//------------------------------// // Week 7 Tuesday: Cover Blown // Story: Assassination Club // by Tythen //------------------------------// Today's skies were heavy with grey and black clouds, though it seemed to restrain itself from pouring over the crowded Manehattan Central Business District. Within its congested roads, a DBS V12 finally broke off from the queue and turned into a large underground car park. The driver of this luxurious sports car slowly halted the car next to a young-looking adult. "Mr Backstop?" The parking valet approached, "Welcome to the Hoofsevelt Hotel. We've been expecting you." "Well aren't you a wonderful sight." Backstop chuckled. "Stuck with parking duty?" "It is no problem, sir." The valet softly placed his hand on his own chest, "I am honoured to work here, and will carry out any service with no question." "Then you know what to do." Backstop opened his door and exited the car. He wore a white buttoned dress shirt, tucked behind a fully polished black linen suit, added with a shiny black tie. "Don't scratch her." "Without fail, sir," The young valet nodded and handed him a card, "This is where I shall park your car. The conference room you'll be looking for is on floor twelve." "No worries." Backstop accepted, "Take care!" The valet sat comfy in the V12 and closed the driver's door. He took a second to look at its inner decorations and designs, and silently admired its look. He placed a hand on the steering wheel, smooth leather with the perfect grip. Then he remembered that he had a job to fulfil and slowly drove the car to its parking spot, watching the cheerful man leave for the hotel lifts in the rear view mirror. "Good Morning Mr Backstop." A well-dressed businessman with a purple tie, greeted, "We're glad that you can make it." "Anytime," Backstop coolly responded as he walked in, "We know how hard it is for men of our intelligence and expertise to run these things." "If you'll allow me..." The businessman gestured, "You'll be sitting right next to Tōka Yada." "Well hello there!" Backstop eased down next to Ms Yada, "Nice to meet you!" "Fashionably late?" Ms Yada smiled, "I see you're experienced with these sorts of people!" Backstop laughed, and Yada laughed back. "Thank you very much," The businessman coughed, " All of you are here today to share your input, feedback, and your contribution to an independent project that will make a mark on Equestria's economy as well as its society. That's why we've hired all of you, from Equestria, Chineigh, Rushia, Sprintain, Neighpon, Germaneigh, and many more nations. I myself am from Swisherland, and a banker and presenter by trade." "We're all here!" Backstop nodded, "Care to get the ball rolling?" The other businessmen and women looked at each other and nodded in agreement. "Very good. Today we will be looking at a proposal given by our client. They want to procure funds in order to build a building for the University of Coltifornia, Los Pegasus." The Swish banker gestured to the photo of a large building, "This will be a new building specifically tuned for courses geared towards foreign studies. At the same time, there will be an influx of foreign students coming to study at UCLP. The architects have decided on its external appearance, but the internal layout will be influenced by your opinions and suggestions, and not to mention the opportunity to become its stakeholders." The German businesswoman raised her hand, "Yes?" "If you're trying to achieve a diverse community in an educational institution, you need to encourage domestic and foreign students to communicate with each other. This will include choosing how to label any possible social internal hubs carefully." "I know what you mean," A businessman added, "Back in Equestralia, one of the Unis- I mean universities there has a lounge labelled for international students. Granted, the labelling of segregation was not intentional at all, but it's best for any new building to keep up with 'the times', as people would say." "Interesting," The businessman typed down, "Is there anything else to add?" "How interesting." Yada chuckled inside, "These people certainly are professionals!" But when she turned to her sleepy neighbour, she felt like eating her words. "Wake up Mr Backstop." Yada nudged, "You're not exactly giving a positive impression to your fellow partners." "Eh?" Backstop shot up, "Oh! Thanks, Tōka. But you really didn't have to worry for my sake. But uh... I'm not sure everyone's going to bother." "Mr Backdrop?" The leading businessman interrupted, "Do you have anything that you'd like to contribute?" "Oh! Uhh... I just wanted to give Tōka here something." And revealed a lapel pin of a flower, "I think this will go well with your clothes, I insist putting it on right now." He slid the pin in front of Yada. "Anything to contribute, other than gifting?" "Well..." Mr Backstop turned to the Swish, rapidly tapping the collar of his suit. "My opinion is that in order for different nationalities to understand each other is something that they should have in common. Something that doesn't tie itself to the sake of education." "Is that so? Then what do you suggest?" "First," Backstop pulled out a fountain pen out of his pocket and began to write on a blank sheet of paper that was provided in front of him since the beginning. "Topics that everyone can share in their free time with each other. Sports, hobbies, places that they'd like to visit... Intimate activities they would like to perform." Mr Backstop spoke shared with a smug look followed by a groan from the entire board, including Yada. "Mr Backstop, we are professionals that are working to benefit future generations in Equestria. Promoting 'sexual' content is NOT one of them." "Well, perhaps you may like to talk with some young ones. You might be surprised, education and all." Backstop laughed as he placed the open pen in front of the paper, "But anyway, there is a serious question I'd like to ask." "And that is?" "Who's the client asking for our money?" "Didn't I brief all of you on the matter?" The Swish responded, looking a bit annoyed. "This project is for the benefit of the UCLP. It is not hard to piece together that a client would be from that university. There are no questionable track records." "Then it's all the more confident that we get at least a name yes?" Backstop prompted, "As an Equestrian businessman, I'd know much about the names and details of people, especially higher-ups in one of the most high-ranking universities." A sudden dreadful feeling came across Yada. It was as she could feel Kimura's echoes of concern flowing through her mind as she looked to her other colleagues looking straight-faced, annoyed, but silent on their body movement at the words of Backstop. When Backstop talked about the others not bothering... Does he know about this? She remembered her Equestrian neighbour tapping his collar. She knew exactly what he was trying to say. "Now, I'd just like a name, and we can continue as normal." Backstop continued while Yada quickly put on the lapel pin. "Very good sir," The Swish man frowned, "We shall continue," And gave a single loud clap. All at once, each businessman and woman in the room stood up and pointed a pistol of their own at the Equestrian Businessman and Yada. "What the!?" Yada threw her hands up in shock, "Well well." Backstop smirked. "If this is how sensitive you get in revealing information, your business ventures will fall instantly." "Our business was never dealing with UCLP." The Swish man threatened, bringing out a SIG P229 from his pocket, "Rather it is making sure your presence does not linger here." "Oh Goddess. Masayoshi has some powerful foresight!" Yada gulped, "Then what about her?" Backstop gestured to Yada, "She seems like an honest woman in the business world, unlike all of you. Why bring such a fine lady into a bloody mess?" "Two birds with one stone. I believe that is the term. You won't get out of this alive Mr Backstop, but if you insist on preserving her life..." The Swish 'businessman' commanded, "One of you take her away." "I don't think so." Backstop growled, "You touch her, and I will drop all of you in a flash." The pen Backstop pulled out exploded with intense white light and a powerful bang. Within a split second, the Equestrian then squeezed a cufflink on his clothes. The pin Yada wore inflated a transparent but thick and giant sphere which detached itself from its tiny hiding spot. Backdrop grabbed the dazed Neighponese woman and slipped her into the balloon ball. "You may want to close your eyes milady." Backstop whistled as he whipped out an FN Five-Seven pistol, "This will get ugly," The businessmen-turned-assassins were still in a daze from that pen when the Equestrian began shooting at their direction. Backstop fired a single bullet through each of them in the room. A single bullet pierced either the head or the left side of the chest for each assassin and fell one by one to the Equestrian's deadly marksmanship. With one bullet left, Backstop turned to the Swish man and fired at his hip. The man roared at the sharp pain cutting into his bones and joints. Meanwhile, Yada slowly regained her eyes and ears over what just happened. The first thing she reacted to was her surroundings. "What is this!?" She grumbled as she felt the tough but squishy surfaces encasing her. "What is going o--!!!" The next thing she looked at was a horrendous combination of destruction and blood. The lower walls and carpeted floor was painted with red, spewing from the pale bodies of her wide-eyed and motionless partners. "What the hell is this!?" Yada screamed. "Ah! You're awake," responded Backstop. "Sorry about the mess." "Did you just... You're not a businessman are you?" "Neither are they," Backstop sighed while reloading a new clip. "They are from different countries, but they're professionals at killing rather than doing business." "So who are you really?" Yada spoke, calming down a little. "The name's Backstop. Johnny Backstop." Backstop shrugged, "EIA," "Equestrian Intelligence Agency." Yada gasped, "That's... Quite a rare sight! And with such interesting gadgets too!" "You calm down quickly. Impressive," Backstop complimented as he reloaded his gun. "As you said. I'm experienced with these sorts of people!" Yada nervously chuckled, "So uhh... That pen of yours was a flash grenade that detonates via voice? And what about this bubble?" "Allow me to demonstrate," Backstop chuckled and fired a bullet at Yada. The bullet sailed mercilessly through the air until it hit the bubble and changed its course towards the wall. "Made to deflect bullets," Backstop responded as he pointed to the bullet sticking itself through the wallpaper and glazed wood. "And packed inside that pin I gave you." "Well, I believe some thanks are in order." Yada bowed, "For saving me." "Any time milady," Backstop laughed. "You..." The Swish man growled in pain. "Oh, I forgot about him. Let me deal with this, then I'll help you get out." Backstop sighed. The EIA agent walked over to the Swish man and lifted him to the air. "Now, I'd like you to contribute something." Backstop icily demanded as he ignored the man's cries of pain, "I want you to give me the client's name. The one who staged this fake meeting just to kill me." "You are a fool if you think I will ever disclose the information of my benefactors." The man chuckled. Backstop jammed his pistol firmly on the man's temple, plunging him into fear. "Give me a name before the count of three, or I will kill you. One..." "Threaten me all you wa--" "Two!" Backstop interrupted, placing his finger on the trigger. "Okay! Okay! It's-- Urk!" The Swishman's eyes went dark and hung limp on Backstop's grip. The German Businesswoman mustered the strength she could to carry out her objective in the case her 'team leader' had failed. With a bullet straight into his back where the heart was, she closed her eyes and dropped her head succumbing to the same fate she gave to all her victims. "Dammit!" Backstop dropped the dead man, "I should have given them two bullets." "Hey." Yada placed a shoulder on the agent. "What now?" "Oh? You got out on your own?" Backstop turned around, "It's not hard to find the opening. They're like those bubble-balls that kids play in!" Yada pointed, "Clever association." Backstop clicked his tongue. "But anyway, there's going to be more thirsty people. Did you park your car here?" "Yes." "And you know where to go?" "Of course!" "Then stick with me. If something goes wrong, we'll have to split. You make haste for your car, and I'll get their attention." Backstop advised, "Got it." Yada nodded. "Let's go!" "We need to get to the emergency exit!" Backstop burst out of the room, "I'm getting the message that hostiles are closing in on the room. The emergency exits have the least amount of people, and the fastest way to go!" Yada followed behind without a word as the agent ran down the path according to the arrows of the green 'exit' sign till it ended at a grey door with a sticker of the same symbol and colour. He kicked the door open and signalled to halt. "Let me take the lead," Backstop advised with his gun at the ready. "The moment I see a horde of gun-wielding crazies climb up the stairs, we're going to backtrack to the closet floor we've passed." "We're on the twelfth floor." Yada chuckled. "We'd die if we went any higher!" They ran down the grey concrete staircase but making sure neither of them trip. They got through the eleventh, tenth, and ninth floors without any interference. "Oh snap! Stop!" Backstop halted as they just passed the eighth floor. "Ow!" Yada slammed into his back, "Be a bit early on the warnings!" "No time. A lot of them have just passed the fifth floor. I can hear their footsteps. Get back now!" With a nod, Yada ran to the nearest exit door, only to see a bunch of figures in deep black clothing running down the stairs above them. They were surrounded! "Not while I'm here..." Backstop caught up, "Hah!" With a mighty kick, the emergency exit was pushed open, taking its frame with it. Yada and Backstop rushed through, but not before the agent pulled out a cuff-link and stuck it to the door frame. "Now what?" Yada panted, "The lifts," Backstop responded as a loud explosion came from behind. "We're going to take the civil way out." "Did you plant a bomb back there?" Yada asked as they reached the lift hallway. "I sure did." Backstop laughed as he rapidly pressed the 'Down' button. "Now we gotta stay low. Footsteps are coming again!" Yada lied down on the floor, feeling every thump and bump on her hands. Backstop waited just at the edge of the wall, biding his time for the first enemy to turn the corner. A black uzi popped just in front of Backstop, to which he grabbed the gun and pulled it and its wielder toward him. The hostile person didn't have time to break free and save himself from a swift bullet to the head. "It's here!" Yada called out. "And completely empty!" "Get in!" Backstop replied. "Do you know which floor you're going to?" "B2!" Yada answered as she hit the button. "Good." Backstop smiled as he zipped to the lift and pressed the close button before zipping out. "You'll be safe down there. Get to your car and get out." "H-Hey!" Yada yelled as the lift doors closed in front of her. She rapidly pressed the doors open button, but it was too late. The lift began to rumble, and she felt the shaft descending. "Alright, hostage extracted." Backstop replied, "Well done." A voice ringed in his ear, "Though I take it you won't see her again. No?" "I can find her again anytime. I'll just need another way to get out." "With that submachine gun, you'll have enough firepower to shoot through the emergency staircase back to the car park." "We think alike, don't we?" Backstop laughed. He picked up the Uzi and searched the body for extra ammunition. "Let's party!" With a new weapon, Johnny Backstop ran back the way he went. There was not a single shred of hesitation, fear, or guilt from the man with the submachine gun. He peppered every black-adorned gun-wielder with a hail of bullets in his path. He returned to the fire exit, completely covered with stains of black and burnt patches of carpet and complimented with a pile of dead bodies. He hopped over them and back into the emergency staircase. "Well," He grinned, "You're never too old to be a kid!" "Be careful, 105." The voiced ringed through his ear again, "There is another wave of hostiles coming from below. Also, I may see you from security cameras, but I won't be able to contact you once you hit the basement. Be careful of any hostiles hiding there." "No problems" Backstop sat his butt onto the handrails and replaced the Uzi's magazine. "Here we goooooooooooooo!!!!" He hollered as he slid down the handrails and pulled the trigger as he went down into another group of black-suited goons. "Phew!" Backstop kicked down the emergency exit door to the car park, leaving behind a trail of dead goons on the sticky red stairs. "Now that was a breath of nostalgia!" Using the card given to him when he entered, he found where his car was driven. "There you are, Daddy's coming for--" BOOM All in an instant, the DBS V12 burst into flames and scrap. The agent then paused hard and looked at what just transpired. "Oh no. Gyver isn't going to like this." Backstop gulped. "And neither will you." The young valet responded, with a Model JHP pointed at Backstop's head. "You think killing someone in cold blood is honourable?" Backstop raised his hands, "Look who's talking." The valet responded, "I will admit that I have a lot of regrets rigging such a wonderful car to explode." He placed a finger on the trigger, "But as I said, I will carry out the services of my employer with no hesitation." Behind him, a figure struck the valet's head with the bottom of a fire extinguisher, knocking the young man out cold. "You should be ashamed of yourself." Yada smirked, "For hesitating." "Wow!" Backstop turned around with astonishment. "A mature and tough businesswoman! I find that sexy, with all due respect." "Oh you!" Yada cheekily teased, "You really are a flirtatious one! Regardless, one good turn deserves another." "Very few people follow that in this day and age." Backstop chuckled, "Bless them for sticking to that moral." "Would you like a lift?" Yada offered, "I'm sorry to say that it's not as great a ride as yours, but it's a better alternative than running!" "I'll take it milady." Backstop nodded with a wink, "But uh... There will be some eyes in the sky or at least very tall buildings." "Well, one of the Goddesses are watching over us. Silver is the most common colour of cars, and not to mention... It's raining in rush hour time!" The clouds have finally given way and began pouring upon the busy streets. All pedestrians scrambled for cover or pulled out an umbrella or raincoat they brought along in preparation. In one of the skyscrapers, a camouflaged man scanned the downtown area with an M89SR. He growled with frustration due to the rain pouring down around him. Not only does it disrupt and irritate his focus, but it had thrown a heavy mist that obstructs the view of the cars and people below. How can he spot the car his target was in? There was no sign of that DBS V12 anywhere and was set to explode in the first place. The man sighed in defeat. He didn't take his chance during the time at the office, and he had no chance of getting it now. He cursed himself in a foreign language, for choosing to eat his sandwich out of sheer hunger over keeping watch. "105, are you there? Respond. Are you there?" "Indeed I am." Backstop sighed with relief, "It's a pretty lucky break if you ask me." "I agree. I saw everything in the security cameras, my apologies for not being aware of the valet's intentions. Are you still under fire?" "Nope," Backstop responded, adjusting his seat. "The civilian said the rain and the car's colour helped. We may be stuck in rush hour, but I'm safe and sound with her. Feel free to track me now," Some silence followed. "Locked." The operator responded. "Did you receive anything from the meeting?" "Physical evidence? Just an Uzi from one of the neutralised hostiles, and the civilian businesswoman." He pulled out his phone and started writing notes, "Of course, there can be many things pulled from the enemy's mouth." "That's the agent 105 we all know and look up to. Can you send your report this afternoon?" "We'll see." "I'd like you to head to these coordinates sent to your device. We'll find another way to pick you up so she can get back home safe and sound." "Where does she live?" "Canterlot City. It's a three-hour drive from Manehattan. She was originally staying at a hotel a month ago, then has moved to a new housing complex; A school dormitory, the 'Koro Gardens'. They've recently opened their doors a week ago for new boarders for Canterlot High School." "Hey isn't--" "Don't you dare say any more." The operator interrupted, "Do not get the civilian involved any further. Having her be your exfil is dangerous enough." "Sorry..." He whispered, "In any case when you get out, please find a place to rest and send information. You'll be helping your apprentice agent tomorrow." "Got it. 105 out." Backstop responded, "Nice conversation you're having there." "All classified milady, except where you can drop me off. I'll key the destination in your GPS." Backstop responded, "Although... I'd like to thank you personally for saving me. Normally it's the agent that does the saving. How about dinner on me for tomorrow? I know restaurants in Canterlot that can blow your taste buds away." "That sounds wonderful! I'll take you up on that!" "And maybe after that, we can get down to actual business..." Backstop continued, "Ooohhh..." Yada blushed cheekily, "Now I'll have to get back to you on that one..." "So what is a Neighponese businesswoman like you doing in Equestria?" "Something that challenges my area of expertise." Yada answered, "I've travelled around the world via business trips, and had prepared for them through language classes. I can speak a couple of languages flawlessly, though I may happen to change them in-between words. I'm using those language experiences as a substitute teacher for Canterlot High School." "Amazing, definitely out of your comfort zone indeed. Is dealing with young teenagers an issue?" "I do. It makes it even harder as a substitute teacher as students would take that opportunity to slack off. Even so, I do my best to make sure they are able to work hard, even if they may be too immature." "Heh, I know that feeling all too well..." Backstop laughed as the sedan exited the heavy traffic. The dark rainy clouds continued to pour upon a majority of the Equestrian landscape. From the bustling area of Manehattan, to the not-so-bustling area of Canterlot. Even so, it had not deterred any of the students from daily high school life from start to finish. "Man..." Timber moaned, closing his umbrella. "The second day of High School and we get bad weather. And to make matters worse we had to walk the entire way to school!" "It's okay! The weather did say it will be sunny again in the afternoon!" Gloriosa cheered. "Good Morning you two!" Fluttershy and the girls ran over. "Did you get a good night sleep?" "Actually yeah! The mattress was really comfy and the blankets were just right! I must say it really feels nice at night. Course, the feeling will be better when winter comes around!" Timber laughed, "Oh yeah, I forgot that Winter's coming soon. But that also means Halloween's coming before that! And the Principal and Vice-Principal approved my party proposal!" The girls gasped. "No way... Nightmare Night?" Rainbow gasped, "We're going to have Nightmare Night!?" "Correct-a-Mundo!" Pinkie exclaimed and the seven girls burst into cheers and shrieks of joy. "A Halloween party! That sounds really exciting!" Gloriosa joined in as the cheers died down. "I'm sure it will be just as fun as the times we did a Halloween-Themed Camp!" "Well, the best part is that no teachers are allowed!" Pinkie continued, "Although it is encouraged that we follow the guidelines. No Alcohol, troublemaking, or any risque business!" "Yeah. As if we're going to follow them!" Rainbow scoffed, "Actually." Sunset interrupted, "There are pretty strict punishments if we break them. and the Janitor will make a thorough check before and after the party." "Oh... Yeah..." Fluttershy nodded, "I hope this won't discourage anyone, but he's a pretty sharp person." "Well in any case, why don't you two hang out with us till morning starts? We've got plenty of time to kill indoors!" Sunset invited. "Sure!" Gloriosa nodded. "Hmm... I'll pass. Got something I need to do." Timber shook his head. "Oh okay then." Rarity responded, "Catch you later?" "Y-Yeah! Sure!" Timber chuckled at the departing girls, "I'll see you in class!" Just as they left their view. The former camp counsellor narrowed his eyes. A sweatdrop ran down his face as he nervously darted his head around. Meanwhile in another classroom. A student and teacher were having a deep discussion. "So I take it you're still wanting to push for pulling out the Religious classes in favour of something else?" Mrs Blade asked, "Funny that you would take it up with me." "Well, you are its teacher." Cheerilee explained, "And if we win, we would have pushed you out of a job. From student opinion, you are the only teacher that everyone actually likes and still sticks to your syllabus, compared to everyone else. Student motivation would crumble." "I'm flattered Cheerilee." Mrs Blade responded, "But back to the topic. What is it that you propose takes its place?" "A more secular approach and name: Social Studies. It would include the studies of secular philosophies, alongside current political events." "Hmm... And why scrap the learning about religions?" "Relevancy," Cheerilee answered. "In my opinion, there is more value in excelling on one's knowledge of current situations, which would provide solutions for future generations more than the knowledge and culture of largely shared faiths and beliefs. We'd be less disjointed with society today." "Will it really be that easy? Keep in mind that our society is just as rife with religious views. If you've met people of the sort, you may have seen how serious they take their faith, even up to protests and arms. Would better understanding them also prevent many forms of unrest and civil conflict due to merely different views disagreements?" "You have a valid point, but one which does not go with the definition of a school. Students are to improve their skills, not to improve their compatibility with others." "Now I have to heavily disagree there." Mrs Blade, "Just because someone is intelligent, doesn't mean they won't be completely successful in life. In fact, understanding others is as important if you want to seek a job. If someone is an intelligent person but doesn't get along with other people, they won't last long in the job. And not to mention how incidents happen. Even the most talented person could get sacked if they don't express their beliefs and feelings properly. If you understand people's beliefs, then you'd understand a person a lot more. Perhaps if I'd suggest a change to your proposal..." "Mrs Blade?" Cheerilee asked. "S-Sorry." Mrs Blade apologised, "I thought I just saw someone at the door looking at... never mind. What I propose is that we have the best of both worlds..." In the middle of piano playing, Noteworthy sat on the edge of the bench a tall and straight posture. His eyes were closed while gracefully blazing through a horde of notes and rests with his fingers upon the keys of acrylic-covered spruce. The piece he's currently playing was introduced to him a month ago. Each day of practice, he'd sight-read and play the notes at a slow tempo. Every minute or hour dedicated to getting the notes right would provide a boost of confidence for Noteworthy to increase the speed or add more techniques and pedal according to the score. Now, he could easily pinpoint the location of his hand in order to hit a pair of keys that were far apart at the same time. He acquired the muscle memory of stepping on the pedal within every set of four bars. And the glissando lead at the end? It became as simple as playing an ascending scale in C Major; topped with a thundering fine. Noteworthy opened his eyes with a satisfied smile. Despite the encouragement and critical acclaim from his parents and teacher, the true critic he needed to impress was himself. Although there could be something missing... Is it his playing? Perhaps there was not enough expression! But it was neither. What Noteworthy really yearned for was an additional voice to the piece. An accompaniment of sorts, or maybe he accompanies another instrument. A flute, maybe a saxophone, or perhaps a cello... "Hmm?" Noteworthy turned to the door. That's odd, it seemed like someone was just there a few seconds ago. Then again, even folks would peek through every now and then if there's music. When it was Lunchtime, Timber hurried towards the Neighponese classroom. The feeling of being watched this morning has given him a sour and sick face. Good thing this club has three teachers. He'd feel much safer then. "Hey, guys--" Timber entered and paused. It seems he wasn't the only one. Most of the students that he met yesterday had the same or similar sour faces that he has! "Hey, guys." Timber repeated, "You look pretty spooked. Was someone stalking you?" "You got watched too???" Fluttershy, Fleetfoot, Flitter and Roseluck responded in unison. "Looks like we have a lot to discuss..." Nagisa watched. "But first, we should do a roll call. We have a lot of students lately, and it's hard to keep track even for someone like me. Going by order joined: Fluttershy," "Here!" "Flash Sentry," "Present, sir," "Thunderlane?" "Sup," "Soarin!" "Yes!" "And Fleetfoot," "Right here Sensei!" Nagisa scribbled a little more, then continued. "Cloudchaser," "Here!" "Flitter," "Here!" "Nurse Redheart," "On duty," "Roseluck," "I'm here." "Big Macintosh," "Eeyup," "And Pinkie Pie." "Every single part of me is present!" "Good," Nagisa chuckled and scribbled a bit more. "Noteworthy?" "Here," "And Cheerilee." "I'm here sir." "Everyone is present and accounted for, with one special guest!" Nagisa concluded with a smile, "Now back to our immediate alert. Would you like to brief the class Masayoshi?" "Someone's been watching us." Kimura started as he closed the door. "And it's not just a complicated feeling that all you guys have. I found this plugged into one of the power points near the teacher's desk." "What's that?" Cloudchaser asked as Kimura presented a pyramid block of plastic with soft curved edges. "Looks weird, I know. But inside this un-suspicious dome contains a powerful and crafty microphone. Someone wanted to listen to us. It was lucky that I needed to charge my phone. Otherwise, I would not have seen whoever's trying to spy on us..." He growled as he clenched his fists. "Coach Justice... I think you just squashed the bug." Noteworthy noted. "Sorry," Kimura grumbled. He placed the crushed bug on the desk. "Ritsu informed us that there was gunfire in the Hoofsevelt Hotel in Manehattan this morning. Yada was going there for a business meeting. Kimura was suspicious about the whole thing but gave his encouragement (and the car) as he saw her off. You can imagine how worried and painful it would be on him, especially when he's serving Neighpon and her people." Nagisa explained. The class 'ohh'ed in conformation, "Hey everyone!" A Palomino woman burst into the classroom. "Miss me?" "Ms Yada!" The class exclaimed with joy. "Yada!" Nagisa and Kimura exclaimed at the same time. "Ah..." Yada chuckled, "I take it Ritsu shared what happened in the hotel huh? I'll admit it. It was a close shave, but I wouldn't have escaped if it weren't for him." "For who?" Kimura demanded with a shadow upon his eyes. "Johnny Backstop," Yada informed. "He's from the Equestrian Intelligence Agency. Apparently the entire meeting was a trap set for him. Though that did say I was a second bird to a stone. He saved me from the beginning, I saved him while we were getting out." "What!?" "Oh snap..." "The freaking EIA!?" Many remarks rose from the fourteen students. "Alright everyone, I can explain." Yada continued. "After we escaped, we went out for some morning tea. He acted very much like a secret agent in those movie series. A license to kill and a charmer with the ladies. As such, he also booked a table in one of Canterlot's highly acclaimed restaurants for tomorrow. Then he also gave me an address to the same hotel you and I stayed Kimura. Also for just one single night..." Yada blushed, "So this is what Equestrian men are like. They're very upfront with their charms." Everyone, including Nagisa, gulped at the implication. Immediately, their thoughts and heads turned to their PE teacher/Colleague, who put on a calm and joyful smile. "What's with the faces?" Kimura laughed, "You think I'd be raving mad that some random secret agent wants to get some with Yada? I'm not that immature! She's an adult like me. She's independent, strong, and can get into whatever business she wants or needs without my permission or scolding. I'm just concerned about her safety is all!" "Wow. You really are a disciplined and thoughtful dude." Thunderlane whistled, "You're like an adult version of Brad." "Masayoshi Masayoshi..." A seductive grin spread on Yada's face. "Now that is a rare case of authoritative behaviour. I find that pretty hot." Every student leaned forward with an 'ooh'. "That's a parenting style! Not a personality trait!" Kimura began to panic, "I think that's even better!" Yada pouted as she walked up to Kimura and pinched his cheek, "I would love it if my kids had a father like that." The class 'ooh'ed even louder. "Wh-Wh-Wh-H-H-Hey!" Kimura began sweating all over, "F-First of all, there's no time for flirting! Second, you'll become a mother if you have kids! You've got the same disciplining and caring responsibilities as dad would, maybe more or less depending on the family's situation!" "Oh alright," Yada giggled, "In that case, let me take this!" And yanked a USP pistol from Kimura's hand behind student eyes. "You were hiding this little baby behind your back when I was talking about him." She whispered. "... Sorry..." A very red Kimura apologised and bowed to her, then the class, for his embarrassing acts. The class went confused. "What's he apologising for?" Timber asked. "No idea." Noteworthy replied. "A-Anyway." Nagisa restarted, "Now that you're back safe and sound, I'd like to ask more regarding Backstop. Did he disclose anything interesting to you?" "Well... He did keep a tight lid on most of his agent work." Yada reflected, "But he did let a few things slip. For one, he talked about being familiar with young teenagers. Whether it's an implication, I have no idea." "That's a good lead if any." A woman's voice came from a phone. Thunderlane took his phone out, with a purple-haired woman staring right back at him. "Hello there! You must be Thunderlane right?" Ritsu smiled, "Nice to meet you!" "Woah!" Thunderlane dropped his phone and veered back with his chair, "Who are you, and why the fuck did you scare me!?" "Ritsu!" Nagisa called, zipping over and picking up the phone. "Didn't think you'd be here!" "I was listening to all of you secretly." Ritsu explained, "And I thought I'd help track whoever's watching all of you." "How so?" "Unlike the bug, I can get into other computers or phones of students incognito, and suss out the odd person that's fixated towards you guys!" "One of your classmates is a hacker." Cheerilee noted, "That's rather... beneficial." "I can do more than that Cheerilee. After all, I am the A.I. student of E Class!" Ritsu answered, The group of students were surprised. They never expected an A.I. to look this stunning! "So in case you've forgotten." Nagisa addressed, "This is our A.I. classmate Ritsu." "No need to call me Ms Ritsu. Ritsu is just fine!" "Hi?" Went the reluctant students. "Anyway, I was hoping that any of you could tell me anything about the target who was following you. Perhaps it can shed some clues on his or her appearances." Ritsu continued. The class looked at each other for a moment, then started to ponder for a while. Was there anything that made that figure stand out? All they could just recall was a fast shadow. "Actually," Flash stood up, "I wasn't being watched. But someone did ask me about the Special Tutorship Club." "And who is it?" Ritsu asked, "Lyra Heartstrings," Flash answered. "She and I aren't best friends, but we do talk occasionally online. Sometimes in-person. She's interested in the club's activities." "Lyra huh... Kinda weird for her to talk to someone else." Cloudchaser shared. "What do you mean?" Yada asked, "Every time we see her during school, she'd always be attached to Bon Bon, who's another classmate of ours." Flitter explained, "And I mean, ALL the time. Recess, Lunch, and classes that they share. I've seen her in classes without Bon Bon, and she would look pretty ill or scared." "That's why we harmlessly joke and tease her behind her backs. Well, unless you're Fluttershy or Flash. You two seem pretty tight on that stuff." Cloudchaser finished. "Not really..." Fluttershy corrected, "Even I have issues and frustrations that I tell my friends and parents about. Like my brother for instance." "But in any case, I think Lyra is giving us the implication that she really likes Bon Bon more than a bestie. Not that any of us have a problem with it..." Flitter responded, shuffling nervously. "Hold on a second." Cheerliee turned to Flash, "If she is what she is, then how and why are you still talking with her?" Flash gave a heavy sigh and shook his head. "Just because we share different beliefs or walk different paths, does not mean we are automatically hostile against each other. She never lashed out at me on my beliefs, nor did I lash out at hers. Besides, it's still a rumour. The only way I'll believe it is that she tells me directly." "And umm... Don't get angry about this next question..." Fluttershy prompted, "But what if she does confess to you? Would you still talk to her then?" Flash remained still for five seconds. Then turned to face Fluttershy. "Yes," Flash answered, "Because... Never mind." "If you're still hesitating because you don't want to preach in the fear that you may offend someone, don't. Please speak your mind to us. It is okay." Fluttershy persisted, holding Flash's hands. "..." Flash stared daggers into Fluttershy's eye. Then relented, "... Because the Goddess' salvation is for everyone. Nobody should be exempt from it; where you're from, who you are, or what sins or crimes you've committed. Just as she did, the Goddess of Friendship came to help not the righteous, but the fallen. Yeah, I know people of the same faith say otherwise, but I don't believe them." He took a deep breath and continued, "Lyra talks to me about issues that she observes in humanity. Why must people kill to prove a point, or why do some crime-committing teenagers harbour no remorse? A majority of my answers and discussions were paraphrased from the holy text, mixed with my own experience." "Hmm..." Nagisa scribbled down a few notes. "Thanks for sharing Flash." "... You still feel awful about sharing that though. Right?" Fluttershy asked, "Never took you to be a mind reader," Flash responded, Fluttershy twiddled with her hair, "Let's just say we've known each other ever to the point that your behaviour is a bit... Easy to read." "Wow." Redheart spoke, "The Martial-artist/Tactician has a weakness found by our resident shy student!" "You flatter me Redheart, it's just a simple observation." Fluttershy laughed nervously, "And I would never share this information with strangers. Only just between close friends." "Hey. Nagisa?" Ritsu jumped from Thunderlane to Nagisa's phone, "I won't interrupt their time, but I think I've got a theory on who this 'stalker' could be." "Yeah, me too." Nagisa nodded, "You think you can do a search on the CHS student database?" "Leave it to me!" At the same time, a light aquamarine mint student strolled into the CHS library. There she found the person she needed to meet, sitting in front of a computer, hard at studying. The student took a deep breath and approached a girl with curly cobalt blue hair and light fuchsia highlights. "Hey, Bon Bon?" Lyra whispered, "I'm here." "Hey Lyra," Bon Bon rotated to face her friend. "I'm sorry I had to get you to do this for me." "Not at all!" Lyra gave a warm smile, "It's an easy time if you're talking to the person you're most comfortable with!" "So. What do you know of the Special Tutorship Club?" "The Special Tutorship Club is exactly what it says on the description. Mr Shiota provides extra supplementary help on academic studies. Sometimes, they involve the other teachers from different subjects." "I see. Anything else?" "Well. I was also told that Mr Shiota's role is a bit similar to a homeroom teacher in Neighpon; alongside what it's like. The teacher takes on a holistic approach to the students; Their academics as well as the circumstances happening outside of school such as parents or whatnot. A parental role if you want to put it in one word." "I see. Is that everything?" "Yeah. Can't see anything more from that." Lyra shrugged. "Thanks." "Bon Bon. You look pretty tense. You should calm down a little!" Lyra suggested, "I can give you a shoulder massage. Just like how Dad does it!" "Go ahead." Bon Bon sighed. "But that reminds me also. Have you ever told him, and your family. About who you really are?" "Well no..." Lyra responded as she delicately rubs her fingers back and forth on the shoulder plates, "I'm waiting for the right time." "... Alright then. I'll leave it at that." Bon Bon responded, "Now I have to fulfil my end of the bargain for you. What would you like to know?" "Your favourite number!" "That's a rather interesting topic. Why is that?" "Numbers mean a lot to me. I mean, I got my pencil case embroidered in roman numerals! Look!" CXXIX-XXI "129-21." Bon Bon quickly analysed, "Rather interesting that you used Roman numerals. But what about the number itself? I hope it's not your Bank PIN." "Actually, the Roman Numerals are intentional." Lyra laughed, "It tells a lot about my family ties!" "Very clever," Bon Bon nodded. "That being said, it's not my favourite number," Lyra interjected, "Then what is?" "It's 30! Can you guess why?" "Ahh, so that's why you mentioned the Roman numerals." Bon Bon smiled, "You are a really cheeky person. You know that?" "Hee hee." Lyra giggled, "It's as you said, I have secrets!" "Very well then, I'll tell you mine. The reason is that it's the first number I've seen ever since I was a child." "Oh! I love things that refer to your childhood! What is it?" Bon Bon smiled and wrote it straight in the middle of a piece of paper. CIXIV Nagisa's Notes Flash Sentry 21. Has some deep moral discussions with another student which involve sharing his religious-inspired perspectives. Cloudchaser Pale Persian Blue colour, Thick and wavy pale cerulean hair with white highlights, Light Rose eyes and shooting star cutie mark. 1. Thunderlane's best and supportive friend. Introduced to the club through him. 2. Excels in Track athletics. (Possible tie to great reaction skills and sound perception?) 3. Likes to tease Thunderlane 4. Despite being more aware of others than Thunderlane, her initial grades were almost on par with him before the club. 5. Extremely flexible (as seen by Kimura). Perhaps she has done Gymnastics before? Flitter Pale,-light greyish Persian blue colour, Pale-light greyish opal hair, wears a ribbon with her long hair, while a front part is brushed to one side. 1. Thunderlane's best and supportive friend. Introduced to the club through him like Cloudchaser 2. Excels in Field athletics. 3. Not much of a teaser, but seems to giggle a lot at jokes at his expense (courtesy to Cloudchaser). 4. Flitter is at an average level. Better than her two best friends, but not one to stand out. 5. She has a small delay in any sport or activity which involves aiming. Examples include being an impressive pitcher in baseball, tossing a lump of garbage into the bin (as seen by Kimura) and especially that video regarding weapons training. Does she practice Archery? IMPORTANT NOTES What I have learned about the one stalking the students and bugging the classroom. While Ritsu is running over the discussion on Lunchtime, I may have a inkling on who it could be. But I need to confront them. ALONE.