A feather gently glided back and forth, seemingly being flown by the gentle winds itself. It's pure silvery appearance complemented the visible slither of the Crescent moon shining up high on an otherwise pitch black evening. Finally landing perfectly on the surface of a reflection pool to one side of the Royal Canterlot Courtyard the glider was then transformed into a small makeshift raft atop the mirrored reflection of the moon. However the peaceful sailing did not last long as the raft came under fire from a sudden barrage of droplets above and began to sink into the pool leaving behind a dispersing red trail in its' wake. The moons once shimmering reflection changed violently from a pure silvery white to a soiled dark crimson as the water slowly removed all traces of evidence that was diving down from one of the Keeps many sentry belfries.
***
In response to the final preparations of the Royal Wedding, Canterlot was evermore the bustling Capital. With the added pressure of a dramatic increase in foreign and diplomatic visitors, there was little alternative to increasing the security around the entire City. Much to the dismay of the Royal Treasury the wedding itself would not be the highest expense that required funding. Supplementing the already over-whelmed Elite Royal Guard would be the Paramilitary Police Ponies of Equestria, various levels of General Security Ponies and Volunteers from the Equestrian Civil Defense Reservists. The final of which would not require payment in Bit's, only in various qualities of cuisine, much to the satisfaction of the Royal Account keepers. With the Royal Guard and other security forces thinly spread around Canterlot it occurred to some that this quickly forged horseshoe of security & protection would have many faults ready to be exploited by any who wished to infiltrate with the slightest force.
The rumors and speculation about the wedding, the wedding couple and the probability of a Royal Heir arriving at a specific date, weight and time were constant and inescapable. While this type of communication was positively effecting the populace of the nation a similar more uneasy type of hearsay was beginning to cause concern for those behind the purple curtains amid all levels of Security. Therefore the facade of stern professional guards was a mere cover to not reveal the disillusionment of a safe and secure Canterlot. The rumor that a secret safe house in an nondescript middle class region had been breached with the repulsive demise of multiple sentinels and unconfirmed reports of any survivors or arrests was causing unease within the ranks.
Reports being sent from the gates asking for more ponies, Requests from the Royal Equestrian Avian Aviation Force for more eyes in the sky and the perimeter reviews and assessments calling for increased patrols and stationed Ponies were starting to inundate and already busy correspondents office leading to multiple mail ponies knocking on the door of an already frazzled Captain of the Guard. The rumors are plausible. The threat is real. A desperate protective yet confining shield spell was conjured as an initial and last line of defense for Canterlot and it's swelling populace.
Canterlot, the shining Jewel of Equestria and the City of Harmony
***
"Virtue?"
A familiar voice summoned the restlessly sleeping patient back from the gentle embrace of unconsciousness. Beginning to stir Officer Red Virtue first stretched his hind legs underneath the comfy cotton sheets. Risking it all in a brief peak to survey his surroundings, the poor bet was met with a partially obscured view of a bandage and the warm blurry luminescent rays of the Sun Goddess in all her perfect generosity. Squeezing his lids closed to prepare for a second chance he was tutted at by the same gentle voice.
"Looks like he's ready to wake up today Nurse, go tell the Doctor and Guards please."
"Where am I, Gene?" He slurred with his eyes starting to water.
"Sorry about the blinds, I'll take care of them. Just try and relax, ok?"
Red could hear the sound of the door closing and somepony fiddling with the draw string of the wooden blinds. Behind his eyelids the brightness drastically decreased, hesitating he liberated this eyes and began starting them on their first mission of the day, focusing. He could hear movement of what he assumed to be a chair as She dragged it closer to the top right hoof side of his bed, which barely moved as she rested her hooves comfortably on top of his blankets. Red tried to sit up further in his bed, only gaining a small amount of height, causing small itches on his back to start annoying him.
"I'm afraid you're wrong Red, Gene's out working, it's me Ark... remember?"
"Is she alright?" Pausing for a moment before solemnly asking another question he dreaded to know the answer of. "and the others? Last night. What about them?"
"Officer... Virtue." Hesitating to find the words She was lacking. "I don't think now is a good time to be discussing-"
"-I don't think it's wise, Officer Arc, to withhold information about my friends and the current situation we are all in." Red rudely interrupted Arc with a more harsh voice than he'd meant.
His shoulders started to itch more as he shuffled back and forth against the bed trying to sate the itchiness. Rubbing the tiredness from his eyes he was able to catch what was left of Arcs' surprised reaction before she could completely recover back to her professional demeanor. Neither of them wished to speak first as the silence began to grow. It was broken by the wards door opening and closing quickly as a small Pegasus in a white uniform entered.
Not realising her own interruption she proceeded to check the various equipment around the bed. "It's good to see you awake and well Mr Red. Let me get that gauze off your face." The Nurse Chirped cheerily as she removed the bandages around his head and neck. As the bandage was unraveled Red was able to get a closer look at the nurse. She wore a small grinning smile on her gentle face and her mane seemed to contain only the slightest gradient of white to pink. Her clean white uniform fitted her anatomy perfectly, protecting all the way from her neck to her rear fetlocks. The Nurses feathery wings were neatly folded behind her looking perfectly preened and inviting.
Now that he was completely convinced his eyes were back to one-hundred percent he was able to get a proper glimpse at Arc next to him she had not moved an inch. Arc was watching the nurse and glancing at him with a near perfect poker face, with the exception of her lips pouting ever so slightly. Most likely caused by his attitude. Seemingly satisfied after visually checking the nurse up and down she thanked and asked. "Have you finished with him yet and can you tell me when the Doctor and others are supposed to arrive? I need to go through a few things privately with our patient before they-."
"Oh no problem all finished for now." The Nurse taken aback by Arcs' sudden and stern questioning began to pack up the dirty bandages and finished scribbling a few things on the clipboard at the end of Reds' bed before continuing. "I'm sure they will all be here very soon. I asked one of those strapping Royal Guards to relay the message direct to the Officers' Capital Headquarters for you." The short Pegasus nurse chirped a higher pitch when mentioning the Royal Guard outside.
"I will be back soon to change those other bandages Red when you don't have any visitors." Nodding to Officer Arc and giving a small smile to Red before she opened the door and left the private ward to continue with the days busy timetable.
"Red-." Arc started.
"Arc-." Red simultaneously pleaded.
"Gene has been worried sick about you and Captain Redscotch has been extremely busy and wound up like there's some sort of diamond dog gnawing on his tail. Without him keeping Gene busy she would have been here twenty-four seven trying to watching you. However without Gene keeping the captain off your back he probably would have long since tried to rouse you with a bucket of fountain water."
"So you volunteered to watch me?" Red skeptically replied.
"I was conscripted, in her absences" She replied with a small smile.
"Hah well what a terrible waste of time on such a nice day" He chuckled back at her and rested his head comfortably back onto his pillow. The itch on his back was starting to become more invasive and tingling all the way from his wings to the back of his neck. "By the way Arc, I'm not sure what day it is today?"
"Oh." Her smile transitioning back to a sad concerned face as her voice lowered to nearly a whisper."It's been nearly three days since you were dragged in, we would have had you up sooner but they were operating for nearly nine hours". She cut herself off already worried about how much she may have revealed. Her eyes started to sparkle as some beams of light were caught in the small tears she was trying so hard to repress. "We were all so worried Red, I - "
Not being able to look at Arc while she was lost for words he reached as far back as he could to try and rub at what was pestering his back only being able to reach just above where his wings were he was able to get some partial satisfaction. He still felt too stiff to try and get up as though the bandages were holding him back from moving around too much. Returning his hoof to rest by his right side near Arc, the movement caught her eye bringing her attention back to him. She let out a small pant as he looked down to find his slate-blue coat painted with just enough dark red blood to smudge his clean sheets.
"Arc?" He managed to grunt out as the painful memories gnawed their way out of his subconscious.
"Oh, Virtue" She lamented. Unable to look at him she tried to turn towards the partially closed window to clear her face with a hoof before turning her attention back towards the doorway.
Multiple hooves in the corridor could be heard approaching snapping her out of her pity as the door opened yet again interrupting any possible explanation from Arc. Red Virtues heart beat started to increase as he took a deep breath pressing his fore-hooves as hard as he could into the firm mattress. The door swung open slowly this time giving Arc enough time to place her hooves over Red Virtues right hoof in an effort to try and relax him and conceal the blood as she stared wide eyed at the doorway.
"Ah Mr Virtue. I am quite glad you survived the workbench." A dark grey pony with an orange mane wearing a lab coat entered chuckling to himself. "That is to say, we are all glad you are awake and well after all this time. I hope you can look forward to a large healthy meal whenever you are ready."
Seeing their mixed expressions of confusion and what he perceived was surprise he added with a smug look "My name is Dr. Caravery. I saved you."
With his right hoof still firmly held down Red lifted up his left hoof pointing at the Doctor menacingly "What the fuck did you do to me? What in Hells bloody name have you all done to me? I cannot move or feel my wings."
"Well, that's not exactly the first reaction I had in mind." Doctor Caravery quietly replied to himself.
"What did you expect? My gratitude for maiming me permanently?" Red was still struggling with his restricted right hoof as Arc increased her grip.
"Unfortunately, Officer Red Virtue, there was nothing we could do to... reattach them." Picking up the clipboard at the foot of the bed he began reading then adding in small scribbles of his own as the Nurse had done."I was not the one who removed them in the first place and I would hope you come to realise, at time we had your very best interests in mind. If we had not surgically removed what was left of them the major artery would have kept bleeding. It would have made you weak and vulnerable for the rest of your life. We have the magic and medicine so we saved you and made you well again." Peering over the clipboard to observe the patient, one word and he could have this one sedated.
Red turned away from the Doctor as his jumbled memories combined back into the entire painful and bloody incident. Slumping back down onto the mattress he could still feel the itch on his back and a sharp throbbing from where his wings used to join to his back. The only solace he still had was Arcs hooves pressing his hoof into the mattress as she glared at the Doctors factual spewing of information. The bandages around his chest seemed even tighter than before as he thought about everything that was occurring so quickly.
Through the open doorway Captain Redscotch marched in with disciplined easy steps and behind him trotted Officer Gene Shock. The captain began with a harsh tone yet softened slightly with the presence of the mares.
"It's about bloody time you got up Virtue. The City might look amazing to you from up here however it's a logistical nightmare. Welcome back."
"Red!" Gene gently squeezed past Redscotch and the Doctor and moved around next to Arc looking at her hooves which still lay on the bedding. "Oh, and thank you Officer Arc for your vigilance and.. compassion for the patient. It's good to see you awake again Officer Virtue."
"It's good to see you back Officer Shock, I was just on my way to the bathroom now that you're here." Arc promptly withdrew her hooves and nodded a brief acknowledgement to the Captain before standing up and moving out of Genes way quickly as Gene switched seats and sat down next to Red.
"Ha ha you're looking good Red nice and snug!" Gene genuinely smiled at him but her eyes still revealed how tired and worried she was. "Much better than the last time I saw you."
"Well thanks, but if I was expecting guests I would have cleaned myself up a little bit. However it seems as though that has been taken care of by whom I hope was one of those nice Nurses." Grinning at Gene the sarcastic remark made him feel a bit better and resulted in a small smirk.
"The Nurse was a he, with griffin like appendages." The surly Captain replied emotionlessly from the foot of the medical bed. Giving Red a reason to again feel uneasy about the time spent in unconsciousness.
"Why's it so dark in here?" Gene questioned, looking at the Doctor his reply was a shrug of the shoulders while apparently reading through page three of the clipboard of medical documents.
"I asked Arc to close them when I woke up, it was really bright."
"Well now that you are more conscious I think you need to take a look outside and see whats been going on while you have been out. You of all ponies should know how serious our situation is." Redscotch turned to Arc nodding for her to open the blinds completely. Hardly turning herself around a whitish aura encompassed the window as the blinds folded up completely.
For the first time Red looked out over the landscape to find that it was not just the sunlight that tried to blind him earlier but a large purplish wall as far as he could see filtering and reflecting the rays of sunlight.
"What in the Princesses names has happened to the sky?"
"It's a magically conjured force field." Gene explained.
"More specifically the Captain of the Royal guard has been literally breaking his own horn trying to protect the city from a threat we cannot directly identify or perceive. Yet." Redscotch was becoming more animated when he talked, the feeling of vulnerability for the ponies under his protection had been the most recent cause of enormous stress.
"Sir, surely we can wait until his debriefing-"
"His debriefing and briefing is here and now, where and when I say Officer Shock. We are on the precipice of disaster for ponies sake. Enough of this foal play Gene, it was a good idea to have someone watch him, I'll give you that. However I need answers and I need to return to the Royal Courts with something new."
"Captain?" was all she could say taken aback by his quick climb to pull the rank card.
"I will only ask once for you to sit quietly Gene or else you can wait outside." Turning back to the patient satisfied that there would be no further delays he asked his first question. "Did the things talk to each other and if so did they say anything that could be of any value to our investigation?"
"They killed our prisoner with little hesitation, mentioning how it had failed its Queen and Hive. All I know Sir is they were wanting more information on the Keep, I suppose they would have all they need by now. I don't really want to keep thinking of the safe house anymore Sir, not right now."
"These aren't honey bees we're dealing with, refusing to pollinate the daisy fields Red. By the Princesses if there's another monarchy uprising there's no telling how many of these things we are dealing with. The weddings tomorrow afternoon and we have already raised the security level to the highest since Princess Celestia went missing. Is there anything else you can tell us, anything at all that may help?"
"No, nothing. Sorry Sir." Red replied ashamed that there was not anything more he could say to help. "It seems as though you have been waiting for me to wake up for no new information."
"The Queen part was a new one, well done. I need you and Gene back in action as soon as possible and start patrolling for any new leads you can come up with." Redscotch barked out the orders to both of them before turning to the Doctor in an equally intimidating voice "When is he able to get back on his hooves Doctor?"
"Oh uh, well I suppose if he feels up to it light duties would be alright. He has been through some vigorous surgery though so I would suggest he takes it easy and does not go picking fights with other ponies anytime soon."
"I'll be fine Doc, there may not be an option to not defend ourselves over the next few days" Red replied trying to convince his visitors he was fighting fit under the glare of Officer Shocks 'you're a stubborn idiot look'.
"Then it's settled. Gene get him ready and on his feet and if that young Officer Arc returns tell her to immediately return to Ponyville and recall the remaining security forces. I'll either be at the Palace or Headquarters if you need to send a message, do not delay any information you can find out. Is that understood?"
"Yes Sir." Shock and Virtue replied in unison. Not wanting to question why the rural towns were being left with no protection on the vulnerable outskirts of Equestrias borders.
With that, the resolute Captain set off with renewed determination heading towards the Palace with the royal guards that were at the door following closely behind. The Doctor finished writing his notes on the clipboard before re-attaching it to the hook at the end of the bed and walking briskly to his next patients room. Officer Shock and Virtue sat there in silence for a few minutes not sure where to begin, it seemed as though the task that was before them was impossible.
"Red, I'm not sure if it's the best place we should start but we have had some anonymous intelligence about one of the taverns over at the west gate. If you're feeling up to it of course?"
"Thanks Gene, yeah I might just try out my hooves first before we start parading out in public." Throwing aside the hospital bed sheets and wriggling out of bed as carefully as he could without disturbing the bandages wrapped around his stomach and back he staggered to the bathroom.
After relieving himself at the toilet he looked at the small clean shower and decided his next course of urgent action. Stretching out his bruised fore hoof he looked at himself for the first time into the mirror above the small metal sink. The surprised face that greeted him was not familiar to him, he looked more pale grey than blue and much skinnier. His hair was messy and still crimson, matching the bandages he could see on his back. Desperately trying to unravel the bandages he ended up using more strength than necessary to tear and bite away the concealing gauze which withheld and contained his most serious wounds. He needed to see it.
The bandages drifted to the floor and silently lay there in a heap with flakes of dried blood peppering the once clean white tiles. He couldn't say or do anything but look at the two large raw scars on his back where his wings used to be. Trying his best to control his breathing his vision started to become foggy due to his traitorous eyes and his mouth remained closed shut holding back all sound. All he was now was an earth pony, he didn't have any wings now for flight, balance or handling. He could hear Gene in the room open the glass window which shook him from his thoughts of uselessness and procrastination. He had a job to do for the City, the Princesses and for himself.
Steadying himself on his weak legs he turned on the shower with his mouth and waited for the temperature to become comfortably hot. There were a couple of options of cleaning agents he could use which was either a cake or a bottle of soap, both of which smelled overly fragrant of vanilla and roses. Knocking the cake of soap from its place he poked it into the corner of the warm shower so it could not escape and pawed at it to form a lather to scrub his dirty hooves and places he could reach. Sitting under the warm therapeutic water as it ran from his head down his back he concentrated on taking a few deep breaths and tried not to look at the dirt and blood escaping down the drain. Giving himself a moment to sit there in peace his body stung from the water as it touched his wounds.
"Uh, Red?" There was a soft tap on the door as Gene opened it half way and waited by the door for a response. It had been more than thirty minutes since she'd watched him stumble out of bed. She could just see the fogged up mirror and the silhouette of a pony sitting behind the perspiring glass of the shower, she wanted to make sure he was alright however observing the pile of bloody bandages on the ground she reluctantly allowed him some privacy. "How's it going in there tough guy, nearly done?"
"A few more minutes Gene, if you wouldn't mind I might need some help with my armor. I'm not sure where they left it." Squeezing out some of the bottled soap he rubbed it into his mane getting out the last remaining traces of grime.
"I think your armors pretty banged up, I can get you a new set if you want?"
"No it's fine, that's all I'll need thanks Gene. I'll be out in a minute."
It took only a couple of minutes for her to locate the box with the belongings he was dragged in with. There were no weapons of course they would have been confiscated, however his armor remained in poor condition. She heard the shower turn off and decided to quickly wipe it over with one of the spare towels.
"You didn't have to do that Gene, but I really appreciate it." Exiting the bathroom Red saw what Gene had been doing and he got ready to armor up while feeling refreshed and ready.
She managed to suppress a giggle watching him with a towel still around his neck slowly squirming into his armor. Finally attaching the last of his buckles for him to save some time, much to his stubbornness.
Grinning knowingly that he wouldn't want anyone to know about her helping him dress she continued on with where they were up to in the case. He straightened up his equipment before checking the room to make sure he had everything he was brought in with.
"Red, about the tavern we need to checkout. It wasn't so much of a tip off as it was that we found the places name and location on a business card on one of the dead changelings at the safe house. Last chance if you want to hold back coming with me?"
"Let's get out of this place Gene, I can't stand this hospital food." With a solid explanation given he took the first few steps towards his freedom leaving Gene trailing a few paces behind muttering under her breath.
"You haven't even been awake long enough to eat any."
***
"Well this is hardly a surprise." Gene candidly spoke as they approached the tavern down the long narrow side street of Canterlot. Old oak barrels littered the sides mixed in with broken pallets along with other rubbish. Even though the street lanterns were lit the grimy glass did little to illuminate the poorly maintained buildings. Even the late afternoon suns reach did not seem to touch this area in neither light nor heat.
"Look at this Gene, even the door looks like its been raided more than once." The heavy oak doors hinges had rust all over it and the wooden door had protruding splinters and an old dirty look to it. Giving each other a brief look and nod they moved to opposite sides of the door preparing for a swift entry.
Officer Shocks magic engulfed the doors handles and Officer Virtue prepared to enter first. With a nod from Red the doors were flung open with a loud screeching of metal and the sound of a door chime. Entering quickly and professionally they stood by the inside of the door only to observe that the room was mostly deserted and their entrance had hardly warranted a glance from the few conscious patrons.
The standard declaration of 'Equestrian Enforcement Officers, cease all actions' died in Genes throat and with a nudge from Virtue they both walked up to the bar with the doors slowly swinging shut behind them. Waiting at the bar front for the barmaid to stop her conversation with a tall caramel earth pony Red took in his surroundings.
Near one of the partially covered greasy windows was a light grey pony with some sort of quill cutie mark on his flank asleep with a few rolls of parchment scattered over the small round table. In one of the booths along the wall two ponies sat, a small light pink Pegasus mare and a large dark brown unicorn colt. The unicorn was very close to the mares ear with his mouth moving quickly as he sat close to her. On the other hoof she seemed to be half listening with her head resting on one of her fore hooves with her hair and hoof concealing her faces expression. Looking more closely she seemed to be pressed as far as she could go against the wall, trapped in the booth having to listen to a supposedly boring conversation. The colt shifted to look around the room and upon seeing the officer looking his conversation seemed to end mouthing a few more words to the mare as she sat up looking at him curiously through her curtain of light red hair.
"...Officer Virtue here is quite the diligent food and drink quality inspector. Isn't that right Officer Virtue?" With a hard kick to one of his protected shins he was transported from his room assessment back to the present introductions now that the barmaid had concluded her conversation with the caramel patron.
"Uh, yes that is correct Officer Shock it makes me sick to the stomach. I have seen my fair share of poorly made ciders and mildew covered hay to know that his establishment definitely needs a thorough check. As you can see I've already had a recent unreasonable experience at another establishment."
"Well do whatcha gotta do, I'm not going to stop ya" the olive barmaid replied to Shock before turning to Virtue with narrowed eyes "and you won't find any bad hay here."
"Thank you, lets check it out Red."
Starting on the lower levels and checking each of the three floor nothing seemed to be suspect or incriminating in the least. The old tavern was pretty much deserted and it was amazing it was still open for business. Surprisingly the kitchen was the cleanest place in the building looking as if it was the only room that was well used. Satisfied with their check they decided to call it and head back to headquarters entering the common room there were even less ponies now.
Gene decided to have some final words to the Barmaid and while Red was waiting he noticed the same Pegasus mare sitting in the same booth as before with a curious stare focused at him with a hoof on an empty pint. Leaving Gene to her smooth talking he approached the mare cautiously. Her response to his direct approach was to readjust her seating position to a more ergonomically comfortable position and wait.
"Excuse me miss. My name's Officer Virtue would you mind if I had a seat and asked you a few questions?"
"Such a polite yet disappointingly official introduction. How could I refuse, please take a seat Officer Virtue." She replied in a smooth calm voice looking at him with her sultry blue eyes.
"Well I couldn't help but notice your friend had left such a beautiful lady alone in this part of Canterlot, and with an empty drink no less." Red casually replied with a small smile on his face.
"Ha ha well that was quite the drastic change and much better Officer. Thank you very much however the colt was not really a friend and I'm sure if he had the bits he would have supplied them so I would not go without. You can call me Sphyna since you have such a cute curious look, but darling you look like you need a drink more than me."
"Perhaps if I was not on duty at another place, with another mare." Taking a seat opposite the Pegasus.
"Ouch, taken are we? Pity, I didn't think the one with the horn was your type. Who are you after tonight Officer, or perhaps I should say what are you after?" Sphyna asked inquisitively while fiddling with her empty pint on the table.
Changing the subject before it got out of hoof he continued "I was wondering what you were doing here tonight and if there could be anything you have heard around town lately?"
"Oh I'm just relaxing after a hard day of working at the markets. I think we have all heard the rumors around town, and with the Wedding approaching fast I know I'm sick of waiting and would like all these crowds to finally leave. I haven't done anything wrong have I officer?" Sphyna rested her head on her hooves and looked up at him playfully challenging him.
"Ha of course not, besides I do not have my hoof-cuffs. Although more seriously I'm curious about the rumors you have heard?"
"Mmm naughty" Grinning from ear to ear she brushed back her fringe and whispered "I've overheard people talking about the palace, wanting to get in for what I suppose is sight seeing. You are not the first person to ask me if there's any way I know of how to enter the gates and get past the two door guards. Perhaps you should go there tonight and make sure it's as safe as I have been saying."
"Who were these sticky beaks wanting to know about the palace? Can you remember anything specific?" Red shifted in his seat interested to see if there was anything else to this vague story that could be useful. His armor was starting to rub against his back while he was seated and the annoyance was starting to get distracting.
"Oh they were just Tourists or well wishers. For a few days it seemed like it was a different person each day" Waving her hoof in the air she acted as if there was nothing usual or that there was no need for concern.
"Ok then, well I need to go and check out a few things." It was time, Red decided, to check on the focus area that all these ponies were investigating. If this mare had been telling any truth at all that is. Rising from his chair his company seemed disappointed at the short conversation and couldn't decider whether to stand or remain seated. Gene was waiting for him at the door watching.
"So soon? Whats the rush to check out some silly rumors and tourists curiosities right now. I thought we were going to have a drink?" She pouted teasingly.
"I'm a few days behind at the moment. Another time perhaps, are you staying here then?" Red left a couple of bits on the table for the mare.
"I'll be here all night, thank you Officer Virtue." Smiling she said quietly as he walked away "Be careful."
"What was that all about Red, anything good?" Gene inquired once they were outside the tavern.
"I think we should pass by the palace before we head back, just to check on a few things."
"Ok just a quick visit. Then we are defiantly getting some food. If your giving free drinks for mares you just met at a bar then you can pay for my dinner as well."
"Done deal, let's go." Together they set off up the hill towards the palaces main gates leaving the dingy alleyway behind them.
***
Approaching the main gate the pair of officers could feel something was not right. With the shield overhead filtering the moons light the city looked darker and more ominous compared to the usual bright and pleasant atmosphere. The main gates being open was not unusual since it was during the week the night court was still an active civil service Princess Luna would continue to do until the festive wedding celebrations began. However even though the gates were not unusual, the lack of guards were a cause for concern.
"Where do you think they went Red?" Gene asked looking around behind and above them.
"Maybe they got called away or went to take a break."
"At the same time?" She asked raising an eyebrow.
Walking slowly past the large solid oak gate doors they were not hailed or stopped. The courtyard was as deserted as the perimeter seemed to be and now they were both getting much more anxious to get inside. Picking up the pace it was time for them to briskly enter the palace, their immediate objective was to ensure the safety of the Royals.
The carpeted floor muffled their hooves as they approached the main hall where the night court was held finally being able to hear the first signs of life. Rounding the corner and entering the brightly lit hall they found themselves nearly alone with the exception of four guards and Princess Luna herself talking to one of her guards next to the throne.
"Princess! Is everything alright?" Officer Virtue loudly called out as they approached the throne.
The sudden question seemed to jolt the two earth pony royal guards rushing up to the intruding armored pair with their spears lowered while Princess Lunas Batpony personal guard flanked her assessing any possible risk to their Princess.
"Halt, identify yourselves Officers. How dare you interrupt the Night Court." One of the spear wielding earth ponies glared at the pair raising his spear once he was close enough to see that neither of them were even holding weapons.
"It seems as thought tonight I have have not interrupted anything other than your sleep. I only have the Princesses best interests in heart."
"How dare-"
"-Silence. Officers Shock and Virtue, We would like to know what is the meaning of this rude disruption?" Princess Luna addressed the pair wanting to find out the reasons faster than the bickering between Guards and Officers.
"Apologies Princess Luna, however we were passing the gates and noticed there are no guards on the exterior of the palace. Save the few you have with you now. We were concerned for your safety and came to check on you."
"We thank you for your concern young Officers however as you can see we remain unharmed. While tonight may be quite slow the only threat is our own drastic fatigue."
"Indeed Princess we know that now, we are very sorry for disturbing your court" Officer Shock replied solemnly.
"Your apologies are not needed as I appreciate your vigilance. Spear ponies go forth and seek out those meant to be on guard and make sure they return to their posts immediately and wake up a few extra Guards to begin a sweep to find me a reason for their absence." The Princess ordered prompting a very swift departure of the Royal Guards from the court.
"You may approach Officers. Your Captain left but a few hours ago, have you found out any new information?" Princess Luna asked them casually.
"I am afraid not your highness. It has been difficult finding any hard evidence or leads to investigate." Red sadly replied.
"Unfortunately we know all too well the lies that rumors spread and the damage they can cause. However it seems as though you were not lead here by just rumors or hearsay alone?"
"Of course my apologies Princess but I was. We have been speaking to a few ponies which caused us to leave and reassess if there was any threat currently here."
"While I agree Officer Virtue you seem to have done the right thing and check on an obvious possible target you seem to Me to have allowed your observant self to be distracted by the obvious, instead of staying on task and further questioning the sometimes simple answers. Return to the tavern and question the one who mislead you here. "
"I understand Princess thank you. I'll return there immediately and seek out the individual who lead us here"
"Not alone" Officer Shock interjected "I'll come with you and its about time we get Fromage and some others for backup."
"And I will stay here and guard the night court." Luna added.
"Thank you for your help Princess, we will return as soon as we have any new information" Red replied walking out of the hall with new found determination in finding the mare who's hints mislead them. He felt stupid.
Exiting the main palace and walking through the courtyard with Gene catching up to him the whole place was in a stir now. Guards searching the rooms and walls as well as a few more watching the gate. Even the sky had a few of Luna guards flying overhead silently. However Officer Virtue knew it could not last this way, after the area has been searched most would return to their rest in preparation for tomorrow.
"Wait up Red!" Gene called out flanked by a couple of Lunas Night Guards "We agreed on getting you something to eat, and we can wait for the others to arrive."
"We may not have time Gene, we don't know whats going on in this place or what could be going down at that tavern. We were there early and couldn't find anything, what if that was one of their meeting places but we were just early?"
"All the more reason to wait and plan."
"I've been waiting and doing nothing for three days Gene, it's time for some payback before any pony else gets caught up in this."
"You're not making this easy for me. Alright lets go." Gene reluctantly submitted
Together the small group trotted from the palace ground back into the lower areas of Canterlot ready for their second raid on the tavern.
***
"Ready?"
Gene asked the small group waiting at the door. Batpony guards flanked each side of the door ways with another couple on the roof, all of them ready to enter once the command was given. Each equipped with short swords, spears and armor they were ready this time if there was any resistance. This time they were the ones ready to surprise any possible intruders. Officer Virtue and Shock prepared for a swift entry once the doors were opened.
Zapshhh
Officer Shock fired a beam of bright white energy through the window causing it to shatter and implode glass into the quiet tavern. The blinding light glistened through the entire lower level with a few managing to escape through small gaps in the old roof. The heavy oak doors were once again flung open as the flanking Batponies entered quickly hugging each side of the room with Red taking the front and center followed closely by a slightly dazed Gene.
Amazingly there were still a few prepared enough fora fight with one on the Night Guards on Reds left tripping over his stuck hooves with a green amber falling to the ground with a thud. The Guard on his right engaged one of the armored creatures sword to sword but before he could help he was thrown to the ground in a crushing hug dropping his sword sending it scraping all the way to the bar. A pair of turquoise eyes and white fangs came into view as Red swung his head into his opponents causing both of them to roll onto their sides in pain. All around him he could hear the sounds of fighting and the breaking of windows and wood splintering as he guessed the guards on the levels above were clearing their designated floors room by room.
As quickly as it had started it was over. Red managed to rise back onto his hooves as the previously stuck guard restrained reds still moaning opponent. With Gene cleaning up the green amber magic he was able to look at the mess they caused. All but one of the dirty windows was broken allowing some more light to illuminate the battle zone from outside. Most of the furniture was all over the place and broken glass seemed to cover the floor.
"Guards, quickly secure the surviving prisoners," glancing at a motionless changeling the blood seeping out from around the spear seemed crimson in the light, just like ponies. "Make sure they cannot use any more of that green crap from their horns as well"
"Officer Virtue, you're hurt." Gene said pulling Red closer to one of the side booths with a candle for a better look.
"I'll be ok Gene. Lets quickly search the place properly then I'll find a medic, alright?"
"Mffh" was the only verbal reply he got along with a very obvious rolling of Her eyes.
Ten minutes after their assault and the prisoners were secure with a message on its way to the closest garrison for some investigating officers and a message to Captain Redscotch that their lead has resulted in prisoners ready for interrogation.
"Sir, Special Officer Red? You better come have a look at this Sir." A Young Batguard called Red over from behind the bar in a small pantry. Red walked over to see what had caught the Nightguards attention while Gene lit another few candles and brought one over. Underneath an old moth eaten rug was an old cellar door with a brand new shiny lock.
"Gene, can you please open this immediately? Go fetch some of your comrades Corporal."
The Batpony left quickly and heard a loud crack with a bright light coming from behind him, the smell of burnt wood and metal greeted him upon his return with reinforcements however the Officers seemed to have already vanished into the darkness.
***
The smell was disgusting and clung to them like the darkness itself, later reports would say it was worse than the sewers. The candle was blown out upon reaching the floor of the basement and Gene decided to use her horn instead. They stood silently side by side as the cellar was illuminated revealing the poor conditions of the changelings hostages. The sight was not something they could ever imagine or prepare to see but a couple of the hostages were still alive with one of the newest additions being Sphyna, the female Red met only a few hours ago. The stone walled basement had barely any furnishings aside from mouldy wine racks and chain strewn across the floor and beams. There was an old well close to the entrance and looking into it they found more hostages seemingly thrown down into the degrading grave after their execution.
"Goodness..." Gene whispered looking at the hellish scene before them.
"Get a medical team here now!" Virtue yelled up through the hole, rousting the guards back into action. "These creatures truly are from Hell."
***
Crimson rays broke through the horizons walls cutting through the thin clouds signalling the rising of the sun. As the Princess of the Night returned to Her luxurious chamber under close supervision of her loyal guards the Princess of the Day was already prepared. Chirping birds and the first soft winds of the day greeted a morning patrol which had paused to take a relaxing breath outside in the courtyard.
The ambiance was shattered by a piercing alarm bell and a shout from a fellow patrol pony nearby. Racing to the scene the normally clear reflective pool had turned a disturbingly muddy red color. Confused the guards looked to the sky to see circling above Pegasus guards at the peak of the closest tower in a fluster shouting. They had found the evidence of what was left of last nights gate patrol guards. With the suns rays spreading as quick as a flash over the country, ponies were slowly rousing themselves with excitement ready for the big day, the wedding day was finally here.