//------------------------------// // Chapter XI: The Viper's Den // Story: The Twilight Assassin // by Silentpegasus //------------------------------// Chapter XI The Viper’s Den After his demonstration yesterday, Saber stayed clear of the Princesses and the their guards. Thankfully Spike had not been present during his fight, but Twilight always kept him close to her side. Whenever he crossed Twilight or Ebony’s paths’ he pointedly ignored them and they did the same. As he made his way out into the courtyard he saw a familiar trio of changelings. The Prince appeared to be playing some kind of game with Petra. Judging by her expression, she was losing. He approached the pavilion carefully. The Prince looked up from the game and a thin smile appeared on his face. Petra turned and glared at the white haired man. “I hope I’m not intruding your grace.” Saber said as he gestured the greeting. “Not at all, I was just finishing up a game with Petra.” He said as he moved a piece on the board and Petra dropped her head in defeat. Saber looked at the board and raised an eyebrow. “Your grace plays chess?” Saber had seen a few people playing it back when he was an assassin. “Do you?” Saber shook his head. “Only a little,” Ramil chuckled and gestured towards Petra’s seat. “I don’t want to intrude.” The Prince made a gesture of dismissal. “It’s no intrusion. Come, play a round.” Saber felt the guards’ eyes on him and he nodded. “As you wish.” Petra stood up and took a seat beside the Prince. Saber slowly sat down across from the man as he reset the board. “It’s been quite a while since I last played.” “I’ll be sure to go easy on you then.” Saber chuckled at the words. “I understand I will be staying with Princess Sparkle while I’m in this country.” He said as he moved a pawn. “I remember hearing something about that.” He said as he moved a piece. “You work with Princess Sparkle do you not?” Saber rolled his eyes at the mention of the Princess. “Sore subject?” “We had a bit of a disagreement your grace,” He stated bluntly. “nothing to trouble yourself over.” “Don’t be so reserved. I’ve been cooped up in this castle with no one interesting to talk to for days.” He looked back at his two guards. “No offense, Petra, Malik.” The two guards made a gesture letting him no they were not offended. He turned back to Saber. “So go on, tell me what troubles you.” Saber bit his lip as he thought of the right way to phrase his actions. “She and the captain don’t like the way I handled a situation and I will admit that I did get emotional for a moment, but I felt compelled to do what I did.” He said calmly. “What is it you do?” Petra asked. Ramil looked at his guard with a blank expression on his face, but deep down Petra knew she’d just overstepped her bounds. “Forgive me.” Saber gestured dismissively. “It’s alright. Since we’re all going to be living together it’s only natural that you all know what I do for Princess Sparkle.” He said as he straightened his shirt. “I’m her court advisor. I help Princess Sparkle navigate the Canterlot court.” Ramil folded his hands and nodded. “That is a difficult job, dangerous one too.” He stated. “Still, the ends do not always justify the means.” Saber didn’t have time to offer a rebuttal as a messenger came up to Malik and handed him a message. He read it and then handed it to the Prince who let out a sigh. “Apologies Argent, but I must finalize my travel arrangements with Princess Celestia.” He stood up and his guards followed. “Hold on to the game, we will play again in Ponyville.” Saber gestured respectful goodbye. “I’ll hold you to it your grace.” The Prince and his two guards left the white haired man. Saber looked down at the chess set. They were made of black and white stone carved in different shapes and sizes. He packed up the board and pieces and walked back inside the shining castle. As soon as he crossed the threshold of the massive double doors a messenger ran up to him. “Begging your pardon sir, but Princess Sparkle wants to speak to you.” Saber rolled his eyes at the words. “Of course she does, where is she?” He asked as he gave the messenger a few bits. “She and Captain Northwind are waiting for you in the garden.” He nodded and went to pack the chess set away in his things. He was ten minutes late as he arrived at the gardens. He saw Twilight and Ebony sitting at an elegant table. The two women turned and saw him approaching. “You’re late.” Ebony stated. “I am never late, nor am I early. I always arrive precisely when I mean to.” He said as he sat down. “Now what do you two want?” “For you to explain your actions yesterday.” Twilight stated. Saber shrugged at the question. “What’s to tell? Celestia told me to fight those idiots, so I did.” “You almost killed three guards.” Ebony hissed. “Be grateful that I didn’t. Those two fools got in my way. If I wanted to kill them then they’d be cut in half rather than the scratch I gave them,” Twilight felt goosebumps on her skin. “but I will admit I let my emotions get the better of me because of the whip.” “The whip?” Twilight asked. “Yes, it’s a horrible weapon in my opinion.” He stated. “It was first invented to use for cattle and other animals. So when you use it in a fight your basically saying that your opponent is less than human. An insult if ever I heard one. That’s why I did what I did.” A lie, but the best lies are ones that are mixed with a little the truth. He could tell they had their doubts about him, so he decided to dangle a bit of bait for them. “How about I make you a deal so you stop hounding me about it?” The two woman raised an eyebrow at him. “I’ll let you each ask me one question and I’ll answer with full honestly.” “How do we know you’ll tell us the truth?” “I give you my word.” Ebony let out a loud sarcastic laugh. Saber turned his teal eyes on her. “I only have three things left in this world captain. My sword, my balls and my word. I don’t break any of them.” He then looked back to Twilight. “Or would you rather use those slave seals?” “Slave seals?” Twilight asked. Saber pointed to where the command seals would show up on her hand. “That magic is used by slavers to ensure their ‘property’ does what it’s told.” He said in a scathing tone. Twilight looked surprised as she glanced down at her hand. “What, you thought Celestia just made that spell up on the spot? It’s been used for hundreds, maybe over a thousand years by people like you to keep those beneath you in their place.” Twilight felt a massive tremor of uneasiness as the words hit her. She hadn’t known this spell had been used for such a grim purpose. She pushed her feelings aside and nodded at him. “Fine, we’ll trust you.” “Thank you and before you ask I have a few rules. I can’t divulge any names of any previous contracts or any of my previous associates and if I deem a question too personal then I will not answer it.” Ebony frowned. “Fair enough,” Twilight stated as she thought of the question to ask him. “When did you become an assassin?” Saber sat back in his chair and scratched his chin. “That’s a hard one,” He stated. “I joined the guild when I was six and I was raised to initiate at the age of nine, but I wouldn’t become a full fledged assassin until I was thirteen.” Twilight looked stunned. She had no idea he’d been so young. “Why so long a wait?” Twilight asked. “You’ll come across a lot of ‘assassins’ in this world. Most of them are just desperate ex-soldiers or mercenaries wanting some easy money, but I, and those like me, are from a different crop. We train for years before we get to become initiates. If we live through the training, which most don't, then we apprentice under a seasoned assassin. When our mentor thinks we’re ready, we become assassins and take on contracts of our own.” “There are more ranks beyond that, but that’s irrelevant.” He sat back in his chair and stretched. “Technically that was two questions, but I’ll let it slide.” Saber turned his attention to Ebony. “What did you do to get sent to Purgatory?” Saber felt a small bit of rage rise up inside him. If he hadn’t given his word he would have brushed the question off, but a deal is a deal. “What’s Purgatory?” Both heads turned towards the Princess. “You’re kidding right?” Saber stated in disbelief. Her silence was her answer. “Celestia didn’t tell you did she?” He turned to Ebony. “Care to explain captain?” “I thought she knew.” Ebony shrugged. Twilight huffed and crossed her arms. “Purgatory was where I was before Celestia assigned me to guard you.” He stated bluntly. “It’s a death camp far, far away from any civilized society. It’s outside the shadowlands at the ass end of Equestria. Not even within the nation’s borders.” He huffed. “It’s basically a dumping ground for anyone powerful who wants someone gone, but can’t, or don’t want to kill. Mostly political prisoners fleeing from Chrysalis’ regime or anyone that gets under anyone with power skin and the only way to get out is a ditch in the ground, aside from my case anyway.” He said as he sat back. “Back to the question at hand,” He turned to Ebony. “I pissed off the wrong people and they threw me in that hell to suffer.” Twilight shivered as the cold look in his eyes that she saw yesterday returned. “When I’m done here, I’m going to find the ones who put me there and make them wish they were never born.” He said as a cruel smile spread across his face. “Revenge is never the answer.” Twilight said with conviction. Saber frowned. “Don’t lecture me Sparkle, you have no idea what you’re talking about.” Twilight frowned at him. “My world is completely different than yours and the captain’s. I don’t expect you to understand, just stay out of my way and let me do my job.” He stated in a blunt tone. “For the next five years, I’m bound to your services. Consider me your left hand.” “What do you mean?” She asked. “What can your hand do? It gives, it takes, it beckons and makes a fist.” He clenched his right hand to demonstrate. “You need information on someone, you want me to help with a problem, if you want a thorn in your side removed, then I’m your man.” "Why would I need someone like that?" "A wise woman once told me ‘you offer one hand, but arm the other.’ Words to live by.” He said as he leaned in close. “Everyone in the court knows this and I’m here to make sure you know it too and prevent you from ending up with your throat slit.” Twilight absentmindedly ran a few fingers against her neck. “Since my life literally depends on it, making you realize the truth of how things work in the court is my top priority.” The man's expression turned sour. “There is something else you should take note of as well." He leaned in on the table and glared at the two of them. "I am only going to tell you both this once and only once.” Both women leaned in and listened intently. His eyes grew hard and sharper than any blade that had ever been or will ever be forged. “Don’t cross me. Don’t you ever try to cross me.” His tone was low but held the weight of the world on it. “If you do, then I will make it my mission in life to take away everything you hold dear and make you watch while I do it.” The air around the man seemed to grow cold. “No guard, no Princess or god will be able to keep you safe from me.” Twilight felt her heart starting to beat fast and Ebony slowly slid her hand down onto her sword’s handle. “Before you even think about threatening me with anything, know that if I were scared of death I wouldn’t be here. Even if it costs me my life I will drag both of you to hell with me.” He sat back so he was sitting up straight. “Do I make myself clear?” Twilight realized she was holding her breath and breathed. “I understand.” As quickly as it came, the feeling vanished and Saber smiled a warm smile. “Excellent, we’re all in agreement then.” Ebony only glared at him. “Oh stop with the angry eyes Ebby, you’re going to get wrinkles on that pretty face of yours.” Saber wasn’t sure if her cheeks went red with anger or embarrassment. “May I go about my business?” “There’s one more thing.” Twilight stated. “I’ve been invited to an evening party.” That caught Saber’s attention. “By who?” “A noble by the name of Fancy Pants,” Ebony stated. “he’s a well respected noble by his peers and even by the common folk.” “Do you know him?” Twilight nodded. “He and his wife Fleur De Lis are good friends with Rarity. Although several other high ranking members of the court will be there.” Saber grinned. “Since the court is as dangerous as you claimed, I’m not sure if I should attend.” “This is a perfect opportunity to see who the enemies are.” Saber smiled. “Send a runner and tell him that you’d be delighted to attend, but you’ll be bringing two guests.” “Two?” Ebony said. “Of course, you and I will be going as well.” Ebony felt a knot form in her throat. “It’ll be good training for you.” “I have enough training.” “You can never have enough training.” He smiled. “Besides, it’s time for the new piece to take it’s position on the board.” Saber stood up and cracked his neck. “Now if you’ll excuse me I need to go make myself presentable for the noble rabble.” He looked at Ebony and he gave her a once over. “You should do the same. Wear something to make the nobles gawk a bit. Might even find yourself a husband,” He paused. “or a wife. I don’t know your preference.” Ebony’s face was as red as a strawberry and she seemed to be unable to form a coherent quip. Saber turned on one heel and headed inside the castle to dress for the coming occasion. ~~~ Hours later Saber sat in a carriage beside Twilight who was sporting a fancy, yet modest looking gown that went to her ankles. The dress left her shoulders exposed yet covered her bust admirably. Saber’s attire consisted of a dark blue tunic with golden highlights and similar pants. His normal brown boots were replaced by ones made of velvet. Not the best for running or walking in, but they looked nice. He took note that Ebony was no where to be seen. Twilight assured him that she’d be present. The carriage pulled to a halt in front of a large villa where several nobles were waiting to get inside. Saber looked at Twilight and gave her a smile. “Relax, you’ll be fine.” He got out of the carriage and offered his hand to her. Twilight took it and stepped out of the carriage. Before her shoe hit the carpet, she could feel dozens of eyes on her and Saber. She threw on her best smile and stepped out of the carriage. Before they took another step, a separate carriage rolled up and a familiar dark haired woman stepped out wearing a fancy dress uniform and her sword at her side. Ebony’s dark hair was tied into a braid that went to the middle of her back. Saber grimaced as she walked up to them. “Apologies for being late,” She stated. Saber pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a sigh. “What?” “What the hell are you wearing?” He huffed. Ebony looked down at herself. “These are the nicest clothes I own.” She said in a stern tone. The white haired man rubbed his temples. “We’ll talk about this later. For now, just act natural.” Saber walked on Twilight’s left side and Ebony on her right. The trio soon approached a man with well groomed light blue hair and mustache. He was wearing a dapper looking black suit and a monocle on his right eye. He smiled as he saw the Princess. “Ah Ms. Sparkle I am positively delighted you decided to come.” He said as he bowed to her. Twilight curtsied and bowed her head slightly. He then looked to Ebony and Saber. “Are these the guests you mentioned in your letter?” “Yes, may I present Ebony Northwind. The captain of my guard,” Ebony bowed to him. “and Argent Cavalier, my court advisor.” She gestured to Saber. “Delighted to meet you.” Saber said as he bowed. Fancy gave an honest chuckle before turning to the Princess. “Any friend of yours, is a friend of mine. It’s been ages and we’ll have to find a moment to talk, but for now I must greet my guests.” Twilight nodded and the three of them made their way up the massive steps to Fancy’s mansion. Saber leaned over and whispered to Twilight. “Welcome to the viper’s nest.” He said as they entered the grand ball room. The large room was filled with people all dressed for the event. They prattled on about insignificant things that they considered problems. “What should I do?” Twilight whispered. “What all you nobles do, socialize and gossip.” He said as he started to walk away but was stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder. “Where are you going?” Ebony asked. “To do what I was brought here to do, work the crowd.” He shrugged her hand off his shoulder as he descended the stairs and into the crowd. Twilight tried to follow, but by the time she got to the bottom, he was already lost in a sea of faces. Saber moved through the crowd like fish taking to water, while Ebony and Twilight stuck out like a pair of sore thumbs. He stayed on the fringes at first and listened in on various conversations. After an hour of this he noticed Twilight standing off from the crowd and Ebony was leaning against the wall with a hardened expression on her face. He let out a sigh and made his way over to the dark haired captain. “Having fun?” He asked as she rolled her eyes. “Hardly,” She huffed. “I hate feeling like I’m being watched all the time.” She said as she sipped her glass. “Welcome to my world.” He said in a dry tone. Saber leaned against the wall beside her with a smirk on his face. Twilight noticed him and walked over to him. “You look like you’re enjoying yourself.” Twilight commented in a flippant tone. “Oh immensely, all those secrets hiding in plain sight for all the world to see.” He chuckled. “Marvelous, simply marvelous.” “What secrets?” Saber looked around the room a moment and smirked. “Far corner of the room, green dress, blonde hair done up high.” Ebony’s amber eyes scanned the room until she set her sights on the woman in question. She was strikingly beautiful with eyes of the deepest green and a face a doll would be jealous of. She was wearing a golden necklace with a teardrop emerald in the center along with matching earrings. “That is Rebecca Thorn." "Her husband owns Thorn Transports, a very successful shipping business.” He explained. “Well, it use to be.” The two looked at him curiously. “What do you mean?” Ebony inquired. “Word around the court is that at least a couple dozen of his ships have gone missing over the last few years. Precious cargo lost and never recovered isn’t something anyone wants.” “What kind of things were lost?” Saber shrugged at the Princess’s question. “I don’t know. Things people don’t want to get lost; jewelry, money, art, possibly some sort of contraband.” He took a glass form one of the wandering waiters and sipped it. “The point is the company has fallen on hard times. Lord and Lady Thorn have even had to let some of their maids and manservants go just to keep themselves above debt.” Saber gave her a knowing look, but they still seemed lost. He let out a long sigh and gestured back to the beautiful woman. “Look at her and tell me what you see.” “I see an attractive young woman chatting with other nobles.” Ebony said blatantly. “Try looking a little harder.” The two squinted but whatever he was referring to she couldn’t see it. “I don’t know.” Ebony said in an annoyed tone. “She looks no different than every other rich noble here.” Saber set his glass down on the table and gave her a slow clap. “Exactly,” Ebony and Twilight were even more confused than before now. “If her family is on such hard times then how did she get those jewels? How did she afford that dress or even get an invitation to this party? What has she done? Who did she bed? These are all important questions you must ask yourself.” Ebony turned and looked at the woman again. It was true. Those jewels were probably one of the most expensive pieces of jewelry in the entire ballroom and that was saying something. She shifted her gaze back to Saber who had finished his drink. “You can tell so much about a person by the clothes they wear.” “You’re starting to sound like Rarity.” Saber chuckled at the Princess’s comment and was about to offer quick rebuttal when Fancy walked up to them with a gorgeous woman on his arm. Her light pink hair was well combed and parted to cover the right side of her face. Her slim fitting dress did an excellent job of brining out her hourglass figure. Had Saber not had the proper training he’d be gawking at her like a dog staring at a steak. “I trust you’re enjoying the party?” Fancy asked. “Certainly.” Saber smiled as the woman stepped forwards. “This is my wife, Fleur de Lis.” The beauty curtsied for them. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” She said in an accented voice as she set her gloved hand out. Saber gently took it in his and kissed the top of it. “The pleasure is mine.” He said as Fleur couldn’t help but blush a little. I still got it. He thought as he gently let go of her hand. “How has the royal life been treating you Ms. Sparkle?” Fancy asked as he took out a handkerchief and polished his monocle. Twilight hid her nervousness well behind a smile. “A little nerve racking, but nothing I can’t handle.” Fancy nodded. “Yes, that I can relate to. If you need any assistance Fleur or I would be more than happy to assist you on anything you might have trouble with.” Twilight was about to take him up on that offer, but felt a certain pair of teal eyes on her. “Thank you for the offer.” She smiled as Fancy turned to his left and smiled. “Ah, at last the band has arrived.” Several people holding different instruments made their way to the far side of the room and started setting up their chairs and stands for their sheet music in front of them. He turned back to his guests and smiled. “Apologies, but I must speak with the conductor about tonight’s selection.” Fancy and Fleur bid their farewell before they walked over to the conductor and started talking with him. A thought came to Twilight’s mind, although she felt guilty about what she was about to ask. “What information do you have on Fancy Pants?” Saber looked at her in surprise. “Nothing incriminating,” He shifted his stance and folded his arms. “He owns several restaurants, hotels and is a very accomplished businessman. Been married to Fleur De Lis for almost five years and no mistresses to anyone's knowledge.” He shrugged. “Goes on like that. Point is he’s clean and is legit to a T.” He leaned his back against the wall. “Keep your eyes on him. He might seem harmless, but stay on your toes.” Ebony looked at him with a raised eyebrow. “You’re paranoid.” She snorted. “No one here is as villainous as you’re describing.” “Oh really?” Saber pointed his chin to a dapper looking man. “He goes to the local brothel two times a month while his wife is having an affair with their carriage driver.” He smirked. He then looked to a woman with dark brown curls. “She is in a secret relationship with an innkeeper and her parents are far from pleased. They plan to send her off to Trottingham in an attempt to separate them.” “He’s a drug addict. She’s bedded half the court.” He pointed out two more people. “Need I go on?” He huffed as he looked at the two women. “You can never be too careful while in the vipers nest.” Twilight shook her head and went back into the crowd. Music soon filled the room and the quiet conversations halted and gave way to dancing. He smiled and took a step forwards but was stopped by Ebony’s hand on his shoulder. “Where are you going?” “What do you think? I’m going to dance.” “No, you’re not. You’re here to work, not have fun.” He scowled at her. “The whole reason you’re here is to protect Princess Sparkle. I’m not going to have you publicly embarrass her.” “You just love to rain on my parade don’t you?” He looked out towards the crowd and his eyes shrank. His blood seemed to freeze and any words he might have said died in his throat. “I don’t think Twilight need my help embarrassing herself.” He said as he pointed to the crowd. Ebony followed his finger and Ebony visibly cringed at what she saw. In the middle of the dance floor, Twilight was doing something. She was definitely moving but with next to no precision nor grace. Had she not been talking with him a few moments ago, Saber’s first guess was that she’d gone fever mad and would strap her to a bed so she wouldn’t hurt herself, or anyone else. The two had been so distracted by the display that they hadn’t noticed the butler holding a tray with two glasses on it. “The host of the house sent over these drinks.” Saber shook his head and looked at the man. He was wearing the dark red uniform the other servants were dressed up in, but something was a miss. Not wanting to make a scene Saber took one of the glasses and Ebony followed suit. “It’s a fine vintage from Griffonia.” “Thank you.” Ebony said as the gentleman gave them a bow and went off to his duties. Saber whiffed the wine. The drink smelled bitter but under that there was the scent of honey. His eyes shrank and he saw Ebony lifting the glass to her lips. His hand lashed out and he smacked the glass from her hands. The sound of breaking glass was covered by the sound of the music and clicking shoes against the dance floor. “What is your problem?” Her forming frown halted as she saw the seriousness in his eyes. He slowly shook his head. “We need to leave.” Every survival sense Saber had were telling him to get out and get far away from the party. He dumped the wine in a nearby plant and put the glass in his pocket. “Why?” “Because someone just tried to poison us.” He said in a serious tone. “Go get the carriage, I’ll get Sparkle.” Before she could protest saber weaved his way through the dancing couples until he got to where the flailing Princess was. He quietly made his way up behind her and gripped her arm. “We’re leaving.” She didn't even have time to protest as he pulled her off the dance floor. Twilight felt him take her by the arm and escort her through the party quickly and quietly. They almost made it to the main hall when they were stopped by Fleur. “Is everything all right?” She asked. “Yes, everything is just fine my lady.” Saber said with a smile. “It’s just that the Princess here has had a bit too much to drink and she has many royal duties tomorrow. So we best be off.” Twilight glared at him as Fleur nodded. He quickly walked past her and made it down the steps where Ebony was waiting with the carriage. He practically shoved Twilight inside the carriage and he knocked on the ceiling to get the driver’s attention. “Canterlot Castle,” The driver nodded and whipped the reigns before the horses pulled away. The next day Saber was summoned to the hall where Celestia, Luna, Twilight and the three guards were waiting. He was dressed more casually than what he wore to the party during the previous night. He made sure he was fifteen minutes late to let them stew in their frustration a bit. When he walked through the doors he felt all eyes on him. “I do not like to be kept waiting.” Celestia stated in a firm tone. “I do not like being summoned as though I were a dog on a leash.” He snapped at them. “Now to what do I owe the pleasure of your graces’ company?” His tone was laced with enough venom to put down twenty men. “Captain Northwind told us about your outburst last night.” Saber shot the woman a dark look. “Of course she did.” He huffed. “I just did what you brought me here to do. My instincts were telling me something was wrong, so I got Sparkle out of there.” Artemis rolled his eyes and scoffed. “I wouldn’t be alive if I ignored my instinct and I don’t like to be criticized by someone who sits behind a desk every hour of the day.” Artemis clicked his tongue against his teeth at the insult. “If I were you, I’d keep that tongue and those insane instincts of yours in check.” Solaris stated. “And if I were you, I wouldn’t antagonize someone who kills for a living.” Before the argument could continue and probably escalate, a messenger burst into the room out of breath and panic present in his eyes. “This is a private conversation.” Luna stated in a harsh tone. “A thousand pardons your grace, but it’s urgent!” He said as he approached the table. Celestia sighed and gestured for the messenger to continue. “Lady Thorn was found murdered at Fancy Pants’ mansion.” A mixture of emotions washed over their faces, surprise more than any other. Saber grinned and turned on his heel to leave. “Well, I see you all have important business to get to, so my insane instincts and I will leave you in peace.”