//------------------------------// // Chapter 6: "Just Desserts." // Story: Shai Sideways In: Murder She Mocked // by XombieSlayr //------------------------------// The PPD had stormed the room as soon as Rosalina opened the doors. Everyone that remained in their seats, was ignored as a few griffins tried in vain to flee the scene, only to be tackled by officers and bound in cuffs. They also made sure to be extra rough while arresting Morgan, who was now carrying on about meat. (Just meat, just screaming that one word over and over, like a lunatic. Which he was, so it suited him.) The few that managed to make it out the back were also taken in by the team of officers stationed behind the place. The Manehatten police sent at least thirty cars, along with ambulances, police copters and more, to line the streets outside the hotel. The ponies that had been kidnapped by Morgan and his goons, were taken to hospitals to be cared for, while the others were returned to their friends and family, including the bride to be, who was taken into the arms of her weeping fiance, finally reunited. Despite what Morgan had done, the Talon Lodge was not disgraced for his actions. In fact, the love and care that they had all shown one another when they realized Shai had tricked Morgan, showed them that they really were a family (And unlike Morgan's sick little idea of a tribe, they didn't have to eat people to prove it). Margaret took over as second in command of the Manehatten Talon Lodge, and membership was now open to the public, allowing anyone to come and be a part of their organization with open arms. Clarence was rewarded by the PPD and the Talon Lodge for his bravery, becoming the new host of The Gourmet; a role that allowed him and his friend to have all the cider they wanted without needing to steal it. He had never been so overjoyed. Rosalina Maxentier was reunited with her parents, who swept her up into their arms, and have seemingly refused to let go ever since. With Margaret and Connor running things now, the Gilded Griffin joined the Maxentier family, partnering with Mr. Maxentier as he built his new hotel, naming it in honor of the brave, genius detective that saved his little girl's life. He called it The Sideways Grand Resort. With the case closed, and Morgan in Griffnstone National Prison for the rest of his life, Shai got to remain a member of the Talon Lodge, actually advancing to an elite member with recommendation. After the dust had settled, and Shai was personally thanked by the Maxentiers with more money than she thought existed, she was called into the office of Mazra back at Precinct 14, who had a very intriguing offer for her. "Work for you?" Shai repeated. "Seriously?" "Deadly." "I'm not a cop." "No, you're the best damn detective I've ever seen." Mazra stated. "And your abilities make you invaluable to the side of justice. We need ponies like you on our team, Shai." "I mean...don't get me wrong, I'm honored really. It's just that I already have my agency I have to run, so-" "Not a problem." Said Mazra leaning back in her chair. "How about we call you if we need you to come in?" "You mean as a consulting detective?" asked Shai. "To solve the cases you guys can't?" "I would rather have it put as, you help us solve cases that are harder for us than normal, and require some outside help to crack." "Sooo...the ones you guys can't?" "Do you want the job or not?" Shai thought for a moment. But she already knew her answer. Head Detective Manners sat at his desk, enjoying his coffee. When Shai Sideways popped up beside him. "Heya, partner!" Manners choked on his coffee. "Gah! What the hell do you want, Sideways!?" He took a napkin to clean the stains from his collared shirt. Shai took the opportunity to take a seat on his desk. "Well, you see Manny, I just took a job from the chief! We're working together now!" "You what??" "Well, sort of together. I'll be called in when you guys run into a case that's a bit too hard for your tiny brain to figure out." she tapped a hoof on his forehead. He swatted it away. "What, you think just cause you solve one kidnapping case, suddenly you get to be a cop, now?" "Ugh, as if I'd ever want to be a miserable desk jockey like you." Shai rolled her eyes. "Nope, I'll stick to being the world's greatest detective thanks." she leaped off his desk and headed to the door. "Later Manny! Good luck with that stomach virus you get next week!" He scoffed. "Oh, is that another one of your predictions, psychic girl?" he called after her. "No, you're drinking coffee that expired eight years ago!" Shai called from the lobby. "See ya!" CASE CLOSED