Of Hoof and Paw

by Damsus Rhee

Chapter 1

The room was dark.

A single candle painted flickering shadows on the bedchamber walls. Being well-furnished, as would be expected of the dwellings of any aristopony with sizable wealth, it offered peace to whomever sought respite from the everyday toil of modern life. Every detail of form and fashion had been attended to, from the crystal-blue vases adorning the marble dressers to the flowing silk drapes and matching bedsheets the color of deep cherry. The room suggested an air of welcome and warmth.

Lying in the bed, with only head and hooves exposed, a pony stirred in his sleep. He was a white, middle-aged unicorn stallion with matching blue mane, mustache, and eyes. Now more than ever, his face wore a look of contentment, and acceptance of the well-earned comforts his life had brought him.

A slender young unicorn mare with white coat and light pink mane emerged from underneath the covers. Having been previously curled up against his side, she stretched, arching her back as a small squeal of pleasure escaped from her lips. Thoroughly relaxed, she rested her head on her pillow, laid a foreleg across her lover's chest, and smiled warmly as she nuzzled him once.

"Fleur my dear, how did I get so lucky?" the regal colt asked as he gently brushed her silky hair back with a hoof, the mare giving him a coy look.

"Oh Fancy Pants, must you ask?" The lovely mare purred in his ear, her pink eyes sparkling. "You had me since I first laid eyes on you."

The two were the talk of Canterlot. Fancy Pants was the highest of high society, Fleur de Lis the city’s premiere model. They had first met at a cocktail party preceding the wedding of two mutual friends. Fleur was surrounded by stallions and mares alike, all attempting to gain her favor, when Fancy Pants entered the room. They had locked eyes, and Fleur excused herself from the other guests to meet him. The two had danced and laughed the night away, and been inseparable ever since.

Fancy Pants lived a life of extravagance and renown, strange considering he was not born into his social position like most of Canterlot's aristoponies. Born to a poor family, he worked hard in his early life, risking everything with investment ventures in companies both big and small. Climbing his way to the top of the trade industry in such a short time was a remarkable feat. It brought both the admiration of potential investors, and fear from rival merchants. Fancy Pants, however, did not let his position control him. Money was not everything. He continued to invest in small return ventures, just to see them grow, when he could.

Unlike Fancy Pants, however, was Fleur de Lis. She had always been lucky. Born to a rich family, she had inherited good looks from her mother Lily Flower, who taught her poise and grace. Her father, Azure Dreams, made sure she had the finest education money could buy. Graduating valedictorian, Fleur was treated as a pearl, Equestria her oyster. But Fleur was quickly drawn into the modeling industry. Her beauty and flair, as well as charm, allowed her to excel in all of Canterlot’s prestigious social circles.

The two lay there in comfortable silence, wrapped in each others hooves, before the mare gently pushed herself away from her cozy stallion. Sitting up, Fleur glanced down at Fancy Pants with the ghost of a smile. He stared up at her, as though he was a foal who had just had his teddy-pony taken away.
“What are you doing, dear?” He asked his marestress.
"Oh! I almost forgot to tell you. I’m going out tonight... with a friend," she spoke nervously, giving him a gentle kiss on the cheek. "I hope you don't mind."

“Isn't it a bit late, Fleur?” Fancy Pants asked, cocking his head to the side. “It’s almost midnight.”
“Oh I know it’s late but... we've had this planned for a while now. Just a little get-together. Nothing big,” Fleur responded. Then flashing an overly large, pearly smile, added a drawn out, “Pleeeaase?”
"No worries," Fancy Pants said, smiling, then rolling over. "You know I never mind when you head out on your own. Just be safe and have fun."

With a smile and a squee, Fleur got out of bed and walked towards the bathroom. "But of course," she said as she exited the room, then stopped to say: “Silly smile gets you every time, doesn't it dear?”
Fancy Pants gave a chuckle as he rearranged the pillows and said, “Yes, yes Fleur. You know just how to push my buttons don’t you?”

“Wouldn't be much of a marefriend if I didn't,” Fleur quickly responded, peeking her head from the bathroom. Then with a seductive look added, “I know you like it.”

“Fleur... please,” Fancy Pants spoke softly as he flushed with embarrassment at the implications of her words, eliciting a giggle from Fleur.

Fleur, content with her victory, quickly opened the shower door and stepped in. Turning it on with a flash of her horn, she quickly reeled back from the first icy blast of water against her coat.

“Cold!” She whined, stepping out of the line of fire. Waiting a moment, she gingerly tested the stream with a hoof. Once it reached the temperature she could enjoy, she applied expensive soaps and oils to her brush. Magically levitating it above her she began to bathe and sing softly in the shower, a smile on her face, a foalish delight in her sweet voice.

"It always pleases me when she sings," Fancy Pants commented to himself as he snuggled deeper into the plush pillow. Slowly he drifted back to sleep in the opulence of his bedchamber, lulled to sleep by his lover’s voice drifting gently through the open bathroom door.

Once finished with her shower, Fleur quickly began to dry herself and fixed her hair. Finished, she checked herself in the mirror. To some, the act of getting ready to go out is a hassle. But for Fleur de Lis it was a ritual, rehearsed and perfected. She could be ready for a gala or a simple stroll in a moments’ notice. Once completely satisfied, she quietly crept past her sleeping mate, opened a walk-in closet, and stepped inside.

The closet was flooded with clothing and accessories, from her crystal blue dress lined with silver embroidery to her most extravagant peacock-feather hat. All of which Fancy Pants had bought for her for various occasions. She pushed them carefully aside, revealing a safe she had installed in the back of it. Rotating the dial with her magic; 58...20...11, it clicked and opened. She quickly retrieved a black bag from the vault, slung it around her neck, and shut the safe before exiting the closet. Fleur walked over to her sleeping love, gave him a gentle kiss on his horn, and blew out the candle before leaving the comfort of their home.

The city of Canterlot, a shining symbol of freedom and progress to all ponykind, was busy at all hours. Fleur knew this better than most. She had spent the weeks before watching ponies go about their routines. Ponies being creatures of habit, she had worked out how to slip through the gaps in their paths.

She sank into the shadow of an alley, in a manner not befitting someone of her stature. Moving swiftly and silently, like a snake in the grass, dodging the passing glances of bystanders. Fleur became a predator in this urban jungle, as she displayed her familiarity with a routine that she had become accustomed to. She did not need to sneak about, not yet at least. There was no curfew in Canterlot. While she could have simply strolled down the alleyways, that was not nearly as exciting.

The life of a famous pony had treated her quite well. Modeling was a wonderful life. While the attention from ponies made her feel attractive, it was boring at times and far too safe. The second life she kept secret helped relieve the monotony that fine living offered. If she were ever to be discovered, her fame would become infamy in a moment. The dangers only fueled her desire to live it.

Money was never her reason, or a problem. She had plenty. Fancy Pants and the others before him, the others that might come after him, would always fall prey to her looks and charm. Not to say she did not love her current coltfriend. She would be devastated if she was exposed, causing him shame and embarrassment. Especially considering how good he was to her. However he could never accept her need to cross boundaries at times, to fuel her darker desires.

Slinking further down the alley she could see what she believed to be the pony she was to meet this evening. Rarely did she ever meet her employer directly. Typically she dealt with a trusted agent who would be the middlemare in these situations. Somepony would ensure the contract was legitimate, and secure payment in advance. This time, however, the payment was sufficient that she decided to amend her rituals.

A young light blue unicorn with a white mane awaited her. Huddled in a shadow, wearing a black robe, the mare looked as though she would jump out of her skin if a breeze blew against her wrong.

Fleur stopped and opened her bag, just out of sight of the anxious pony. Quickly, she put on a black mask, tucking in her mane, and pasting a white sticker over her cutie mark. After all, she had no desire to be identified.

Once she was fully disguised, she approached the jittery mare, and stopped just short. She recognized this mares’ cutie mark: a wand and half-moon with stars in it. She had seen her perform magic shows across Equestria, but had never seen her in Canterlot before.

"Trixie?" Fleur said as she walked over to stand near her, smiling beneath the mask which hid her features. "You know... the jittery, sinister, black-clad look does little to obscure your intentions...” with scorn, she added:  ‘Darling’."

Trixie gasped, eyes going wide. Looking over at the approaching figure, she asked in an aggressive tone: "And I suppose a mare in a black mask does? So... are you here to rob me? How do you know my name?".

"Please," Fleur scoffed, looking annoyed. "My purpose is nothing so petty... and I have seen you perform. If you don't want anypony to know who you are, invest in some means of hiding your cutie mark.”

“I didn’t think of that,” Trixie said weakly, looking at her cutie mark and frowning.

“It isn’t difficult to recognize. But we are not here for matters involving you flank, are we? Because if we are... I might have to charge more," Fleur added, with a mocking smile, at the now blushing mare.

Trixie recoiled and spoke sharply, "I... What? No! You are Prize Catch... aren't you?"

"But of course, my dear," Fleur replied waving her hoof in the air before her.

Fleur de Lis had been a master thief for years. As such, she would hire herself out to any employer in the guise of Prize Catch. Wanted in almost every major city in Equestria, she had stolen from and broken into almost every establishment worth mentioning. Her infamy brought her the most  lucrative, as well as the most perilous jobs, but that was the fun of it.

"Sorry I'm late. I had to deal with a few things," Fleur spoke, looking down at a hoof. "You know, appearances and all. So what’s the plan? Why is this worth my time?"

Trixie was obviously new to this sort of affair. She quickly checked to see if anyone was coming, speaking quietly, "Because, you are the best! You come very highly recommended. As to what you are... liberating: a set of seven precious gems."

"Really? Is that all? But where are they kept, my dear Trixie?" Fleur responded eagerly, fluttering her eyelashes.

“Please! Call me Madam T,” Trixie hushed as she looked around. “Like you, I have no intention of exposing my identity.”

“Fine,” Fleur said with an uncharacteristic lack of enthusiasm. “‘Madam T’ it is. Now, as I was saying, where are they located?

"Canterlot Castle," Trixie whispered, averting her eyes. Prize Catch, however, did not seem surprised. Or, for that matter, concerned. Trixie could see mirth in her sparkling eyes.

“Is that all?” Fleur asked, breaking the silence.

“Is that all!?” Trixie responded, Her incredulity apparent. “You are kidding, right? That’s all you’ve got to say?”

“Yes,” the masked mare responded plainly.

"You have no objection?" The blue mare asked, her astonishment rising.

"My dear, why would I object? It would not be my first time entering the Castle without permission," she said proudly, much to her employers’ dismay.

"Now I know you’re insane," Trixie said, shocked and sceptical. "You have seriously stolen from Canterlot Castle before?"

"Yes, I have. And before you ask, no. I cannot tell you what I took or for whom. Client-thief confidentiality and all. And be assured that when our dealings have ended, nopony will ever know of them. Not from me, anyway,” Fleur spoke, smiling knowingly. “But I assure you I will find what you want and deliver it to you. I am going to need more information on what it is, and where I can find it," she insisted, her manner businesslike. "After all, Canterlot Castle is rather a big place. Not to mention well-guarded. Not a target to be regarded casually."

"I thought so," Trixie said, giving the mare a white letter and a brown bag. "I have all the relevant data in this envelope. Also, two magic orbs, enchanted to summon me to wherever they are broken."

"That seems like powerful magic," Fleur commented. “Definitely expensive.”

"Oh, it is!" Trixie exclaimed as she looked over the orbs.

"Did you enchant these?" Fleur asked, looking down at the mare.

"Well I could... but... no. I paid a great deal of money to have these made," Trixie said, embarrassed. “The great and powerful Trix- I mean... Madam T, has far too many things to worry about to spend time placing simple enchantments on balls of glass.”

"I’m sure,” Fleur said primly. Trixie’s eyes narrowed slightly. Then looking down at the orbs in the bag said, “I will look over the instructions, but these orbs don’t work for me. I don't know what you’ve been told, but I work alone."

"Look, the gems you are retrieving are protected by a powerful barrier," the blue mare explained with obvious agitation. "The great and powerful Trix- err... Madam T, has taken the time to learn a spell that will get us past it... but I am not capable of getting into the vault to cast it.”

“So I am not actually doing any of the stealing. Just the stealth... or lack thereof,” Fleur said, her mask hiding her frown.

“Precisely!” Her eager and nervous possible employer said. “Just get in and break the orb. I will appear and eliminate the barrier. Then we will grab the goods and throw the last orb out the window into Canterlot, making good our escape."

"So... if they summon only you, how will I escape?" Fleur asked, cocking her head.

"I will hold onto you and we will teleport out together," Trixie replied, with a reassuring smile. “I wouldn't just leave you for the guards to catch.”

There was a brief pause as Trixie’s excitement cooled. “You’re sure this isn’t about flanks?” Prize Catch joked a second time.

Blushing and taken aback again, Trixie burst out, “Certainly not!”

"Well, seems like you’ve thought this out fairly well," the masked mare spoke as she placed a hoof under her chin. "You give me a mark and I take it. Having you with me inside the castle... could complicate things." Fleur did not like the idea of her only escape route being left in the hooves of a pony she barely knew. Especially a pony who would owe her a significant sum of bits after they escaped.

"It won't complicate anything, darling," Trixie spoke with a smile, waving a hoof in dismissal. "It's just a moment at the end. And besides; I am paying you well enough for you to suffer one little complication!"

“Speaking of payment,” Fleur said slowly, delicately sitting on her haunches, leaning in closer to Trixie. “When I agreed to work for you, I gave you a quote of 3000 bits.”

“Yes,” Trixie spoke with nervous fear. Obviously expecting negotiations to begin.

“Annnnd...” the now-shrewd business pony drawled out. “That's not going to cut it.” The blue mare’s ears drooped in disappointment. “I wouldn’t even think of setting hoof into the castle courtyard for less than... 4500 bits. Let alone the restitution required for the risk of breaking into the castle itself.”

“4500!” The very shocked blue mare pouted. “I had to take out every loan and call in every favor I could to get the 3000!”

“That was for me setting hoof in the courtyard,” Fleur teased as Trixie’s head continued to sink down to the ground at her hooves. “I will be more than happy to complete your job for say... twice that... plus expenses.”

“That's over 9000! That’s not possible!” Trixie shouted, sitting down abruptly and panting, looking faint. “There is no way Trixie can afford that!”

“I don’t care if Trixie can get it,” the masked mare said haughtily. “Only that Madam T can.”

Trixie stared blankly at her. Slowly realizing what she had said, she sadly added: “I can’t get that much.”

“Well then. I guess this has been a complete waste of my time.” Fleur stood, turning to leave. “Besides, you can’t even keep your identity secret for more than five minutes. What a disaster.”

“WAIT!” Trixie said, trying to stand and managing only to fall face-first on the ground at the graceful mares’ hooves. She reached a hoof up and grabbed Prize Catch’s rear leg. “Please... I need this. I don’t know where else to turn.” Tears ran down her face. She made no attempt to hide it. “I need this...”

“Must really be important to you.” Fleur said softly as she looked down at her.

“It is everything to me,” Trixie said, sitting up and snuffling pathetically.

It took the masked mare a few moments to come to a decision. "Fine," Fleur agreed, turning her frustrated eyes to the pleading pony. "Go get ready and do... whatever it is that you are going to do. I am going to look over these papers and get started. I don't want to pop one of these orbs with you still in the shower."

Trixie chuckled weakly at the masked pony. “Thank you, Prize,” she said, wiping a tear from her eye. She then disappeared quickly down the alleyway behind her.

Once convinced she was alone Fleur sat down on the ground and spoke aloud to herself and the wind. “You’re getting soft, Fleur. Probably just got played.” She removed her mask, the night air cool and sweet against her face, and began to read the letter.

Dear Prize Catch,
I have been told by a trusted source that you do not care what you acquire for your employer, and also that I should tell you anything that I can about it. So here goes. No secrets.
You will be retrieving seven precious gems for me. Gems that are supposed to hold vast magical energies. I desire them to increase my own magical constitution. With them I should be able to perform feats of magic that would surely earn me a place back in the hearts and minds of all Equestrians.
They are being held in the Spire of Secrets, to which I have included a map. It goes without saying that they will be hard to reach. Celestia keeps that tower heavily guarded. Not to mention the possibility of unknowable magical defenses that she might have implemented.
Once at the target destination please break one of the orbs with which I have provided you. Once I have arrived, I will remove the spell guarding them and we will use the other to escape. Payment for this job will be made upon completion. I trust, and it goes without asking, that you will keep my identity and our dealings a secret.
                                                                        Good Luck,
                                                                        Madam T.

"Madam T," Fleur spoke with a condescending laugh. Then her horn began to glow, creating a spark, and the letter burst into flame. All that remained was ash, blowing away in the wind. "I wonder if my persona comes off that strangely. Oh well. Might as well get to work."

Fleur de Lis quickly changed into her full Prize Catch regalia: a black skin tight suit and mask revealing only her eyes, a purple utility belt with various implements should she need them, and four clip-on steel-spiked horseshoes for climbing. Once changed she dashed down the alleyway, toward the castle beyond the city.

Even at night Canterlot Castle was a magnificent sight to behold, the soft glow from the spires’ many windows illuminating the massive ivory and gold facade. Built on the top of Mount Majestic, the highest peak in Equestria, overlooking all in its’ domain. Clean waters flowed through a system of underground geysers and waterways, exiting on top of the mountain in a series of waterfalls. The waterfalls worked their way down from the mountain becoming rivers, continuing down through the interior of Canterlot City. From there they passed under the castle walls, and finally ended as a vibrant waterfall raining down next upon a lake far below.

Fleur had been here before, but this time was different. Before, it had just been a quick trip into one of the castles’ many treasure rooms. But now it was into one of the forbidden places sealed by Celestia herself. She took a moment to consider the dangers she was about to face. And found that she only grew more eager.

Fleur left the safety of the shadows provided by the alleyway, dashing across a street, to come to a waterway. She slowly slipped into the gentle river that flowed though the city, the cool water refreshing on her skin. Releasing her grip on the bank she began to glide down the stream, through the city, and towards the castle. Nopony could see the mare garbed in black as she drifted downstream, and under the palace walls. She had used this same path into the castle before. Funny, she thought as the current became faster, that nopony had ever considered that a giant hole in the castle walls could be used for unauthorized entry.

At the end of the river, right before the current of the waterfall would have carried her down to certain death, the mare grasped the riverbank to pull herself up. She lost her grip, hooves slipping on the wet stone. Her heart skipped a beat as she continued towards the precipitous drop. Thinking fast and with a flare of her horn, the mare used her magic to yank the grappling hook from her belt, and threw it blindly towards the bank as she squealed in terror, and went over the edge.

Trixie trotted back to her inn. No longer trying to sneak or hide. After all, her business was concluded. She could not believe her luck; getting the famous Prize Catch to work for her. She couldn’t help but feel that her victory was now assured. She arrived outside her haven for the evening, a large white building called Sweet Stables. It was one of the cheaper establishments in Canterlot, which was not saying much, but offered her all the comfort she required. In fact she would never need to stay in such a place again after tonight. With the seven gems in hoof she would make a fortune with her new magical talents, performing shows that would be the talk of Equestria.

Stepping inside the building, she approached the reception desk and awaited service. Not attempting to hide her impatience, Trixie began rhythmically and repeatedly ringing the bell on the desk with a hoof. After a few rings, an elderly brown stallion in a grey suit approached the desk from an office behind it.

“Sorry there, kiddo,” he spoke while adjusting a pair of reading glasses. Standing up and placing his forehooves on the desk, he squinted down at the blue mare. “Ain’t you that... that great and... uh, pompous pony?”

Trixie recoiled in disgust at the butchering of her title. After taking a breath to calm her irritation, she replied up to the clerk, “Yes... the great and ‘powerful’ Trixie would like her key please.”

“Sure thing there, kiddie pie,” he said as he turned around and grabbed a key ring off a hook with his teeth. “Dar ew arr.” He drawled, slobbering on the keys.

Trixie looked at the pony before her as he held the keys in his mouth expectantly. She thanked the stars she was a unicorn, and with a pink glow of her horn, snatched the key from his teeth. “Why, thank you, my good sir,” she said with false gratitude as she turned to leave, and began heading up the stairs.

“Any time Miss Trickie,” the old pony said warmly before turning away and heading back into his office.

Trixie was both annoyed and pleased with the aged stallion. There was no way he would remember who she was after tonight. She reached her room. Holding the damp key carefully even with her magic, she quickly unlocked the door, immediately throwing the disgusting article on the dresser now that it’s usefulness had passed. Her room was nothing special; a bed, bathroom, and a single closet. Only one of these things mattered to the mare.

Jumping face first into the bed, the tired mare allowed herself a moment of relaxation. She would soon need to prepare. Her meeting with the infamous Prize Catch had taught her a few things. Mostly that she needed to find a better means of concealing her identity during future clandestine encounters. The gems would do her no good if somepony knew she had taken them. This whole ordeal was a risk, but she had no choice. She needed the power. Because of her.

Twilight Sparkle.

That name rang in Trixie’s mind. A combination of shame and anger flooded her thoughts. How could she possibly have allowed such a pony to upstage her? Of course, she had not known at the time that the mare was the Element of Magic. If she had she might not have called her out so brazenly. But that was in the past. Once she had the gems she would show Twilight, and all of Equestria, that the Great and Powerful Trixie was the greatest equine sorceror of all time!

Trixie stretched and leaped down to the floor. It was time to get ready. Any moment Prize Catch would summon her, and her reward would be right in front of her. Quickly she began to change, adding a mask to her outfit and fastening her cloak tighter to herself to hide her cutie mark.

“Let’s get this show on the road,” the masked blue pony spoke to herself. She felt nervous, yet excited, about the adventure to come.

Fleur fell breathlessly for a few heart-stopping moments after tumbling over the edge of the great waterfall. But luck was with her today. She should have fallen an incomprehensible distance to her death, but instead hung by a rope for dear life. Swinging wildly in the furiously racing waters, she could barely get a breath between slamming into rocks and being pummeled by millions of gallons of water trying to prove to her that gravity did indeed work.

Taking one last breath as she randomly surfaced, pushed out of the water by it’s force against her body, she began pulling herself up. Hoof after hoof, holding the rope in her teeth, she began making progress. Using what little concentration she could muster she tried to create a wall of force with her magic. Her horn began glowing purple, creating an expanding shape over her like an arrowhead, granting her only slightly more surcease from the water trying to rob her of hope. It was when she was dangerously close to magical backlash that she crested the waterfall. Painfully tired and mentally wrecked, the mare did not let go of the rope until she was out of the water, and on the castle gardens’ lawn.

The exhausted mare collapsed, coughing up water, her lungs near-bursting. She had had close calls before, but none quite this close. “3000 bits,” she spat. “3000 bits. Last time I ever take pity on anypony.” After resting for the space of a few breaths, her eyes were drawn to an object on her right. A statue stood on the edge of the garden and the river, a unicorn standing on its hind-hooves, balancing a scale on its horn. It portrayed Miss Fortuna, an archaic symbol of the old worlds’ beliefs. Miss Fortuna was a patron of luck, worshipped by the ancients and their faded religions. Fleur was not a religious pony by any standard, but if anything could shake a ponies’ faith it would have been her grappling hook, barely attached to her foreleg.

Standing up, Fleur spoke to the statue. “Thanks. Owe you one.” Taking her grappling hook, coiling it up neatly and replacing it in her bag, she made her way into the darkness of the nearby tower.

Standing in the shadow of the colossal palace, she shook the water off herself. She certainly did not wish to climb and fall because of a wet hoof. No, slipping once was enough for one night. Staying out of sight of the patrols she placed a horseshoes’ spike against the structure, tested the grip on the marble, and began slowly scaling the castle tower. Her muscles ached. The waterfall had sapped most of her strength, but she could not afford to rest at the tower’s base.

Fleur carefully made her way to the top of the spire, at which was Princess Celestia's bedchamber. Her muscles were tired, making her a thousand promises of lingering pain yet to come. She could not fail here. It would be an insult to her professional integrity.

Climbing to the top of the tower, she looked out over the land below. The calm breeze of the beautiful night felt wondrous on her hide, and she wanted nothing more than to rip off her bodysuit while the fresh breeze cooled her aching hide.

Above her, Luna’s moon exuded a brilliance to which she was unaccustomed. She had seen plenty of Luna’s moons, but this one was special. It could have been heightened senses as a result of her earlier brush with death, but it was more likely because the Night Princess was in a good mood. Pity how many ponies slept through this display. Of course, sleep did sound pretty good to her right now.

Below her she knew the princess was probably asleep, resting until the dawn, when she would once again bathe Equestria in warmth and sunshine. She shuddered at the thought of being caught here. She would likely be mistaken for an assassin. She wondered what the penalty for attempted assassination was. Whatever it was, she expected it would be unpleasant.

Silently, she waited and watched from atop the tower as guards patrolled the bridge. She would need to cross without being seen, or at least take out the guards to get to the bridge that led to the Spire of Secrets.

Below her on the walkway, a pair of guards, a stallion and a mare, were conversing amiably. "It just gets so boring sometimes," the mare whined as she looked down at the ground. "What I wouldn't give for some action!"

"Action?" The stallion asked in a disinterested tone. "We guard the princess. If ‘action’ makes it all the way to us then there are serious problems."

Fleur quickly removed a small bag from her belt. With a with a flash of light from her horn she magically charged the contents. "Too right you are my friends," she said sweetly, releasing the bag and letting it fall towards the guards. The guards looked up at her with twin expressions of shock, as the bag hit the stallion on the nose, bursting silently. It expelled a pink gas and both ponies fell quietly to the ground, asleep. "Goodnight," Fleur purred softly.

Silently she jumped down to the bridge. Turning around, she could see through the cracked doorway. The Princess slept peacefully, seemingly unaware of her protectors’ fate. She had seen the princess countless times in the past, but never quite so vulnerable. Seeing her laying there, Fleur wanted nothing more than to walk in, curl up, and fall asleep next to her protector. Sometimes it was hard to imagine that the pony responsible for raising the sun and giving light to all of Equestria would need the same things as anypony else. "Sleep well, dear princess," Fleur said with an unbidden smile on her face, a single tear escaping her eye.

Returning her focus to the task at hand, she turned from her sleeping princess. She began to move carefully across the bridge towards the central castle. The door to the castle ahead of her began to open, and she skid to a stop. Fleur quickly dove over the edge of the bridge, grabbing the stones on the side with her spikes. Nearly losing her grip, a single stone under her back hoof came loose and fell far down below. She quickly glanced down to see the stone hit a patrolling guard on the head, with a loud ring off of his helmet. He fell to the ground, unconscious.

After a nervous pause, it seemed to Fleur that nopony had heard the noise. Looking down on the now-prostrate guard, she whispered a silent and earnest: “Sorry”.

The guard on the bridge above her began walking towards the princess's chamber. He was a young, strong stallion, obviously there to relieve one of the other guards for the night. About a quarter of the way across the bridge, and right next to the hiding intruder hanging from the ledge, he noticed the downed guards at the end. A bewildered expression on his face, his eye twitched subtly. 

Before he could react, Fleur was upon him. Swinging herself forward and then throwing herself violently backward, her forelegs’ hoof-hooks still buried in the edge of the bridge, she flipped head over heels. The shocked guard was taken by surprise as her hind-legs locked around his neck, bringing his head down hard into the stone surface of the bridge with a ringing impact on his helmet. The trauma from the impact, combined with the pressure of Prize Catch’s legs around his windpipe, caused him to slip quickly and serenely into unconsciousness.

"Sorry to you too," she spoke softly to the supine guard as she stood up, dusting herself off. "I hate having to get that personal but you really left me no choice."

After dispatching three -or she supposed four- guards, it was a simple and almost leisurely climb onto the castle roof. After a quick run across to the other side, she was now facing the mysterious Spire of Secrets. From the castle top she could see two guards standing outside of the entrance to the spire. Magical runes on the outer wall of the spire glistened in the moonlight. Her hoof-spikes and grappling hook would probably be useless. She did not know what the runes were capable of, and did not wish to go poking at them blindly. The only way in was through the front door, a path she would have rather avoided because it meant dealing with the centurions that protected it. But this was that kind of night.

From her position, stealth was not an option. She would be forced to confront two well-trained, well-armed foes head on, and without the element of surprise. They were on the opposite side of the bridge facing her. Fleur knew she did not have the strength left in her to run back to the other side of the castle, climb down and around the central structure, and hoist herself under the bridge past them. Frontal assault it was then.

Stepping down from the ledge, Prize Catch landed on the bridge, a little over a hundred feet from the centurions. Both quickly took notice of the mare in black garb, and being Pegasi, readied the steel blades that were attached to their wings.

"Halt! Intruder!" One Pegasus guard cried as he rushed forward. The other guard held his position, standing ready, as his partner advanced on her.

"Oh come on boys, don't be like that," she said coyly, ducking under the first slash of his wing and stepping past him. "I haven't done anything... yet." As he turned to face her again she brought her fore-hoof down upon his outstretched wingblade, the metal of her hoof-spike sparking against the metal. The rigid steel did not bend, knocking him off-balance, forcing him down onto his left leg. She delivered a dangerously quick buck to the exposed part of his face, causing some damage and knocking him out.

The second guard approached quickly, seeing his friend go down. She ran at him and slid under his wing-blade as he tried to slash at her throat, coming dangerously close. She turned, extending her rear hoof, and swept his legs out from under him. The guard hit the ground on his back and quickly rolled over to stand, but Fleur jumped on his back and locked her hooves around his neck. The guard quickly learned that wingblades count for nothing when a foe is latched onto you from behind. Fleur however had not anticipated how strong he was. Rearing up on his hind legs he slammed her head against the spire wall. The stallion struggled as Fleur started to lose her grip, he flipped her around in front of him, and bucked her off against the stone wall of the bridge.

Stars flooded Fleur's vision, the pain in her head and limbs was proof that she remained both conscious and alive. She quickly oriented herself. Standing up, she prepared for the attack that was already coming. He came low, slashing at her legs with his wingblade. She leaped over the attack. Charging her horn with a blinding spell, its typical pink glow changed to a deep green, and she drew the misty magic across his eyes. Landing behind the temporarily-blinded guard, she charged a force spell and sent it rocketing into his flank, spinning him around and slamming him into the same wall she had hit. The colt twitched a few times and slipped into unconsciousness.

Fleur was quite tired after her multiple encounters. She fell to her knees, trying to catch her breath. Rarely had she been forced to employ this level of personal involvement in acquiring an item or sneaking into any location. She did not like it. But when the only entrance to ones’ goal is guarded, one does what one must.

Breathing deeply and standing up, she stepped towards the doorway to the spire, her gait cautious with the expectation of sudden attack by an unknown enemy. She could delay no longer. All of this racket was sure to bring the whole knighthood of Equestria crashing down upon her head.

Entering the spire's interior, Fleur's path led up a dark winding stairwell, illuminated only by the torches on either side. Strange runes and markings lined the walls and stairs, a sign of both the riches and the dangers present ahead. Normally, Fleur would have liked to play it cautious, but time was not her friend tonight.

At the top of the room the stairs led into a chamber full of treasures. Chests and gems lay strewn about in no logical fashion. Paintings and statues adorned the end of the chamber, pieces of fantastic craftsmanship that should have been displayed, not hidden away.

Fleur gazed about the room until her eyes found the prize she sought so badly to claim. Seven pedestals sat in the center of the room. Upon them sat seven vibrantly glowing gems of various colors. "Jackpot," she said, approaching them quickly.

Reaching the edge of the hoard, a crackle of magical light sparked to life before her, knocking her back against a wall with tremendous force. She sat there a moment holding her head. She was getting tired of seeing stars. Soon she would have names for all of them. Slowly standing, Fleur caught her breath as a single trickle of blood dripped into her vision. The magical defenses had slipped her mind at the sight of the trove before her. A foalish mistake.

"Let’s try this again," she said as she removed one of the orbs Trixie had given her. "Without the shocking." Shattering the orb against the ground. “And the pain.” A green mist swirled about, slowly taking the shape of a mare. “And the pony hitting walls.”

Trixie stepped out of the cloud. Fleur saw she had taken her advice, and was garbed in a black mask and cloak. The blue mare quickly surveyed her surroundings.

"About time," Trixie said, smiling. "What took so long?"

"Oh, I don't know," Fleur said, irritated. "Infiltrating the most heavily-guarded keep in all of Equestria used to be easy.” Her tone was airy, sarcastic. “Maybe I'm losing my touch."

“You look awful,” Trixie said worriedly. “Are you hurt?”

“Less talkie, more magic,” Fleur said, then nodded at the invisible barrier.

Stepping close to the barrier Trixie began to gather up her magic. Speaking softy she said, "It was only a jest, Prize. I am quite pleased with your work." Her magic began to slowly extend towards the barrier, feeling it out.

"Not to rush you but we do need to hurry," Fleur spoke. "The guards I had to incapacitate will be waking up soon.” She cast a worried look toward the Spires’ door. “If they haven't already been discovered."

"This isn't easy," Trixie commented as she continued to concentrate. With a flash the barrier broke, showering the room in glittering motes of magical essence. Trixie, perspiration beading on her brow, spoke, "See. I did it."

“How does a simple showpony get a spell like that, anyway?” Fleur inquired. “I mean, that barrier was raised by the princess herself.”

“I have poured every resource I have into getting these,” Trixie responded heartily. “Somepony sold me this spell. I can’t break the barrier, just suspend it for an hour or so.”

Trixie gently stepped past the tired mare and towards the pedestals holding their prize. Slowly reaching a hoof out, she was close to touching one when a loud cracking echoed in the room around her.

"Wait!" A voice echoed. "You do not know what you are about to do!"

Startled, both mares began to look around for the source of the strange voice. "Who's there?" Trixie asked in a frightened tone, taking a step back.

"Who my dear? Who indeed. Take a look around. What do you see?" The voice spoke echoing off the walls. "Don't let your normal sense of judgement cloud your eyes. That's my job."

Looking around, Trixie's eyes locked on a strange statue. "Are you... are you the statue of that chimera?" She asked hesitantly, realizing how foalish her first gut instinct had been.

"Wrong, my little pony. Well, not entirely. I am the statue. But I am a draconequus," the voice replied.

"Same thing," Fleur said under her breath.

"No, not the same thing... oh, well, maybe. It doesn't matter," spoke the statue. "I am Discord. The spirit of chaos and disharmony. Perhaps you have heard of me?"

"Yes we have," Fleur said, placing a hoof on Trixie's shoulder. "We should go."

"Go, yes. But do not take the stones that you have come for," Discord said.

"Why?" Trixie asked curiously, stepping closer to the statue. "Why would you care?"

"Have you got time for a story? Oh, I do love a good story," he said with a laugh. “This one time I turned a pony into a cow... and a cow into a pony. You should have seen the look on...”

"Not really. No time. Sorry," Trixie interrupted, reaching out to the gems.

"What if I told you that if you touch those gems, you doom your kingdom, yourself, and very well the world with it!?" The voice boomed, Trixie stopping just short of touching one. Discord began to laugh at the mare. "Oh my dear, yours is just like so many stories that have come before. But are you the hero... or the villain?"

"What do you mean?" Trixie asked, looking worriedly at the ghastly creature entombed in stone.

"We need to go," Fleur reminded her hastily, tugging on her cloak.

"One pony, one individuals’ decision that changes the course of history. It has happened before and you might make it happen again. Whatever your reasons are; good or bad, it does not matter. The fact remains that you hold in your hooves a monumental choice," Discord spoke. "If you take the orbs, you will not gain what you seek. You will gain nothing but fear and pain for all ponykind."

"Why should I believe the spirit of disharmony?" Trixie asked with a frown. Turning her gaze back to the gems before her. "By your very title I should do the opposite of what you warn. And what’s more, who are you to judge me? Fear and pain... that’s your currency."

“But I deal in cards my dear,” the statue said before pausing for a few moments. “I do miss having my powers. I was going to make it rain cards! Oh it would have been so delightful.” The whimsy in his tone died away. “And as to your question: there are some things even I am afraid of.”

“Well, thanks for the warning,” Trixie said, a smile on her face. “But I will trust my gut.”

"Consider it my good deed of the millennium," Discord spoke, then laughed heartily. “But whatever you decide, you’d better hurry. Somepony isn't very happy with you right now.”

From behind the two mares a commanding and terrible voice rang out. "You two stop right there!" The voice froze their blood and stilled their hearts.

Turning, both mares were greeted by the sight of a large and beautiful alicorn, their very own princess Celestia. She did not have the benevolent expression of their kind ruler upon her face. Her flawless face showed an emotion nopony had seen there for centuries.

Fear.

Trixie acted first, grabbing the gems and throwing them into her bag. Out of the corner of her eye she could see a jade statue shatter into pieces when she removed the last. This was not her concern at the moment. Her concern was all fixated on the near-divine creature demanding her attention.

Without another moments’ pause, and in total disregard for the shouting Princess behind her, Trixie reached into Prize Catch's bag and flung the last remaining orb out the spires’ only window. Praying this would work, she dove at her companion, hooves outstretched to grab her.

Prize Catch stood frozen, staring at Celestia with a fearful look on her face. She had stolen from the princess before, but never came face to face with her while doing it. It felt wrong, for the first time ever, to steal something she didn’t own. Maybe it was because she was looking into the face of somepony she cared deeply for, or because she feared the statue spoke true.

She remained as still as death itself as Trixie grabbed her and held tight. Even as she saw her princess dash forward towards them, not with anger, but with concern. Even when the two of them began to slowly vanish into the spell the orb cast. Even when the raspy voice in her right ear said, "Thou shalt do just fine."

Authors’ Notes
I would like to thank my two editors for taking the time to read this. Without the fresh eyes they have provided this would have probably ended up in the proverbial trash bin. It's good to see Malthusite, put his degree in English literature to use. God knows you do not use it anywhere else. Might as well use it for pony. And Jezebelle I am so sorry to force you to read this, over and over again... tied to your chair... did I let her go? Whats it been? Three weeks? Yeah... she’s dead.
Big thank you to Durpy, Lextsy, Maximillianveers, and Omniferious over at deviant art. For allowing me to piece together their vectors to make the image for my fiction. Great work guys.