch along with Magenta. “Right after we finished breakfast, he was out cold on his bed.”

KNOCK KNOCK

Alice and Magenta quickly got up and made their way to the front door while Connor just let himself fall asleep on the couch.

Alice opened the door to a filly with gray fur, a blue mane with a lemon yellow streak running through it and tied up at the end by a hairband, her lime yellow eyes beaming with excitement. “Alice! Its great to see you again!”

“Its great to see you again too Lilly.” Alice said embracing her in a hug. “How are your parents? Wait, where’s your mom?”

“Mom and Dad trust that I can take care of myself now!” Alice kept her face straight, and this made the filly sweat. “I... uhh... I left without permission. But I left a note telling mom that I already left!”

“The note doesn’t change the fact that you disobeyed your parents and me.” Alice said coldly. The filly gulped as Alice looks at her with a cold gaze. She turns her sight to Magenta in hopes of aid, but was met with the same cold gaze.

Unknown to the ponies, there's a large smirk on Connor's face. “Just like me when I was her age...”

Same Day, Afternoon

“Come on Lilly! Six more laps!” Alice yelled out as her and the filly ran around a quarter mile track.

The Filly's face and breath announces that she was drained of all her stamina, but her powerful will keeps her legs moving in full sprint.

Magenta couldn't help but smile at the filly's ability to power through anything as she sat on a patch of grass under a tree right next to the track.

“Hows it going Magenta?”

The familiar voice made her look to the left to see Connor walking towards her.

“Tired. But the other two are still going strong.” Magenta replies with her breath a little heavy.

“How many laps did they do?” Connor asked as he sat down and leans against the base of the tree trunk Magenta was sitting under.

“They are on lap ten out of six-teen.”

“How many did you do?” Connor already knew the answer though.

“Only three, and at half the speed of Alice.” Connor smiled that he guessed right on her total laps, and that it's easy to see the sweat stains on the mare's fur. “Had to ask?”

Connor chuckled, which made the mare laugh a little as she moved her spot next to Connor and leans against his side.

The human was about to wrap his arm around her, but better judgment stopped that.

“My dad would try to kill you if he spotted us.” She said jokingly with some sorrow.

“Good chance he'd be successful.” He added with a sad smile.

Their eyes focus on the assassin and assassin-in-training as they finished another lap.

“Alice shouldn't push Lilly like this. She'll be too tired to do any other form of training for the rest of the day.” Connor said as he popped his knuckles.

“I really don't like it when you do that. And why do you say that? Will a simple ten minute break turn into a deep slumber?”

“That's exactly what will happen.”

“But she pushes herself on, and everyday, her limit is shattered from that will in her.” Magenta sounds caring as she speaks. “I don't support her choice in becoming an assassin.”

“You're not the only one. Everyone fears that the path Lilly has chosen to take will lead her into darkness.”

“What truly scares me is what 'kind' of darkness is laid on that path.”

Connor only nods.

A little time passed. The two had finished their laps and are now on their way to the shaded spot that's still occupied by Connor and Magenta.

Alice made herself comfy by laying down in a spot near Magenta, tucking her front legs under her.

Lilly didn't even make it halfway to the trunk from where the shade started before flopping onto her side with a loud thud. Her panting being the loudest noise in the area.

“I think you killed her.”

“Connor! That's not funny!” Magenta snapped at the human. “Why'd you work her so hard any way?” She asked, turning to Alice.

“Punishment. Nothing more.” Alice said plainly as she regained her breath.

The filly's painting is replaced with a loud snore.

“Sounds just like Bruddon.” Alice said, making Magenta laugh.

Connor only smiled as he leaned back on the trees trunk and close his eyes.

Same Day, After Dinner

“Hey Alice! Wheres Connor?”

“Hes taking Lilly and Magenta home. Whats up?”

“I was thinking about Connor and Magenta... err..?” The dog scratches the back of his head.

“Do you think we need to talk with Dad about it?”

“Yeah. This really isn't fair for them. But the two aren’t going to go against their own, or the others parents...”

“Even if we want to... are attempts to help won't do anything.”

“So we just wait it out!?” Alice's voice announces her dislike of the situation. “That's all we can do...”

Bruddon shrugs his shoulders in defeat. “Have you met anyone special?”

“We'll... there was this cute stallion in Ponyville... HEY! Don't change the subject like that!”

Bruddon laughed as he made his way to the stairs. “I'm calling it a night. Sleep well.”

“You too...”

Same Day, Midnight

Connor returned home with the lights off. No doubt his friends have called it a day.

So he made his way to the weaponry room again. Flicking the candles on the moment he opened the door.

After blinking to the sudden change in light, he made a beeline to the sword rack.

In a swift motion, he unsheathed his sword. Leaving the sheath itself still on the rack.

With the weapon firmly in his grasp, he did a couple of slashes and spins. The expertly crafted blade slashing through the air without any wind resistance.

Satisfied with how the blade feels, he instinctively points it at the same canvass he pointed the pistol at earlier today.

The more he looks at the griffon, the tighter his grip on the weapon gets.

“What the..?” He wipers to himself, taking the point away from the target and look at the blade. “Was it just...”

Again he points the blade's tip at the canvass.

“It is...”

As he points the weapon, it's blade has a deep orange enchantment looking glow to it.

“So you wish to as well?”

The glow deepens a little, before vanishing completely.

Not wanting to have flashbacks of the past from thinking about why the blade glows like that, he sheathed it back on the rack and walks out of the room.
> Chapter 9, Part 1 (Bonus)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“So what does this thing do?” Connor asks the stallion next to him as he looks over the gauntlet on his left arm that's been equipped with a new invention. But it just looks like a black box has been placed in a spot that's right behind a hidden blade, if there was one on this gauntlet.

“It shoots a magical energy string that will stick to, almost, any surface.”

“And how am I suppose to use this thing?”

“Hit the button.” He says plainly.

Connor just shrugs his shoulders before pressing a red button that required some force.

Three loud clunks came from it as a metal bar unfolds from the box, down to his hand, a sharp pain in his middle finger follows.

Naturally, he throws his hand around in an attempt to get whatever that caused the pain off him.

“Careful of that. It's quick when it unfolds.” He has a smirk on his face as he talks.

Connors has known the stallion long enough to know the late warning was on purpose. It hasn't been the first time Connor hurt himself using one of the stallion's new inventions, which he finds amusement in, each time Connor gets hurt.

Connor doesn’t pay him any mind as he looks over the metal box that has unfolded into a pistol shaped device with two triggers. A metal bar that folds at two points connects the pistol and box together.

“The first trigger fires the string, the second makes it retract, and letting go of both triggers will cause the string to disappear. It has only one shot and will need to be reloaded with one of these.” His horn has a navy blue color aura form around it and a box is placed on the table with the same aura around it.

Connor opens the box to see six small cylinders with a blue crystal inside each.

“Screw them into the front of the barrel.”

“So why create something like this?” Connor ask as he loads the device.

“A tool for earth ponies to extend their reach. This is still a prototype, but that one has been modified to be used in combat.”

“Lets test that.” Connor smirked as he aims the device at the most convenient targets found in Equestria, a red apple.

He pulls the first trigger and a navy blue string is shot out and it connects with the target, he quickly clicks the second trigger and the apple is pulled straight at him. 

Before it hits him, he let goes of both triggers and the string disappears, he catches the apple with his right hand before it pelted him.

“Looks like it works well, Steel Dust.” Connor says and shows the apple to the stallion, who uses his magic to pick it up as he looks it over.

“Looks like I solved the problem with the string catching things on fire.” He says and sets the apple on the table.

Connor unscrews the used ammo and tries to fold the device back up. But this simple task proves a little more challenging than he thought, as he finds himself having to put a lot of force into it before getting the last click. “You need to loosen the springs so it can be folded back up easily.”

Steel Dust rubs his chain and hums.

“Lets run another test, shall we.” Connor has a smirk form on his face as he unfolds it and loads another shot.

Now he takes aim at his new target. Alice, who is walking by while talking to Magenta.

He fires and the moment the string hits Alice's leg, she yelps. Connor quickly pulls the second trigger and it pulls her of her feet. He lets go of both triggers before she would get dragged though, now trying his hardest to fold the device up as fast as possible, all the while as Steel Dust laughs his horn off.

With the device folded up, he looks up to see a white and red blur before being tackled to the ground.

Connor is now flat on his back with Alice sitting on his chest with her hoofs pinning down his shoulders. A large smile on her face from the accomplishment of pinning the human to the ground.

Steel Dust's laughter gets louder and Magenta has trouble holding her laughter as she walks over to the group.

“Looks like your invention works well Steel Dust.” Connor looks to him and he just nods, his laughter preventing his ability to talk. He joins in the laughter of his three friends.