“Did you girls enjoy your naps?”
The detective asked, looking down at them as he sits on a rock that was created by the magic explosion; the group got up; feeling like nothing happened, they all forgot a bit, but regained their wits and remembered.
“Yahoo, I feel completely better!”
Applejack said, grateful about being healed. She bucked her hoofs in two directions. The detective looked upset; like something was bothering him; Twilight was the one to notice this.
“Are you okay sir?”
The detective regained his composure, getting up, the deputy following. He indeed was upset; sad he couldn’t defend the citizens of this village; said they all were beaten like that. He knew it was coming, he’s just glad his old friend showed mercy; he never did that where he used to be; that how town didn’t show mercy.
“I’m fine, but are to all okay?”
The mane 4 replied with a yes; an absolute one. Twilight reassuring him the heal spell worked; she remembered the dangers of the spell and how it can cause silent killers.
“Buck no!”
Igneous got up and replied with anger and hatred. He was mad at the authorities, and of course the killer of his daughters, he wasn’t the only one mad though, Cloudy also joined him.
“You authorities failed at your jobs, give us a reason not to report you for your screw-ups!?”
The detective and deputy didn’t like the attitude of the Pie couple, but they understood why they would have such an attitude; in terms, they feel bad for not bringing the killer to justice. The detective had mixed emotions about bringing his old friend to justice; after all, he did know him since high school. They looked at the couple with disappointment; they thought about the question, the detective finally giving them an answer they wouldn’t take pleasure in.
“You’re still alive ain’t you?”
The deputy said with annoyance. The Pie couple got angrier, but still misunderstand the situation; they couldn’t arrest him and there’s proof of this with the other fallen police stations. They as themselves should be lucky he showed mercy to them all; the old Comber would’ve killed them.
“Shut the buck up! Our daughters are still dead! They aren’t alive or amended!”
Cloudy said with rage. The detective just turned his back to them then to the Mane 4. He needed to ask them a couple of questions. The dust blew pass everypony; reminding them of their failure.
“Before running into to him and causing a skirmish, did the assassin seem... Odd and bloody at all?”
The Mane 4 thought back when they ran into the black unicorn. He didn’t seem odd at all; he looked as if he was leaving Ponyville, but that odd in itself; since he’s an assassin and he’s leaving the village; this could be an indicator he killed somepony? He didn’t have blood on him at all; this could be because he’s a unicorn or it got only on his red cape? Surely blood would be somewhere on his body, but a certain spell, a clean spell could indefinitely with perfection remove all the blood on and off the body and clothing. Twilight thought to herself.
“I can hardly say he didn’t seem to have blood or to be odd either.”
Applejack recalled, still a little unsure.
“I can agree with Applejack; he was wearing a red when we bumped into him, but no blood or anything.”
Rarity with reinsurance recalled. Twilight found some things that seemed to be a little odd.
“I found some things that seemed to be odd. 1 being he’s leaving Ponyville, but for what reason; wouldn’t a murder live a district after committing such a serious crime?”
Pinkie Pie felt anxiety, not wanting to believe he killed her blue pegasus prank friend. She withholds her emotions in feeling a bit of a headache. The Pie parents would feel better if Pinkie Pie came back to the Rock Farm with them; they will ask to keep her from danger; even though if the danger wanted to harm Pinkie Pie they knew they wouldn’t able to stop it, but if he’s an assassin; he wouldn’t think about harming Pinkamena unless he was hired to do so. The detective knew Comber and had an answer to support why he ain’t leaving after committing a crime.
“I’m stopping you right there Mrs. Sparkle. My old friend wouldn’t leave a place because he’s afraid of the consequences, no, knowing him like I do it’s something else less and simple than that.”
The Pies and Mane 4 wanted to hear his answer. Pinkamena moved over to her parents, wanting to feel comfortable, being close to her parents seems to be the way, besides with her friends, but both are very pleasant. Twilight’s face looked a little confused on why the detective doesn’t believe that’s the answer, what could be the answer then? She and everypony else have forgotten what the detective told them about why the authorities stay away from the legendary assassin and the rest of his family.
“Then why would an assassin leave a village he completed so many jobs in? To find new jobs?”
Twilight with confusion replied back to the detective. The detective looked at her with a little more serious expression. She was right and smart. Most assume the killer would leave a district because he or she committed a crime, especially murder; that’s always what the other detective seem to think when the word homicide come into their mind; yes it’s a good way to start brainstorming, but not belive and mark it down as the killer left, because that’s not known yet? The detective sat back down; turning his attention upwards, seeing all the friendly faces; besides the Pie family; although nopony right now is happy; their faces still look friendly.
“Yes, you’re correct Mrs. Sparkle. Most of my peers usually attempt to come to the conclusion that the killer packed and left, so it’s not unusual for domesticated citizens to think the same thing; but at least they theorized, not attempt to pursue it and mark the case unfinishable; a case is never unfinished.”
The detective got up, started pacing back in forth, this annoyed the Pie parents. The detective was no ordinary detective; he exited his district before and brought the killer or suspect back to interrogation before, even if he was commanded not to.
“To elaborate on that matter I even Brong some suspects back to this town for interrogation, yes they did fight back but most wasn’t a unicorn, so magic being used against me was a worry. What I’m basically saying is I’ll pursue the killer no matter where they go.”
The Pie family passed Twilight Applejack and Rarity. They weren’t happy about this outcome. Is he catching this killer or not!?
“I don’t give a care about what detectives or ponies theorized. I care about the sentence of the killer responsible for murdering our daughters!”
Igneous said with fury. He just about had it with the detective; if he’s so darn intelligent, then how come he hasn’t caught the assassin yet, fear huh?
“I understand that but-!”
Cloudy anger brewed and she needed to let it out; especially to the ones who promised to protect and bring justice to their village.
“No Bucking buts! You find the colt who assaulted and murdered our daughters! Or you can lose your jobs!”
Cloudy yelled, feeling better. The detective was losing his patience with this couple, but he remained calm, able to see through the anger and blackmail.
“We tried 2 times madam and failed, if we tried 3rd time he would indefinitely kill us, so I see what the rest of the authorities can do?”
“Thank you. Now, how about you go do your jobs and scram!”
Cloudy commanded with rage, she was done with them, instead of talking and thinking, how about acting?
“Pinkamena, how about you come back to the Rock Farm with us?”
Igneous asked with a little command; Cloudy also asking in the same tone. Pinkie Pie thought about it for a couple of moments and decided, she ain’t going back; all that would do is bring back nostalgic memories about her sisters and bring her back into depression; which she was already in, proof of that was her mane and tail. She didn’t want to be reminded of the tragic events that occurred in the village she brought so... Many smiles to. Pinkie Pie walked over to her friends; giving them an answer they wouldn’t like.
“I not going back to the Rock Farm mom and dad...”
Her tone and words confused her parents. Why didn’t she want to go back to the Rock Farm? Was it them? She’s technically already there.
“Pinkamena Diane Pie, you come back to the Rock Farm with us this instant!”
Cloudy commanded. She must’ve forgotten there are authorities right in front of her? Guess parent instincts always come first?
“I can’t, sorry...”
Pinkie Pie’s response anger her parents. She will and she will like it.
“You will, now let’s go Pinkamena!”
Pinkamena didn’t move, making her parents approach her, Twilight got in front of Pinkie Pie, defending her from her parents; she gets that they want her to be safe and with them, but it’s up to the grown pony to decide, not the parents; and Pinkie Pie is fully grown, so she already decided and that’s final. She had a horrible feeling the Pie parents were going to go on the offensive.
“You can’t force your daughter to go with you! She’s an adult!”
Twilight defensively told the Pie parents. She understands why they want their final daughter to go with them, but they seriously can’t force her to go with them; that’s kidnapping. Pinkie Pie’s parents didn’t look so please with Twilight, they were angry, needed to be restrained before they escalate further.
“Shut the buck up! Your family wasn’t murdered, we only trying to protect the last daughter we have alive!”
Igneous said with Cloudy’s support. They wanted Pinkie Pie or should I say Pinkamena to go with them; they know deep down they aren’t going to be able to force Pinkie Pie to go with them; but they at least wanted to make it clear that her safety is what matters and nothing else; besides the killer being caught and peace restored.
“Well yelling about it won’t do anything! She made her mind up and if you are dumb enough to attempt to force her, you’ll be arrested right on the spot!”
Twilight replied back to the angry parents; who just wanted their daughter to be safe with them. It’s sad to see them want their daughter who brings smiles and joy to the ponies of Ponyville back with them because of a murderous killer. The Pie parents didn’t look pleased to hear Twilight’s sassy reply, but she does have a point they can’t force her; all they can do is hope her decision is right and she’s safe with such good caring friends. Pinkie Pie, seeing her parents care so much about her safety felt immensely bad for not wanting to go with them; but her friends need her at the moment; they have to find Rainbow Dash, in hopes she’s alive and not dead. Pinkie Pie could not take the loss of another friend; it would destroy her without question.
“Ugh! You are an annoying one! We should report these authorities for failing to do their jobs!”
Igneous said with anger and frustration. The detective understood why they wanted to report him, but they still fail to understand the dangers of that assassin. They literally saw it for themselves; they all are just lucky he didn’t kill them; he usually not that merciful; something changed in him?
“Alright, I have to remind you all that colt is very dangerous; in fact, to the point, we wouldn’t interfere in what he does as authorities. The deputy over there is very skilled at accuracy, the most skilled there is in fact that I know of and that’s a lot.”
The Pie parents didn’t believe the knowledge they were receiving, they just look at it as excuses and an attempt to change their minds about reporting them.
“I don’t believe he’s that dangerous! He just goes at fighting and nothing else!”
Igneous said in anger. The detective wanted to laugh at the Pie parents; but didn’t, he’s a professional and is ready to prove that. He is dangerous, beyond what they have seen so far; he knows, he knew his old friend for a long time; he’s skilled in the art of killing and possesses brutal strength, not to mention his unknown abilities and reaction time.
“I know you felt the attacks; he was strong, not to mention fast. Buck, he was durable enough to withstand my decisive magic blast; which only seem to scratch him a little. I can say is, go home or somewhere safe until a miracle is pulled and he’s arrested.”
The deputy said with remorse. He promised them he would arrest the killer and he failed to do just that; he normally wouldn’t care about matters like this; so why does he? We’ll see if any other authorities want to join him and attempt to arrest the assassin?
“I’m sorry mom and dad, I just can’t handle the memories of my sisters at the Rock Farm, it would crush me...”
At first, the parents viewed Pinkie Pie’s reason selfishly; they have to deal with it; a family should deal with something like this altogether. If they were, to be honest with themselves, if the authorities weren’t here, they might’ve believed they could force Pinkie Pie to come home. Ultimately, they know forcing their daughter who’s overage to come home is wrong, in general, it’s wrong. They understand the pain of loss, they weren’t going to force depression upon their daughter. They loved her and wanted her to be safe with them, their reasoning seems to be pure, but the way to achieve it is impure.
“I know how you feel sweetie, but we have to remind ourselves of it every day since we still I’ve been there, I wish you would come home with us, but your a grown mare and we can’t force you as much as we want to.”
Cloudy felt a little upset and a little agitated. She only hopes that the monster is never hired to kill her. If that happens she will team him apart for it.
“Just stay safe at Sugar Cube Corner and we will check on you later.”
Igneous replied, feeling uttered by the way Pinkie Pie didn’t want to come home with them. Pinkie Pie with tears agreed to their requests, she’ll be safe, she hoped the same for them too.
“We’ll be off now, you two, authorities, you better make the assassin pay or be prepared to be reported.”
Igneous said in a bossy nasty tone. Nopony there liked it, but they could tell they were agitated by the whole situation. The Pie parents waved goodbye, heading back to their home.
“I must say I was afraid your parents were going to attack me Pinkie Pie.”
Twilight remembering the fear they struck on her; it was frightening, but Nightmare Moon is and was scarier. The deputy and detective grouped up with the Mane 4. They needed a plan from this point on; they can’t arrest the problem; the station won’t help once they learn who’s the killer; so they are lost and feel helpless; they bet the same feeling was upon their group also. The detective had a flashback that made this whole skirmish occur, seems like everyone forgot? I guess that’s a start? They will see if Rainbow Dash is still alive or dead? The group watched as the authorities came over to them. What were their intentions now; maybe alert the other authorities that the killer is the detective’s best friend? Twilight wondered if he would get fire because of that, that would be stupid; it’s not like he’s being an accessory to the offenses he’d perpetrated.
“You going to get more authorities to arrest that assassin?”
The detective thought about it hard and thoroughly; every match-up would most likely lead to fatalities. Maybe by some miracle, they do arrest him, it ai guarantee his family won’t get involved, especially his father. It’s best to just let him leave this village; if no pony hires him he won’t be a threat. Perhaps Rainbow Dash ain’t dead?
“No, I don’t any of my co-workers to die; this deputy by my side is one of the best shooters Equestria has to offer; the other deputies can’t shoot as good or as swift; I know my old friend; he’s not always as merciful or gentle as you think; he’s very dangerous.”
The detective nostalgia was on point; Comber wasn’t the colt to show mercy, but again; those colts were no different than him; they enjoyed what they did; love it in fact; Comber didn’t like it and resign from that despicable job. Of course, he was subjected to death because of it, but somehow he didn’t die and lived! That colt is very remarkable. Twilight thought of places where Rainbow Dash might’ve been kidnapped to; she wasn’t at the graveyard; that whole gloomy place was check; Applejack thought of checking coffins, but that’s against the law; plus just very disrespectful to the dead. The assassin left the victims near their home of death; so most likely around where they fought; which they yet to know where.
“So does anyone here know where Rainbow Dash might be? We already checked the graveyard, so where to check next?”
Applejack wanted to find Rainbow Dash; as the great of them did; she thought them chattering is just sealing Rainbow Dash in the river. The detective and deputy thought of places where the assassin could’ve taken her; he teleported so it’s could be far because his magic is strong, but he likes to keep the victims near the town where they live.
“I think I might know where, but it would by now be furthermore late to save her; he makes sure all of his victims her dead.”
The detective shook his head in sorrow, his eyes closed.
“But I still hold hope I’m wrong for once.”
The detective finished his sentence in grief. Rainbow Dash would indefinitely call him out on that subject again; he would gladly accept the criticism if it means she didn’t have an encounter with his old friend.
“The Rock Farm was never this dusty!”
Pinkie Pie said, trying to shift the mood to a little bit of joy. It didn’t work, however, less. Applejack didn’t like Pinkie’s attempt to change topics; this was a serious topic to take into consideration; just as getting eggs from chickens; if they aren’t fed, everypony in Ponyville would not have eggs for their meals. This is a more serious subject than food.
“I reckon we start looking for Rainbow Dash, she not around here, I also reckon she wouldn’t be at Sweet Apple Anchors, so the place I think she might be in the Everfree Forest?”
The detective and deputy thought she might have been taken there for a skirmish; Comber’s nature is to have fun by fighting, so it is a great possibility. Twilight had to think why Applejack thought the Everfree Forest exactly; there’s other places in Ponyville, or outside of Ponyville; why the Everfree Fores
“Um, Applejack, why do you think she was taken there specifically?”
Twilight curiously asked. She thought of reasons why, she was already going to suggest, but wanted to know why Applejack thought she could be there.
“No, she most likely correct, that place would be open enough for a battle, and concealment for a crime; perfect crime if you ask me, the corpse would be eaten by the wild animals also.”
Applejack didn’t like how the detective talked about her friend. He was too blunt and casual about the matter. Sure it may be true for the police to treat this as everyday work because they deal with crimes like this all the darn time. If you are going to talk bluntly about a friend’s loss, be gentle, they aren’t police and would take it more rudely.
“I reckon you don’t talk about our friend as she’s dead and her body won’t be found!”
Applejack angrily retorted. The detective understood why she was mad, how couldn’t anypony? The time for bickering is over, they need to search for their lost friend Rainbow Dash; it’s best not to use the word lost, more like kidnapped. He knew the first place to check.
“I understand. Do you mares have any idea in your head where your friend was taken?”
Twilight thought of places as the rest of them and they all come to one conclusion; she’s not at the Rock Farm obviously, she’s obviously not anywhere in Ponyville; the skirmish would definitely cause eyes to be attracted.
“Hey Applejack do you think he’ll be at Sweet Apple Anchors?”
Pinkie asked curious about the answer she’s about to receive. Applejack, from the information she gathered about this colt; would say no; if he just now arrive in Ponyville, then he probably wouldn’t even know where Sweet Apple Anchors is. That is if he ain’t being deceptive? She hoped not, the only reason he would have to find and go there would be for a job there.
“I hope for the apples’ sake he’s not!”
Applejack responded with the fear building. The detective agreed with Applejack. He doesn’t think Comber would go to a farm without a reason; sure he might want an open area to battle, but with it being excessively open and near Ponyville that renders that a no.
“I don’t think Comber would go to Sweet Apple Anchors?”
The detective had a couple of reasons to state this; the reason one being he might not know where the farm is. Two he knows where Fluttershy lives because of Rainbow Dash, so he might just use that place as a grave for her too?
“And why on tarnation do you think that?”
Applejack asked, feeling a minor sigh of relief. Twilight as the group awaited the detective’s answer.
“Because he might not know where that useful production farm is; he knows where the Everfree Forest is because of Rainbow Dash, and that place would be a little more concealed than the farm at Sweet Apple Anchors.”
The detective picked his bag that was dropped up, he put it on his waist; tightening it.
“Um, not to rush or anything, but if we are going to look for Rainbow Dash and maybe save her life if she needs it, we need to go now!”
Twilight reminded them of a vital detail, the detective forgot about it also, he reacted instantly to Twilight reminder, the flash occurred, after it vanished, they were in the Everfree Forest. Alright, that’s cool he responded with good intent but could he not teleport them to the Everfree Forest without warning or telling them?
“Um, next time tell us you’re teleporting us!”
“Yeah, I wasn’t ready.”
“Darling could you at least tell us-!”
“I did what I needed to do, Twilight’s right, let’s start the search.”
The detective rushed the group, they made their way down the path, the detective didn’t want to hear more chatter unless it’s about the situation at hoof. He occasionally used an x-ray spell to search faster, Twilight remember that spell but never found much use out of it. She just made light, getting rid of the darkness as they search. Twilight wanted to ask about that x-ray spell the detective used; she asked him what spell was he using and he told her it allows him to see throw sold objects: like trees, walls and more importantly, if you adjust the spell enough, cleaned up blood; he used it at both scenes so far; he’s able to cast two spells at a time, so when he used it to grab a pen, he also used an x-ray spell to see any cleaned up blood; which by the way there was a lot. They will continue to look through the never freeing forest; hoping to find their already helped friend.
---
Comber returned to the graveyard; he knew he was being followed by a pegasus, a persistent one in fact; why is the question? He laid on his rock, planning to take a nap; but as soon as he closed his eyes, he heard hoofs touch the ground; his right eye open, looking in that direction; it was his recent client; most clients check-up if their target is finished; as normal, they were. The pegasus walked towards the assassin; ready to ask her question the assassin already knew.
“Did you get rid of that annoying, snob of a pegasus?”
The pegasus asked still full of malevolent towards her now suppose to be dead adversary. Comber turned his head to the pegasus, ready to answer professionally.
“If you knew me far back then you should know I don’t fail at what I do.”
Lighting Dust thought back when she was stripped of her rank; the anger she felt; the regret of trying to befriend Rainbow Dash; she nows she the errors in friendship; they will stab you in the back for vengeance and own needs.
“I just wanted to ask, see what tone you would respond in.”
Lighting Dust said with a smile. She was relieved her nemesis had paid for her what she did to her. She had another thought on her mind; how can she repay him for saving her?
“You know I don’t lie when it comes to my profession. Now, what do you further want?”
The colt asked with disbelief she had another job for him; if you have no target or payment, get lose; your business here doesn’t exist. Lighting Dust could tell he was annoyed. She thought of ways to get his attention, the question would be why? She remembers he likes to fight, so maybe that’s a way to get closer? This might be a way to repay him by getting rid of his boredom?
“You seemed to be very bored; how about a small skirmish?”
Comber ears must be deceiving him; if she knew him from far back, she would know that would be an immensely bad idea; usually fights in his village were to the death, but he never did that; unless the opponent was evil and is a threat to society.
“Why would you suggest such an action? You saw how I fought back then, so why would you want to challenge me? Do you hope to learn how to fight?”
Comber was curious, he doesn’t mind teaching ponies how to fight; he taught a lot of ponies how to; he’s not a sensei; they just teach and never fight others, only self-defense is when they do. Lighting Dust smirked, she remembered really well, and if she had his skill, her friend wouldn’t have died; she could’ve saved her.
“I just want to see you fighting for myself.”
Comber sighed, he was confused; no one wanted to spar with him let alone fight him. She must want to learn martial arts, there are teachers for that you know? He knew the reason, Lightning Dust wasn’t telling the truth and he sensed it; he knows the true reason, he’ll play along for now; after all, he’s pretty bored.
“I hope you are ready then, I don’t consider battling if you don’t battle back.”
Comber removed himself from his rock he temporary treat like a bed; he took his cape off and bag; gently placing both of them on the stone; it was clear he was already ready to battle; Lighting Dust wanted to reconsider, but decided due to her ego, no; she’ll fight him, and maybe even beat him; after all, this is a spar, not a battle to the death.
“I more than ready, let me know if I do better than that dead mare Rainbow Dash!”
Comber smirked, she really hated that pegasus; that was for sure; if she didn’t go to him and hire him; she would do it herself or locate another assassin. Comber slowly walked towards the pegasus, he was ready, the question arise if she is?
“I grade your results based on how you do, not compare to another pony.”
Lighting Dust smiled, she had to think of ways to trick him; he easily defeated that murderous colt; he saves her with ease; after all, he did in Ponyville; she’ll have to be careful.
“Come at me.”
Comber indicated with a hoof; Lighting Dust was annoyed her treated this as a joke; she’ll make him sorry. She rushed him, Comber, with a smile and nostalgia remembered Rainbow Dash did the same thing; he stepped to the left and avoided the attack; Lighting Dust was surprised he reacted with such speed; she caught herself on four hoofs; sliding a little before stopping.
“I saw that from a great distance away.”
(”He definitely fought Rainbow Dash; there is no objection to that; it was like he just dealt with a pegasus like me; that would have to be Rainbow Dash.”)
She smiled, she was happy to know Rainbow Dash is no more. She charged him again; Comber jumped over her this time; Lighting Dust was surprised a little, he was good at fighting, no doubt, but also evading; he even could easily counter but didn’t, why? She turned with precision, attempting to attack him once again with full speed; she won’t miss, she will hit, her attack landed, causing a lot of force to explode; the wind blew leaves, branches shook; it was indeed a powerful hit. Comber smiled; the attack did hit, but it was his hoof; he caught the attack; and with no lie, he did move him a little; it stung like a bullet also.
“Impressive, but sadly...”
Comber pushed her way with heavy force; he was happy, but at the same time disappointed; her attacks are not strategically planned and are easy to avoid; heck even counter. Lighting Duat was a little caught off balance; she caught herself before hitting the ground; he was something else for sure. Comber elaborated.
“Your attacks are easy to counter and dodge, you need to put thought into your attacks and not just attack blindly or normally, I see average punches too much.”
Lighting Dust felt a little insulted, but he knew he was right; all she was think was punching him in the face and hopes to knock him out; she almost regret suggesting this battle; so far it only been evasion on his part; she wanted to see him attack; not dodge.
“Thanks for the advice, how about you attack?”
Comber looked down, thinking to himself; he brought his head up slowly; ready to answer the pegasus question. He was almost bored of this battle; if you would call it that?
“How about no, prove you can land a hit, and then maybe, you have this last chance to do so, otherwise I will leave, you are boring so far.”
Lighting Dust was highly annoyed once again; leave like she’s a joke; treat her like a clown; well he will pay for it.
“I’m a bore, am I!? Well then. Let me show you my true speed!”
Lighting Dust dashed with full speed; accelerating by the second; she was fast; even Comber had a hard time to keep his eyes on her; she quickly moved out of the way; Lighting Dust anticipated this and turned to his direction; Comber jumped high, evading the attack; Lighting Dust with a quick burst flew up and behind herself; Comber quickly pushed himself to the ground; landing on one hoof; he then turned and barley was scrapped by Lighting Dust.
(”She’s fast, no doubt, but her stamina, it doesn’t look like it’s depleting fast enough?”)
Comber looked at Lighting Dust again; she was gone.
(”Where did she go?”)
Comber thought to himself; having a click in his head; he quickly ducked and evaded the attack; his mane was touch; Comber didn’t care though; mane as well as tells get dirty in battles. She again repeated the up and turning action; Comber couldn’t believe she had so much stamina, no wonder why she was able to escape from that killer long ago.
“You have remarkable stamina, but will you-!”
Comber didn’t expect her to push herself beyond the speed a pony should be traveling; Comber had no other choice but to block; it hurt this time. Comber felt his back hit the tree; that also hurt, especially the splinter he had in his back now. He got back up, ready for battle. Lighting Dust was clearly exhausted after that; she was huffing and holding her chest with her wings. Comber slowly grabbed the splinter, pulling it out of his back. Others would’ve screamed, but Comber could feel the pain; he felt way worse; like being stabbed; but those splinters; they really cut and burn. Blood gushed after the wooden impalement was removed; he quickly used a heal spell; assuming it punctuated a lung. He was once fine again.
“Remarkable, your speed is something else; as I saw, faster than Rainbow Dash, if not that, then your stamina you would have her beat in that category definitely. Remember what I said, well better prepared yourself, because you will feel pain.”
Lighting Dust smiled. She was ready to see him attack; she will regret wanting to see him attack. Combee walked slowly towards her; acting as if he’s was going to attack in slow motion; Lighting Dust bought it. After 20 hoof steps; Comber burst through the wind at her; his speed was fast; not as fast as her or Rainbow Dash; his reaction time, however, is faster than theirs. She blocked one attack but failed to do the other; it was a punch to the face; his punches were hard, his speed was also hard to deal with. Lighting Dust attempted to block more of the incoming attacks; Comber was holding his punches; reserving stamina and from hurting Lighting Dust; he was also moving slower than usual. Lighting Dust was blocking each attack; a hit from the left; right, a chop to the neck; she was lucky she blocked that; she flew up; dashing down and landing a great distance. She looked at her front hoofs; spotting small bruises forming; also redness; she knew his attacks hurt; but to the point it causes bruises, she was alarmed; no wonder why he never fails a job, he’s too powerful. She rubbed the top of the hoofs; attempting to relieve some pain. Comber noticed this; he wasn’t punching that hard; either he wasn’t tracking himself, or she isn’t that durable.
“Ow! Your attacks hurt; what are you made of!?”
Lighting Dust said in a little bit of pain; she wanted to know how he is so powerful; was it his job that made him like that? Does he lift or work out? Does he have a diet? She won’t ask; she knows he won’t tell. Comber smirked, it’s time to end this battle; there’s
“This battle stops here, there’s no point in continuing this battle; you did good, but I suggest you go take martial arts; just think if I was hired to kill you?”
Comber attempted to scare her to take martial arts; if she is hated, there’s no doubt sompony will come to him for her death; unless they are pure-hearted, then he assumed not, but either way, it’s easier for him to kill her then; it would make the process more fun. Lighting Dust laughed at Comber, physiological warfare. That’s funny thinging somepony will hire him to kill her; it’s the villains that hire, not good, all her enemies are good.
“Nopony will hire an assassin to kill me, ha! Only villains hire, not heroes or good ponies!”
Combee laid back down on his smooth stone; his eyes slowly closing; Lightning Dust felt like she should still fight; while her aching hoofs decided to refuse; she did enough; she can’t defeat him; all she will endure is pain and defeat.
“Well see you.”
Comber said with a little sigh, the reason she wanted to battle is to learn so she could defend herself next time instead of relying on a certain assassin. That was odd for a fight; but the assassin didn’t mind; he taught his friends how to battle so, this was no different. Lighting Dust had to think about what to do next; her goal was complete; she can’t join the Wonderbolts ever again, so what’s now?
“Well I am off to start with relief, you have a great day Comber, thank you, I really appreciate what you did.”
Lighting Dust praised the assassin; she was now happy, she smiled at the assassin and waved goodbye. She blasted off with a smile; already thinking of what to do next. Comber scuffled and waited for a job; there’s no use in checking if one came in; the other one would be time-consuming to collect that amount of bits. Comber heard wheels; it was one, no two, no three, no it was four. Whatever made the sound was heavy; it sounded like a wagon.
“There he is-!”
The wagon broke free, heading down at the assassin; his ears alerted him; did somepony lose their wagon or used it as a weapon? He got off his stone slowly and stood in the direction of the incoming wagon.
“Can somepony stop my powerful wagon!?”
The unicorn is annoying, Comber stomped his hoofs into the ground; he ain’t moving; the wagon hit him; he was pushed back, but with all his strength; he stopped the wagon; leaving it unscathed. The unicorn ran down the hill; thanking the assassin; he walked pass to the unicorn; walking past her; if that was a colt he would have slapped him. She thanked him.
“You know I came here to hire you right!?”
Comber stopped slowly and turned around to the mare. If that’s the reason, then why did she bring her wagon? That seems a little excessive, even if it was carrying bits?
“Why bring your wagon?”
The mare felt insulted, she tell him with a show.
“I’ll show you!”
The unicorn jumped into the wagon; pulling a lever inside; out coming to a stage; the unicorn was on it with a top hat pulled down; she had a cane with her.
(”She better not start dancing...”)
Comber thought to himself; he ain’t the type to go to shows and watch pointless movement; there better be a good reason for this introduction. He already knew she was going to dance. Fireworks shot up into the air, exploding with the unicorn’s face in it; next was a firework stating “great and powerful.” Comber really wanted to slap her; when you come to him to hoof over a job; you don’t shoot off fireworks; that’s like telling everypony, “hey, I hiring an assassin!” She is a foolish unicorn.
“The great! The powerful! Trixie Lulamoon!”
Fireworks exploded off stage, along with some colorful smoke, Comber sighed; she, is, an, idiot! Smoke rose into the sky; it going to cause suspicion, because why would smoke be in the sky-high? Trixie asked if she can show her tricks, but for a cost; Comber was seriously about to hit her, she really is annoying, if she did this stunt in his hometown; she would be put in a hospital or in a grave.
“Did you really promote yourself? Never should of ask about trivial things.”
Trixie was instituted by the colt; does she really need his assistance? He seems too much of a jerk to cooperate with.
“Promote me!? I am the Great and Powerful Trixie! You can’t promote any higher than that!”
Trixie said with pride. She really is an annoying unicorn.
(”Oh Celestia...”)
Comber rolled his eyes in annoyance; he had seen way too many prideful ponies for their fake authority, she seems no different.
“Do you have a job to hoof over or not? If not, get lost.”
Trixie was angry he spoke to her like that; how dare he do that? She does have a job for him; the price should be low since that purple Unicron is worthless; if she ain’t, she’ll lower the deal.
“I do in fact, have you ever heard of a unicorn named Twilight?”
Comber smirked; everypony seems to hate the Mane 6, now why is that? Envy, malevolent, or personal gain? The reason to him doesn’t matter, but to the clients it does. Comber remembered Twilight, that’s ironic; you save the one you are going to kill; that being and assuming she has the right amount of currency; the better not be like that annoying lighting pegasus, she was a pest and probably still going to be.
“I have, I assume you hate her?”
Trixie laughed, she hated that unicorn; she was a cheater and no unicorn outsmarts the great and Powerful Trixie! She was too great for that.
“I do! She is a cheater!”
The assassin was confused; a “cheater?” Cheater at what exactly? It’s none of his business, so he won’t ask. He assumes Twilight bested her in a magic standoff, or a trick-off.
“Do you have the right amount of bits?”
Trixie believed she did, but reality will strike her down with disappointment.
“I believe so, 300 bits should cover it.”
The assassin’s face went grim; she is serious? Twilight had supported the economy more than Rainbow Dash, she wouldn’t be less. The Mane 6 are popular for a reason.
“Hate to inform you, but the actual price is 1200 bits.”
Trixie could not believe her ears, but no matter, let’s see if she could lower the prices?
“I think you’re wrong, you should probably check again to see.”
Trixie said, starting to believe her lie. Comber didn’t need to check, he knew and already saw the price for Twilight. There is no need to attempt to lower or exclude the price; many clients try to do this and it never works; they either leave in anger or attempt to lower the prices. She was going to be one of those clients.
“I am not wrong and already saw the price, pay the number of bits or find some pony else.”
Comber kept to his profession; he was going treat her with no exceptions; no pony gets excluded or deal; you must pay the true amount or no authorization. Trixie thought to herself for a moment then looked back at the assassin.
“1100 bits you say, well you seemed to be a professional, so I guess there’s no trying to bargain with you.”
Trixie grabbed the latch on her wagon; pulling over herself and attaching it to her; she was ready to head off; maybe there be other assassins out there with lower a lower price? She took a look back a the assassin before heading off.
“I don’t think you are as legendary as they say you are. You just rip ponies off.”
Comber was already laying down; already having to predict this outcome. He didn’t care what she was angry about. The rules are the rules, that’s final. Trixie knew the assassin ignored her; he really was getting under her skin, similar to Twilight; she was glad to leave and not hire him; the wagon started pulling and Trixie started walking, pulling the wheel stage with her. Comber was going to wait; either she will find out other assassins have the same value, unless they are corrupted, then maybe? Comber checked his watch, find the number zero in his inbox; he already expected this outcome and decided to already close his eyes, he was going to nap then check again. The fog lightened; the owls made their creepy sounds; the sky was cloudy. It was a decent comfortable day.