//------------------------------// // Chapter 7 // Story: War Criminals // by Dirty Bit //------------------------------// Chapter 7 Oncoming Storm The next morning, Celestia woke from her slumber with a quiet yawn as she rose from her bed. She rubbed her eyes before stretching her limbs and making for her large vanity, frowning at her reflection in the mirror not out of her tired appearance, but what was bound to happen later today. Using her magic, she levitated a brush towards her mane and began grooming herself. 'I should've known Fukuro wouldn't keep his talkative habit under control. Hopefully, this day won't be too bad.' She thought to herself as she carefully brushed her mane while she gained more energy. After she had finished, she looked towards her balcony and knew what she had to do. Setting her brush down on her table, she trotted to the balcony, where she noticed her sister standing at the ready from the tower opposite to her own. She noticed a hardened look in Luna's eyes, and it was obvious she had news to share from her dream walking. With a deep breath, Celestia focused her magic and began to raise the sun while Luna lowered the moon with her own. When morning had been officially made to Equestria, Celestia decided to seek out her sister to see what she had found from Lucci's dream. Celestia exited her room, shutting the door behind her as she trotted along the halls. She wondered about how to explain to the element bearers about her awkward position of housing a group of deadly assassins brought into their world through Discord's magic. Hopefully, she wouldn't be met with many difficulties, although to her, it was nothing but wishful thinking. 'I should be more worried if news about their true identities have spread all through Ponyville. News travels fast in Equestria, after all...' Celestia thought with mild dread. As caring as she was for the humans despite their dark background, she couldn't risk throwing her country into a panic and having her be questioned from all angles for her actions. She shook her head, wanting to save that thought for another time. Eventually, she had found Luna approaching Celestia with the same hardened expression as before, as if she were trying to imitate Lucci for fun. "Luna, I see that you're not entirely in good spirits this morning. Is something the matter?" Celestia asked inquisitively as the two sisters stopped in front of each other. "It is much worse than you think, sister..." Luna said in a grave tone "There is nothing we can do about Rob Lucci; nothing whatsoever." Celestia craned her head back at the blunt response. "Whatever do you mean? Has he discovered you in his dreams?" She asked, to which Luna shook her head. "His is but a mind devoid of dreams; a mind that not even Discord would approve of were he to glance for himself." Luna said as she narrowed her eyes "That Lucci is an irredeemable monster!" "Can you please explain to me what was seen, Luna? I cannot agree with you completely if you leave out the details." Celestia said evenly, to which Luna took a deep breath as she hung her head, her expression softening, though was intermingled with fear. "The dreams of Rob's fellow assassins were more tame compared to his...I've seen horror in the form of several beaten humans crowding him in their rotting state. There were more than a hundred, and they all wanted retribution for what he's done to them." Celestia's eyes widened. "The worst part of it was that not only did he stand there without remorse, but the humans seen in his dreams were-...were departed souls; all innocent..." "Innocent?" Celestia said before her own features hardened as well in realization "Of course...Rob doesn't discriminate on who he kills so long as they've committed a crime in his eyes." She closed her eyes "So your story checks out. Try as we might, there may be no hope for him, so long as he clings to his concept of Dark Justice." "Which is why we must send them out of our world immediately!" Luna snapped, causing Celestia to flinch at the sudden change of volume "Even if the other humans are not as malignant in mind as Rob Lucci doesn't mean they shouldn't remain here and possibly end up stirring trouble in Equestria." "You forget that Discord is directly responsible for their actions, Luna..." Celestia replied softly, wishing for her sister to tone down her anger. "All the more reason to do just that!" Luna countered "I'll admit that Discord's idea of reforming Lucci and his allies was a good idea, but after seeing their true colors, I don't believe they should stay here any longer. I'll even present the matter to him personally!" "Did somepony say present?" In between the royal sisters was a brief flash that revealed a smiling Discord holding a wrapped present. He looked between them, oblivious to their current moods. "I should remember to see the humans off with some once it's time for them to leave. They really are a treat, aren't they?" He said cheerfully. "Discord..." "Although something tells me that I should do something about Blueno, seeing as how he's about as stone-faced as Lucci. But what should I do for him?" "Discord." "Perhaps a baseball would suit him just fine. Nopony can deny a good game of baseball once in a while, right?" "Discord!" Celestia's patience was something that wasn't easily shattered by most ponies, but given today's news and Discord's usual antics, she was in no mood to endure any of his tomfoolery. After grabbing his attention, the solar princess spoke to Discord in a calmer fashion. "There's something you need to know about Rob that requires your status as caretaker to decide carefully on." Celestia said "From what Luna had gathered, Rob might not be cut out to accept the Magic of Friendship after peering into his dreams. She advises that they're to leave this world post haste." "Really?" Discord said as he craned his head back before facing Luna "Mind filling me in on the details?" "It is exactly as my sister had said: There's no hope for Rob Lucci, and he must leave at once along with the other assassins. They have no place in this world." Luna said harshly. Discord frowned at the response. "Well that's a little harsh, don't you think? You're not giving me the full story. What compelled you to change your tune so quickly, Lu-Lu? Was it something in his dreams?" Discord asked curiously. "His dream was nothing of the sort. He reveled in his so-called justice with complete disregard towards friendship. It was a horrifying image that would amount to a memory of one of his past deeds in his line of work." Luna explained "Which is why that I demand that you see to the departure of these assassins at once. Their presence here cannot stand any longer." "Luna, calm yourself." Celestia admonished with a frown "Even if we cannot condone the humans and their stay here, we don't know if they're being followed at this moment. We need to act quickly on the matter at hoof." Celestia looked towards Discord "I would like for you to round up your assassins and have them meet me in the throne room for a briefing." She trotted past Discord and Luna with a stoic expression "This could be a rough day for us all..." The two watched Celestia leave before looking at each other. "Something else is obviously bothering my sister, but what could it be?" Luna asked Discord, to which he shrugged with a sheepish grin. "Let's just say that while you were busy in Dreamland, we got an unexpected message that expects an audience this very day." With a snap of his talons, he made a scroll appear for Luna to read before he floated away "Memorize it before burning it, little Lu-Lu!" He said teasingly before he was out of sight. Luna studied the contents of the scroll before her she appeared surprised. The surprise was slowly replaced with a serious expression as she looked up from the scroll. "Of course. They would be as involved in this as we are..." _____ "Rise and shine, everyone! You're needed!" Discord proclaimed in a singsong tone after opening a door from the air. He expected drowsy complaints and protests, but he noticed how each assassin was awake and alert, even performing morning stretches and dressing themselves. Kaku halted his stretching to look over at Discord. "You want us to follow you, Chief Discord?" Kaku asked. 'Huh...They're more attentive than I thought.' Discord thought blankly before smiling "I'm glad you're all awake. All of you are to partake in a mandatory audience in the throne room in a couple of hours. I know it can be boring, but you pretty much have to." "Understood. We shall not miss this meeting." Lucci replied dispassionately before he began to dress himself. "Hey, Chief. What's on the menu for today?" Jabra asked as he stretched his arms upward, earning a couple of satisfying pops "Can't exactly focus on an empty stomach." "That'll be taken care of when you're ready. But try not to take too long; they may be patient, but Celestia and Luna both wish to have this audience of theirs go as swimmingly as possible." Discord said with a wink. "Yoyoi~! Whatever it is that requires our presence for the princesses must be of u-u-utmost importance~!" He was oblivious to a muttering of 'No shit' as he continued "I shant turn away from such an opportunity~!" "Chief Discord..." Discord looked over at Kalifa, who was already dressed up with an unreadable expression behind her glasses "As much as I'm aware of today's agenda, I would like to ask a small favor from you, if you don't mind..." "A favor, you say? Well, I'm not one to turn away a small request. What is it you desire, Kalifa?" "Well..." _____ "Dear Princess Celestia," The Friendship Express was riding across the tracks leading towards Canterlot. Inside of it were six ponies in particular with varying expressions on their faces, most of which were serious. "It has come to our attention that you haven't told us much about the human guests that have been brought into Ponyville courtesy of Discord." Twilight looked out the window in deep thought, paying no mind to the faint reflection that was cast while the train drew closer towards its destination. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were just as pensive as their friend, although the former merely looked down with her forehooves crossed while the latter hid her eyes under her hat. "From this turn of events, we feel that we're obligated to a full explanation of their origin, as well as the possibility of inspecting the supposed magic field that had allowed them to cross into this world." Fluttershy was fidgeting her hooves, not too keen about where she was headed with her friends, even if it was for a good reason. Rarity sat next to the timid pegasus, laying a comforting hoof on her back and easing her of the tension despite its gradual growth. "If a situation were to arise because of this, it would be negligent of us as the Elements of Harmony to turn a blind eye from this whole thing, with or without our elements." The only pony who paid no mind to the tension on the train was Pinkie, who was blithely kicking her hindlegs while tilting her head left and right as she hummed a merry tune. Despite her cheerfulness, however, she was just as curious as her friends about the assassins. "Note that I don't take advantage of my new status because as you mentioned in your letter to me: My friends and I have a right to know. From all that is presented in this message, it is with these reasons that I, along with my friends, request an audience with you, your sister, Discord, and the humans. We'll see you tomorrow afternoon." After enough time had passed, the Friendship Express had finally stopped in Canterlot's train station, exerting steam with a loud hiss as it slowed to a stop. The six ponies saw fit to exit the train and make a beeline towards the castle in the distance with ambition in their eyes. "Sincerely, Princess Twilight Sparkle." As they reached the front gates of the castle, the guards immediately bowed in genuflect before allowing the mares to pass. The group made their way inside the castle and proceeded into the throne room, knowing the path there from memory. On their way up the stairs, they noticed Discord leading the group of assassins with a laidback expression before he saw them, instantly grinning at the mares. "Oh, hello there, girls. I take it you're well despite the...well...sudden turn of events?" Discord asked with feigned innocence. "We're not entirely happy with what we found out the other day, Discord." Twilight shot back "Also, I'm not entirely comfortable speaking with you like this." "Hey, gimme a break here." Discord said with his claws held in a placating motion "Sure, I might've left out some details, but would you be so welcoming if I said I brought a group of deadly assassins to Ponyville?" "Doesn't change the fact that you kept something from us, you jerk!" Rainbow Dash spat. "I thought we were your friends, Discord." Fluttershy mewled with hurt eyes. "We are, Fluttershy, but this is something that'll be discussed once we run in with the princesses." Discord said before turning to his associates "So, shall we, folks?" "Kalifa still has to catch up, chapapa!" Fukuro piped up compulsively, earning the attention of the others. "What's takin' Kalifa so long? Is she busy puttin' makeup on or somethin'?" Applejack asked. "Well, there isn't anything wrong with preparing for an audience, Applejack." Rarity said before looking back towards the corridor where the other group came from. Hoofsteps were heard as a pony was seen stumbling a moment before regaining their footing and meeting up with the others. It appeared to be a unicorn mare with a dark blue coat and a blonde mane done in a ponytail. She was seen with a calculating glance behind her glasses, and a bar of soap surrounded by bubbles was seen as her cutie mark. When she reached the others, Jabra sneered at the newcomer. "I still can't believe you went with this. Did you honestly take me that seriously last night?" He asked abrasively. "Wait a minute..." Twilight said before she widened her eyes "Kalifa, is that really you?" "Indeed." Kalifa said with a nod as she straightened her glasses "It's a pleasure to see you all again. I do hope you don't mind my true form." "Wow! You look pretty for a pony, Kalifa!" Pinkie complimented with a grin. "I must agree with Pinkie, darling; you look rather nice." Rarity smiled as she examined her, though it vanished "I'd love to go on, although it'd be inappropriate given the current circumstances." "You can banter to your heart's content after the audience." Lucci cut in without hesitation "Chief Discord was just leading us to the throne room..." He noticed the varying expressions he received from the mares after he spoke up. Most of them didn't seem happy, but it didn't really matter to him. Hattori noticed the look in Fluttershy's eyes and hid himself beneath a wing, feeling ashamed. "Yes, Rob brings up a good point. Sorry, my little ponies, but it's business before pleasure today..." Discord then turned away and continuously spat from his mouth, gagging in disgust. "Is something wrong, Chief?" Kaku asked with mild concern. "No, I'm fine..." Discord said as he turned back to face the others with a frown of disdain "Saying that just left a bad taste in my mouth is all." His mood instantly shifted as he hovered away "Let's go, folks!" The humans and ponies traded looks amongst themselves before they followed after Discord. Upon entering the throne room, the group noticed Celestia and Luna standing patiently on the other side of the room. When everyone gathered, Celestia was the first to speak. "Greetings, my little ponies. I'm sure you have many questions to ask of Discord, Luna, and myself, but before we begin, let me say-" Celestia stopped herself when she noticed Kalifa standing quietly in her pony form, somewhat surprised by her new body. "...And you are?" Celestia asked in confusion. "You know me as Kalifa, your highness. This form was a favor I asked of Chief Discord." She replied calmly. "You wished for Discord to turn you into a pony?" Luna said, surprised by Kalifa's new form. "Trust me, I felt the same way..." Jabra said as he stared at Kalifa in deadpan. "Ignoring Jabra, I merely wished to undergo this experience for myself. I am getting rather used to my body, as you can see." Kalifa closed her eyes, and her horn lit up with a blue glow. After a brief seconds, bubbles began flooding from her horn and flowed across her body. When she finished utilizing her horn, most of her body was entirely covered in bubbles, making her appear like an overly fluffy sheep. Needless to say not everyone was amused except for Pinkie. "Neato! Can you do it to me, too?" Pinkie asked. "Sadly, I can't." Kalifa said as she made the bubbles pop and disappear "Other people who come into contact with my bubbles will instead become soap dolls. I'd rather not be held responsible for any blunders on my part." "Well, while I'm happy for you deciding to explore the life of a pony, Kalifa, I believe it's time to get this meeting underway." Celestia said, gaining everyone's attention. She took a deep breath before she looked serious "Before I begin, I would like to apologize to you, Twilight Sparkle, and your friends for this sudden discovery that has been revealed by Fukuro." "Discovery?" Jabra parroted "What discovery?" "I told Pinkie we were assassins, chapapa!" Fukuro said impusively, causing the other humans to slowly turn towards the silent owl. There was a pause before Jabra proceeded to knock Fukuro on the head, causing the latter to fall down with a large lump on his head. "One time after another with you, I swear!" Jabra snarled. "Ignoring Jabra's unnecessary gesture, that is indeed the case." Celestia gestured a hoof towards the humans and Kalifa "These folks are assassins from another world, only known by ponies in this castle and Ponyville. We've kept their true identities under wraps for the sake of protection and avoiding mass panic." After Celestia's explanation, Kumadori saw fit to get down on his knees and bow to Twilight and her friends, his face covering the floor. "Yoyoi~! A thousand pardons, my little ponies~! E-Everything was entirely my fault~! I'm ashamed to have kept you all in the dark~!" Kumadori bellowed in sadness, drawing everyone else into confusion. "Ummm...Kumadori, not that I don't trust your words, but..." Twilight said as she craned her neck back with a raised brow "How exactly is all of this your fault after Celestia explained to us how we know you and your friends were assassins?" Kumadori raised his head, his eyes closed as he frowned deeply. "It matters not anymore~! I've sh-sh-sh-shamed my friends~! And thus, I must shoulder the blame..." Kumadori said as he pulled a knife out of his overalls and gripped it with both hands, the blade facing downward as he raised his arms. "...by taking my own life~!" Everyone but the humans and Kalifa gasped at Kumadori's gesture, staring wide-eyed at his suicide attempt. Meanwhile, the assassins had their own varying expressions of nonchalance while Fukuro was recovering, rubbing his head and murmuring in pain. "Whoa, whoa! Where did this come from?" Discord asked in bemusement. "Not this shit again..." Jabra said as he placed a hand on his temple. "K-Kumadori! That isn't necessary at all!" Twilight called out in shock "Please don't do it!" "You needn't patronize me, Princess Twilight~! I must u-u-uphold my honor as a warrior~!" Kumadori said as his hands trembled while gripping the knife tightly. "Kumadori, please cease at once." Celestia urged pleadingly "You shouldn't throw your life away over something that wasn't your fault." "He won't do it..." Lucci piped up coldly "This is a common occurence when met with a mishap of any sort." "What do you mean he won't do it!?" Rainbow Dash said "He's got the knife!" "Trust me. He won't." Jabra chimed in, albeit dryly "This happened one time too many with him, and even then, it's just nothing but a joke." He said as he leered at Kumadori "Get on with it, idiot! We're burning daylight!" "How can you be so callous about this!?" Rarity said, appalled by Lucci's and Jabra's words. "Not to sound apathetic, but they are right, you know." Kaku said as he held up a hand "Kumadori has a tendency to act out at times, and he doesn't really go through with this." "What makes ya say that?" Applejack asked. "See for yourself." Kaku replied as he pointed a finger at Kumadori. "Yoyoi~! My friends~! Remember me as one who supported you throughout the en-en-entirety of our travels~!" Kumadori said as he thrusted his knife "Seppuku~!" Everyone stared at what had happened, only to see that instead of the knife doing its job, its tip stopped at Kumadori's stomach, as if it were unable to impale him. "Tekkai~!" There was an awkward pause as most of the group stared blankly at Kumadori, who froze in his position before dropping the knife as he slumped. "I can't die~..." He moaned gloomily as he hands touched the floor. "Are you done making an ass of yourself, Kumadori!?" Jabra snapped, his patience finally lost with Kumadori's antics. "I-...I don't really know what to say about this." Rarity said, befuddled by what she had just witnessed. "For assassins, these guys are pretty weird." Rainbow Dash added, scratching her head. She noticed how Fluttershy approached Kumadori and nuzzled his cheek gently, a saddened look on her face. "You poor thing. There's no reason for you to feel so sorry about something that isn't your fault." Fluttershy said, trying to comfort Kumadori "I know you're not the best person, but at least you care about your friends. That's all that matters." Kumadori stared at Fluttershy before his eyes welled up. "Your soothing words remind me of my dearest mother~..." Kumadori sniffled before he hugged Fluttershy and cried loudly "You really are the E-Element of Kindness~! Yoyoi~!" "There there, it's okay..." Fluttershy said as she returned the embrace, smiling softly as she was held by the kabuki assassin. "Touching." Blueno said, somewhat moved by Kumadori hugging a pony. Meanwhile, Lucci found the sight a nuisance as he narrowed his eyes. Celestia merely cleared her throat. "Well, after what has been shared today, it is my duty to inform you that Discord and his assassins shall depart for Baltimare for a reconnaissance report regarding the magic field outside of Horseshoe Bay." Celestia informed "They're to study its stability and check for any more anomalies that may pass through it." "But Princess, wouldn't their appearance in Baltimare cause more trouble for other ponies?" Twilight asked in worry "Sure, everypony in Ponyville were more accepting of the humans, but I don't know if the same thing will apply to neighboring cities." "Your opinion on the matter is noted, Twilight, but since Discord's responsible for all of this, he must tend to both the field he created and those that have appeared from it." Celestia said as she turned to Discord with narrowed eyes "I'm certain he realizes the consequences for any intolerable actions." The draconequus craned his head back when the Celestia stared at him. "Whoa now, I thought we were past this." Discord said as he held up his claws in a placating manner "I already told you I have everything under control. In fact, if they felt up to it, I would gladly turn the humans into ponies much like Kalifa." "I must decline the offer. I'm already content with shifting into a leopard at will." Lucci said as he closed his eyes. Hattori nodded and cooed in agreement. "Yeah, no offense, but I don't feel like becoming a pony when I'm already a wolf!" Jabra said as he pointed a thumb at himself proudly, with a grin to match "Nothing beats wolves!" "Except leopards and giraffes, chapapa!" Fukuro said, earning a dirty glare from Jabra as he gritted his teeth and twitched an eyebrow. "So all they have to do is make a routine check on where they came from?" Rainbow Dash said before tilting her head "Why don't they just head back if they're not staying long?" "I share the sentiment of your latter question, Rainbow Dash. But alas, unless the humans are actually being followed, their departure from this world may be delayed." Luna stated firmly. "Followed? You mean these guys could be criminals?" Rainbow Dash said as she glared at the humans. "The hell we are!" Jabra snarled defensively "A turncoat back in our world was responsible for putting us on the run!" "Jabra is correct." Lucci said as he closed his eyes "Although we are assassins, we are envoys of justice, carrying out our duties swiftly and efficiently. We were merely labeled as criminals due to an error caused by our superior after a recent incident a few days ago." He opened his eyes with a baleful gaze "He is the one responsible for pinning the blame on us after his faulty decision." "What's his name?" Twilight asked inquisitively. "Spandam..." Lucci said, oozing venom from his answer "He does not deserve to be leader of CP9 for his disgusting methods." "So this Spandam character used t' be yer boss? Was he strong?" Applejack asked, to which Jabra bursted out laughing. "He freaking wishes! Spandam isn't even as strong as a marine soldier let alone us!" Jabra said between laughs. "Indeed; he is a spineless coward. Meanwhile, each of us have trained to surpass the limits of the human body, as you've witnessed back in Ponyville." Lucci explained "I know not the base strength of a pony, but you realize that we're not to be trifled with." "Got that right." Rainbow Dash said before cocking her head to the side, rubbing her chin "Soooooo, technically speaking, who's the strongest out of all of you?" "That would be me." Lucci said, earning the ponies' attention "I have a doriki of 4000." "Doriki?" Applejack arched an eyebrow "What th' hay is that?" "It is how we measure our level of power." Lucci looked over at Fukuro "Fukuro over there is responsible for gauging our power after sampling it for himself." "My readings are very accurate, chapapa!" Fukuro chirped proudly. "Wait, so you're like some kind of human scale?" Rainbow Dash said before grinning "You think you can see how strong I am?" "Ah'm kinda curious myself." Applejack said with a smile "Ah need t' see where Ah stand with my strength." "Oh! Me, too! Me, too!" Pinkie said, hopping up and down. "Okay. In that case, get ready, chapapa." Fukuro said in a serious tone before zipping his mouth and bending his knees. "Just a heads up, you three need to hit Fukuro when he comes your way. Don't be afraid to give it all you have in one shot." Kaku explained. "Got it!" Rainbow Dash said as she got on the ground and punched at the air a couple of times with ehr forelegs "Can't wait to see if I'm stronger than Applejack." "Keep dreamin', sugarcube. Ah've been workin' pretty hard recently." Applejack said with a smirk. Without a word, Fukuro leaped at Rainbow Dash first, prompting her to quickly face away and rear her hindlegs before delivering a swift and strong buck. Fukuro's body trembled for a moment as a surge of energy coursed through him before he was sent towards Applejack, who produced a mighty buck of her own. Fukuro was then headed towards Pinkie, who happily kicked at Fukuro, sending him away from the others as he landed on the floor. Rarity winced at the display before leaned her head next to Twilight's. "These humans are a really unpredictable bunch..." Rarity whispered. "I know, but I can't help but wonder how Fukuro is capable of actually measuring somepony's power from one hit." Twilight whispered back as she watched Fukuro move to sit up from the ground, his mouth unzipping as he closed his eyes. "Okay...Rokushiki ability: Te-awase..." Fukuro uttered as he placed a hand on his temple "Rainbow Dash's doriki is...300." "300? That's pretty cool!" Rainbow Dash said with a content smile. "Applejack's is...320." Fukuro added afterward, causing Rainbow Dash's jaw to drop. "Yeehaw! Guess this means Ah got th' lion's edge on ya, Dash!" Applejack cheered. "Only by twenty!" Rainbow Dash defended "Just wait, I'll be running circles around you once I get more training in!" "Pinkie Pie's doriki is..." Fukuro paused, as if drawing suspense from the others. They managed to grow confused as his silence lingered. "Hey, Fukuro, what's the hold up?" Jabra asked impatiently "You're usually quick about these readings." Fukuro kept his uncharacteristic silence for another moment before he began to grunt in frustration. "I-...I can't." Fukuro strained as he clenched his already shut eyes. "Huh? What do you mean you can't read Pinkie's doriki?" Jabra said as he leaned in, half outraged and half curious "Maybe you're having an off day or something?" Fukuro instantly opened his eyes and turned to Jabra. "I never have an off day, chapapa!" Fukuro said, offended by Jabra's remark. "Then why don't you let Pinkie hit you again and see if you can read her doriki from there?" Jabra asked "I wanna see where she ranks between Rainbow and Applejack." "Okay. I'll try again." Fukuro got up and faced a smiling Pinkie with a serious glance "Get ready again, chapapa." Fukuro warned as his mouth zipped up. He then bolted towards Pinkie, who instantly braced herself and landed another hit on Fukuro with her hindlegs. After getting knocked back, Fukuro laid there before his mouth unzipped, sitting up as he hummed in concentration. Needless to say, everyone in the throne room was entirely curious about where Pinkie's power would stand after the demonstration Fukuro showed with both Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Even Lucci held his own curiosity over realizing that Fukuro had a moment of delay in his Te-awase reading. But while the silent owl mustered all the energy in his body to pinpoint Pinkie's exact doriki, he only ended up breaking his concentration after trying so hard. He opened his eyes and trembled anxiously from his results, or lack thereof. "Chapa...I can't read it...I can't read Pinkie's doriki!" Fukuro said, growing fearful of the revelation. Could he possibly be slipping up? "What, seriously!?" Jabra and Rainbow Dash said in unison. This earned Lucci's rapt attention after hearing the results. He never thought he would see the day where he would show even the slightest interest towards the most annoying creature he ever had the misfortune of encountering in his life. Hattori cooed in surprise before tilting his head at Pinkie, blinking at the possibility of a strong pony. "Awww, really?" Pinkie moaned with a pout "Can you try it again?" Fukuro instantly backed away from Pinkie after her question, trembling profusely. "S-Stay back! I don't know how powerful you are, chapapa!" Fukuro said fearfully. "I don't believe it. How is this possible?" Twilight asked incredulously. "Yoyoi~! Pinkie Pie must hold strength mo-mo-most astonishing to not be properly measured by Fukuro~! Surely, she could very well be on par with Susano-o himself~!" Kumadori bellowed with intrigue, although shared Fukuro's fear. "This really is shocking..." Kaku said, somewhat troubled himself before shaking his head "Maybe we should focus on the reconnaissance mission before expanding on Pinkie's doriki." "Indeed..." Lucci said without taking his eyes away from Pinkie. He narrowed his eyes while staring at the pink pony trying to badger a frightened Fukuro into using his Te-awase again 'This world is beginning to grate my nerves to no end...The sooner we leave, the better.' "Well, at least you folks are enthusiastic about your mission." Discord said with a smile "I'm sure we'll continue all of this some other time after we check on your only ticket back to your world." He turned to the princesses and the element bearers "Don't worry, girls. We'll be right back sooner than you think." "Wait!" Discord was about to snap his talons before he heard the sudden protest from a certain lavender alicorn. He looked down at Twilight, noticing her eyes carried a glimmer despite her serious expression. "I know this might be conflicting with your assignment, but I'd like to see this field of yours for myself. Observing the very thing responsible for bringing the humans into this world will sate my curiosity." Twilight said. "Twilight, surely you can't be serious about this." Celestia said in mild surprise "Mind you, this is Discord's responsibility and his alone." Twilight turned to Celestia with a small smile. "I know this is might be overstepping my bounds as a princess, but this is an opportunity that I just can't pass up! I'd love to know more about certain things beyond our world." She said eagerly, thinking of possibly going through the portal to see the other world for herself if she had the time and resources. "You're certain about your decision? It wouldn't be proper of us to invite royalty on a potentially dangerous mission." Blueno intervened calmly "I cannot change your mind, but I wouldn't risk joining us, even if it seems like harmless reconnaissance." "Don't be so quick to rule Twilight out, darling." Rarity voiced herself with a confident smile "After all, what makes you think she would undertake her choice alone?" "Yeah. Wherever Twi goes, we go; simple as that." Rainbow Dash said proudly. "If you haven't heard correctly, this isn't what you'd call a field trip." Lucci replied coldly "To join us is to invite possible harm amongst yourselves, and we will not be held responsible for your injuries." Hattori cooed in agreement, nodding to the element bearers. "Umm, girls? Maybe we should do what Rob Lucci says..." Fluttershy said, growing more cautious from hearing about possible danger befalling her friends and herself. Sadly, her suggestion was ignored as Rainbow Dash flew up to Lucci, her confidence rising. "Look, Lucci, we might not be as strong as you assassins, but that doesn't mean we're flat out weak. We had our own share of adventures before you came along." The cyan pegasus said pointedly. "Am I to guess that each of those adventures revolved around your concept of friendship?" Lucci asked condescendingly. Rainbow Dash, noticing his tone of voice, narrowed her eyes at the assassin. "What of it? Looks to me like you could use some friends of your own." Rainbow Dash shot back. "All I need is the power to deliver justice and nothing more." Lucci replied cooly, leaving Rainbow Dash to crane her head back. "Seriously, what is it with you and justice? Were you influenced by somepony back home?" She asked inquisitively. "Not a pony, but yes, you could say I was inspired by someone for my established outlook." Lucci responded before closing his eyes "However, I needn't reminisce when there is work to be done. This is your last chance to change your mind about joining us." "Ha! Fat chance, buddy. You're gonna be stuck with us for a little bit." Rainbow Dash said nonchalantly, earning herself a small glare from Lucci. "Isn't this great, Robby? Now we can bond some more!" Pinkie said as she appeared at Lucci's right side, though only succeeded in startling Hattori. Lucci leered down at Pinkie, starting to lose his patience. "I told you not to use that awful nickname..." Lucci said in a low tone. "And here I thought this was already a dangerous mission..." Kaku said humorously as he scratched the back of his head. "Alright, everyone, fasten whatever's on your waist, because we're headed for Baltimare!" Discord proclaimed before snapping his talons, teleporting himself, the humans, and the ponies except for Celestia and Luna. "This could prove to be troublesome, sister. The humans going to Baltimare with Discord is one thing, but how can the citizens ignore the Elements of Harmony making an appearance as well?" Luna asked Celestia. "There's not much we can do at this point but to quell any and all possible chaos that may spread, be it from Discord or what he had inadvertently created." Celestia said morosely "That's not to say we'll have to see to their early departure depending on what happens." "We'll attend to that matter soon enough. We know that all that matters is the safety of our subjects, the Elements of Harmony included." Luna stated, to which Celestia shared a nod to her words. _____ Baltimare's activity had hardly changed from when Discord checked on his accidental creation the other day. The ponies were still oblivious towards the identity of the magic field sitting outside of Horseshoe Bay despite the Marine Boat that was still floating idly by out in the waters. The city's peace was once again interrupted by a flash of light at the docks, fading to reveal Discord once again, this time with more company in his wake. "Well, here we are; Baltimare again. This time, you'll get a better look than from your ship." Discord quipped to the assassins as they took in their current surroundings. "Not bad. It almost reminds me of St. Poplar, now that I look at it." Kaku said as he glimpsed at the distant features of the city. "That sounds like a nice city. Anything fun there?" Pinkie chirped with a smile. Kaku returned it as he looked down at her. "Well, the only notable fun thing there would have to be a bowling alley we found." Kaku said "But the city itself was a sight to behold." "Hey! We got one back in Ponyville! Maybe we could play there sometime!" Pinkie grinned, to which Kaku chuckled. "That would be nice." Kaku said warmly. "As much as Ah like th' idea myself, we kinda got a problem here." Applejack said to Kaku and Pinkie, both of which noticed what was really going on. The group looked around at the many eyes focused on them, and some began to grow wary of the gained attention. "Oh my...They're all staring at us." Fluttershy whimpered before hiding behind Applejack. "Dammit, I hate when they stare at us. We haven't really done much of anything other than show up here!" Jabra complained as he shot dirty looks left and right at the many nervous onlookers. Twilight, who was still ambitious about her goal of observing the magic field, felt it would be the right thing to exercise her role as princess and address the many ponies residing in Baltimare and attempt to ease their worries. She cleared her throat and spoke up to where everypony around her could hear. "Attention, citizens of Baltimare! I hope you can forgive the spontaneous arrival, and with this unique cadre, but I can assure you that we are here on important matters involving Equestria's safety!" Twilight called out. She then pointed a hoof at Discord "As you're already aware of, Discord is among my travelling group, and shall remain tame throughout our time here. Rest assured, you have nothing to fear from our presence!" The citizens of Baltimare, while still wary of the humans' appearance, decided to take heed to Twilight's words, although were still uneasy with them being here. Blueno noticed how everypony was actually calming down from what could have been unwanted tension bubbling at the surface from their arrival. "Impressive." He complimented to Twilight, who smiled bashfully. "Honestly, I never thought I could pull it off. I guess there are some perks to my new status after all." Twilight said happily before looking out at Horseshoe Bay "Now all that remains is finding that magical field..." She then noticed the Marine boat sitting out in the distance, blinking at it before looking towards the humans "Is that your ship out there?" "Yes. Rather than sailing our ship to these docks, we were whisked away by Chief Discord's magic." Blueno explained. "A questionable method in hindsight, knowing that in abandoning our ship, we may have well roused suspicion amongst the civilians in this city...Not that it matters now, since we're already discovered here." Lucci piped up dryly. "Relax, Lucci; so long as you're with me, nopony's gonna find anything too much out of the ordinary." Discord said reassuringly "All that matters is keeping your ticket home in check. Would you like to go back to your little ship?" "That would actually be nice, considering our supplies are back on board." Kalifa said "It would have been a waste of money to leave the clothes I bought behind." It was now Rarity's turn to have a glimmer in her eyes. "Oh, perhaps this trip won't be beneficial to just Discord and Twilight; I would love to have another sample of human clothing for myself!" Rarity cheered. "And that means I can eat better, knowing what's back on the ship! Yes!" Jabra said, pumping a fist in the air. "Heh, I'm kind of glad for that, myself. Not that the food here isn't bad, but I wouldn't want to have our rations go to waste on our ship." Kaku chimed in with an awkward smile. "Then I suppose we'll make a second trip. Gather 'round, folks!" Discord said as the group gathered once again for another teleportation spell. This time, they found themselves on the main deck of the assassins' commandeered Marine ship. Needless to say, the element bearers - namely Twilight - were intrigued with its architecture, feeling the need to search around for more features while the assassins looked out at the water trying their best to locate the intangible magic field. "This is amazing." Twilight said as she looked around "It's almost similar to our own ships, yet so very unique in design." "Took th' words right outta my mouth." Applejack said as she inspected the sails. When she got a better look at the top sail, she tilted her head and cocked an eyebrow at the blue Marine insignia "Huh? Marine? Is that what yer world's called?" "No, that's a term for a soldier in the Navy!" Fukuro instantly piped up "We hijacked this ship from Captain Berry Good, chapapa!" "Hijacked?" The element bearers chorused in shock. "Dammit, Fukuro!" Jabra snarled, knocking Fukuro on the head with a fist. "You shouldn't really act so surprised. We are­ fugitives, after all, and this was merely an act of defense for our benefit." Lucci scoffed. "It's true. While those marines in general were sent to capture us, they had done so on the lands we were raised on. We couldn't let them disturb our home so callously..." Kalifa added coldly "We wouldn't be stuck in our position if it weren't for Spandam's idiocy." "Ah guess Ah can understand that, since y'all were wronged an' such..." Applejack said, then narrowed her eyes "Ah'd probably teach that Spandam feller a thing or two myself." "Heh, get in line." Jabra said cheekily as he scouted the waters for any signs of strange development. Discord whiffed at the air for a moment before catching the scent of his field again, just a few feet behind the ship, and tentatively stuck an eagle talon out towards the air. When his outstretched talon was sucked in by an abnormal light, the draconequus gave a smile. "I've located the field, friends!" He called out before snapping his talons, making a buoy with a sign saying 'Do Not Enter!'. He then flew down and placed the bushed end of his dragon tail onto the buoy's right side before bringing it back, making a rope appear attached to the buoy with the rest of it hiding inside of his tail. Discord proceeded to fly off as more rope extended from his tail, moving in a circular pattern as he made out the field's shape and size. After slapping on the end of the rope onto the buoy's left side, he flew up to the others and hovered over them with an accomplished smirk. "That should do it. Combined with the fact we haven't been invaded yet, I'd say our little mission went quite well." He said smugly. "In that case, Jabra and I will go search the ship for our supplies starting with the cabin." Kaku said, to which Jabra grinned voraciously. "I can't wait to taste meat again. Let's get moving!" Jabra said eagerly as him and Kaku made their way inside the cabin after leaping onto the upper deck. Twilight shuddered at Jabra's enthusiasm after the two went inside. "I already forgot how carnivorous Jabra can be..." Twilight murmured. "He better not eat that stuff in front of us." Rainbow Dash warned to no one in particular. She then turned to Lucci, curiosity beginning to grow inside her "Say, Lucci. Since this mission's done and over with, maybe you can tell me what gets you motivated about justice so much?" Lucci shifted his eyes towards Rainbow Dash, while Hattori turned his head at her himself. "Why do you still bother with my personal life? There's no point in doing so, and I don't reflect on the past like some old storyteller." He replied coldly. "Aw, come on! I just wanna know is all. What makes you so different from other assassins?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Now, Lucci, remember what we talked about?" Discord said above Lucci "Try to keep an open mind; humor Rainbow Dash with a little story about yourself." "I wanna listen in, too. This oughta be good!" Pinkie said with a giddy smile. It was from that moment that Lucci found himself surrounded by eyes both colorful and curious. Combined with the order given to him by his current chief, he inwardly groaned at his predicament. Of course, considering the details of his past, they have no one to blame but themselves for their reaction to his tale. With a light scoff, he crossed his arms and regarded the ponies looking up at him, save for Kalifa. "Very well. My story-" "Lucci's story dates back to when he was a child, chapapa!" Fukuro interrupted, easily angering Lucci. Before he could continue, Blueno stepped in and punched Fukuro in the face before zipping his mouth up again. He then nodded to Lucci as he held him down. "As I was saying, it has dated back to when I was just getting used to my bearings as an assassin in training..." _____ A group of children were travelling down a corridor in one of their main buildings, murmuring amongst themselves about what was to come. "Did you hear? Our teacher said that a very special guest is coming to this island." One boy murmured. "Wonder who would actually come here. Maybe one of the World Government? Or maybe a Celestial Dragon?" Another boy inquired. "No way! If a Celestial Dragon came here, it'd suck for all of us!" A female teen hissed. Trailing behind the group were children with varying expressions on their faces. One in particular was nearly catatonic in appearance. That child was none other than Rob Lucci. Blueno and Jabra flanked his left and right side respectively as they marched along the hall leading towards the assembly room. Hattori sat on top of his hat and stared down at his friend in worry. Blueno looked down at Lucci's trembling pupils as the group walked along. "Lucci? Are you still worried about how your first real mission went?" Blueno asked inquisitively. Meanwhile, Jabra grinned wickedly at Lucci's face. "What can you do? He isn't as experienced as the rest of us when it comes to killing others." Jabra teased as he walked along nonchalantly "I'm sure he'll come into his form if he actually puts his back into it." His grin widened "If he has any spine remaining, that is." Jabra said with a chuckle. "Give it a rest, Jabra." Kaku admonished from behind Jabra, earning a sneer his way "We all have a long way to go ourselves, and besides..." Kaku looked down as he walked, a bad feeling welling up inside him as he donned a look similar to Lucci's "Can you blame him for trying to stomach your first kill?" "Big deal! There's gonna be more where that came from, anyways; just like Teacher said!" Jabra replied abrasively. As the children reached the end of the hall, they entered a vast, circular assembly hall with three other entrances from where they glanced. Another group of children were already waiting, as well as the same grinning instructor that Lucci and the others were familiar with standing in the middle. When they got settled in with the rest of the students, the teacher's grin widened. "I'm glad that you children have finally made it. You're aware of why you were summoned here, correct?" He asked expectantly. He was rewarded with various answers, a majority of which involved a special visit, to which he nodded with a chuckle. "Correct! We're indeed welcoming a special guest who wished to size up the potential members of CP9 for himself." The teacher replied "I can trust that the lot of you shall be on your best behavior, right?" After earning several positive responses, he clasped his hands "Splendid! Then without further ado, I want you all to give a warm welcome from a man who is soon to be promoted as an admiral of the Navy!" He turned around, facing away from the children as he directs a hand ahead towards the dark entrance. "Introducing Vice Admiral Sakazuki!" Stepping in from the darkened opening, there was a tall marine wearing a traditional white coat and cap, but his eyes were covered by a gray hood. He was seen with a cold frown directed towards the children, who were slowly growing fearful of his intimidating appearance. Sakazuki stopped next to the CP9 teacher and slowly looked around the children as they stared back at them with anxiety. The only one that didn't stare was Lucci, who still faced the ground in his own catatonic state. Sakazuki instantly sneered. "I see I was misled in thinking that these children are growing up to be capable members of CP9. They still have a long way to go." The teacher below him flinched and trembled, despite him grinning. "N-Now, vice admiral, I know they may not meet certain expectations now, but with more time, they're soon to be most impressive with their strength." He said nervously. Sakazuki raised his head, revealing a grim stare in his eyes down at the children. "Then they better use their time wisely for when the time comes. Even they should know that evil never rests in this world." Sakazuki replied harshly, once again looking at Lucci not paying much attention. He clenched his right fist, and his whole arm began to turn red and bubbled with what appeared to be magma. He growled as he leered at Lucci, making Hattori coo in feer. Jabra, Blueno, and Kaku were quick to catch on after following his gaze. "Lucci! Pay attention, you moron!" Jabra said, shaking the silent boy frantically "He's looking right at us!" "Vice admiral? Wh-What are you doing?" The teacher asked, staring directly at Sakazuki's right arm resembling flowing magma. Jabra succeeded in snapping Lucci out of his reverie, but the child was welcomed with the sight of an angry marine staring right at him with a scary looking arm. Lucci's eyes widened as he stood at attention, his body stiff as a board. After Sakazuki realized that the child was acting properly, his right arm reverted into its regular form, and he continued to glare before facing the rest of the children. "All of you should realize that even if you're still children, you shouldn't be wasting your time with impudent shenanigans. You were brought into this place with the purpose of becoming tools of justice!" Sakazuki lectured "The path you're walking may not be the best one now, but you'll come to realize just how important your roles can be as you continue to grow. To those of you that have already drawn blood, you're well on your way to exterminate any foul vermin that dares to oppose justice." Lucci stared up at Sakazuki, his past fears slowly leaving him as he continued to address him and the other students. While he was scary, Lucci couldn't help but envy the vice admiral's conviction and experience. His first kill wasn't the best memory, but he had to remember that he was training to be stronger than justice. He looked up at Sakazuki and hesitantly raised a hand, but tried to appear tough. His heart stopped when he grabbed the marine's attention. "Yes, you. What is it?" Sakazuki asked coldly. Lucci gulped at being put on the spot, but he couldn't leave his question unanswered. He took a deep breath before speaking. "You're a marine...So you already know more about justice than the rest of us. But I need to know...Is it entirely necessary to continue killing no matter what? Also, if I'm not strong enough, should I trust in my allies to help carry out my mission?" There was a brief pause between Lucci and Sakazuki before the latter narrowed his eyes with a scoff. "Foolish questions, both of them." Lucci's heart sank as he heard giggling in the crowd "To answer your first question, even you should know that you must enact justice by any means necessary; never let evil hold its sway on the masses! As for your second question..." Sakazuki pointed at Lucci, with his grim eyes boring into his soul "While allies are beneficial, you're not to depend on them entirely. There are times where you will have no one to rely on but yourself. Drawing strength from others is a sign of weakness, and should not be tolerated!" Lucci stared at Sakazuki in silence. His words began to sink in as he finally figured out where he stood with the rest of the children who spend their time training to become strong. Even if he had allies on his first mission, it didn't mean that they were all that reliable. He didn't like having to put up with being considered weak by his peers, especially Jabra, who seems to pick on him for sport at times. Moreso, if killing means stopping evil from thriving in the world, then Lucci knew he had to steel himself for the trials to come as he proceeds in his training. He stared at his hands before clenching them into fists as he narrowed his eyes, then looked back up at Sakazuki. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes to make sure that justice will prevail." Lucci responded evenly. Meanwhile, Kaku and Blueno stared at Lucci evenly while Jabra gawked in confusion. 'What happened to him being scared shitless? This can't be Lucci!' Jabra thought, finding Lucci's newfound confidence to be ludicrous. "See to it that you do. Remember that to enforce justice, you need the strength to back it up." Sakazuki responded gruffly before turning to the children "That goes for the rest of you! I came here expecting potential from all of you, and I know that you wouldn't be stupid enough to waste it in this life!" Lucci's fear was replaced with determination that day. He knew what he had to do the moment the assembly was over. His purpose in life was to strive and become one of the best assassins in CP9, and make sure that no one in the world will give in to evil's embrace. _____ "From that point on..." Lucci explained "My goal was set, and my cause was worthy. I spent the entirety of my childhood tempering my body into the weapon it was destined to be, and I never looked back." He concluded his story as he faced the ponies "Are you satisfied?" He asked dryly. "So wait...That Sakazuki guy's the reason you act like that?" Rainbow Dash asked "And he can control lava?" "Yes, he has eaten the Magma-Magma fruit to make it possible. He is currently one of three powerful admirals back in our world." Lucci looked out at the waters "Of course, that was how I've rose to power as a member of CP9 before my crushing downfall..." "Right, because of Spandam." Twilight said before looking sad "Rob...While you haven't led the best life, I'm really sorry for your current position. You shouldn't be on the run for something that wasn't your fault." Lucci shifted his eyes towards Twilight. "I don't need your pity. I just want to find Spandam and be rid of him..." "But is revenge through killing the only way you'll be satisfied?" Twilight asked "And what would you even do after you manage to accomplish your goal?" Lucci paused after Twilight's second question. As much as he wished to kill Spandam, he - along with his allies - are still wanted fugitives. Where would they go once their revenge has been sated? Would they have to do the impossible and become their own group of protectors with no ties to the government? Or... A bright light covered the boat, catching everyone by surprise. The cabin's door flew open as Jabra and Kaku ran outside to the deck, although they shielded their eyes as well until the light faded. They looked behind the ship to see that another Marine ship had just sailed in from the magic field, sailing over the rope and slightly toppling the buoy at its left side. The assassins, save for Kalifa, used their geppou to reach the upper deck and get a better look at the new ship for themselves. "It's as we feared..." Blueno said "They've not only located us, but are now aware of the existence of this world." "Dammit! And to think we were close to losing them!" Jabra snarled before grinning and slamming his right fist into his left hand "Whatever. We just need to make sure they forget about this place by knocking their heads around a bit!" He heard hoofsteps and noticed the other ponies joined the assassins on the upper deck; Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Fluttershy, and Discord merely flew to their side as well. On the other marine ship, a man in a black tuxedo and fedora was seen holding a Den Den Mushi in his arms. He looked over at the other ship, making out the appearance of the other assassins before he quickly pulled the device off of the Den Den Mushi's shell and spoke into it. "Sir! We confirmed the location of the wanted fugitives! Awaiting orders!" To be continued...