“Will you stop already? You’ve been at that thing for hours, and Trixie is trying to sleep.”
I rolled my eyes, as I jiggled Trixie’s hair pin around inside the cage lock. “I’m so freaking sorry if me trying to save you from horrible torture and death is keeping you up. How damn selfish of me. It’s not my life on the line here you know.”
She was right though, even if I didn’t want to admit it. There was no way I was picking this lock with just my claws and a bobby pin. This was a good lock, and I’d need proper tools to open it. Stupid bloody Trixie, it’s not like I was doing this to save my own pelt. I jerked my claws back into the cage when I heard the sound of a key turning in a lock. A second later and the jailer came in.
He eyed me suspiciously for a second before he grunted and stepped aside. As much as I hated being a chick in a male dominated society, every so often the whole ‘females are stupid and only good for cooking and fucking’ thing really comes in handy. I mean, I am just a poor defenseless female.
“Oh, thank Celestia,” whispered Trixie as she stood up and dusted off her cape and hat. She only had them ‘cause she whined like a bitch at them for hours. “No doubt these simpletons finally realized how foalish it was for them keep such a dignified and important pony in prison.”
“Wrong Princess.” Grace’s voice carried down the stairs as he stepped into the room. “Luna has negotiated your release.”
I face palmed. “You’re kidding me right? Luna’s can’t be that stupid?” Yeesh. I know it sounds retarded, but the unprofessionalism here was killing me. If your agents get captured across the border, you don’t negotiate their release, you just cut ties and say, ‘what agents?’
“No, that would be the other half of the princess.” He jerked his head at the jailer, letting me know he couldn’t say Nightmare with the guard there.
“Oh, fuck. Really?” I looked around. “Any chance I can stay in the cell?”
“What’s this? Gilda is afraid of a little filly?” Trixie shoved past me, smirking. “You can stay in there if you’re so scared, but nothing scares the Great and Powerful Trixie!”
“Fuck yeah, I’m scared of her.” I flicked her hat forward, covering her eyes. “You would be too if you had any brains.”
“Why?” She straightened her hat with a scowl. “You’re the one she wants in bed.”
Grace glanced back at us in surprise.
“Oh, did you not tell your dear brother?” Now that her smugness was back, I had to wonder why I even tried breaking her out in the first place. “Oh yes, your dear Gilda has caught the eye of a certain little darling of a filly. To think, in a month’s time you could be a prince!”
Grace wasn’t joking about this, he turned to me. “Is what she says true?”
I shrugged. “I don’t know if she’s for real or not, but last time she was out she had eyes on me, and said a couple things that had me tucking my tail.”
“Oh trust me, she’s for real. Trixie has an eye for reading ponies, and she can assure you wholeheartedly that soon this... fine... specimen of a gryphon will become a princess and you, a prince.” She gave off one of those fake, dreamy sighs. “Their children will be the singular, most... unique... looking foals you’ll have ever laid eyes on. And, being the fine friend that Trixie is, she shall spread the word to all corners of the world so all can bask in this lovely tale of interspecies romance.”
The jailer looked over his shoulder at us. “What the fuck is wrong with you females?” he asked.
“Eyes forward solider.” Grace said to him sternly.
He gulped and turned back ahead.
“Look Grace, Trixie’s full of shit. There’s no way that little filly has eyes for me. I mean,” I waved a claw in front myself. “Look at me. I ain’t exactly reeling hearts in. here.”
“Ponies have very different standards,” quipped Trixie. “Look at Spitfire. She’s not the most feminine or curvy of females, but she’s one of the most lusted after females by both genders. In fact, Spitfire is rather muscular and lean, much like you. Not surprising considering you’re both such avid fliers.”
Oh yeah, I’d forgotten about that. “Even then, ponies don’t chase gryphons dude. I know, I lived there for years.”
“She’s a princess who has been alive since the dawn of time. Trixie would not be surprised if ponies have become... dull and stale to her. Perhaps she wishes to spice up her life and explore some of the more...” She twirled her hoof in the air as she thought of the right word, while a sadistic smirk danced on her lips. “Exotic specimens.”
Okay, next time we get caught, I’m leaving Trixie to rot.
“Dude, no. You’re just trying to mess with me, and she was too. You’re not going to make me freak out.”
Oh fuck-oh fuck-oh fuck. I pray that she’s wrong. Elders, I’m asking you 'cause the goddesses scare the shit out of me right now, but please pleaseplease, make it so Nightmare’s just messing with me.
“In any case Gilda.” Grace spoke up. “I would advise caution, and suggest you return to Equestria at the nearest opportunity.”
“Fuck Equestria, if you didn’t hear, its insane filly ruler has a thing for me!” I was not yelling, I was totally not yelling. “Fuck Equestria, I’m moving to live with the dragons!”
He just gave me a wry look. “If you feel that’s wise, though I question how being burned alive would be better for your wellbeing.”
“Shut the fuck up, Grace.” I spat at him. “It doesn’t matter anyway, ‘cause she’s not interested.”
“Tell yourself that.” Trixie smirked at me. “But don’t say Trixie didn’t try to warn you.”
I grit my jaw and ignored her. We were out of the dungeons and now walking along the corridors of the palace. The jailer had stayed behind when we left the underground levels. I didn’t know the palace myself, but from what I could tell, we were in the guest wing or something.
“Where are you taking us anyway?” I asked Grace.
“Her room,” he replied. “She asked to see you straight away.”
I tried not to react, but from the way Trixie was smirking at me, she might have noticed the little shiver that crawled up my spine.
We walked in silence for a little bit, until we arrived at a room with five guards stationed outside it. One of them opened the door, and Grace led us inside.
I glanced around, and saw the little child sex-fiend, mass murderer goddess who totally didn’t want me, pouring over a book while another pile lay on the ground beside her. The only sound that filled the silence was the scratching of quill on paper as she worked away at whatever it was she was doing.
Huh. Well that seemed like a whole lot of worrying for nothing.
“Princess?” Grace spoke after he got sick of the awkward silence.
“Hm?” She looked over her shoulder and adjusted the red glasses she was wearing. “Oh! You’re here, please make yourself at home. The shower is through the door on the right there, the bedroom is through the left door, and t-”
My mind immediately went to the potential use of both bedrooms and bathrooms as places of... Damnit Trixie! You don’t need to put that shit in my head. I was scared enough already! Though I had to admit Nightmare didn’t look very scary with those cute little glasses.
“-uards must accompany you whenever you leave the room. I wish to speak to both of you in ten minutes so until then, do as you wish.”
Leave? Go home? No? In that case, I guess doing as I wished was out of the picture. “Uh... alright.” I turned to Grace. “See you later then?”
He nodded. “If my duties allow it. We still have a lot to catch up on.” With that, he gave another bow to Nightmare, who didn’t even notice, and stepped out of the room.
“Well Trixie is taking the first shower. Those dungeons were horribly filthy, and sharing them with you only made that matter worse.”
I smirked at her. “Might want to brush your teeth too. I think you still got some shit on your breath.”
She shot me a death glare as she stepped through the right side door.
I glanced back at Nightmare who still in her books and shrugged. Whatever then. If nothing horrible was about to happen then fine by me. Hey Nightmare, still reading my thoughts?
Complete silence.
Either she was too busy with other things to worry about me right now, or she was trying to weird me out. I shrugged again and walked into the room. I was glad to see more than enough beds for all of us, and I noticed my tools of the trade sitting in a sack at the foot of a bed.
I smiled to myself as I opened it up, and gave a disappointed moan when I saw it was missing the knives, the claw guards, and the lock picks. All that was left was the belt, the cloak, and some of the stuff like ropes or a few other bits and bobs. As I rifled through it further, I found the little gold hoof band from the temple in there too. That was something I guess. Maybe if I sell it I can get the bits to buy myself some new equipment. I put all the stuff back in the sack, and with a sigh I kicked it under the bed.
I noticed a few books on one of the shelves, so I browsed the titles before I decided I couldn’t see anything that I wanted to read. I wasn’t really big into novels anyway. That was something me and Dash had in common.
I lay down on the bed and waited for Trixie to get out of the bathroom so I could take a shower myself. She entered the room looking pleased with herself, but I didn’t give her the chance to speak before I took my turn in the hot water. I stepped out from under the water and noticed that wet towel Trixie had left. I rolled my eyes but dried myself as best I could before stepping out of the bathroom; I was still damp. Nightmare was still doing her thing with the books, so I went into the room and lay on the bed. I guess the only thing left to do was wait for whatever Nightmare wanted to talk about.
Before I had a chance to really unwind though, the book slammed shut and Nightmare trotted into the room. She gave us a once over before throwing herself onto the bed with a sigh.
“We need to discuss what happens next,” she said. “For now, we are working with the gryphons.”
Well I guess that meant I got to spend a bit of time with Grace then. I remembered that Luna didn’t want that journal in Nightmare’s hands, but whatever. Fuck that bitch, she got me into this mess.
“Why? What have they got that you want? We buried the temple, and that’s the journal right there,” said Trixie and I resisted the urge to bash my, or her, head against a wall. Did she not realize they could be listening in right now?
“Trixie, just cause they’r-”
Nightmare Moon shook her head. Whatever then, I don’t even care anymore. If that dumbass wants to get herself killed by playing with the big girls, she can go for her life.
“All you need to know, is that you’re both alive right now because I need you with me. That means I’m still not done with either of you, and if you disobey me or act against my orders, I will throw you back to the wolves. And Gilda, I will make sure not even your brother will be able to save you. If you two want out, you two will work with me. Got that?” A smile suddenly appeared on her face and she jerked her head in the direction of the door. “Good. Gilda, I’d like to speak to you in private please.”
Yep. Now I was remembering why she scared me so damn much. She didn’t have those cute glasses on, and the sadistic smile was back in all its ‘I jerk off as you bleed’ glory. Still, I’m not convinced that the only way out is working with her. I could run, and it wouldn’t be too hard to sneak out of the palace.
Trixie shot me a smirk as she left the room, and it may have been my imagination, but I think I saw a little sympathy in her eyes. Didn’t stop the pit in my stomach or the shiver up my spine, but it was nice to know that there was only one pony getting off on my pain. The door shut behind her, and I found myself alone with Nightmare. I realized that this was the first time that had really happened. Mind you, I doubt Trixie’s eyes would stop Nightmare from doing whatever the fuck she wanted to me. When I looked back at Nightmare Moon, she had her glasses back on and was smiling at me.
I immediately jumped off the bed I was on. Know what I said about her looking less scary with glasses? I take that back. Goddesses it was creepy to see her using something I had a thing for like that. No clue why, but it was always the geeky types that had my interests. Turtleneck sweaters? Don’t even get me started.
To my surprise, Nightmare actually facehoofed and made the glasses disappear in a puff in a smoke. And so we sat there in silence, staring at each other with unblinking gazes, waiting for the other to say something first. As the time stretched on, she gave me an almost playful smile.
Keep it cool Gilda. She’s just messing with you. Play it cool.
“Uh... sup?”
I would have faceclawed. Great job me.
She giggled. She actually fucking giggled. It was a full blown, filly in love, style giggle. Oh fuck me, I’m so dead.
“Alright, you may leave now. Please send Trixie in,” she said with a wink.
What. The. Fuck? Are you fucking kidding me! After all that she really was just messing with my head? I didn’t know whether to scream in frustration or sigh in relief. Thank fuck she doesn’t want to screw me five ways stupid, but talk about getting worked up for nothing. I was going to fucking end Trixie. Knows pony body language? My ass could read ponies better than that!
I stepped out of the room, and Trixie glanced over at me.
“She wants to speak with you now.”
Her ears perked up. “Really? What did she want with you?”
I glared at her. “Just get in there shithead.” Bitch had me panicking about nothing.
She blinked in surprise at the hostility in my voice but after a moment she sniffed. “Very well then, if she wishes so, then Trixie will grace her with Trixie’s presence.”
As soon as she was through the door, it slammed shut and seconds later, I could hear Nightmare speaking. Sure, most ponies wouldn’t be able to hear anything, but I wasn’t a pony. I swear, that filly is going to get us all killed. At first I tried to keep my mind occupied by looking at the books Nightmare had been reading, but they were all magically sealed, had the Wide Eye’s mark over it, or were boring, useless, scientific crap. With nothing better to do, I slumped down against the wall and gazed out the window. Perhaps I should go out and visit my old favorite bar. There was nothing better to do aft- Wait, were they talking about me?
“-lda and we both know how inadequate she is.” Though Nightmare’s voice was muted, there just enough for me to make out what she was saying.
“Trixie agrees with you. When we were trying to escape, she dropped Trixie into an outhouse. Gilda is most certainly not adequately equipped in subtly or intelligence.”
“Exactly. That is why we shall keep her in the dark about our actions. It is important for you to make sure she doesn’t learn too much about our plans. This is crucial to our mission. Got it?”
“Yes, your majesty.”
Seriously? I slammed my head against the wall a couple of times. There were a couple of ways I could interpret that, and I didn’t like any of them. The obvious one was they thought I was a freaking idiot, and couldn’t manage whatever plan they’d cooked up. Actually, that was fine by me. If Trixie wanted to keep me out of it, then I could appreciate that.
On the other hand, and this was probably me just overthinking things, but that was a slightly suspicious part of the conversation for me to just accidently hear. If Nightmare didn’t want me to hear what she was saying, there were a few unicorn spells that she could cast easily enough. But the Wide Eyes must have known she might plan something and would have acted accordingly, so what she said was probably genuine. But then again, would it be that hard for a goddess to get past stolen zebra magic? So even though she probably thought I was an idiot, there was a chance that I was deliberately being manipulated. Or maybe, it wasn’t me being manipulated, but the other potential listeners? Then there’s the chance she was just manipulating Trixie by inflating her ego or whatever.
And why call me in if she wasn’t going to say anything? That was just a-
Oh. That bitch. That sly, fucking bitch. We were scapegoats. Either she actually thought I was an idiot, or she was trying to get them to think I was an idiot, or they wanted them to think Trixie was actually smart and knew something, or by not speaking to me, she wants them to think she used some fancy magic to talk to me without speaking. Oh goddesses, I sound paranoid. But I’m pretty sure she was just trying to use this to manipulate the Wide Eyes that could be listening in.
I shook my head. It was so much easier to just believe she thought I was an idiot.
The door opened once more and they both trotted out. Before Nightmare returned to her books though, she gave me a small inclination of her head and wink.
So I was right, she was just trying to get at the listeners-in. Unless she just wanted me to believe that... No fuck! This is getting so convoluted. She wouldn’t manipulate me, because she has no reason to do so. She gets nothing out of it beyond maybe some hired muscle that can pick a lock. She’s just messing with the gryphons that are listening in.
I sighed and sat down on the couch. Goddesses, I’m so glad that I never got into this spy shit. It is way too fucking complicated for a dumbass like me. Nightmare Moon suddenly burst out laughing and I glared at her from my spot. So she was still listening in on my thoughts, it was nice to have some confirmation.
“Gilda, please let the guards know we wish to inspect their laboratory,” she commanded. “Trixie, you shall stay here and make sure no one comes in.”
I opened my beak to tell her to tell the bitch she could talk to the guards herself, but then I remembered she was well... terrifying, so I decided to just do it anyway. Still a bitch though. Why the fuck can’t she just talk to the guards herself?
I opened the door from our apartment and poked my head out. One of the guards turned to me.
“Yes?” he asked.
“Luna wants to inspect the labs or something.” I shrugged. “I’m guessing you’re supposed to know what that means.”
“And please arrange for Teotore to be our guide,” called Nightmare from inside.
“And she wants an escort or something. Whoever that Teotore guy is, let him know that Luna wants him too.” I knew who Teotore was, the guy had a mean ass reputation, but I was supposed to be a dumb female.
One of the guards snickered at me.
“You got a fucking problem buddy?” I asked him stepping out of the doorway only to be dragged back in by Nightmare’s magic. “Hey! What was that for?”
“Stop antagonizing our allies,” she sighed. “Having you and Trixie in the same room is enough to give me a headache. I do not need you adding to the noise by annoying the guards outside.”
I wasn’t antagonizing him, just getting ready to pound his ass into the ground. “Whatever. You want me coming on your inspection thing then?”
“Yes.”
And will I be there as a servant, or are you going to ask me to slip away quietly at some point?
She simply shook her head and put on her glasses once more. “Actually, I could use your help. I’m afraid I’m not as familiar with gryphon anatomy as I should be.”
I froze. My feathers stood on end, and I found myself caught between fight or flight. Actually, fuck that, I was ready for flight. After a second though, I managed to respond.
“I’m not a doctor... Uh... Unless you want to know how to cut one up, I can’t help you. And if I’m right about my history, you know plenty about killing gryphons. The arteries haven’t changed place in the past thousand years.”
She actually burst out laughing at that. “Ah yes, those were the good old days.”
Was she serious!?
“Very well then, just another request I must make. Be sure to remind me at a later date, will you?”
“You know, if you wanted a more practical lesson in gryphon reproduction, I’m sure Gilda will be more than willing to help out,” Trixie cut in without looking up from her book.
I’m gonna kill her. “Actually, I grew up in Equestria, so what I know about gryphon reproduction is about the same as you would.” I glared at her, and for a split second, sadness or regret was evident on her face, but soon it was gone and I looked back over to Nightmare. “Sure thing, I’ll be sure to remind you to ask me later though.” Not a fucking chance.
There was a polite knock on the door and Nightmare immediately opened it with her magic. In stepped none other than Teotore, the sadistic motherfucker himself. He ran an eye over me and Trixie, and it left as though I was a piece of meat. No doubt he was wondering if he should add me to his harem or to be used as a dummy for torture practice. I don’t know how many of the rumors about him were true, but if even one of them was, then I’d love to see this prick burn.
“Your Highness?” he asked.
“Ah! Sir Teotore,” Nightmare trotted up to him with a shy little smile on her face. “I hope we did not distract you from your duties.”
“Not at all.” He did a bow that would have made the king jealous. “But your looks and your speech patterns have changed so dramatically. Are you alright? We heard about the incident in your old rooms and made sure the guards were punished accordingly.”
“Oh Teotore, you shouldn’t have.” Did she just bat her eyelashes at him? Oh, right... I got what was going on now. Two players playing the same game. “I thought I’d try out a new look. Do you like it? And please, call me N- Luna. There is no need for formalities or the Royal Plural between friends, is there?”
Teotore smiled and bowed. “Of course not. I often find myself tiring of such trivialities. What are you reading?” he waved at the glasses and the books on her table.
“The scientific reports as well as my old documents,” she replied with a shrug. “You are looking at the newest addition to the research team, as well as the most experienced. I am officially acting in an advisory and leadership role in your endeavor.”
“Sounds... interesting.” He ran an eye over the papers, and I could see his fingers twitch eagerly to get his claws on them. Though he smiled politely to Luna. “You asked for me?”
“Yes, we require a guide and we believe you have access to the laboratory.”
He smiled again. Fuck, I hated that smile; everything about it set me on edge. “Of course your majesty, I’d be happy give you the tour... but unfortunately I’ve not actually been assigned this particular branch of historical inquiry. I was at your temple because I like to keep an eye on the young up and comers like Graciano. This matter is being handled personally by the king, and a few select individuals.” He bowed low. “Though I’m sure with your say so, the king will be happy to include me in this affair.”
“It would please me greatly to include you in this affair, but I am afraid my role is merely limited to advising and providing my expert knowledge on this matter. All other aspects are still controlled by Giomar, and I fear he distrusts me and is loathe to listen to my suggestions around the experiment, let alone the inclusion of an extra member.” Once again she did that eyelash batting and meek look. “Perhaps we could exchange notes at a later date? Your own research may provide some sort of information that I am lacking.”
That greasy fucking smile again. Another bow.Yeesh, didn’t this guy have any moves a little more smooth than that? Even Trixie was rolling her eyes.
“That would be acceptable, though I would obviously prefer more direct involvement. Still, what’s the saying you ponies use? ‘Make lemonade with lemons?’ Something like that?”
I rolled my eyes. He got the saying wrong, it’s actually ‘make hay with grass, and flour with grain’ he just butchered something anyone who’d spent a minute across the border had heard.
“I am sorry, but I am unfamiliar with that saying, spending a thousand years on the moon tends to be a... lonely...experience.” Was... was she rubbing herself against him? Oh good, I was worried she just did that to me.
Seriously though Nightmare, you want to tap that? He’s a real piece of work, let me tell you.
She flicked her tail at me in annoyance, but other than that, she didn’t show her irritation. In fact, she leaned up and whispered something in Teotore’s ear before looking down at the ground shyly. I had to admit, she was playing this guy like a pro. Shy, submissive, hot for business, young, empowering the guy like some knight in shining armor. Gryphon guys all go for that like a manticore in heat.
Teotore whispered something back, causing Nightmare to blush bright red, but from the way her rear right hoof dug into the ground, it was a blush for all the wrong reasons. Nonetheless, she still giggled like a good girl before flicking her eyes up then away, before slowly bringing them back to his face, but not looking at his eyes. Forget what I said about her being a pro, she could beat the best hooker in any city at getting guys.
I grinned. Probably could handle getting that many guys too.
Nightmare’s tail went rigid for a second before going back to its swishing motion. I’d probably pay for that later, but damn, poking fun at her when she can’t fight back is fun. And it’s her own fault for listening in anyways, so you know what that means Nightmare? All you have to do is stop listening in and the annoying shit will stop...
“Well, I’m afraid I have duties to attend to.” Teotore straightened up, and smirked at Nightmare. If any guy looked at me like that, I’d deck him. The sheer arrogance and ‘I own you’-ness of that look would be way too much for me to take calmly. “I’m afraid if I can’t assist you, then I should return to my... affairs...” he let that hang. He bowed once more. “May I have your leave?”
“Of course,” replied Nightmare Moon with a small bow. “And I shall see you again later tonight?”
His eyes light up as did that snake-smile of his. Please tell me Nightmare was joking, there was no way she was that stupid. Or that desperate.Luna maybe... but Nightmare? I mean, seriously? Him? Fuck, I could do a better job th- No. Bad brain. Shut the fuck up before she gets ideas.
“Of course.” He smirked.
Whatever else he was going to say was lost as Trixie whispered in my ear, “Looks like your fillyfriend is being unfaithful. Looks like your... performance is lacking...”
I snorted. “She can fuck who she likes,” I whispered back. “As long as it’s not me.”
I looked up and Teotore was bowing out the door. The moment he was gone I said the first thing that came to mind.
“You know that guy’s a pedophile right?”
“Please, I was alive since the birth of the universe. If anypony can be considered a pedophile, it is I,” replied Nightmare in a whisper.
“No, I mean that guy’s an honest to goodness, wants to fuck girls under twelve, pedophile. Probably why he’s so after you, with that filly body and all.” Like I said, dude had some nasty rumors about him.
“Really? I did not get that impression from him.”
“Yeah well, about a year back some father tried to get him charged on screwing his daughter, and there were some others parents from across the city wanting to back him up. But, good luck getting anything to stick on a Wide Eyes. In the end, the father wound up getting charged for dealing zapstract and was hung after his wings were broken. Make of that what you will, but there’s no way a zapstract dealer would be dumb enough to try and charge a high ranking guy like Teotore.” I shrugged. “Maybe it was political, but from what I know, the father wasn’t involved in anything dodgy or over his head.” Trixie was looking a little green. “My take, is Teotore’s a pedophile, and the father was trying to get justice for his daughter. There’d been rumors about him for a while before that too.”
“Interesting...” she hummed to herself. “Your concern has been noted and discarded.”
I rolled my eyes. “Whatever then. It’s not like I’m actually worried... it’s just really freaking creepy.”
It honestly didn’t surprise me the king didn’t want to involve him in this... whatever the heck this is. Joaquim was a good guy as far as I knew. And I know for a fact that he’s not happy about some of the shit that Teotore had a claw in in Zebrica and other places. I’d even heard a rumor the Celestia wanted Teotore gone, but I doubted it. If Celestia wants someone out, then they’re out.
Nightmare inclined her head ever so slightly before stepping out, and gestured for me to follow. Screw you bitch, I’m not your dog. If you want to give me an order,then say it. I’m not going to hop for your hoof gestures.
“Come with me, pet,” she snarled and for added effect, she grabbed me by the tuffs on the top of my head and dragged me out the door.
“Let go you fucking whore!” I jerked around in her magic, but I knew it was useless. “Go suck your pedophile’s hairy cock, goddess damn slut! Hope you choke on his spunk!” I dug my claws into the tiles but couldn’t find a good grip. I noticed some of the guards at the door gaping at this open mouthed. “What the fuck are you shitheads staring at?!”
Next thing I knew, she had punched me across the face and followed it up with a buck so hard I was slammed up against the wall. Dizzy and unable to stand up properly, I felt my beak being tied shut. Maybe it was cause I still had my eyes rolling from the bash to the head, and maybe it’s cause I just had instincts, but whatever the reason; I gave Nightmare the finger the second I could see straight. I might have also tried to break her muzzle with my fist or cut her throat with my claw, but I was still feeling concussed so I’m not really sure.
“Sorry about that, I’ve been trying to break her out of that habit.” And then she decided to make a magical collar and leash for me and tugged me along as though I was a dog. Worst part was, my claws and paws were chained to each other in a similar manner so I couldn’t claw her fucking face off.
I wasn’t really saying anything,‘cause my beak was tied shut, but I’m pretty sure she got the message with the whole mind reading thing.
“I Monnamutheruckingmur’er ‘ou, ‘ou ‘iece oh shi’. Ah onnama’eou ‘leed! I’m onna se ou on ‘uckin ire!”
I couldn’t make good on my threats, because with my claws tied together I was having a hard time keeping up and not falling on my face. In the end, I had to use my wings to stop myself toppling forward face first, because she was tugging me so fast. I’m so fucking glad Trixie wasn’t here to see this.
“This will teach you, won’t it?” whispered Nightmare in my ear and just when I thought things couldn’t get any bloody worse, she decided to wrap her wing around my body and snuggle into me as we walked. One second I was a pet, the next I was being snuggled by a fucking monster.
I tried to reach up and cut her throat, but her magic kept my claws to the ground. Normally I’d be creeped out, but at the moment I was too fucking pissed.
“‘ou bet ‘ur ass ‘at I’m not’ ‘onna learn. I’m ‘onnaull your gu’s out ‘ur ass’!” I spat at her, or tried to. Oh the bitch was gonna pay for this. I don’t give a shit if Luna was in there or not, the bitch was gonna die.
With a giggle, she nuzzled me and pulled me even tighter against her body. “Oh darling, you say the loveliest things.”
“Ah’ end you! I ‘ill ucking end you!”
“Love you too dear,” she gave me a sloppy kiss on the cheek. “Maybe you should show me the sights later today.”
“‘ou are ‘onnasream! Sream!”
“Your name? Of course I will, you do know how to please a lady after all,” giggled Nightmare as she gave a smoky look at the guards escorting us. “You should see what she can do with those claws of hers.”
“‘ey can rip ‘lesh, ‘at’s what ‘ey can do!” I threw my weight to the side and put my shoulder into the soft spot where her wings meet her side. I’d had that done to me once, and let me tell you, it hurts. Badly.
A strained grin appeared on her face as she leaned in and nipped my neck. Harshly. Enough to get me to yelp and draw some blood at least.
“Oh, don’t mind us; she just loves a bit of rough housing. A real masochist.”
I yanked back on the chain connecting me to her horn. Making her stagger towards me for a second as she over balanced. I jumped forwards to put my beak through her neck, but she jerked back in time and only got a little scratch.
She glared out the corner of her eye, but otherwise made no move at retaliation and instead smiled at the guards. “What can I say, I like them feisty. How much further till we reach the laboratory?”
“Just around the corner Ma’am.” He paused and looked at me. “But if she’s going to be like this, she might have to stay outside.”
“Pardon?” Nightmare’s eyes hardened and that see-through sword of hers appeared. “Would you care to repeat that?”
He paused and carefully composed his answer. “There’s some delicate equipment in here, not to mention open flame and certain mutagenic chemicals. Having someone thrashing about inside there is a bad idea. If you could calm her down, then I’d be willing to allow her in, but as it stands, she presents a risk to herself and others.”
Hah! Acid! Let’s see how much Nightmare likes it when I smash a vial of that over her eyes! Set her mane on fire with one of those laboratory burny things! Hell, I’d settle for a bottle to glass her with, or just having my claws untied. I didn’t say any of that though and tried to settle down, though I was still feeling about ready to kill any mother fucker that looked at me cross ways.
“‘ust untie me aleady.” I muttered as best I could.
“Do you promise to behave?”
What was I, a pet!? No. Fucking no! I can wait outside chained up, but I’m not taking that pet master shit from you! No matter what the fuck you do, I am not going to be some demure female again. Never. I don’t give a fuck if you have me whipped or murdered, but I am not going back to being some passive bloody cattle that sits in the corner looking good for someone else,waiting to get fucked! I stared her straight in the eyes as I thought all this.
“oo your ‘ucking worst!” I shouted through the gag.
With a sigh and roll of her eyes, she dispelled the chains and gags and brushed past me. “You are seriously stubborn, aren’t you?”
“Blame your own damn kingdom.” I spat at her back. Though to be fair I was stubborn well before Equestria or Calisto got to me. I looked left and saw the guard staring at me. “You want something?!” I rubbed my wrists where the chains had been.
He just glanced confused between me and Nightmare before shrugging and stepping in the room after her. It wasn’t his problem. A second later I followed, muttering death threats the entire time as we descended down a long flight of stairs.
“It’s been over a thousand years, and yet they still insist on being overly dramatic with their hidden lairs, and descents into darkness, and...” She sighed. “Can’t they ever have normal laboratories?”
I didn’t have a comment on that. I wasn’t exactly experienced in secret laboratories.
The guard who was with us answered her though. “Making an impression is important Your Highness. The king has always valued shock and awe.”
“Sums up our battle tactics too,” I muttered.
He glanced back, and gave me an odd look. “In any case.” He returned his eyes to the front. “The laboratory carries the same architectural features as the rest of the palace. Tribal themed decorations and dark hallways, where the more practical areas are brightly lit.”
“Oh good, it’s brightly lit. That’s a bonus since the last time I was in a place like this.”
“Well back in the days of the tribes we’d yet to master basic masonry Your Highness,” he replied smoothly. “Making a window was a fair bit harder back then, so a lot of our structures were brightened by candles rather than sunlight. Plus gryphons have greater eyesight than ponies, so to your eyes I imagine it would have seemed quite dark.”
Who was this guard anyway? Was he just a history buff, or did they all have to learn this crap?
Nightmare chuckled. “I am the Mistress of the Night you know, darkness poses no threat to me. Now, please take me to the main experimental room.”
“Just through here,” he said as he stopped at a door. “And please, make sure your...” I glared at him. Say pet, I fucking dare you. After a moment he settled on, “...mate, doesn’t break anything.”
“How ‘bout I break your neck?” I asked him.
“Gilda,” warned Nightmare. “Please play nice. It took quite a bit of string pulling to get you out of the dungeon.”
I grit my jaw. Any chance I can go back there?
“Fine.” I muttered after a second. Though I swear I’m gonna murder the next prick that looks down at me.
The rest of the journey continued in silence, which was fine by me. Sure, gryphons looked my way, no doubt wondering what a dumb female was doing in a place like this, but at the sight of Nightmare Moon beside me, they wisely went back to whatever it was they were doing. Vials of random colored liquids, weird half constructed machines and piles of-
Wait, those machines reminded me of the ones we found in the temple. Don’t tell me they’re trying to make those monster things. What the fuck were they rebuilding those things for? What were those machines even supposed to do anyway? I doubt even Nightmare was fucked up enough to make those retarded monster things without a decent reason. I glanced over at her, wondering if she’d answer my thoughts. I didn’t want to ask and give these douchebags more reason to think I’m an idiot.
Instead of answering like she usually does, she just kept walking. Every so often her ears would twitch or her eyes would flick to the right like she was looking at something, but other than that, no response. Was she chatting with Luna? It’d certainly explain the way she was acting, but that’d mean they were pals, and I’m pretty sure they’re not exactly on speaking terms. Huh. Haven’t seen Luna in a while. I wonder how she feels about all this?
Whatever, I didn’t care. Luna was the reason I was in this mess. Fucking Tartarus. Thinking back to the dungeon in Canterlot, I doubt she’d really have killed that pony just to get me a jail sentence. I should’ve just told her to fuck off and faced trial. What’s the worst that’d have happened? A year of community service or a month’s jail time?
I can’t wait to get back to Equestria. Screw Nightmare and Luna and Trixie and every prick that had any association with nighttime.
We wandered around aimlessly, peeking into each room, watching gryphons go about their work. After a while Nightmare simply nodded and headed back towards the entrance.
“Everything seems to be in order. I shall return to my rooms and continue my studies into the matter,” she said over her shoulder.
The guard nodded and bowed. “I’ll happily escort you back Your Highness.”
We walked out of the lab and back into the darkened halls of the central complex. I took note of a few things on the way out that I was too pissed to notice on the way in. For one thing, a lot of guards seemed to be positioned to stop shit getting out, rather than in.
“What’s with these guard positions?” I asked the guy we were following. “They’re not setup right to stop anything from getting in.”
He glanced back at me, but didn’t answer the dumb female. Oh goddesses, I wanted to find me a nice bar, start some shit with whoever seemed like the biggest asshole in the room, break a few bones and beaks. Good clean fun. That was the great thing about Aviana. No male gryphon would ever admit to having his ass handed to him by a female.
Hey, Nightmare mentioned she wanted to see the sights earlier. Maybe that was an option.
We left the laboratories and were back in the corridors of the palace. A short, silent walk later, and we were back at the apartment. The guard bowed and returned to his position by the door as we entered. It shut behind us, and it only took a second for Trixie to speak.
“Oh, the lovebirds are back. Had a good date? Trixie sees some love bites on your neck,” she smirked.
I snarled and dove at her. She gasped and panicked as I pinned her to the ground. My talons closed around her neck and I put my eye right over hers in the ‘bird of prey’ pose.
“Make another fucking joke, I dare you,” I growled. My claw tightened and I felt a little blood.
“Please, as annoying as she can be, we still need her,” sighed Nightmare. “And I’d very much appreciate it if she didn’t have any broken bones or injuries.”
I glared at Trixie for another second before I let go and stood up. I wasn’t going to kill her anyway, and Trixie probably knew that, but I had to let her know she just crossed a line.
She didn’t say anything, just massaged her throat and glared back at me looking hurt.
I turned towards the fridge they had prepared for us. “I need a bloody drink.”
I was relieved to find there was no booze in there other than quality wines, so I had the excuse I needed to go out into the city.
“I’m going out.” I said to no one as I headed to the apartment door.
“Very well, try not to get arrested please,” called Nightmare from her desk. “It is getting late, don’t stay out too long.”
I shut the door behind me, and one of the guards immediately started to follow as I walked away. I ignored him. As long as he didn’t try to stop me I didn’t give a crap. I remembered this ugly as piss bar in the east quarter. Full of sailors and other hard hitting, hard drinking types. I couldn’t wait to get there.