//------------------------------// // Chapter 29: Help from above // Story: Hatred of the Anti-Brony // by Angrywritingskills //------------------------------// Now I’ve never been the slightest bit religious in my life. Never have I attended Sunday church or read scripture. Heck my parents didn’t even baptize me so I was pretty much doomed from the start. The closest thing I’ve had to a religious experience was when I attended a relative’s funeral. This guy I’ve never met before was apparently my mom’s last surviving uncle that apparently served with the U.S. Marines in Vietnam. My mom told me she had previously lived in the same apartment with him, and that he was a crazy religious man. Point is his funeral was also very religious, and I remember the church where the funeral was held and how ornate it was. There were paintings on the ceiling, candles everywhere, and multiple gold painted decorations. I forget the exact denomination but the funeral was very ceremonial. I found it very impressive and it left a lasting impression on me. My impression after that place was maybe religion isn’t that bad. I say it isn’t bad because growing up I was bombarded with anti-Christian propaganda from places like the internet and a couple of my old friends. It seemed that religion, at least where I was growing up, was dying off slowly. It was being killed by disinterest and hate from people like me, the white middle class. I remember back in the day people were very proud to call themselves atheists, and to denounce the church for being unrealistic or something like that. I stayed neutral since I was worried about all the hate that these atheists spewed forth. It wasn’t hate like me but mindless hate. I felt like these kids went on the internet read an article and instantly became philosophers with the life duty of destroying organized religion. Actually I felt bad for any religious folk, not that I’ve ever met any in real life. Obviously if two people were to debate science versus religion then science would have more credibility just based on facts alone. But I always found this to be cruel. To me it seems that if you have knowledge you shouldn’t use it to discredit someone just because you know they’re wrong. Instead you should use your knowledge to help everyone even if they don’t understand and let them come to their own conclusions. I guess that means I just don’t like smart people. Still I didn’t join the religious side because they too were not perfect. In fact each side had scumbags that fueled the flame war. The debate was mostly between these fanatics and it made everyone else look bad. Again I felt bad because I knew that one side would totally get destroyed in the end and the odds weren’t looking good for the church. So for some reason I naturally sided with the losing team. I can’t help it. I see someone or a group of people getting destroyed and I have to have sympathy for them no matter what they did before. I’ll admit that I do have soft spots for groups and people that probably don’t deserve my pity. I’m still trying to figure out if that makes me a better person or worse. Anyways, my soft spot for religion most likely stemmed from what happened to most organized religions around the world. When the first bronies went to Equestria they were to represent all of Earth’s cultures and values. This of course would be impossible unless everyone from all walks of life were sent to greet the ponies. That was the exact opposite of what happened. Instead we sent in the bronies, most of which were middle class college students coming from mainly white suburban households. That’s truthfully what most of them were, and mainly they came from America and Western Europe. They told the ponies the values they grew up with and what to avoid in human society. All of them told the ponies that we needed help to eradicate certain things from human society. They brought their Atheistic, liberal, and general snooty ideals. Alright that’s a bit subjective, since ponies also influenced us, but the point is we made a mistake. We let a minority speak for the majority which has never been good. So when the ponies came to Earth they followed the guidelines set by the bronies. With those guidelines Equestria sought to help improve Earth’s condition that the bronies claimed we suffered from. Equestria did end up helping us in things like crime and poverty, at least in the U.S; however this also had a negative impact on certain communities. During the shock and awe of Equestria’s arrival many things changed on Earth even before ponies began setting hoof in Earth’s society. There was panic and many people began questioning everything that was known about life. Religion was hit hard by this. On one side it seemed like a joke because of what was going on. And on the other side it seemed to strengthen the beliefs taught. Eventually the general conclusion was that on either side, religion or anti-religion, their faith was tested and became stronger. But then everything changed when the pony nation attacked. Now they didn’t attack with guns and firepower, although they would do that in other communities. They more of attack with ideals and forcing their beliefs onto us which I found to be very ironic considering that was a complaint against bronies. The guidelines they learned from bronies convinced them that the belief of any sort of higher power was ridiculous. Celestia, whom had previously been compared to a god, even denounced the thought of a being or force of greater power influencing the world. This caused a massive backlash in religious support. I guess people figured that if the pony god didn’t believe in the human God then there was no point of religion anymore. Combine Celestia’s input with Equestria’s indifference towards religion and humanity soon followed like we do with everything these days. Churches and temples of all kinds were abandoned throughout the world and I even heard some were burned to the ground. It’s also rumored that the Pope fell dead at the sudden changes. The new Pope I believe is not even forty years old. Despite all these things that happened which anger me a lot; they are not the reason for my interest in religion. The truth is religion, to me at least, is the ultimate human culture. It’s arguable the biggest difference in human to pony culture other than technology and biological difference. Ponies didn’t evolve with religion like us humans. Our history was heavily influence by worship. This differs greatly from ponykind that always had an immortal leader to guide them through hard time. We humans never had that privilege. We were always alone so when we looked for answers we had to find them ourselves. Humans let their imaginations look for answers while ponies were handed the answers to them. So I can conclude that humans are much more resourceful and creative than ponies ever will be because we had to go through our existence without direct guidance from a god. And in a way we did create the world of Equestria through the creative minds of a few. It was our imagination that created ponies and now it will be us that will destroy them. Also I’m open to the idea of someone in the sky looking after me. In times like these I could use another friend even if he’s probably not real. Pete didn’t lie. I found the church right where he said it would be. It’s kind of a disappointment to see that it isn’t as grand as the one at the funeral but I should have expected that from a place like Equestria. This church was simply a building that was in the middle of two other buildings. A big sign read Equestrian Worship of God like Pete told me. The whole thing looked oddly plain but that’s what I should expect since religion is so rare now. A once grand culture now beaten into the ground and never to spring back up, sad really. The night air gave me a chill and I headed into the establishment. When I entered my excitement was returned upon seeing the setup. It wasn’t ornate like the church that was at the funeral but whoever arranged it tried their best. There was a long red carpet in the middle of the room which led to an altar. Alongside the carpet were wooden pews all arranged to face toward the altar. The altar itself was a marble countertop with two candles burning on it. There was also a gilded cross between the candles. The church was pretty dark inside. The candles that were lit mainly focused on the altar. In fact the altar was the brightest thing in the room. It shined like a star in the night sky except it was the only star out. I found I was being drawn to it like I was some kind of moth. It looked so pure and hopeful. I think the word I’m looking for is holy. I placed my hands on the edge of the altar. I looked first at the candles and watched them burn for a second. Then I looked at the cross. It gleamed like a relic. It probably is a relic. I doubt crosses or any type of religious symbols are allowed in Equestria. Ponies are so against things like that. I swear I heard the cross began calling me and I raised my hand to touch it. “Could you not sir.” I heard a voice from my right. I cringed and retracted my hand. Footsteps were approaching to my right. Another human walked into the light which was calming to know that it was human. He was an old looking guy. About as old looking as Frank but he had grayish hair while Frank’s is still dark. The guy worth this dress looking cloak that had two crosses embroidered on it. “Sorry.” I said turning to him. “Are you the priest here?” I asked. He looked a bit annoyed. “I’m a little more important than a priest. I’m the pastor. Pastor Rick, if you please.” “And I’m Jim.” I replied. “Jim, if you please.” “Hrmph.” Rick grunted. “What are you doing here so late at night? Actually what are you doing here at all?” “Oh right, um, I was here to pray?” I answered. “To pray?” Rick eyeballed me. “Why don’t you pray at your home?” I didn’t have an answer to that. I’ve never prayed in my life and I always assumed you prayed in someplace holy. Rick took a step towards me. “What it looked like, two seconds ago, was you were trying to steal my cross.” “Oh, of course not.” I said taking a step away from the altar. “Stealing is a sin.” “It sure is.” Rick chuckled. “Did you know that this isn’t even gold?” He grabbed the cross. “The real one was taken from here a long time ago.” He banged the cross on the altar. “This one is wood.” “Oh, I’m sorry for your loss.” I said. “Don’t be.” Rick said. “Just get out of here.” “I can’t leave now.” I said. “I need to talk to God. I need to pray.” “What?” Rick snorted. “Have you ever been to church before?” “No.” I admitted. “But I’m here now. Look I just need to tell him something and then I’ll be out of here.” “Him?” Rick shook his head. “Fuck, you know nothing about scripture, do you?” “I don’t think God wants you to swear.” I squeaked. “Yeah well God also doesn’t want churches to burn but look what happened in 2018.” Rick replied. “Listen guy do whatever you want but make it quick. I’m closing up soon.” Rick walked away and left me alone with the candle light. Well here goes nothing. I got onto my knees and held my hands together. Taking a deep breath I began to speak out loud. “Dear heavenly father, one whom watches us and protects us from harm. One who’s good is above all mortal right. One that sent his son to die for our human sins. I come to you with dire news.” “Gosh I’ve never heard anyone butcher prayer like that.” I heard Rick call from the darkness. “Also you don’t need to say all that out loud. He’ll hear you just fine if you’re silent.” “Yeah but what if he doesn’t?” I called back. “What if our heavenly father can’t hear us because you don’t talk?” “You do realize that you’re supposed to be praying to the Holy Spirit for emergencies.” Rick yelled. “Actually, fuck it, do whatever you want.” I shrugged it off and continued. “I’ll be straight with you my lord, I’m gunna do something you might not like. I’ve tried to be good but I find myself being pulled down. Being good means to be idle and I just can’t anymore. I know I must persevere because it will pay off in the end, but my lord I fear that it won’t end well for me. I feel that if I am to wait then I’ll be a victim of Equestria’s tyranny. I’m not asking for answers. I’m not asking for anything. I figure you must hear a lot of what people want from you and I know how that can be. I too had a lot of pressure put on me once. I understand how it makes you not want to be around anyone. I just wanted to tell you something, that’s all, no wants or desires. I will sin and I will sin hard. My hands will become soiled with the blood of the innocent. Well if they can be considered innocent. If it were up to me I would say nobody in Equestria is innocent but that’s not up to me. Point is I just wanted to give you the heads up although you probably already knew with your ominous powers and stuff. You’re welcome to try and stop me and I know you could succeed if you wanted to. But please don’t. Shoot, I already told you I wasn’t gunna ask you for something. Anyways just wanted to chat for a second because I suspect I will be visiting you soon. You’re mortal servant, Jim, or if I’m going to be truthful Scott Douglas. Amen.” I stood back up and turned around. Immediately I was face to face with Pastor Rick. He didn’t look amused. “You done?” He asked. “I guess.” I answered. “I feel kind of relieved, so I think he heard me.” “That’s great, now get out of here.” Rick grunted. “Oh but don’t you want help blowing all these candles out?” I asked. “No.” Rick replied. “Just leave.” “But Jesus said you should always help others.” “Have you ever read that book?” Rick asked. “A lot of people told us to help others. Now shoo. I want to go to bed.” I began walking away when Rick suddenly called me. “Hey Jim.” He said. I turned around. Rick took on a softer tone. “Listen if you’re serious about all this then feel free to come back. This place doesn’t get a lot of visitors so I’ll admit I’m a little desperate for attention.” I grinned. “Sure I’ll come back real soon.” “That’s great.” Rick grinned back. “Listen this place is open from nine to ten every day. Sorry for being so mean. I’m just tired and frustrated is all.” “Ain’t we all?” I laughed and headed out the door. As I walked away I skipped a bit. It was nice to know I've got someone looking out for me all the time. And maybe Rick can do something for me later. I think I want to say goodbye and I need someone to pass the message. The next morning was special. Erik got to thinking and decided that we should see the type of weapons we are gunna be using. He and Jones had gotten into a conversation about the guns they trained with and they slowly began to wonder about the guns we’ll be using. They must have overlooked that detail because they were really anxious to see them. So I talked with Frank and had to coax him into letting us look at the guns. He agreed after I told him he had Jess’ permission. That was a lie. “Well here they are.” Frank said while lifting the lid of his weapon case. Everyone was in awe as they looked at the assorted collection of firearms. His collection looked about the same as it was back in New Canterlot. There were rifles, pistols, and shotguns. He still had machetes too. Normally I don’t think this would be that impressive but considering any type of firearm is banned in Equestria it must be amazing to see so many here. “Those are some pretty nice looking guns.” Jones said reaching into the case. Frank slapped his hand causing it to recoil back. “Hey, no touching the merchandise.” Frank hissed. “Well we got to get a look at it don’t we?” I said. “Not really.” Frank crossed his arms. “Excuse me Frank.” Erik walked next to Frank probably in an attempt to be friendly. “We just want to see just what they’re like. Both Jones and I have handled guns before so we do know what we’re talking about.” Frank gave Erik a look and leaned against his truck. “I don’t even know why you guys are so interested. I can’t sell to you so there’s no way you’re getting your hands on them.” “No but we’re gunna be using them so we would like to know first.” Erik explained. That made Frank visibly twitch. He looked at Erik like he was crazy. “What makes you think you’re gunna lay a finger on my guns, junior?” “Well Jim must have told you about what we’re gunna do. That is unless…” Erik trailed off. He slowly turned his head and look at me. A cold menacing stare was all that was left of his face. “You didn’t tell him shit, didn’t you?” Jones angrily spoke for Erik who probably was too angry himself to speak. “Ah relax guys.” I said confidently. “I mentioned it to him like a couple,” I stopped realizing that I never had the chat with him. My confidence quickly drained away. “Aw fuck!” “You boys better start explaining real quick.” Frank pointed at us. “I made a deal with you,” He pointed at me. “But it was just with you and not with them. That means they have nothing to do with anything.” Everyone was staring at me and I didn’t like it. It’s not my fault that I forgot to mention this to him. Well actually it is, but it’s not my fault that he’s reacting this way. Damn does everything fall apart when I put faith into other people? “Well I guess that’s it then.” Jones clapped his hands together. “No guns means nothing’s gunna happen.” He began to walk away. “No wait, stop.” I beckoned. “What a waste of time.” Erik grunted following Jones. They walked back into the shelter and with a loud slam they shut the door. My mind wasn’t processing everytign as fast as it could. I should be feeling desperate and lost but all I feel is anger. I turned to Frank. This is all his fault. He just couldn’t play ball with the rest of us. Well this old fucker is gunna pay! “Well you heard it.” Frank said. “Don’t worry I’ll keep up our deal. That’s part of being a good businessman.” “Good businessman?” I murmured and turned around to face him. “Are you kidding me?” “Listen Jim. We made an agreement between the two of us.” Frank said. “It never included others. If you wanted to include others then you should have made that the deal. You have to understand that you can’t just alter a deal like this. Now come over here and I can give you what you want.” I clenched my fists and stiffly approached the crate. “You know my inventory so feel free to take what you want. I’ll provide the ammunition after you choose what you want. Oh and don’t bother bring some over to those friends of yours. I know how much a man can carry by himself. In fact I want to see you holster each one you choose. Surprise me.” I stared at the guns. “Hey Frank. Can you tell me about those heroes?” “Huh?” He grunted. “Last time you told me that you’ve been pursued by people you call heroes.” I explained. “They tried to kill you with weapons you sold to them.” “Oh those guys.” Frank laughed. “Yeah they were just kids that thought they were clever. One of them actually thought the guns I sold were already loaded and pulled the trigger right in my face. I still don’t know what makes them do something like that. Wait, you ain’t getting any ideas?” “Who me? Nope.” I smirked. “Well I’ll have you know,” Frank wagged a finger at me. “That I found a way to work around that little problem. See what I did was I would sell the gun personally and then leave the ammo at a disclosed location for the customer to pick up. This made it so I was never in any real danger. You know, I think I’ll do that with you too. How’s that sound?” “Fantastic.” I growled through clenched teeth. “Great.” Frank grinned slyly. “So just make your choice and we’ll leave it at that.” I shook my head. “I have made my choice. And you know what? I think you need to learn the difference between a hero and a villain.” “Excuse me?” Frank said. “Let’s start with a hero, the embodiment of good.” I began to pace back and forth past the crate. “A hero does many things. Protects the innocent, fights for justice, always tells the truth, and other bullshit. Anyways those are some things a hero does or what they should do. Hero’s got codes, moral guidelines. They need to follow them or they cease to be a hero. And most importantly a hero must do heroic things. A no brainer right?” “I guess?” Frank said. “It makes sense why heroes look to kill you.” I said still pacing. “Equestria has had one of its leaders assassinated by a gun and another individual gunned down in this very city. Earth has had a long history of killing with guns so it makes sense to try and protect Equestria from that fate. So these human heroes try and kill you so no one else can die from the gun. That’s protecting the innocent. And trying to kill the man that sold the gun that killed Fluttershy, now that’s fighting for justice. As for telling the truth I really got nothing. Truthfully there’s nothing really heroic about getting personal revenge.” “Is this going somewhere?” Frank asked. “Because I’ve talked to Jess before and she told me you have a habit of going off on tirades.” “Shush I’m talking.” I growled. “Oh boy.” Frank sighed and took a seat on the crate after closing it. “Now on to villains.” I grinned. “I hate them, but everyone else seems to love them. I grew up in a culture that adored villains. Oh we’d try and glorify them by giving them deep voices and evil laughs with the occasional song thrown in that was better than the hero’s theme. They would stop the protagonist and do something diabolical like blow up a bus full of mentally disabled children. Then they would laugh and people would cheer. That’s all true in comics, movies, and incest fanfics but in real life it’s a different story. So if a man blows people up in a populated city, he is hated. Yet when a supervillian in a movie does it people think he’s awesome. Makes me think.” “Think what, Jim?” Frank asked sounding bored. “Do we support villainy or just the idea of it?” I said. “Like how do I know if someone is serious about something serious or not? If someone said, I want to kill somebody, would they do it or do they just like the idea of it. I often find myself wondering who is honest and who isn’t. I’ve found a lot of people lie when they claim they’re going to do something. It’s like back at school when my friend claimed he would keep my secret that I did find certain aspects of the brony fandom enjoyable. Then he went and told everybody, making me look like a big asshole. That was when I learned how much I hate people that lie. Honesty is the best policy and when people cheat me I can get really angry.” “Again, where is this going, Jim?” Frank asked this time very annoyed. “Where’s it going?” I said. “Actually I think I know. It’s gunna go that,” I stood in front of him. “It’s gunna go what?” “It’s gunna go,” I smirked but it didn’t last long. My lips turned up into a snarl and my hands found their way around Frank’s neck. I pushed him onto the ground where he hit the concrete hard. His back was against the ground and I leaned against him to pin him down. He struggled but I had his arms locked up. “See Frank I’m not a hero.” I hissed. “I pretty sure I’m a villain. And I don’t need a gun to kill you. But I’m not all bad. I’ll give you a chance to change your mind. Whadda ya say?” “Erk, eh, fuck you!” Frank coughed. I frowned and squeezed his neck harder. “Some people just can’t see reason.” I sighed. I let go of his neck with my right hand. Frank gasped as pressure was relieved from his windpipes. “Maybe some broken teeth will change your mind?” I said raising my fist in the air. But before I could swing down I was interrupted. Behind me, the door to the shelter swung open. “Yo Jim!” Rodney yelled. “What the fuck is this about no guns?” I turned my head to look at him. “I’m a little fucking busy at the moment!” “Oh.” Rodney must have taken notice to my predicament. “Hey Derek get over here!” He called. Derek ran out to join Rodney. “What?” He said and then noticed what I was doing. “Oh word?” “Yo check it out.” Rodney said. “My guess is; Jim is gunna beat the shit out of Frank here because he couldn’t get the guns.” “Oh, should we help him?” Derek asked. “Yeah I’m down for that.” Rodney nodded and cracked his knuckles. They walked over to us. Frank had gotten a hand free and now we were in a dead lock as we tried to overpower each other. Rodney and Derek walked past us and opened up the crate. “Damn look at these.” Derek said in awe. “Fucking gats everywhere.” Rodney added. “Yo Jim,” Rodney reached into the crate and took out a revolver, trying to hand it to me. “Blast this fool’s head off, come on.” I scowled at him. “He doesn’t load those things.” I shoved the revolver away quickly with a recently freed hand. “Just help me-oof!” A force hit my stomach and made me weak enough for Frank to throw me off him. I was on the ground but I didn’t stay down there for long. I quickly scurried to my feet. The whole time my eyes were off Frank but when they returned I was in for a shock. “Get back you motherfuckers!” Frank yelled pointing a pistol at us. He had a bewildered expression on his face as he switched pointing the gun between all of us. Rodney and Derek backed off. “Relax guys.” I smirked wiping the dust off me. “Guns aren’t loaded, remember?” Frank pointed the pistol in the air and pulled the trigger. The resulting shot echoed off the walls of the alleyway, making it sound like it came from all around us. I jumped out of my skin and also jumped away from Frank. Oddly I found myself in between Rodney and Derek as they clung to me like scared children. A sense of importance took over me as I realized that they were just as scared as me but we were in this together. It took me a few seconds to realize they were actually using me as a human shield. Damn punks. “Now here’s how it’s gunna work.” Frank said exasperated. “I’m gunna put the guns into my truck and then I’m leaving this city. Don’t try and find me.” “But you can’t go.” I said taking a step towards him and away from my friends. “We still have a deal.” “Boy!” Frank barked. “You broke that deal the minute you laid your hands on me. And it’s too bad because I was fine with letting you borrow.” “Well the deal had to be altered.” I continued taking yet another step closer. “You’re lucky I didn’t alter it further.” “You need to learn how business works. And don’t you dare take another step or I’ll blow your brains out!” Frank pointed the gun right at my head. I sighed and took in a deep breath. “Alright I’m sorry.” I said surprising everyone around me. “I was acting crazy and I apologize. But I’m okay now so how about we put that behind us and you give those guns to my buddies?” Frank frowned. “Not a chance.” I returned the frown. “Then I give up.” I stated. “You win. Just kill me before you go.” “What?” Frank spat. “You think I’m gunna live this down?” I asked. “No, I’m never gunna forgive myself for wasting an opportunity that I could have had. So shoot me, please.” “You’re out of your mind.” Frank growled. I began walking towards him. “Hey, I said stay the fuck back!” But I ignored him so he started to walk backwards. Eventually his back was pressed against his truck and the pistol shook in his hands. I grabbed his hands and pulled, thus I brought the gun to my head. “Come on.” I growled. “Pull the fucking trigger!” Frank struggled to free himself but I held on tight. “Just do it. I don’t even want an open casket. I want to kill people. But if I can’t do it then fuck it all then.” “Fuck you!” Frank shouted and he let go of the gun. I was left holding it to my head until I too dropped it. I stared at it on the ground before kicking it towards Frank. He quickly snatched it up. “Thanks.” He muttered. “No problem.” I said. A feeling of tiredness swept over me. My mind slowly started to roam inside its own world as I planned what I would be doing next. Most likely I will be leaving the shelter tonight. There’s nothing for me here. Like back at home with mom and dad, there was nothing there and the same goes for here. I need to be where there is action and opportunity. I almost had it but I let it slip away. This whole situation reminds me of the anarchists. Seems I’ve been betrayed yet again. First Zayn and now Frank. “Rodney, Derek!” I heard a distinct southern accent from behind us. I turned to see Casey Waterman walking out of the shelter. A wave of remembrance came over me. He was the southern lawyer that got me to go on that drug deal with Rod and Derek. Damn, I haven’t seen him in months. Wonder how he’s been. “What’s up Case?” Rodney greeted him. “Oh nothing much.” He said then looked at me. “Jim! How it’s going?” He walked over to me and shook my hand. “Haven’t seen you in a while. You having fun being a drug dealer?” “Gah, aaaah!” Derek stammered and stamped his foot. “Case, you don’t just go around and announce stuff like that!” “Why? Who’s gunna hear us?” Casey laughed and then noticed Frank standing there by his truck. “Oh shit, sorry I didn’t see you there.” Casey said and approached him. “My name’s Casey Waterman.” “Frank.” Frank shook Casey’s hand slowly. “Frank?” Casey repeated. “Where have I heard that name before?” Casey paused for a second. “Ah forget it. That’s not important. But anyways, Jim, how has drug dealing been? Quite profitable I should think.” “Casey I haven’t made any money.” I told him. “What?” He exclaimed. “But you went with them. I saw you.” “Yeah I did go. Bu then I got shanked.” I lifted up my shirt to show off the scar that was left. “I quit after that.” “Ah you can’t just quit after something like that.” Casey whined. “You gotta get back on the horse that threw you.” Then he paused and looked at Rodney and Derek. “Why didn’t you guys tell me he quit?” “Ah shit I forgot.” Rodney admitted. “Didn’t forget, just never bother tell you.” Derek shook his head. I shot him a dirty glare as Rodney just rolled his eyes. “Well anyhow, there’s something I need to tell you before I forget.” Casey said. “I don’t know if you heard it but a moment ago I definitely heard a gunshot go off.” I glanced at Frank who immediately tensed up. “It sounded close too,” Casey continued. “Don’t suppose you know anything about that?” I grinned. “Well Case,” I sneered. “If you want to find your shot heard around the world then look no farther to…” But before I could finish, Frank had something to say. “None of you move!” Frank yelled again, pointing his weapon at us. I backed away immediately but to my surprise Casey grew a huge smile on his face. “Wow!” He exclaimed and looked right down the barrel of Frank’s pistol. “An M9, American, I appreciate that.” Frank twitched. “Actually it’s Italian. It was adopted by the U.S.” Frank shook his head. “You’re distracting me!” He spat. “Now I’m gunna walk to my truck and leave, like I said I would.” He began walking backwards, always with his pistol pointed at us. “I’ll need help loading the crate back in the bed so maybe you could do it for me. And don’t think about touching…” He never completed his sentence because he took a wrong step and fell to the ground. I watched it all happen. His clumsy ass just caused him to stumble over his own feet. I hope I never get that old that I can’t walk right. As he fell he tried to recover but this only made things worse. And when he did hit the ground he hit it hard. “Hah!” I laughed. Casey shot me an angry glance. “What?” I said. Casey just grumbled. “Ah! God damn it! My fucking back!” Frank cried grabbing behind him. “Fuck!” He tried getting up but he just seized and fell back down. Casey walked over to him. “Come on. Take it slow now.” He said gentling help Frank up on his feet. “An old fella like you needs to take it slower.” “I’m fifty nine, turning sixty in a couple months.” Frank said as Casey eased him into a sitting position on the crate. “I shouldn’t be getting hurt like this.” “Some people age differently than others.” Casey shrugged. “I’m forty three and I have minor gout.” There was a silence after that. Everyone seemed to be confused as what should happen next. To my surprise Rodney and Derek had left the scene. Probably left because it was getting scary at parts, or they lost interest. Either way the most important thing to do is to find out what I’m gunna do now. Until recently the only solution was to just leave and pursue something else. But now I see another path. Maybe I can get those guns after all. It will be simple. Frank can’t really object now so all I have to do is overpower him and then that’s it. But why does that make me feel bad? “Casey.” I said getting his attention. “You’re a lawyer, so you know plenty about the law, right?” “Sure.” Casey smiled. “I know the law, for the most part.” “I got a hypothetical.” I started. “If I were to make a deal with someone,” I saw Frank raised his head to me. “And let’s say the deal changed. Would each party have to uphold the deal even if it wasn’t what they originally agreed upon?” “Well of course.” Casey replied. “If each party agreed to an alteration then they have to go through with it. The old deal would have been nullified after a new deal was signed.” “Hah!” I pointed at Frank. “You heard him! Where’s my guns?” “Huh?” Casey looked at both of us. “What’s going on here?” “Let me explain before this dumbass says anything more.” Frank growled looking at Casey. “I got into that shelter because of Jim. And because of that he thinks I owe him a favor.” “Ya kind of do.” Casey said. “And I was fully willing to do him a favor. So we made a deal.” Frank grimaced. “I would give him some of my guns in exchange for him getting me a place to sleep. However Jim changed the deal without my consent and I objected. Then he attacked me after giving a boring lecture about some bullshit.” “Aaah.” Casey nodded. “So you are the arms dealer that Jess told me about. I thought the name Frank sounded familiar.” “What!” I exclaimed. “When did she tell you that? It was supposed to be a secret.” “She told me a while ago. She just mentioned it because she was frustrated that he was trying to sell guns to the homeless.” Casey explained. “Oh so it was before I got him in.” I breathed out. “Well that’s good but now I have business to attend to.” I began walking towards Frank. He tensed up and leaned back, but before I could get to him Casey stopped me. “Now hold up.” He said with a hand on my chest. “I’m sure you have problems and such. And I know you ain’t exactly the brightest person.” He took his hand off me. “But I believe there is a resolution to this. Let’s see here. Jim, first you got to apologize.” “For what?” I snarled. “Um you attacked him apparently.” Jones explained. “Also you clearly have no idea how business dealings work. That deserves an apology to his entrepreneurship.” “Uuuuuuuuuuh!” I groaned. “I already apologized though.” “Immaturity isn’t a good trait an entrepreneur should have.” Casey scowled. “Fine.” I cleared my throat. “Frank I’m sorry for attacking you and making an unfair deal.” “Good, now Frank.” Casey turned to him. “Give him what he wants.” “Excuse me?” Frank said. “Ah yeah, bitching!” I shot my fist in the air. “Get off that crate, old man.” “Stop!” Casey raised his hand, halting me. “First Frank has to agree.” “I ain’t agreeing to nothing.” He muttered. “Come on now.” Casey took a seat next to him. “It ain’t that difficult and besides, it’s for a good cause.” I shuddered. “What you know about cause, Casey?” He looked up at me and I saw an earnest look. “Rodney and Derek filled me in a while ago. They were vague but I support you.” “T-thank you.” I stammered full of gratitude. I’m so happy to have another person in this with me. Brings a tear to my eye. “Now Frank.” Casey said putting his hand on the old man’s shoulder. “I know that Equestria is a difficult environment for humans like us to have a career. I’ll admit that if I were to go back home to the states I would find plenty of opportunity as a lawyer.” “You’re a lawyer?” Frank said. “Ah shit. The last thing I need is a lawyer sticking his nose around.” “I think a lawyer is the first thing you need.” Casey replied. “What you’re doing is a crime, according to Equestrian law, but like all crimes there is a way out. That’s where I come in. If you let Jim and his friends take their guns then I’ll offer my service to you, free of charge.” “Now why would I need a lawyer?” Frank asked angrily. “In case you get into a little trouble.” Casey replied. “I’m in the system, a little. I can certainly help you. And besides I’m good with managing things like this. I could cover transactions and tell you the most efficient locations in the city. I do that with the two gentlemen you saw earlier. And they make a killing out there. ” “I’ve survived long enough on my own.” Frank huffed. “And look where you are because of it.” Casey said. “You’re homeless and on the run. And most recently you got hurt. Next time it could be worse. Do you really want to take that chance?” Frank grunted. “I’ll stick to how it has always been. Worked for me long enough.” I began walking forward to confront Frank. I’m gunna rip his head off. There really is no other way to tackle this. As I was about to get closer, Casey rose his hand to me. “What?” I snarled. “Could you calm yourself for a goddamn minute so I can negotiate?” He asked sternly. I stopped. “You’ve talked enough, fat ass! Now I’m gunna strangle that Jew, so move out of the way!” Casey stood up abruptly. “You really gunna try something, little man?” He stood right in front of me. His massive figure dwarfed my slender form. I gulped. “I have God on my side.” I murmured remembering last night. “Ha!” Casey laughed. “The last people I met that said that aren’t around anymore.” He put his arm around me. “Let’s take a seat. Scoot over Frank.” Casey sat me down on the crate next to Frank. He then sat down on the other side of Frank. Frank was giving me a dirty look. “Jew.” I said. “Psycho.” He said back. “Both of you,” Casey growled. “Shut up. Now Frank.” Frank looked at him. “Since you’re not gunna cooperate I see no reason to try and protect you. So I’m gunna do the opposite.” “What do you mean?” Frank hissed. “I don’t think anyone really heard that gunshot.” Casey explained. “Some may have but many others probably thought it was a car backfiring or some other loud noise. Still I think you’re safe. The only way you’d be in trouble would be if someone contacted the authorities. Wait a minute,” Casey reached into his pocket and produced a smart phone. “I can.” “What!” Both me and Frank exclaimed and I jumped out of my seat. “It’s simple.” Casey said. “I call the cops and they come and see the guns. Then they’ll arrest Frank here and I will gain credibility for bringing in an arms dealer.” “What do you gain exactly?” Frank asked. “Other than the respect of the authorities?” Casey laughed. “Well it ain’t the job of a lawyer to catch the criminal. But if I do and testify against you then I’ll get prominence within all of Equestria, thus heightening my career to a new level.” “But, but,” I stammered. “Then how will I get my guns?” “Oh I’m sure you’ll have plenty of time to grab as many guns as you can before the cops arrive.” Casey said. That made me perk up a bit. I looked at Frank who was surprisingly stoic about all this. He looked straight ahead with this frown on his face. The features on his face seemed to be more pronounced. Every wrinkle and every dent had been given more depth which made him seem about a hundred years older. “So.” He grumbled. “Both of you extort me in the same day at the same time. I feel like I should be surprised, but I’m not.” He looked at Casey. “You were offering to help me a few seconds ago. Does that offer still stand?” “It absolutely does.” Casey replied. “You give Jim and his friends their guns and I will give you my protection under the law.” “How much will that cost?” Frank asked. “Absolutely free of charge.” Casey said. Frank took a minute before responding. “Guess I don’t really have a choice.” He held out his hand to Casey but did not look at him. “You have a deal.” Casey shook it. I could kind of see a spark of gratitude in his eyes. “Oh and I forgot to mention.” He grinned. “I don’t think this place is gunna be safe for you anymore. Jess can’t treat you if you get hurt and it’s not good to stay in such a populated area with what you’re doing. So I think you’ll be moving in with me. My house is too big anyways.” “Really?” Frank looked at Casey. “Huh, you didn’t mention that before.” “You didn’t ask.” Casey replied. “But I figure it’s the least I can do for one of my clients.” Casey looked at me. “Jim.” “Yes, sir?” I responded. “Get your buddies out here.” He grinned. “We’re having a gun auction.” *** “Thank you so much for all you’ve done, C,” Twilight said into her phone. “It was no problem.” Curizno said from the other line. “I’m always happy to help protect Equestria’s integrity.” “A patriot, I like that.” Twilight beamed. “Actually I’m not an Equestrian citizen.” Curizno admitted. “Then you’re a foreign influence looking out for a developing country.” Twilight said. “It was noble of you to bring Blue Star to my attention. And now that it’s over, Equestria is once again a safer place.” “I hope they didn’t give you any trouble.” Curizno said. “Oh, taking them apart was easy.” Twilight replied. “One of the executives tried to convince me that what I was doing wasn’t justified.” She laughed. “He told me I can’t simply destroy his corporation that he built. Then he told me the normal bullshit about taking jobs away from workers and how I’m hurting the economy.” “Mhmm.” Curizno muttered. “But we’ll bounce back.” “Exactly!” Twilight exclaimed. “Like, every pony knows those corporations are mostly bad. But if kept in line they are fine.” “Yep.” Curizno replied. Twilight couldn’t see it but he was smiling uncontrollably. It of course had been him that manipulated her to enforce the sudden cease and desist of Blue Star Security. Playing off her emotions was easy but he had also played off of her prejudices. She studied human economics in her pursuit to understand humanity. But just because she studied it doesn’t mean she understood it. Simply put, Curizno knew that everything she just said was wrong but he convinced her it was right. It the end he now controlled Blue Star’s assets and had gained the respect of the princess. What a victory. “Again thank you so much.” Twilight repeated. “I know it didn’t give us who killed Flutters, but I feel better knowing that the people partly responsible have paid for it all. I very much look forward to working together in the future, Mr. C.” “As do I.” Curizno replied. “You have a good weekend.” “You too.” And with that Twilight hung up the phone. She stretched a bit, sprawling herself out on her bed. She was in one of her personal rooms in a government building in New Canterlot. It was her day off from her busy schedule and there was nothing more she wanted to do than do nothing. Sure she could go out but there was always that issue with people watching her when she was out. Too many eyes judging every step she took. It was better to just be alone from time to time. It made her feel good. She felt good now. Now the real question was what to do. Studying was always an option. There was still so much to know about humanity. Their history was so diverse and their ideologies so complex. However she was exhausted from them for now so that was out of the question. It was sad to say but work was her main focus in her life now. Work consumed all her free time. Every day she was on her feet traveling to a meeting or to appear in public for some announcement. Very boring stuff yet she took pride in knowing it made a difference. Sighing to herself, she levitated a magazine from under her bed. Lying on her back, she opened it up. “You are one hunk a stallion.” She purred admiring the image. But before she could fully appreciate her magazine, the only window in her room opened up. With a squeak she quickly hid the magazine back under the bed. “Heeeeeey, Twilight!” came the energetic voice of Pinkie Pie. “Pinkie?” Twilight peered at her friend as she came through the window. “What are you doing here? How did you get up here? This room is on the eighth floor.” “Question, questions, questions, Twily.” Pinkie bobbed her head from side to side as she walked. “Why can’t you be like the humans? It’s Pinkie, don’t question it they say.” “Arrgh.” Twilight groaned. “This is my day off. Is something the matter?” She hopped off her bed. “Do I need to be somewhere?” “No silly.” Pinkie laughed. “I’m here because it’s your day off. Let’s do something.” Twilight shook her head. “I’m not going out, Pinkie. I hate all the stares I get from those humans. They’re goddamn annoying. Can’t go anywhere now without one of them trying to approach me. Did I even mention how annoying the body guards can get?” “Oh I know what you mean, sister.” Pinkie replied. “Sometimes I just wanna go out and, and…” Pinkie trailed off for a bit. Her head nodded down but then came back up. “And go crazy!” Twilight looked at her friend a bit concerned. “Pinkie, are you high right now?” Pinkie smirked. “Well we are eight stories above the ground so…” “Aaah, I knew something was up.” Twilight shook her head. “I remember now, you’re supposed to be under the care of your sister, Maud. Where is she?” “Pffft.” Pinkie giggled. “Maud, Shmaud. Big sister is getting a little too overprotective, if you know what I mean.” “That’s because she’s looking out for you.” Twilight explained. “You’re relapsing Pinkie. The doctors said this would happen. I’m calling for help.” “No Twilight!” Pinkie sprung at her and covered her mouth. “We need to have fun. It’s your day off and you are not wasting it masturbating to cute stallions in those dirty magazines you keep under your bed.” Twilight gasped as she moved Pinkie’s hooves away from her mouth. “How do you know about those?” “Where do you think I keep mine?” Pinkie retorted. “Moving on.” Twilight said. “I am not going anywhere with you. I hate the public eye and I hate humans looking at my flank.” “Why? You have a nice flank.” Pinkie said. “Thanks.” Twilight growled and moved her tail to cover herself. “But the point is I’m content to stay here and, uh, read. Thank you very much.” “Twilight, wait.” Pinkie ran in front of Twilight to get her attention. “There’s this place that you’ll really like called the Magic Mist. It’s in Manehattan. We can go there. It’s just a quick flight over. We can take a helicopter. It’ll be totally private. Just me and you.” “Pinkie.” Twilight stated. “What the hell is the Magic Mist?” Pinkie grinned. “A strip club.” Twilight face hoofed. “You have got to be kidding me?” “Come on, I know you’ll love it.” Pinkie pleaded. “Why would I like a place like that?” Twilight asked. “Because you’re a sex addict and are always horny.” Pinkie replied. Twilight’s left eye twitched. “Why do you know that?” “I’m your friend.” Pinkie said. “And besides it’s not like you keep it a secret.” “Are, are you calling me a whore?” Twilight snarled. It was something she was very sensitive about. People were always talking about that touchy subject and it made herself conscious. But it was her way of relieving stress so she needs it. “Well I wouldn’t use that word to your face but…” Pinkie paused “you kind of are.” Twilight dead panned. She wasn’t angry but she wanted to hit Pinkie’s pink nose until it turned red. They stared at each other for a moment. There was tension in the air that was just begging to be released. Neither of them knew what to do. “I’ve know what to do.” Pinkie suddenly said. “I don’t want to hear it.” Twilight growled. “You don’t have to.” Pinkie reassured her. “Just pucker up.” “Pucker up, what are you talking about?” But before Twilight could further object, Pinkie had grabbed her head. Pinkie then proceeded to lock lips with her princess friend in a passionate kiss. They broke away soon after with Twilight in confusion and shock. “So,” Pinkie panted. “You horny now?” Twilight looked at her friend. Something like that had never happened before but it had definitely relieved the tension. “You know what, Pinkie?” Twilight smiled challengingly. “I am.” “Awesome! So we’re going?” Pinkie asked. “Definitely.” Twilight replied. “And I think I want a mare this time around.” “Ah yeah!” Pinkie exclaimed. “This is gunna be great. Let’s go now.” With that, Pinkie galloped to the open window and launched herself out. “Pinkie! You can’t fly,” Twilight screamed as she dove after her friend.