The Ghost Of Me

by Bluecatcinema


Iris

Fletcher and Caboose continued their tour through the headquarters, guided by Black, Titan, and Elite.

"So... what did you mean when you said we're 'only the beginning'?" Fletcher asked.

"Yeah, are we like part of some prophecy that calls for a Bitalian mobster and a Norhayan Royal Guard? Because that is unusually specific." Caboose cringed.

"Oh, no." Elite declared. "You see, recently, I have been scouring all of the world, looking for ponies to take up the cause of taking on the Forefathers. Putting together a team made of Equestria's finest."

"Wow, really?" Caboose smiled. "How many are there now?"

"...Four." Elite deadpanned.

"Four?" Fletcher frowned, "How long have you been doing this?"

"I only started gathering a team after the Crystal Sun incident." Elite frowned, "I only had three years to look for ponies."

"Yet you could only come up with four?" Fletcher questioned.

"This team is going to be facing off against the Forefathers in the future. I have really high standards." Elite grimaced.

"Wait, what about Armory and the others? Aren't they on this team?" Caboose asked.

"Well, yes and no. Yes, they are affiliated with Taskforce Omega, but no, they are not a part of this particular group that you, Fletcher, and Black are going to be in." Elite explained. "Think of it as being the group that leads the charge into battle."

"Ohh..." Caboose and Fletcher said in unison.

"Hold on, you said four, right?" Fletcher asked. "And me, Caboose, and Black are right here. Who's the fourth?"

"You will be meeting him soon enough." Elite declared. "In the mean time, you two should take in the surroundings. What do you think of the place?"

"Well, it is quite an impressive installation." Fletcher mused, "You don't see a base as complex as this back in Norhay."

"No kidding." Caboose smirked. "I can't wait to see the kitchen!"

"You won't be disappointed. This base has been designed meticulously for the comfort yet efficiency of Taskforce Omega. The layout has been designed so all rooms are easily accessible via the main hall. Our outside training area has been enchanted to have its own adjustable climate, so as to test our members' limits in every way. Our firing range boasts moving, alternating targets, and every kind of ammunition you can imagine. We even have an underground prison system to contain any captives, each cell built to withstand magic, dragon fire, and much more. We call it 'the Pipeline'."

"Sounds like whoever built this place thought of everything."

"But that doesn't mean we don't know how to relax." Black grinned, leading them to a lounge room with a pool table. "A nice little room to kick back in. Even has a sweet set of recliners."

"Wow... that is awesome." Caboose smiled. "When do we get to try out the firing range?"

"There'll be plenty of time for that later." Elite chuckled.

"Since we're still sorta on the subject, do you guys have anything else you'd like to ask about my past?" Black inquired.

"There are still a few things." Fletcher admitted. "But I'm not sure which to ask first."

"Take your time." Black shrugged. "I'm not going anywhere."

"Quick question: What about Shade?" Caboose asked. "Did you even know you had a son?"

"...Um, yeah." Black said flatly. "In fact, I was one of the first to find out. I had been keeping tabs on Belle, dropping by Prairieville every once in a while to make sure she was okay. That was when I saw her with a foal... and well, I just knew."

"And you did nothing about it?" Fletcher frowned.

"I couldn't." Black shrugged. "It was way too dangerous."

"Dangerous?" Caboose frowned. "Why?"

"My thoughts exactly." Fletcher nodded. "What drove you to leave poor Belle?"

"Now that's a story..." Black mused.

Many years ago...

Elite tried to be true to his word. For months since Black's failed 'failed' assassination attempt, Elite worked endlessly, trying desperately to find Black. Within the first few days of their search, they were able to pinpoint where Black would had landed at the bottom of the cliffs, but they were unable to find any traces of Black anywhere.

Some assumed that Black's remains had been picked off by predators and the like, but Elite reasoned that somepony must have found him and took him somewhere, making it all the more important to find him.

However, as the months went by, nearly everypony in Taskforce Omega was beginning to assume the worst had come to pass for their comrade. Elite however, wouldn't believe it, spending countless days without rest trying to find him, his resolve refusing to give.

On one such night, Elite was up late, glancing at a map littered with X's all over, as he was on his communicator with one of his agents.

"Ah-huh. Ah-huh." Elite nodded... only to sigh. "Oh... okay, report back to base and standby for further instructions."

With that, he closed his communicator, and with frustration, he drew another X on the map.

"I know you're out there somewhere, Black." Elite declared, as he scanned the map for more possible locations, "I just know it."

Shadow Slinker, Armory and Micro Manager entered the room.

"Late night, sir?" Shadow asked.

"Ah, hello." Elite turned to look at them.

"How's the search going?" Armory asked.

"Not as well as I'd like." Elite admitted. "But I won't rest until Black is back with us."

"That may not be such a good idea..." Shadow frowned.

"Pardon?" Elite asked.

"Um, sir, when was the last time you went to sleep?" Micro Manager inquired.

"That depends." Elite frowned. "When was Tuesday?"

"Four days ago." Micro Manager declared.

"Ah." Elite nodded. "It's been four days since I last went to sleep, then."

"Director, you're running yourself ragged." Shadow frowned, "You gotta get some sleep."

"I can't do that, Shadow." Elite shook his head. "Not when Black is still out there."

"But this cannot be healthy for you, Elite." Micro Manager insisted. "We can't have our leader out of commission, now can we?"

"Look, I will be fine." Elite sighed, "I've faced worse bouts of fatigue. Besides, we can't leave one of our own out there. We have to find Black, and bring him home."

"Sir, I don't know how to break this to you, but I think you are only setting yourself up for disappointment." Shadow grimaced, "We had been looking for him for four months. We've searched high and low for him. Surely, I speak for all of us when I say that this is starting to look like a lost cause... I think we should just call off the search."

"Nonsense." Elite scoffed. "I've never given up on a teammate before, and I won't start now."

"We don't know if he's still alive." Micro Manager glared. "Like I said back then, the probability of him surviving that fall, especially after getting shot in the eye, is practically zero. Zilch. Nada."

"He is alive, Micro." Elite said stubbornly. "I can feel it. Black's still ticking, trust me."

"Look, I want Black to be alive as much as you, Elite." Armory pointed out. "But surely if he were alive, he'd have given some sign by now."

"Of course he hasn't." Elite nodded. "Black obviously doesn't want the Forefathers to catch wind that he is still alive. While the plan itself didn't go exactly as planned, Black was able to disappear both in the eyes of Equestria and the Forefathers. He must be waiting for us to find him right now."

The others glanced at Elite, frowns on all their faces.

"Elite, you are in denial!" Micro sighed. "Black was a good soldier, and a great ally to us all, but there is no way he is alive! And you're just killing yourself trying to think otherwise! It's tragic, but we just might have to face facts!"

"I assure you, that is not the case." Elite growled. "I know the odds, and I am not naive to how much a pony can take... but there is this feeling in my bones that Black is still out there, and we have to find him before the Forefathers finds him. I just need you guys to trust me. Can you do that?"

The others hesitated for a moment, unsure. Armory was the first to step forward.

"You've never led us astray before." Armory admitted. "And I doubt you're going to start you."

"I suppose history is on your side there." Micro Manager sighed.

"We all trust you with our lives." Shadow admitted. "I suppose we can trust you with this..."

"Good." Elite smiled. "Now, if you'll excuse me..."

As Elite returned to examine the map, the others glanced at each other with uncertainty.

"Do you guys really think we are going to find Black alive?" Armory asked.

"I don't know." Shadow shook his head, "If by some miracle he is still alive, I can't imagine the kind of agony he is in."

"I know." Micro Manager nodded. "That fall would have broken many a bone. Without proper medical treatment, they might have set properly."

"Oh, Black." Armory sighed. "I don't even want to think about the pain you could be in right now..."

At that very moment, over in Praireville, in the house of a beautiful schoolteacher named School Belle...

"Ahhhh!" Black groaned, loud enough to be heard in the street. Some passersby were concerned... until they heard him scream out "Yeah!"

Black wasn't in crippling agony; Rather, he was eating breakfast with Belle, his groans being of enjoyment over the delicious meal Belle had prepared. He had recovered from his wounds quite nicely, and had filled out slightly from his new, more leisurely life, though his face still had a weathered look to it, compounded by the patch he wore over his lost eye.

"Wow, I know my wheatcakes are good, but you make it look like they're the bee's knees." Belle chuckled.

"What can I say, they're really tasty." Black smiled.

"Thanks, Black." Belle blushed. "There's really nothing to it, though. You just... mix it all together, bake it, add some syrup..."

"But you do it so well." Black grinned.

"You're going to spoil me with all this flattery." Belle grinned.

"Hey, it's your fault for being so perfect." Black joked.

"I'll try to tone that back then." Belle giggled. "Oh, by the way, there's a square dance tonight at the town hall. Would you like to go?"

"Well, I dunno..." Black shrugged, "Not really much of a dancer..."

"That's okay." Belle told him. "Neither am I. I'd just like to be there with you."

"If you put it that way, sure, why not?" Black smirked.

"Thank you, Black." Belle kissed him on the cheek. "You're such a sweetheart."

"Guilty as charged." Black smirked.

That evening, more or less the entire town gathered for the square dance. Black wore his wide-brimmed hat, and a jacket that covered his Cutie Mark. He had been in the town long enough that he felt any greater disguise was unnecessary.

"Whoa, is everypony in town here?" Black asked.

"What can I say?" Belle grinned. "We love our square dances."

"How about I get us some refreshments?" Black offered. "Before the punch is drained."

"Of course." Belle nodded.

"Be right back." Black smiled.

One stallion in particular made his way through the crowd. He was a pale orange Earth Pony with a short yellow mane, brown eyes, and a Cutie Mark of a pistol. He was Six Shooter, Sheriff of Prairieville. As he surveyed the townfolk, he spotted Belle.

'Ah, there you are.' He smiled. 'All alone, are we? Well, don't fret. You're about to have the company of the best stallion in town...'

Six Shooter approached Belle. He had had his eye on the lovely school teacher for quite some time, and now seemed like the perfect moment to make his move.

"Good evening, Miss Belle." He smiled.

"Oh, hello, Sheriff." Belle declared.

"Please, call me Six." Shooter urged. "A wonderful night, isn't it?"

"It surely is." Belle nodded. "Call me sappy, but I love seeing our community all getting together to have fun like this."

"As do I, as do I." Shooter agreed. "But you know what I hate? Seeing a lovely lady such as yourself all alone on such a festive occasion."

"Oh, but I'm not alone." Belle chuckled.

"...You're not?" Shooter frowned.

"No." Belle shook her head.

Black then joined them, expertly balancing two punch glasses on one hoof.

"Hey, beautiful." He held out his hoof. "Fresh punch?"

"Why, thank you." Belle took the top glass.

"And... who is this?" Shooter asked.

"This is Black." Belle smiled, "Surely you heard about him in town. He's the houseguest who has been living with me in the past months.

"So, this is Black?" Shooter mused. "Funny name for a stallion of your crimson coloration..."

"Blame my parents for that one." Black shrugged.

"So this 'stranger' have been living with you for months?" Shooter frowned. "How come we've never seen him around in town? From what I heard, he only ventured out as far as the schoolhouse."

"Black is not a social pony." Belle admitted. "But he is a sweetheart. He's been helping around the house since he managed to get back on his hooves."

"Ah yes, rumor has it that you found him at the bottom of a cliff. What exactly happened there, Black?" Shooter frowned in suspicion.

"I was mountain climbing." Black lied. "But like an amateur, I didn't secure my line. Big mistake. One that almost cost me my life..."

"And it would have, if I hadn't been there." Belle noted. "I found her lying on the ground, broken, and I had to help him."

"Classic Belle." Shooter smiled. "Always helping those in need."

"Lucky for me, huh?" Black asked.

"Yes." Shooter nodded drily. "Very lucky."

"I took him to the doctor, then brought him to my home to heal." Belle declared. "While that happened, we got to know each other. Black turned out to be a very charming stallion."

"I'm sure he is." Shooter said through gritted teeth.

"I can't imagine a more wonderful pony to share my home with." Belle admitted.

"Well, you've been sharing more than a home with me lately, haven't you?" Black grinned at Belle.

"And what exactly do you mean by that?" Shooter asked, not liking the look on Black's face.

"Well, Black and I... have been having some... romantic entanglements as of late." Belle blushed.

"Oh, really?" Shooter felt his eye twitch. "How nice for the two of you."

"Got that right." Black smirked, "I don't mean to brag, but Belle surely lives up to her name."

"Oh, Black." Belle chided playfully, thumping him softly in the chest.

"Though it does seem a little unseemly, all things considered." Shooter frowned.

"How so?" Belle asked.

"Oh, you know." Shooter shrugged. "Some out-of-towner moving into your house, making the moves on you... no offense."

"...None taken?" Black frowned.

"I probably shouldn't intrude on your night any further." Shooter declared pleasantly (not to mention suddenly). "If you'll excuse me..."

Shooter walked away from the pair.

"I don't think he likes me very much." Black surmised.

"He's actually quite nice, once you get to know him." Belle declared.

"Sure he is..." Black murmured.

Once Shooter was out of sight, his pleasant demeanour turned into an angry snarl.

'Who does that guy think he is?' He thought bitterly. 'Riding into town, getting cozy with my lady... not if I can help it...'

A couple of hours later, Black and Belle walked home together.

"Now wasn't that a fun night?" Belle smiled. "I told you you'd enjoy it."

"With you by my side, I'd enjoy anything." Black smirked. "Even being thrown to hungry Manticores."

"Oh, Black..." Belle gushed.

As they walked, a stallion suddenly bumped into him. His body was covered in many rags, his face mostly hidden by his hat, a pair of shades, and a lot of filth, obviously a homeless pony. The cane he held in his hoof made it clear that he was blind.

"Ugh, hey, buddy, do you mind?" Black glared.

"Now, Black, mind your manners." Belle stepped forward, "This poor fellow can't help his condition. The poor dear's blind."

"Erm, sorry, Belle." Black cringed, turning to face the blind pony, "And I'm sorry for bumping... into you?"

His voice trailed off as he gazed at the homeless pony, who seemed to be looking back at him. He couldn't explain it... but he felt like he had seen this pony before... but where?

"Nah, it's my fault." The hobo declared. "I shouldn't be lazing around here... not when I need my alms."

"'Alms'?" Black frowned.

"Yes, alms." The hobo nodded, holding out a cup. "Alms for the poor. Don't suppose you have any?"

"I'm sorry." Belle apologised. "I don't any loose change on me right now."

"That's okay, lovely lady." The hobo tottered down the street. "Alms. Alms for the poor?"

As the two continued on their way home, Black suddenly spoke up.

"Alms? Where the hell does he think he is, Sherwood?" Black grimaced.

"Not in this heat." Belle joked. "But seriously, that poor fellow. Living on the streets..."

"Yeah." Black nodded. "On nights like this, it's easy to forget not everypony is as lucky as us."

"Not even close." Belle sighed. "If I could, I'd take in all the lost lambs of this world."

"I hope not." Black smirked. "There'd be no room for me. And that'd be a real tragedy."

"Oh, you..." Belle chuckled.

"You know I'm right." Black kissed her.

"I do." Belle beamed. "Having you in my life has made me so happy. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Hey, don't worry." Black assured her. "I'm not going anywhere..."

"I know." Belle nuzzled against as they continued their path to her home.

Back at Taskforce HQ, Elite was still continuing his search for Black... or at least, would be, had he not dozed off, his head face down on the table. It wasn't till his communicator began buzzing that he jolted awake.

"Harvey Dent, can we trust him?!" Elite jolted up... before frowning in confusion. "Huh?" He glanced at his small crystal sphere communicator on the table next to him and grimaced. "Oh. It's just you."

Begrudgingly, he picked it up and activated it, holding it up to his mouth.

"Director Everest here. What is it?"

"Hey, Elite, I got some good news. Are ya sittin' down?" A voice with a thick cockney accent spoke.

"Oh, you." Elite rubbed the bridge of his snout. "Don't worry about the sitting. I'm so tired that I can barely stand. What is it?"

"I found Black."

Instantly, Elite's tiredness faded away, as his eyes widened.

"What?! Really?!" Elite gasped, standing up.

"Yup. Turns out, he's been shackin' it up in Prairieville." The voice explained.

"Prairieville, huh?" Elite glanced at the map, mainly at a blank spot amongst the X's. "What it's like there?"

"It's not exactly a prime holiday location, that's for true." The stallion's accent suddenly explained. "Bloody sand everywhere... getting in my knickers... But not a bad place, when you get right down to it. Got some nice blokes and birds here, even."

"Well, great work." Elite smiled. "I knew he would be alive, I just knew it. Give me a week to catch up on some shut-eye and get things together, and I will be there in a flash!"

"Hold your britches, Elite." The voice frowned. "I'm afraid I got some bad news as well."

"Bad news?" Elite asked, not liking the sound of that, "Is Black alright?"

"It's not about Black... well, not yet at least." The voice explained, "While lookin' 'round town, I found something real worrisome..."

"Oh crap..." Elite grunted, "Well, tell me what you know..."

"Well, it's a lot like this..."

One week later, Black and Belle were finishing up their lunch

"Well, it's time for my doctor's appointment." Belle declared as she got up.

"Another one?" Black frowned. "Are you sure everything's okay?"

"I'm fine, Black." Belle assured him. "I've just been feeling a little... odd lately. I just want to make sure nothing's wrong."

"I hope nothing's wrong." Black fretted. "I'd hate for anything to happen to you. I couldn't live with myself..."

"You are sweet." Belle kissed his cheek. "But you don't need to worry. I'm sure it's probably nothing."

"Yeah, but-" Black started.

"But nothing." Belle said firmly. "Why don't you chop some wood for the fireplace while I'm gone? Take your mind off things."

"Yeah, okay." Black kissed her gently. "Good luck."

"Thanks." Belle beamed, before leaving.

After finishing his breakfast and washing his dish, Black went out to chop some wood, smiling happily as he did. Ever since Belle had taken him in, Black had felt content in a way he never had before. Her love had awakened a side of him he never knew he had. For all his time in Prairieville, he had never once felt the need to fight that had been a part of him for so long. He felt at peace with the world, and with himself. And he was well aware that this wouldn't have happened if his 'assassination attempt' hadn't turned out so badly.

"Who'd have thought falling off a cliff could lead to all this?" Black chuckled aloud, as he split another log.

After finishing his work in the backyard, Black went inside to take care of some other chores. He dusted the shelves, took care of the laundry, and even did a little ironing, all the while whistling a jaunty tune, totally content.

'Look at me.' He smirked. 'I'm a regular house-husband. Now, just gotta take care of the sweeping, and I'll be done...'

Grabbing a broom, Black started sweeping up all the dust on the wooden floors.

Unbeknownst to Black, a cloaked pony was making his way over to the house, having recently pulled into town on 'business'.

'Okay, the house should right over this way...' The cloaked pony thought, making a beeline for Belle's home.

The pony walked right up to the door.

'So this is where Black's been held up?' He mused. 'Very quaint. Nice place for a vacation. But I'm afraid the holiday is over...'

He knocked on the door. Moments later, Black opened it.

"Hey, can I help-"

Black immediately froze as he looked upon the cloaked pony. Despite his face being covered up, Black could easily recognize him.

"You." Black gaped.

"Hello, Black Knight. It has been a while." The cloaked pony declared.

"Wha... what are you doing here?" Black asked.

"It's simple really." The hooded pony declared. "I have come to bring you home."

Black gazed in surprise for a moment... before simply frowning.

"Director... why are you disguised like a creepy cult member?" Black deadpanned.

"Oh, my apologies." The cloaked pony apologized, as he pulled off the hood, revealing himself to be, as Black guessed, Elite Everest, "I had to keep a low profile, you know?"

"Elite... I never really thought that I would see you again." Black admitted. "Nice to see you hadn't changed a bit."

"Well, I'm glad that I found you, all in one piece..." Elite smiled... before frowning at his eye-patch. "Well, mostly in one piece."

"Yeah, you can thank brother dearest for that." Black grimaced. "You wouldn't believe how many things I've bumped into because of this..."

"I'm really sorry to hear that." Elite apologized. "It was never our intention for you to lose an eye in all that mess."

"I know." Black sighed, "So... would you like to come in? You must be exhausted."

"I would like that, thanks." Elite nodded.

Black allowed Elite inside, as they made their way to the living room. Elite took in the homey atmosphere, noting the wooden table and the weathered, yet comfortable couch, an old rug (a gift from Belle's mother), a clock hanging from the wall, and a bookcase leaning against the left wall. On the fireplace's mantle were portraits of School Belle and her family members... but one stood out the most: a small circular portrait with a picture of Black and Belle, in close company, smiling lovingly.

"How did you find me, Elite?" Black asked. "I thought you would had thought me dead."

"Are you kidding?" Elite turned to face Black. "I've been leading the search to find you for the past four months. I had my men looking everywhere for you. It wasn't easy. Nearly everypony believed you to be dead."

"Oh..." Black frowned. "I'm sorry about that. I should had let you know I was okay. I guess with my recovery and all, I hadn't the chance."

"Recovery, eh?" Elite gazed shrewdly at Belle's picture. "Something tells me that something else has been keeping your minds off things."

"Guilty." Black smirked, as he glanced lovingly at the picture. "Her name is School Belle. She was the one who found me when... well, you know."

"And you've been living with her for all these months?" Elite asked, "You didn't tell her anything, did you?"

"Of course not." Black grunted. "I only told her my name, and that's it. It seems Prairieville isn't privy to current events."

"Well, that is a relief." Elite nodded. "Where is she now?"

"Doctor appointment." Black explained. "I'm sure if you hang around for a bit, you can meet her-"

"I'm afraid I can't do that, Black." Elite declared. "In fact, we don't have much time, so we gotta leave while the getting's good."

"Wait, what?" Black frowned. "Leave?!"

"Yes. I am here to take you back with me to Taskforce Omega." Elite declared.

"...Hold, hold on." Black held up a hoof. "Are you... are you seriously asking me to drop everything to come back with you?"

"Um, yes." Elite deadpanned. "Look, in the past few months, the Forefathers have been silent. We hadn't heard anything about them in forever. I can only assume they went dark so that they can continue about their businesses without our noticing. I consider ourselves lucky that we managed to find you before they did."

"I figured they assumed I'm dead." Black grunted.

"I doubt it. If I wasn't willing to accept that you were dead, it's only fair that the Forefathers think the same as well, since they hadn't found your body and all." Elite shook his head, as he made to leave. "Now, we must depart."

"...No."

Elite stopped in his tracks.

"Excuse me?" Elite frowned, turning back to face Black.

"I'm sorry, Elite, but I'm not going back." Black declared. "I'm staying right here."

"What?!" Elite gaped. "Black, you can't be serious."

"I am." Black scowled. "I've made a new life for myself here. I was given a chance to start over, a chance that would never come again in a lifetime. And I don't want to give that up!"

"That's all well and good, but you can't just quit!" Elite frowned. "You swore an oath to serve as a agent of Taskforce Omega! You can't back out because you want to!"

"Can't I?" Black frowned. "You already had me betray the RDL, which, mind you, I'd also made an 'oath' to serve. So, I don't think that excuse is valid."

"Black, please, we need you. You're one of our best operatives. You've been making a difference for us, and Equestria." Elite stammered, "You can't just throw all of that away, just for a mare who saved your life."

"I'm in love, Elite." Black announced. "It's the real thing. I can't leave her!"

"But she has no idea who you really are!" Elite glared. "How do you think she's going to react when she learns about Reinadh?"

"If our love means anything to her, I believe she would understand." Black grunted. "Besides, it feels good to have somepony who doesn't look at me with hate..."

"Black..." Elite murmured. "Please, we need you. You're one of us."

"Maybe once, but not any more." Black said stubbornly. "Sorry, Elite. There's nothing you can do to change my mind. I already had left a part of my life behind all those months ago, and I won't let this life go."

"...And is that really what you want?" Elite frowned.

"Yes, Elite." Black glared, "I'm sorry to have wasted your time, but this is where I belong."

"...Very well." Elite sighed. "But before I go, I have something for you."

Elite dug into his cloak, and pulled out a small bag and gave it to Black. Black frowned as he opened it, revealing some of his effects from before he was arrested, including his tape player, Rookie's mix tape still inside.

"With you arrested back then, I knew you probably hadn't the chance to get your possessions back, so I had a friend gathered them for you." Elite smiled. "Your tape player in particular is as you left it."

"Thank you, sir." Black gave a small smile, before frowning again, "You're not trying to change my mind, right?"

"Oh no." Elite shook his head, "But, on the outside chance that you do..." Elite placed a crystal sphere communicator in the bag, "Give us a call, okay?"

"Very well." Black sighed. "I wish you and the others good luck with the Forefathers."

"Thank you... we'll need it." Elite frowned. "Goodbye, Black."

With that, Elite walked out the door. Black closed it and returned back to the living room, sitting on the couch, a bit shaken by the conversation.

'I'm sorry, Elite.' Black sighed, feeling guilty. 'But it's for the best. I'm happy here. And besides, I'm damaged goods. I'm no good for the Taskforce any more. Better I stay here...'

As Elite was leaving the house, he was unaware of a shadowy figure watching from behind a tree, having been observing the two. The being glared at Elite, as he then pulled up a magic mirror, activating it. The face of the bespectacled stallion with the sharp thin blade, who had spoke with Gridlock and Harlhooves, appeared.

"Pike Redfield here, what do you want?" The stallion declared.

"I got big news, Pike. I was able to confirm it. It is Black Knight Paladin." The shadowy being declared, "He's alive."

"I knew it." Pike smirked, "And they thought I was wasting my time looking for him."

"And here I thought I was wasting my time in this dead end hick town." The shadowy being sneered. "...So, what is the plan of attack, Pike?"

"For now, nothing." Pike ordered, "Just let me get my guys together and we'll take it from there."

"Yeah, I don't think so." The shadowy being growled. "This dirtbag is mine."

"What?!" Pike snapped. "Don't be a fool! There's a reason we gave you the order 'do not engage' when we posted you there! Black Knight is not a pony to be trifled with!"

"Come on, he's a ex-soldier who is missing an eye, how bad could he be?" The shadowy being smirked arrogantly.

"Only a jackass would say that!" Pike growled. "As a higher ranked operative, I'm ordering you again to not enga-"

The mirror was suddenly shut off, as the shadowy being glanced at the house.

"I'm coming for you, Black..." The stallion sneered darkly.

A short while later, Black was still on the couch, when Belle returned.

"I'm back!" She smiled.

"Hey." Black smiled weakly. "How was the appointment? Did you find out what was wrong?"

"Not just yet." Belle declared. "I have to go back in tomorrow afternoon for another check-up. Like that day wasn't going to be busy enough..."

"Okay..." Black mused.

"Is something wrong, Black?" Belle asked. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

"I'm fine, Belle." Black assured her. "Just a little tired, that's all."

"Okay..." Belle nodded, not entirely convinced. Suddenly, she noticed the bag next to Black, "What's that?"

"Oh!" Black glanced at the bag, cursing himself for not hiding it. "It's... it's a bag of my stuff. A friend of mine was by earlier..."

"A friend?" Belle's eyebrows rose. "I wasn't aware you had those."

"Heh, heh, very funny." Black shook his head. "He was only by for a bit to drop it off."

"What's in it?" Belle asked.

"Just this." Black held up the tapeplayer. "It's got a mixtape a friend got me."

"Really?" Belle mused. "Could you... play it for me?"

"Sure." Black nodded, switching on the tape.

And I'd give up forever to touch you
'Cause I know that you feel me somehow
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now

"What a beautiful song." Belle smiled. "Makes me feel like dancing. Care to join me?"

"I already told you, I don't dance." Black declared.

"And I already told you, that doesn't matter." Belle pulled him off the couch. "I just want to have some fun."

"Okay, okay..." Black sighed, unable to refuse her.

And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
Cuz sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight...

They slowly danced together.

"What's the matter, Black?" Belle asked. "I know there's something on your mind."

"Just... thinking about the past." Black sighed. "What I've left behind."

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

Do you... miss it?" Belle asked.

"Sometimes." Black admitted. "It wasn't always an easy life, but it had its moments. There were a lot of ponies I cared about. Ponies I've lost since then."

"Oh." Belle frowned. "I didn't know. You never said..."

And you can't fight the tears that ain't coming
Or the moment of truth in your lies
When everything feels like the movies
Yeah, you'd bleed just to know you're alive

"It doesn't matter now, though." Black smiled. "Because I have you. You're everything I never knew I wanted. Everything I need is right here, and that includes you. I love you Belle, and I always will."

"I'll always love you too, Black." Belle sniffed, tears coming to her eyes.

The two kissed deeply, the affirmation of their love feeling wonderful.

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

Black and Belle held each other closely as they danced some more. Black's guilt had faded, replaced by certainty that he made the right choice...

That night, Black was in his bed, having just drifted off to sleep, only to be woken up by a tapping sound on his window.

"What the...?" He groaned, getting out of bed.

Black walked up to the window, and saw Shooter throwing pebbles. Once Shooter realized Black saw him, he urged him to come down. Reluctantly, Black complied.

"This had better be good." Black growled, as he exited the house.

"Sorry for waking you, Black." Shooter apologised. "But I need your help."

"My help?" Black frowned.

"Yes." Shooter nodded. "I've noticed some suspicious characters by the lake just outside of town. My deputy's off sick, and I need a strong-looking stallion like you to help corral those varmints. Think you can lend a hoof?"

Black was tempted to say "no", but a part of him thought that the Sheriff could help ease the tension between them.

"Okay, sure." He nodded. "Just so long as it doesn't take all night."

"Thank you kindly, Black." Shooter smiled. "And I assure you, this won't take long."

Shooter led Black out of town, leading him to the lake, which had a single tree on the side they approached. To Black's confusion, there was nopony there.

"So... where are these varmints?" He asked, looking around.

"Right in front of me."

Black heard a clicking sound, and turned to see Shooter pointing a loaded crossbow at him.

"What the... Shooter, what's this?" Black frowned. "What's going on?"

"I do apologize for lying, but I had to get you out of the house. It wouldn't do us good if Belle saw any of this... wouldn't you say, ex-RDL Black Knight Paladin?" Shooter sneered.

"Wha- You know who I am?" Black gaped.

"Of course." Shooter nodded. "Did you really think we would forget about you?"

"'We'..." Black's blood froze. "Oh buck no... you're one of the Forefathers' agents!"

"Yep." Shooter nodded. "One of a select few posted in Prairieville."

"So you knew it was me all along." Black growled.

"Not at first." Shooter shrugged. "I'll admit, the eyepatch threw me off. But when Elite showed up to talk to you, it all fell into place."

"Thanks a lot, Elite..." Black snarled.

"Oh come now, it isn't all Elite's fault." Shooter frowned. "Few of the higher ups simply refused to believe that you have perished that day, so they had some nobody lead this manhunt for you. That's how me and the others came to be here. At first, I thought it was a huge waste of time... but then I saw a very attractive school teacher..."

"Belle..." Black whispered.

"That's right." Shooter sniggered. "Now that I know you are alive, I will take great joy in killing you. With your head, not only will the Forefathers give me a big fat promotion, but I'll be free to take Belle for myself... after all, she's going to need somepony's shoulder to cry on when she learns how you abandoned her..."

"Oh?" Black asked, his temper rising. "And what if Belle doesn't find you her type?"

"She will..." Shooter scoffed. "Sadly, I've never been very good with rejection. If she doesn't play ball... I will just have to take her out here and kill her too!"

"The buck you will!" Black roared. He made to lunge at Shooter, but the sheriff pushed his crossbow forward.

"You don't have a say in the matter." Shooter sneered. "And to think they're saying that you are a very dangerous pony..."

Unbeknownst to either of them, the blind homeless stallion emerged from behind the tree, approaching the scene...

"So what, the Forefathers have keeping an eye out for me this whole time?" Black asked.

"You've caused the Forefathers a lot of trouble, Black." Shooter declared. "Project: Infestation was quite the popular project, and to have some soldier buck it up... well, it didn't sit well with everypony. Ponies like Mr. Gridlock didn't want to risk you still being around to muck up their future plans. Now I'm going to make sure you die for real..."

"Better ponies than you have tried." Black said boldly.

"I doubt that very much." Shooter boasted.

"If you're gonna do it, then do it." Black growled. "I don't want to listen to you brag anymore."

"Suit yourself. Good-bye, Black." Shooter smirked as he was about to fire the crossbow.

Black snarled in defeat as he accepted his fate...

*WHACK!*

Black's eyes widen, as Shooter went rigid.

"Buck." Shooter weakly gasped as he fell over into unconsciousness.

Standing right behind him was the ragged stallion, his cane now snapped in two from smashing into Shooter's head.

"What the...?" Black looked upon his savior. "You? Not that I am not grateful, but what the buck are you doing here?"

The ragged stallion didn't answer, as he dropped the broken cane and then took off his glasses and hat, and wiped off the dirt from his face... revealing to be none other than... General Turret.

"...What the hell?!" Black gaped. "General Turret?! What is going on here?!"

"What's going on here is that I just saved your bloody arse!" Turret spat in a familiar cockney accent, "I think that's bloody obvious."

"What the- Turret, what's with the accent?! When did you became British?!" Black yelled, stupefied.

"Black!"

Black was further surprised as he saw Elite rushing over.

"Elite, what the-" Black gasped.

"Thank Faust you're safe!" Elite sighed in relief. "I heard that you went off with Shooter, and I feared the worst."

"Okay, I am really confused right now!" Black growled. "What's happening? What's General Turret doing here?! Why does he sound like he's from Londraft?! And what you are doing back here?!"

"Well, I believe a few explanations are in order." Elite declared. "To begin, General Turret isn't whom you believe him to be."

"He's not?" Black asked.

"No." Elite shook his head. He turned to Turret. "Allow me to introduce you to my second-in-command and co-founder of Taskforce Omega, Cutter Ballista."

"...Say what?!" Black gaped. "But he... you... he's been posing as the guy who had me arrested and prosecuted me... and you didn't bother to tell me any of this... why?"

"Sorry about that, mate, but I was in deep cover." Ballista declared. "Had to play along, didn't I?"

"So you knew all about what was really going on?" Black asked. "With Sand Dollar, Obadiah, Reinadh..."

"All of it, mate." Ballista smirked, "Or did you really think that any other General would had bought that Reinadh had weapons, or that one of his soldiers went off every day to do some 'things'?"

"But you were the General..." Black murmured, "One of the higher ups. The guy in charge. How could anypony not know..."

"Good actor, aren't I?" Ballista smirked. "Always been a fan of the theater. Learned to play a lot of roles over the years."

"...So you're the pony who knew a lot about acting." Black mused. "That explains quite a bit... but why the name Turret?"

"Oh, that was just a name of an asshole I knew over in Isreinal." Ballista scoffed, "Complete wanker he was. So I decided to take his name."

"Is this how you found me, Elite?" Black frowned at Elite. "You had Turr- I mean, Ballista looking for me?"

"Yes, and no." Elite declared. "While I have had my resources searching for you, Ballista came to Prairieville with a different quarry in mind."

"We heard a rumor there were some Forefather lackies hangin' around these parts." Ballista nodded. "I came over to check it out. It's pretty much just coincidence we bumped into each other."

"But those others..." Black frowned. "If they know who I am-"

"Worry not, Black." Elite smiled. "They're already been dealt with."

"You're welcome." Ballista smirked.

"But it's only a matter of time before the Forefathers realizes what has happened and send a kill squad to deal with you and anypony who stands in their way." Elite frowned, as he turned to Black. "That was why I was trying to get you to come back with me."

"So... you're saying that... once again... I have to leave my life behind?" Black murmured.

"I'm sorry, Black." Elite sighed, "But as long as you remain here, this whole town, and everypony who lives in it, will be in constant danger."

"But Belle..." Black whispered.

"Look, mate, I know you loved playing house and all, but it's for their own good." Ballista grunted. "For the good of your girl and this sandtrap of a town, you have to come back with us."

"...I know." Black sighed.

"I know it must hurt to leave another loved one behind." Elite sympathised. "But you know as well as I that Belle will be safer if you're not here. I'm sorry, but that's the way it has to be."

"Well, it was nice while it lasted." Black shook his head. "Can I at least... let Belle know I'll be leaving?"

"I wouldn't recommend it." Ballista frowned.

"Please." Black pleaded. "I owe her that much. I wouldn't even be alive right now if it weren't for her."

"Of course, Black." Elite nodded. "In fact, we'll give you until noon tomorrow to put your affairs in order. I'd say a good night's sleep is necessary before we depart."

"Thanks, Elite." Black smiled sadly, as he headed back to town.

"Are you sure about this, boss?" Ballista asked.

"Absolutely." Elite nodded. "After everything he's sacrificed for us, I can't expect Black to just abandon the love of his life without a word. It would be far too heartless."

"If you say so." Ballista sighed. He turned to Shooter's unconscious form. "What should we do with him?"

"I don't care." Elite scoffed. "Just make sure they don't tie it to Black leaving, okay?"

"Oh, don't you worry, mate." Ballista grinned evilly, rubbing his hooves, "I got his demise all planned out already."

Black returned to Belle's house, slipping back in quietly. as he climbed back into bed, his thoughts drifted to Belle, and what leaving her behind could mean.

'It's happening again.' He thought sadly. 'I'm leaving behind a pony I love in order to protect them... just my luck. Maybe, at least Belle won't come to hate me like White... I hope.'

Black soon drifted into an uneasy sleep.

The next morning, Black and Belle had what would be their last breakfast together.

"Delicious as always." Black declared, finishing up.

"And you're as sweet as always." Belle grinned. "Well, I should get going. I've got my grocery shopping, then the doctor's appointment... such a busy day."

"Wait." Black said suddenly.

"What's wrong?" Belle asked.

"You know I love you, right?" Black asked.

"Of course I do." Belle nodded.

"I mean, I really love you." Black insisted. "You're the most wonderful mare I've ever had the privilege of knowing. My life has been made better just by knowing you."

"Again with the sweet talk." Belle blushed... before frowning. "What's brought all this on?"

"Oh... nothing." Black shrugged. "I just wanted you to know how I feel about you."

"I already do, Black." Belle smiled.

"But just in case..." Black pulled Belle into a passionate kiss.

"Well, thanks for reminding me." Belle grinned. "But I really should be going. Don't want to lose on the fresh squash." She headed for the front door. "See you later!"

"No." Black said solemnly. "You won't..."

After Belle left, Black gathered up his meagre possessions, including his mixtape, ready to leave. Then he pulled out a piece of paper, and started writing.

'You're such a coward, Black.' He berated himself. 'Afraid to tell Belle to her face that you're leaving. ...But who am I kidding? That way, I'd see the heartbreak on her face, and I could never go through with this...'

Once he finished the note, Black placed it where Belle could see it. He walked up to the front door, then cast one last look upon the place that had become his new home.

'Goodbye...' He thought sadly, before departing.

As Black walked out of town, he heard a couple of ponies gossiping.

"Did you hear about the sheriff?" One asked. "They found him dead this morning."

"Yeah, I heard." Another nodded. "They found him hanging from a cloth noose in his bedroom. The coroner said something about 'autoerotic asphyxiation'."

"Ugh, who knew the sheriff was into such twisted things?" The first pony cringed.

'Nice cover-up, Elite.' Black noted.

Black returned to the lake, where Elite and Ballista were waiting by the tree.

"There you are." Ballista noted. "Said your goodbyes, have you?"

"More or less." Black shrugged sadly.

"Ready to get back to work?" Elite asked.

"As I'll ever be." Black declared. "I'll admit, there was a part of me that missed all the action."

"And you'll be seeing plenty of it, just wait and see." Elite smiled. "Now, we have a carriage parked just over here..."

"The sooner the better." Ballista declared, as he then pulled off his buzzcut mane, revealing his balding head, "It will be nice to not have to pretend to be some hard-flank." He then reached back to his Cutie Mark... and pulled it off.

"What the buck?" Black gaped.

"What? You never seen a fake Cutie Mark before?" Ballista scoffed, as he then showed off his true Cutie Mark, a ballista after his namesake with a mask loaded onto it. "This beaut right here is the real deal."

"I know I shouldn't be surprised any more, but I just can't help it." Black sighed.

"You gotta learn to expect the unexpected in this business, mate." Ballista smirked.

"Yeah, easier said than done." Black snorted.

"But you can expect the others to be pleased to have you back." Elite grinned. "Especially Armory."

"I guess it'll be good to see 'em again." Black smiled. "Even Micro Manager..."

"Then let's head out." Elite declared.

"About bloody time." Ballista wiped his brow. "I'm sweatin' like a ruddy pig out here..."

As they walked further along, Black took one last look at Prairieville, his heart heavy over leaving Belle behind.

'I'll miss you, my love.' He thought. 'I'll think of you every day...'

The present...

"So you had no choice but to leave." Fletcher told Black. "I can't imagine being forced to leave Dove."

"Or me leaving Daring." Caboose sighed. "I would have killed myself before doing that."

"Yeah, it was hard." Black sighed. "But like what came before, I had to sacrifice what I wanted to protect others."

"You truly are a noble soul, Black." Fletcher smiled.

"Yeah. Yay for me." Black grumbled.

"Perhaps that's enough reminiscing for now." Elite declared. "Perhaps Fletcher and Caboose would like to meet more of their new comrades..."

Elite glanced around, spotting a midnight blue Unicorn stallion with a pale red mane, green eyes and a mask (with a moustache) Cutie Mark aand a pale purple Earth Pony stallion with a blue mane, brown eyes and a Cutie Mark of a brain playing chess nearby.

"Would you two mind joining us?" He called.

"Just a moment, sir." The Earth Pony called. "I'm on the verge of trouncing my opponent."

The Unicorn moved into checkmate.

"You were saying?" He smiled.

"Oh mother-" The Earth Pony snarled as he then slapped the chess board aside, scattering the pieces.

"You're such a sore loser." The Unicorn smirked.

"Oh, bite me." The Earth Pony growled.

The two joined the others.

"Fletcher, Caboose meet Master Mind and Incognito." Elite declared, pointing first at the Earth Pony, then the Unicorn. "Our chief strategist and expert infiltrator."

"Director, please, I prefer 'master strategist'." Master Mind smirked.

"So these are our new recruits?" Incognito mused. "Two Royal Guards? When we have a whole army full of RDL members? That's kinda a step down, don't you think?"

"Well, nice to meet you too." Fletcher frowned.

"Yeah, yeah..." Incognito rolled his eyes.

"Um, no offense, but aren't these two a bit redundant?" Caboose cringed. "I mean, don't we already have a smart guy and a breaking into stuff guy? You know, Micro Manager and Shadow Slinker?"

Black's face darkened at the mention of Shadow Slinker. Elite was quick to take note of it.

"Um, you see, Caboose. Micro Manager retired a while back." Elite revealed, "And as for Shadow... well, let's say he's no longer with us."

"Oh..." Fletcher and Caboose frowned.

"But before they went, they gave us the names of ponies they would want to take their place." Elite declared, as he gestured to Master Mind, "Master Mind was studying under Micro Manager before his retirement in applied physics, and Incognito was Shadow's protege in stealth and retrieval."

"Hopefully that isn't going to be a problem, is it?" Incognito grunted.

"We may not be Micro Manager and Shadow Slinker, but I like to think we're just as good, right?" Master Mind gave a small smile.

"I supposed not." Fletcher shrugged, "We look forward to working with you both."

"That's the spirit." Elite smiled. "And make no mistake, there is a lot of work to be done..."