Primordial Conflict

by Jumping Jack

As The World Caves In Pt. 2

As The World Caves In

“You’ve got to be kidding me, Wild.” My dad shook his head. We were back in the suburbs but further down from where our now police filled house was. We stood awkwardly as my dad sat with a noir dame like pegasus mare. Blonde, curled mane, eyes sharp and heavy with eyeliner, rose lips and a long cigarette holder. She wore a fancy purple dress with a fur scarf over a tan-ish coat. Her rose-colored eyes narrowing at the stallion.

“Listen Polly, I’m on to something and I need to call in that favor. You owe me after what you tried to do.” He said sternly. The mare took a puff of her bud and blew the smoke in his face, which my dad waved his hat before frowning at her.

“Sugar, I cannot, in good conscience, follow through with this fool hardy plan of yours. They are kids for goodness sake.” She motioned to us. “I never thought you’d put children in danger.” He smiled softly.

“But these aren’t normal kids. They are an entire menagerie of freaks and mental trauma.” He said. We exchanged glances and I slumped. Thanks dad. The mare sighed.

“Is that supposed to be a joke? Because frankly, I’d rather retain the favor until you can provide a better use for it.” She said. My dad shook his head.

“This is the perfect time, Polly. Besides, they aren’t the one going to be interrogated. All they have to do is walk me in and pass me over to the guards. Then, they can walk around and go from there.” He said. The mare rubbed her muzzle.

“Sugar, you are capable of a lot of things, but common sense isn’t one of them.” She looked at us. “You kids really want to go through with this?” Again, we exchanged glances before I smiled and pat my chest.

“Not the first time we had to disguise ourselves into dangerous territory.” I said. The mare gave me a concerned look.

“What have you’ve been teaching your poor daughter?” She asked, looking back to my dad. My dad put his hat back on and tipped it.

“Nothing. She’s a smart mare. Otherwise, all five of them wouldn’t be here now.” He said. I rubbed my foreleg shyly at the compliment. The mare shook her head.

“Alright, detective. But I am going to want some compensation out of this. I will not have the death of children on my conscience.” She said, taking a puff of her cigarette and blowing the smoke out. I’m glad we were outside. I can’t stand the smell of cigarette smoke. My dad rubbed his chin.

“How much?” He asked. The mare hummed.

“Dinner and a show. I’ve always wanted to dine amongst the High Society at the Whitehoof Amphitheater.” She said. I suddenly narrowed my eyes suspiciously at my dad. He slumped.

“You are really riding life on high.” He stated. The mare adjusted her fur scarf.

“What can I say, sugar? I’m a mare of expensive taste. I’m sure the wife won’t mind.” She said. I then shot a glare at dad.

“Daaaad? Are you cheating on mom?” I asked. The mare smiled at me.

“An amusing thought that I can safely say with certainty that isn’t the case at all, dear. Your father is a stallion of many feats, but he lacks the gentle-colt like manners. I’m merely doing the wife a favor by turning him into an upstanding husband for when he finally decides to see her again.” She said. I wasn’t really sure how to feel about this. But my dad shook his head slightly and sighed.

“Can we please focus on the task at hoof?” He stated. The mare scoffed.

“See? No manners whatsoever. The gall to ask me to put children in danger so he can have his moment of justice.” She frowned. My dad rubbed the back of his mane.

“Alright, fine. I’ll treat you out to dinner and a show.” He said. The mare shrugged.

“Still not convinced.” She replied. My dad seemed to grumble.

“And I’ll pay the tab in full.” He said. She swished her cigarette stick.

“Annnnnd?” My dad rubbed his muzzle.

“And I can buy you whatever you feel compelled to buy.” He groaned. Polly took a puff of her cigarette and blew a ring out.

“It’s a start. But it’ll be their blood on your hooves.” She said before walking towards the house, motioning with her head. She had an interesting sway to her walk. “Come along, kids.” She waved her stick in the air to us. We exchanged glances again before following after her. I walked next to dad and shot a suspicious look up at him.

“A good friend?” I asked. He nodded.

“Polly Saffron may not look it, but I’ve helped her out of a few scrapes as she did with me. I helped her with a complex case that err… let’s say, led to a bloodied wedding.” He explained. “Trust me. She’s a valuable ally to have in this city.” I shook my head in disbelief. What the hell happened while I’ve been rotting away? I need to keep tabs on these two. I still wasn’t sure how I felt about this.

Polly’s house was spacious. Almost studio like. Expensive paintings hung on the walls, a half spiraling stair case leading up to the second floor. The dining room had a walk in kitchen. The living room had a lounge chair and sofa. A love seat couch lined against the opposite end and a massive hologem television that was muted onto, what I am assuming, a drama show. She then led us down a hall and opened a door with what would appear to have been a garage.

There was a table on the left side that had many wigs and makeup cases on display. Several vintage posters of pin ups that I couldn’t help but notice the similarities of the depicted mare to the one who is currently rummaging around a chest. There was a singular dentist like chair in the middle and some surgical equipment on a small table. I noticed Flitter looking cautiously at the set up. On the far right was a wardrobe and racks next to it full of expensive looking designs. There we a couple I recognized as Rarity made. Scribble looked around and rubbed his chin.

“An interesting studio house you have.” He said. Polly smiled as she pulled away from the trunk, something bundled under a wing.

“Why thank you, sugar. I am an artist at my profession and I do not make mistakes in perfection.” She said before taking a puff of her cigarette. Thi tilted her head.

“And that is?” She asked. The mare pirouetted in motion around the studio.

“The artistic value of making a pony from an earth pony to a pegasus! A unicorn to an earth pony and a pegasus to a unicorn.” She then swirled her hoof. “And so on and so forth.” Flitter balked.

“Wait… you can… do that?” She asked in awe. The mare hummed in thought.

“I wish I could. But the anatomy of our race is quite complex despite being descendent of equines of old. There is a certain… magic that needs to be implemented in order for it to really matter. But so far, I can change eyes, structure, manes and even genders.” She said. Cloudchaser shook her head softly.

“That… sounds like a lot of knife digging.” She said. The mare smiled.

“If it makes you feel better, hun, I have my clients under anesthesia while it happens. Since it is a taboo practice to alter origin race, I do what I can to at least make my clients feel like they are what they choose to be.” I looked at my dad.

“If you were in the force, this would be something you would have cracked down on.” I stated. My dad nodded.

“With the proper warrants. But I’m not with the force.” He said. Polly grinned.

“Which is why I am able to express this to you all in good faith. Do not worry, dears, I won’t be doing any of that.” She then reached over and pulled out dye cans, placing them down in front of her. “You are going to be on a trial fee.” She then frowned and looked to my dad. “I don’t work on children.” My dad slumped and levitated out a satchel of bits. She took it in a wing and tossed it up and down, humming. “A little light on coin, detective. Case isn’t paying well?” My dad shook his head.

“On the contrary. Compensation from the Chief of Police. That’s the up front payment. The rest is back in the auto wagon.” He said. I looked worriedly between him and my friends. Flitter leaned in.

“We’ll talk about it later.” She whispered. Great. My dad’s moral code is all over the place and now my friends are taking notes! Quiet Fire and her friends. Saviors of Equestria and local terrorizers of the law book. Why am I even trying to keep myself an upstanding citizen to Equestria? I’m a Celestia damned freak of nature. I sighed as the thought made my mood shoot down. Polly hummed before she placed the satchel of bits inside a small lock box.

“You better be following through on it. No mare likes a stallion standing them up on a promise.” She said. He shot her a frown.

“My wife and I never missed an anniversary.” He retorted coolly. She waved her stick at us.

“So… whose the lucky pony to go first?” She asked. My dad smiled and pointed at me.

“My daughter could use a hair cut.” He said. I balked as the mare smiled.

“How lovely. Perhaps the wife would like a neatly groomed stallion as well?” She stated, glancing at my dad. He brushed his bangs softly and shook his head.

“I always liked my mane long.” he replied. Polly grinned.

"Aww, but you'd look a lot sharper for the family photo. Besides, I can tell you haven't showered in a while." she said. She wasn't wrong. My dad looked rugged. But that's the price of being hunted by a gang. I'm glad I was able to take a shower at the motel we stayed at when I had a chance. I then saw Polly motioned with one feather for me to come over. I gulped and took a hesitant step forward. Polly rolled her eyes and put out her cigarette out on an ash tray. "Don't be shy, sugar. It's just a simple cut and dye. The coat dye is washable the next time you take a shower. Same with the mane dye." My dad rubbed his chin.

"What about contacts? We need to specifically cover her eyes." he said. She then studied me as I got closer. Her eyes widened and looked at him.

"I... I see what you mean. Well then... I think I have some somewhere. But that's for later. Come along~" She said. She led me over to the mirrors and sat me down in a chair. She tossed a cover around me and clipped it around my neck. She reached for scissors and a comb. "Alright, sugar. Did you want anything specific? Anything standing out?" My dad cleared his throat and she rolled her eyes. "Right. Under the radar. Then... how about..." I looked at the mirror in dumbfoundedness as her hooves moved in a blur around my mane. For some reason, it was kicking up a lot of dust. Or was that the powder? As quickly as it happened, I coughed and felt the cover be removed as I waved my hoof in front of me. When I opened my eyes, I balked as I then turned my head left and then right. I looked... better. Not disgruntled and not punk. My mane was neatly brushed with my bangs standing out a bit. The back locks were pleasantly symmetrical. My friends gasped in awe as I saw their looks of impressiveness. Thi whistled.

"Looking good, Fie." She said with a teasing wink. Flitter chuckled.

"You definitely look like a mare now." She stated. Scribble rubbed his chin.

"So, there really is a chance of saving her then." He said. Cloudchaser grinned.

"Not bad, Fie." she said. I blushed and shot them a glare.

"Laugh it up, guys. It's your turn after." I said with a smirk. My friend's reactions weren't quite what I expected as they seemed to shrug and not mind it at all. I slumped. I guess I was considered a lost cause at some point. I then got up off of the seat and Polly led me to a walk in shower. She waved a wing at me.

"Strip, dear. We're going to dye your mane and coat next." She said. My eyes widened and I felt my face grow hot.

"I-In front of everypony?" I asked. She arched a brow.

"We don't normally wear clothes, sugar. Even I like to roam free every now and then." She stated. I rubbed the back of my neatly primmed mane.

"D-don't have to put it like that..." I said. I sighed and took off my cloak hoodie and tee, handing it to her before passing her my pendant. I saw my dad eye it but remained quiet. I stepped into the shower and Polly turned it on. She then held out a bath cap.

"Put your mane in this. We're going to do your coat first. Don't want the color to mix in." She said. I furrowed my look before fumbling in putting it on. When I made sure my mane was neatly tucked in, I watched her open up a dye can and put in a hose and held a spray nozzle. "I want you to act like you are washing yourself while I spray you. Just so the dye can spread out." She said before spraying me. I couldn't help but feel a bit humiliated as my friends and my dad watched me wash myself while Polly sprayed me. I narrowed my eyes as I then noticed my charcoal coat beginning to lighten. I washed the area and a peach color had taken the place of my original coat. I held up a hoof and turned it this way and that, staring in awe.

"Whoa... trippy..." I stated. Polly sprayed me again.

"Keep washing, sugar." She said with a bored look. I frowned and proceeded to keep washing myself. Polly took the liberty of taking a brush and scrubbing my back side, much to my humiliation again. When she was done, she spat out the brush and turned off the water. She then tossed two towels, one I caught in my magic and the other draped over my back. She dried my back while I dried my face, neck and front. When I passed her back the towel, she stepped back and smiled. "Viola." I saw the shocked looks from my friends. I took the time to examine myself in the mirror. Holy crap. I looked like a completely different mare! I noticed my own cutie-mark was covered up as well. The burning card buried under whatever was on me. Polly then led me to another set of seats. I found myself laying down into a sink tub and she tapped her chin in thought. She then beamed and proceeded to place a rag over my muzzle and eyes. It was a steamed towel. I then heard the sink turn on and she proceeded to wash my mane. I found this surprisingly relaxing. I wasn't able to think of anything bad or wrong suddenly. Is this what it is like at the Ponyville Spa? I mean, I've visited before on mail deliveries and have been meaning to try it out. And Aloe and Vera were pretty cute. I was five minutes into my meditation before I heard the sink turn off and felt a towel rub against my mane. I was forced to sit up as the rag was removed and I again saw my friends in shocked expressions. I furrowed my look and before I could ask what was going on, I found myself being pulled along to another set of seats that had a mane dryer. She put the dome like heater over my head after combing my mane a bit and nodded approvingly.

"Alright, next." She said before turning to my friends. Cloudchaser was volunteered by Thi as she pushed her forward. Polly tilted her head. "Dear, might I point out that your mane is quite unkempt?" She stated. Cloudchaser nervously brushed her mane.

"Err... I have to apologize in advance. My mane is naturally like this and I've tried everything to get it to a different style." She said. Polly hummed and tapped her chin. She then shrugged.

"We'll see. Right this way." She motioned with a wing. Cloudchaser nervously walked forward as she was led to the same seat I was in earlier. I watched with stark curiosity as Polly then began to blur her hooves around Cloudchaser's mane. A puff of powder smoke kicked up and when Polly pulled away, she tapped her chin again. Cloudchaser coughed and balked. I felt my heart skip a beat. Her mane was combed forward and flowed to the right of her face. The back part of her mane straightened out. She then furrowed her look and waited. Five seconds passed and Cloudchaser looked shocked.

"It didn't... pop back into its' usual style... How did..." She turned to Polly, the mare swished her mane proudly.

"Never underestimate the best in Hoofington." She smiled. Flitter shook her own head.

"Wow... You're incredible Miss Polly." She said in awe. Polly waved a wing at her.

"Please, sugar. Just Polly is fine." She snickered. Cloudchaser went through the same humiliation I did as she was sprayed as she washed. I saw my dad reading a magazine while waiting. There was a loud ding over me and Polly waved a casual hoof over to my dad. "Wild, be a dear and remove the heater from your daughter if you are just going to lazy about." She said. My dad rolled his eyes before putting aside the magazine and walking my direction. Using his magic, he removed the dome and smiled.

"If Cloud saw you now, she'd probably wouldn't know who you are." He said. I furrowed my look at him.

"But then that just means to tell her you sent us into a gang meeting just to get anything to put them behind bars." I raised a challenging brow at him. "I've seen how you two can be when passive aggressiveness is in play." My dad shrugged.

"That's after I've dealt with the talk I'm going to have when I walk into Canterlot with Blitz and Heart." He said. I noticed something off about my tail. I stood up from my seat and walked over to a mirror. Seeing Cloudchaser get her tail sprayed with a different dye can in the corner of my eye, I was now a peach-colored unicorn with a black mane and tail neatly primmed into a style that I couldn't help but feel like I was part of the elite. My dad then walked over, levitating a black and white pinstriped suite and tie. He nodded. "Let's try these on and see how well you blend in." He said. I furrowed my look and put on the suite. My dad worked the tie around my neck as I finished and I looked in the mirror. This was so surreal. I don't even recognize myself. The only way I could tell were my eyes. My dad smiled. "Not too shabby." I admired myself a bit and I noticed a pair of amber slit eyes looking at me in the corner of the room.

How plain looking. Suites a grub like you. Din chimed in. I frowned.

'You've been quiet. Getting bored up there?' I thought. Din smirked.

More like biding my time. I've almost finished it. My sisters will not stand a chance. She cackled softly. I felt a hoof place on my shoulder, and I looked up at my dad. He was giving me a worried look. I smiled and wiggled a hoof.

"Just thinking how much I can probably pull off a mom look. See how that trips her out." I said with a small snicker. I heard a couple of clicking noises in my head. My dad shook his head.

"She'll think a changeling is trying to impersonate her. Let's not have our allies deal with the stern might of my wife, please." He said. I got out of the suite and back into my regular tee and cloak hoodie before taking a seat next to Thi. We watched as a now rose colored Cloudchaser was led to the dye sink. Her caramel tail neatly straightened as Polly worked at her mane. When she was done and Cloudchaser was put under the heater dome, she pointed at Flitter.

“Your turn, sugar.” She said with a smile. Flitter walked forward and the mare studied her. “Pretty cute, aren’t you?” She asked with a teasing grin and looking at her bow. Flitter blushed and fidgeted at the compliment.

“M-my mother gave it to me when I was a filly. It’s my lucky bow.” She said. Polly sighed with a smile.

“Your parents must really take care of you.” She said. Cloudchaser smiled.

“Don’t let that fool you. I am the favorite.” She snickered. Flitter shot a coy smile at her as she removed her bow.

“You were kicked out of the house first.” She said. Cloudchaser shrugged.

“I needed the break anyway.” She said. Flitter rolled her eyes as she sat at the barber seat. Polly didn’t miss a beat as her hooves moved in a blur, kicking up powder. She pulled away and Flitter waved the smoke, coughing. Flitter gasped as she had her mane almost similar to Polly’s. Polly grinned.

“I couldn’t help it. You’re just so adorable, dear!” She said. Flitter nervously shifted in her seat. Cloudchaser was getting the most out of her enjoyment seeing Flitter being coddled by Polly. The mare repeated the process with Flitter, the pegasus walking out of the shower in a caramel coat and a short pink tail. My dad removed Cloudchaser’s dome and I had to calm myself as her straightened and to the right side caramel mane covered an eye. She caught my look and blushed a bit. Be still my heart! She took a seat next to me and I did my best not to stare too much.

When Flitter was done, she sat next to her sister and the rest in the room studied us. My dad tipped his hat coolly.

“Got ourselves some bonafide Knuckle Heads if I do say so myself.” He said. Polly shot him a glare.

“As fun as it was, I still don’t agree with this idea of yours.” She then looked at the clock and reached for her cigarette stick. “You should all probably get going. I have an appointment with a couple of ponies who won’t be too happy to see you, detective.” She said, sticking the bud at the end of the stick. My dad levitated out a lighter to her as she was reaching for one. She leaned in as my dad lit her cigarette. Flipping it closed and stuffing it back into his trench coat pocket, he nodded.

“I’ll leave the rest of the payment in a place you can find it. Thanks for the help, Polly.” He said before walking towards the door. Polly waved as we followed him.

“Don’t get yourself killed, Wild. And keep them kids safe too. I don’t want to be the one to break the news to the wife about your fool hardy idea.” She said. My dad waited for us to exit before closing the door behind him. Adjusting his coat collar, we walked outside to the auto wagon and began to drive down the road after he had hid another bag of bits in a small hole under a decorative rock. As we turned the street, we saw a red auto wagon turn and I could see two ponies inside, casting a narrowed glance at us.

My dad kept his head low as we rode back into the city. When we pulled up to the lot of the motel, he sighed and leaned back in his seat.

“Tomorrow is the big day. Flitter. Do you remember points of interest?” He asked her through a rearview mirror. Flitter nodded.

“Got it all up here, Mr. Fire.” She said, tapping her head. I looked worriedly at my dad. He looked tired. As we stepped out of the wagon, I trotted over to my dad.

“Everything alright?” I asked. He pulled out his flask and took a pull before speaking.

“Uncertainty is kicking my ass more than I care to admit. I’m putting a big gamble on this working. To gather as much evidence against EMI and the entire underbelly of Hoofington.” He sighed. “I also met Blitz and Heart yesterday while we were out.” I remained quiet as he continued. “They look better than they did before. I tried my best to convince them, but I think it boils down to how we can pull this off to convince them. If they realize who they are working for, then they’d have to listen.” He looked at me. “If you happen to see them tomorrow, don’t give yourself up. But try and make anything convincing to get them to change their mind.” I heard several more clicks in my head as I nodded.

“I’ll try, dad. If we can’t… we’ll keep trying.” I said. He shook his head.

“You have a much bigger goal to handle. You should focus on finding the remaining power elements. I can handle things here for a bit longer.” He replied. I lowered my head. My head was racing with thoughts. I have to think of something. I’ve finally reconciled with my parents. My siblings are a different story. I have to do something. Should I intimidate them? Perhaps some of the gangs there are going to be a bit unpleasant. But what if… they have some sort of code or ettiequte to keep up face? I’ll have to do some slight side recon. Or better yet…

“Hey dad?” I asked. He was digging around the wagon.

“Hmm?” He replied. I rubbed the back of my neck.

“Do the gangs at public events get rowdy or do they have some sort of code to follow to keep face?” I asked. My dad pulled back and his eyes widened.

“Ah, of course. Cloudchaser? Flitter? Come over here for a moment.” He called out. Cloudchaser and Flitter trotted over as they had been chatting not too far off from us. My dad turned with our suites around a foreleg. “I forgot to mention. At this event, the gangs are forced to pledge under oath for a temporary truce. Some may not like it, but expect to adhere to the pledge. No flaunting status or power about with the civilians or workers. No threatening and especially don’t make a scene.” He levitated out some arc pistols and a strange looking rifle. “These are Knuckle Head go tos’. They’ll be the only thing you’ll have on you.”

He then rubbed his chin. “Might as well teach Cloudchaser and Flitter the battle saddles.” He then pulled out thin looking saddle harnesses that had a strange locking contraption on the sides. Thi and Scribble walked over and Thi smirked.

“Wanting some target practice?” She asked. Cloudchaser shook her head.

“Just tips to sell the look.” She said with a grin. The rest of the day ended with learning how a battle saddle works and how they could reload a mag from it. Even Thi found the design to be genius. My dad also gave us three fake cutie-mark designs that we had to leave on over night in order for it to look convincing. That night as I slept, I could hear a clock ticking and some clicks.

---

Today is the day. We first dropped off Thi and Scribble to the hidden surveillance wagon. We had placed our gear with them for safety. After that, my dad drove us around a side road and parked the wagon in an alley. I dusted off my pinstripe suite and adjusted my black and silver wrap fedora. I even ensured my purple contacts were on properly while Cloudchaser and Flitter holstered their weapons and wore the saddles on empty. My dad turned to us after he holstered his revolver.

“Alright, Flitter you take point and I’ll follow behind. Start patrolling the back side and when you catch me slipping, make it look convincing.” He said to us. He then put a hoof to his ear. “Scribble, do you read?” He asked. We heard Scribble through our own link buds. Dad had managed to borrow Thi’s link bud.

”Crystal. Thi is coming up to the vantage point. There is a lot of interference but I have something that can boost the waves.” He replied. My dad nodded.

“Keep the frequency below the peak decibel. Don’t want our waves to cross.” He said. He then looked to us and nodded. “Alright, time to begin our plan. Good luck and becareful.” The three of us turned and followed Flitter. She peeked around the corner of the alley and motioned for us to follow. Alright, Fie. It’s do or die. We trotted across the street and we noticed several neat looking ponies among the gathering crowds and pedestrians. We met up with them in the back and followed them around the back.

I noticed there were several other ponies dressed in strange attire. As we began patrolling the back, I saw fancy looking auto wagons pull up. I studied the wagons as ponies began stepping out. A pretty looking mare being helped by an old and neatly vintage timey dressed elderly stallion. The mare wrapped a hoof around the stallion’s foreleg and the two walked towards the VIP entrance. One by one, interesting ponies walked out of their wagons. Each one representing the power hungry degens of the criminal empire. An ivory wagon rolled to a stop and out stepped an eccentric looking pony with a style I didn’t think was possible. A mix of femme fatal and gentle colt. They were accompanied by strange looking ponies in white masks and neat white suites.

The next auto wagon had a multicolored pony who looked like she has been through several accidents. She was slouched over and growling while two other ponies accompanied her in modern crop tops. The next was a stallion that looked quite handsome. Blonde mane, white coat and piercing blue eyes. This got some of the mares in the crowd to go wild as he waved to them and trotted towards the entrance. I looked over to Cloudchaser who was positioned near the VIP entrance. She seemed a bit interested in the ponies walking in as well. The next one took me by complete surprise.

A horse mare stepped off of the auto wagon, causing the wagon to pop up to normal height. She towered over all of us. A long, flowing dress over a bovine coat. Her mane styled into a bun. She looked coldly at the ponies gawking at her size. She only took a few trots to reach the VIP entrance where she had to crouch down to enter. She grumbled something about ponies not having accounted sizes for horses. The last one caused my head to click several times. An industrial looking wagon hissed at the carpet entrance and out stepped two Triad ponies. They opened the back carriage door and out stepped the Triad’s right hoof. General Lilac adjusted her officer hat and coat before looking around. Whatever the news reporter had said on scene caused the crowd to cheer. General Lilac trotted with the officers behind her into the entrance. I looked to Cloudchaser and she caught my look, nodding.

We began to return to our patrols. Cloudchaser met up with me as we finished a route, only to stop and ready ourselves as my dad came barreling out from cover and stopping in front of us. He had a bloodied lip, keeping a serious look as Flitter came around the corner with two other pinstriped ponies.

“Got no where to go, detective!” One pony next to Flitter cackled. He sat on his haunches and held up his hooves. His eyes meeting mine. I then trotted over and slugged my dad hard into the gut. He reeled over, rasping for breath before I brought my other hoof around and across the head. He fell forward, out cold. I shook my hoof and frowned. I hoped I didn’t do it too hard. Flitter sighed.

“Anypony know where to stick him?” She asked. One of the Knuckle Head ponies nodded.

“There is a storage closet around back. Should lead you back out into the emergency exit stairs when you are done. Good work everypony. I’ll notify Viper. She’ll be happy to see him.” Flitter, Cloudchaser and I picked up my dad and carried him over to the direction of the closet area. I reached with my magic and we entered into a dimly lit hall. We trotted down the hall before taking a left into a broom closet. We put him down against the wall and I pat his cheek. My dad stirred and coughed, wiping his lip.

“That… stung more than I expected it to do…” he rasped. I smiled.

“You said make it look convincing.” I said, standing up. “They already notified Viper. We better make this quick.” My dad nodded and stood up, cracking his neck.

“I’ll deal with Ms. Sunshine. Just start patrolling the gala and gather what you can. Flitter, if you can recall anything of importance, make sure you aren’t suspicious. Fie?” He looked at me. “Keep a cool head.” I slumped.

“Thanks for the boost of confidence.” I mumbled. He sat down onto his haunches and slumped motionless while the three of us stepped out of the closet. So far, so good. I peeked out of the door to ensure no pony was getting curious before trotting up the steps. We exited on the tenth floor and noticed the elevator where three masked white suites entered in. I nodded to my friends as we trotted over and pressed the button on the elevator. I heard a hum in my ear, causing me to press it.

”You girls are doing great. There is a lot of activity at the lobby. You still have time to get into positions at the top. We also noticed Viper pulling away from the crowd. You might have company.” Scribble said.

”I’ll chat with Viper. You three stick to the plan.” My dad said. The line was cut as the door dinged open. We had to take a step back as we watched a few of the gangers exit the elevator. When we stepped in, I heard a voice call out.

“W-wait! Hold the elevator!” I looked over and balked. A handsome and muscular stallion was galloping over. His silken dark coat reflecting the light as his neatly combed caramel mane flowed behind him. I stopped the doors from opening and eyed him as he leaped in and panted. “Haaa. Whew. Thanks for the-“ he looked up and his eyes widened as he saw the three of us. He cleared his throat and adjusted his saddle bag. I noticed he was beginning to grow a beard.

It has been too long and nothing has changed, save for that one detail. We let him in and the door closed. I pressed the top while my brother pressed the button in the middle. I narrowed my eyes at him and he caught my look, shifting nervously to the side away from me. I looked back to my friends, who seemed confused at first, but catching my look, realization dawned on them. As we waited awkwardly in the elevator, we came up to my brother’s floor and he quickly stepped out the moment it opened. I looked to my friends.

“Meet you at the top.” I said. They gave me worried looks before nodding. I stepped out of the elevator into a long hallway. I saw my brother trotting further down. I tipped my hat and cantered after him. When he turned the corner, I rounded it.

“Hey you!” I called out. My brother froze and looked over his shoulder. He turned around cautiously before clearing his throat.

“Y-yes? How can I help you?” He asked. I walked over to him.

“Where do you think you are going?” I asked sternly. He nervously stepped back.

“J-just to turn in some paper work to my boss. N-no harm done.” He said. I looked him up and down. He looked very healthy. Not a single scratch on him. I considered expecting to see my brother a bit broken because of his old profession. So many questions popped into my head. I wanted to break character and talk with him. But I felt that would be entirely a bad idea. I have to think of something to convince him. I furrowed my look and tilted my head.

“Boss, you say? And who do you work for?” I asked. His piercing blue eyes darted to the left.

“N-no pony special. U-umm, is it… alright for me to go?” He asked. I grinned and walked over to him, putting a leg around his neck and pulling him in.

“Say. You know about a certain mare that works here? Goes by the name of Heart. Pretty looking one?” I began. Blitz’s eyes narrowed cautiously.

“My boss? L-like I said, I am heading on over to her.” He said. I don’t know why that surprised me.

“You work under Heart?!” I exclaimed. I then coughed and cleared my throat. “Ahem, sorry. I mean uhh… you work for her?” Blitz eyed me in confusion.

“Is that a problem?” He asked nervously. I tipped my hat and cleared my throat again.

“No. Nope. Nothing at all. Just… surprised considering you look like you’ve been… places.” I responded. The stallion furrowed his look.

“I-I’m not quite sure I understand.” He began. I then thought about it a bit more and waved a hoof.

“You uhh… your name. Care to take me to see this Heart pony?” I asked. Blitz cleared his throat and was slowly stepping back.

“I-I would love to, but she is super busy and I have to get these turned in. So, if you’ll excuse me.” He turned around and began cantering away. I sighed. I was going to hate myself, but I followed him, making sure to keep out of sight. He opened the door to an office and looked around before closing it. I crept low, seeing he hadn’t closed it properly and I opened it just ever so slightly before peeking in. I saw my brother sigh and dug through his bag.

“Where have you’ve been?” A voice asked from inside. A mare’s voice.

“Sorry, sis-“ he began.

“Don’t call me that in the work place.” She said sternly. He rubbed the back of his neck.

“R-right…” He then pulled out files and paper work. “A-anyway, I’ve got what you asked for. Took a lot of skirting around thanks to the many gangers here. This is wild. I never seen so many ponies here.” He said. I then saw a mare step around the desk and levitate the paper work as she trotted around the room. There was no denying it. The slender and pretty looking mare with a silken dark coat similar to my brother’s, a neatly tied back bubblegum pony tail mane and a purple business dress, scanned the paper with her violet colored eyes.

Heart hummed as Blitz rubbed the back of his head.

“Are you completely sure about this, Heart? I know dad can be a little overly protective and somewhat overbearing, but should we really be sneaking around like this?” He asked. My sister sighed.

“I don’t like it anymore than you do, Blitz. But I’ve had my suspicions for a while. I’m not doing this for the sake of dad. EMI is counting on me to uphold their marketing and I need to find out how we can cater to the higher ups. Especially their representative from overseas.” She explained. I darted my eyes in thought. What are these two up too? My brother sighed.

“This just feels… wrong. Maybe dad is right. We are way in over our heads here. This was a good opportunity, but if everything he told us is true, we need to get out of here.” He stated. I smiled. Seems whatever dad had tried did get through to Blitz at least. But Heart shook her head.

“You’re the only pony I know that has special connections to get this kind of information. If you weren’t, you’d be fired here and now.” She said sternly. My brother frowned.

“How’d I end up working under you?” He retorted. My sister didn’t skip a beat.

“Ever since those series of pregnancy scares caused you to buckle under pressure. How’s therapy treating you?” She said. I cocked my head. My brother is in therapy? Wow, I really need to catch up with them later and hear all the details. That’s… if they even care. My brother sighed.

“Heart. You aren’t at all concerned that Quiet Fire is currently visiting in town?” He asked. I froze. My sister remained flipping through the papers.

“I am aware.” She said. He rubbed the back of his neck.

“Don’t you at least want to make sure she’s okay? You know… because she’s now tasked as a savior to Equestria?” He asked. My sister turned to look at him.

“If Fie has that responsibility thrown onto her, it’s her job to handle it. I doubt she’s here to see family. And my schedule is full as is, so I have no time.” She frowned. I darted my eyes. More clicking in my head. I always knew my sister was a workaholic, but taking other’s responsibility and wanting them to uphold it sounded… strange. It doesn’t sound like they despise me either. I still had to apologize. My brother shook his head.

“And what about mom? Do you have the slightest idea about her?” He asked. Heart sighed.

“The same can be said with mom. Why does this matter to you, Blitz? Fie made her choice long ago. Why should we pretend to act like it never happened?” I winced. Okay, maybe it did sting them just a bit. Blitz continued.

“Because maybe, Heart, I’m finally getting sick of this place. Every day it’s been gang after gang ordeals. All this territory conflict and power tossing? It’s going to buckle one way or another. I doubt EMI is going to continue backing these behaviors.” He said. Heart nodded.

“Which is why the head of EMI had tasked me with diverting funds. And this info you gathered will help in that. We’ll save face and let the law come down on the gangers. And we won’t be out of a job.” She said. I have to do something. My brother sighed and shrugged.

“If you say so, Heart. But I just think this entire building is going to crumble one day.” He said before gathering his things. I took a deep breath. Time to face the day. I opened the door and stepped in, locking it. My brother froze and Heart looked over, her eyes studying me.

“Can I help you?” She asked. My brother put a hoof on her shoulder and shook his head. Both now looked at me cautiously. I tipped my hat up a bit and smirked.

“Yes. Perhaps you can explain to me why you two have decided to take Knuckle Head’s funds and plan to divert them?” I said. They both balked. I then levitated out an arc pistol and held it at my side. They eyed me nervously now. “This doesn’t have to get ugly. Not unless you cooperate.” I then aimed it at them. Heart narrowed her eyes.

“You’re breaking the pledge, aren’t you?” She began. “I thought the head of EMI made everypony take a pledge. They’ll have your head for what you are doing.” I smirked and shrugged.

“They never said to not threaten ponies in gang related matters who aren’t affiliated. Because honestly, it’s only meant for the unsavory. Not the upstanding.” I then motioned to the files. “Pass me those files and I’ll let you both go.” The both of them looked at each other before Heart then bucked the desk over and the files and papers went flying. I had to shield my eyes as they then rushed me. Instinct kicked in and I slipped in between them. Blitz unlocked the door and threw it open. Both of them galloped, only to stop as they backed away.

I arched a brow and stepped out. I gasped, seeing Viper standing in front of them, looking between them before over at me. She cocked a brow before speaking.

“The hell are you three doing here? I thought the lower floors were supposed to be emptied.” She frowned. I tipped my hat.

“Apologies, ma’am. I uhh… caught these two sneaking around. Cornered them but… you know how wild animals are.” I said. Viper rubbed her chin with a smirk.

“Interesting. Well now. Can’t have animals walking around without a leash, can we?” I saw her flick out a switch blade and my eyes widened. My siblings took a nervous step back, their eyes widened in panic. Come on, Fie! Do something! I cleared my throat and stepped between them. Viper studied me.

“With all due respect, ma’am. But we are under a pledge. As a representative of Kunckle Head, we have to maintain that image or else lose any credibility. Isn’t that what we were told?” I asked. Please work, please work! Viper frowned and sighed, closing the switch blade and pocketing it.

“Sadly. As much as I’d like to tame wild animals, we have a rat loose in the building. Detective Fire is currently skittering about.” My siblings’s eyes widened again. I nodded.

“I’ll escort these two out of the premise. And ensure they won’t be welcomed back.” I then gave a smirk. Viper looked pleased by this before shooing us.

“Do so. Then return to patrolling. The gala will start in two hours. We need this building cleared by then. Understand?” She said. I tipped my hat in a nod.

“Understood.” I replied. I turned around and motioned to them. “Get a move on.” My siblings looked at us with cautious hate before turning around and I led them down the hall. I glanced behind my back, seeing Viper rub the back of her neck before turning back around. As we turned the corner, I sighed and shook my head. “Let’s stop for a moment.” I said suddenly. My siblings blinked and turned around. I took a quick peek back around the corner. Coast is clear.

I turned back and decided to drop everything.

“I don’t know how dad is going to take this, but I need to come clean.” I said, sitting down on my haunches. My siblings exchanged confused glances. I then pointed at myself. “Guys. It’s me. Quiet Fire.” They studied me, narrowing their eyes. I then removed one contact and they gasped in shock. They could probably see the familiar orchid eyes swirling with magic. I put the contact back in and smiled. “I… I’m back.”

My siblings were unsure of how to react. I rubbed my foreleg.

“I know it looks confusing at first. But I am like this for a good reason. In fact, I’m helping dad out with this case of his.” I said. Blitz furrowed his brows.

“Fie…? Really…? How…?” He began. I waved a hoof in dismissal.

“I can’t really explain much but long story short, the EMI is planning something big and it involves all the big players here in Hoofington. This gala is a cover up for something worse to come.” I explained. Heart narrowed her eyes.

“A cover up… so it is true?” She asked. I nodded.

“I… can’t really explain it properly, but trust me. EMI isn’t a company to be under. They are a front for an organization called the Triad. This organization is run by a neighboring queen in Pony Land and they plan to invade Equestria at some point. This will make it hard for me to do my job, because at the same time, I have to deal with cosmic powers that the Triad want a part of.” I pointed at myself again. “I am being hunted by the group and they will stop at nothing to get it. They’ll hurt mom, dad and you two without so much as a second thought.”

My siblings were silent. I don’t blame them. This is a lot to take in. My sister then broke the silence.

“Then… EMI has been lying to me?” She asked. I cocked my head. She sighed. “When I first landed this job, I was just a coffee runner for the boss. But when I helped her out of her financial troubles with the accounting info, I got promoted as her assistant. The head of EMI, Clover Hoof, noticed my understanding of business and when it came for my ex boss to retire, I took the position and have been working closely with him.” She pointed to Blitz. “I convinced Mr. Hoof to give my brother a job since he was in a… well… a state of homelessness.” Blitz bowed his head.

“Not my proudest moment…” He said. Heart nodded.

“Over time, I’ve began to notice certain fundings being invested into strange sounding projects. Stuff I never even heard of. And of course, Clover Hoof denied everything I had concerns about. It wasn’t until Blitz decided to use his connections that I began to see that numbers weren’t adding up.” Blitz chimed in.

“It was like everything was being diverted into this Alicron project. Whatever that means. But I’ve read it’s some sort of highly advanced AI tech that is being developed overseas.” He said. I narrowed my eyes. That doesn’t sound good. Heart flourished her hoof.

“It was more than just that. Development of a drug. Military funding. Partnerships with foreign companies across Equestria that I’ve never even heard of. The more I was looking at it, it was making this strange pattern. Something like this.” She then reached into her dress pocket and pulled out a note book, flipping it over to a familiar looking symbol. I looked at her grimly.

“Yeesh. Even digitally, they are obsessed with their own symbol. That’s so strange they even made their Triad symbol with all this info.” I frowned. “I think the Triad is now more than just an overzealous cult obsessed with ancient magic and technology. I wouldn’t be surprised if they decided to announce to the world their plan and no pony would be the wiser.” Blitz stroked his stubble beard a bit.

“The fact they have a hoof so far buried into Equestria… it really does sound like they plan to invade.” He said. Heart frowned and crossed her forelegs.

“But this… just sounds impossible. How can one organization control so much?” She asked.

“Perhaps you ponies would like a demonstration?” A voice said. I turned around and gasped. Viper leaned against the wall coolly, flicking out her switchblade. She smirked. “Today is my lucky day.”

---

This isn’t good. I found myself with Blitz and Heart at gun point as Viper led us through the fiftieth floor, which was a strange zen garden area. The architecture in this tower made no sense what so ever. How was it even built? We were led out into a balcony and Viper took a seat as mean looking ponies in neat suites surrounded us. The mare puffed a cigarette and blew it before leaning forward.

“To think one of our own would betray the snake den. Such a shame.” She smirked. I was stripped of my guns and forced to walk forward while my siblings were held at gun point. I stoically stared down the mare. Viper cocked a brow. “Heh. No fear. Taking your punishment like a champ. I can respect that. You know, despite your heart ache of a betrayal, I’m willing to give you a second chance. To prove to me that you truly belong in this family.” She then waved a hoof and a Knuckle Head passed a revolver to her.

She wiped it before holding it out to me. I cocked my brow.

“Stripped me of my weapons to only pass me one that can do damage?” I asked. Viper snickered.

“This one is special. Trust me. You’ll feel… vindicated.” She said. I narrowed my eyes before taking it in my magic. The moment I did, I suddenly grunted as a wave of pain coursed through me. I felt sick. I fell to my knees, clutching my stomach with a foreleg. Viper took a puff of her cigarette and blew a ring out. “My specialty curse. The Snake Bite.” She grinned. “You’ll slowly start to feel everything inside of you slow down. You’ll feel your heart beat begin to race. And as you crumple to the ground, looking up to the sky, you’ll be filled with thoughts. If you want the pain to end, turn the barrel against yourself. If you want to save your life, then take one. But if you don’t want to do either…” she shrugged. “Enjoy the painful last moments.”

I coughed and looked to my siblings. I rasped and found it hard to breath. Viper nodded and my siblings were brought forward. Their eyes fearful and in panic. I looked at the revolver and picked it up with my magic. I turned to my siblings. They looked at me fearfully.

“P-please don’t do this!” Blitz cried out. “Th-there has to be another way!” I looked at them and nodded. I then quickly whipped around and fired at Viper, who unfortunately tilted her head and eyed me as the green tracer showed to have sailed in the distance. She began to laugh and stood up, kicking the chair. The others began to aim at me and Viper held up a hoof.

“You keep getting more interesting and interesting. What’s your name?” She asked. I shook my head, trying to keep myself steady.

“It doesn’t matter… if I’m going to die here…” I rasped. Viper grinned and twirled her switchblade in her hoof. She then aimed it at me.

“If this is how you want your last moments to play out, I’d be more the willing to guide you into the light.” She said. I then stood up on two and got into my stance, panting as it was getting a bit harder to breathe. The ponies around us began to murmur and Viper immediately recognized it. She tossed her head back, laughing. “The cosmoses smile upon me tonight! Thank the light mother!” She then kissed the handle of her switch blade and got into her stance. “I’ll graciously accept this gift. And cherish it to the bitter end.” She grinned maniacally. Sorry, dad. I’m going to have to handle this.

Viper was quick and I had to duck, feeling the blade graze my forehead. I nearly stumbled over myself before getting back in my stance. I can’t use any of Din’s magic or my staff. I have to keep up the act. I then felt myself be bucked in the chest and I went crashing over a wall and into a sandpit. I coughed as I stood up and rasped, wiping my muzzle. Viper hopped over as the others began to look down at us. Viper licked her lips before twirling her blade and rushing me. I weaved her knife strikes as I found myself back up into the other glass wall. I spun out of the way as Viper lashed out a hoof, cracking the glass. I then lashed out my own kick and struck her side. She winced, but grinned, rushing me again. I used my hoof and leg to bat at her foreleg as she tried to get a good knife strike in. We circled the area before exchanging more blows. I managed to get a good strike at her side, upper cutting her chin, getting low and spun around before bucking her in the chest. She crashed over a bench and wiped her lip with a tongue as she rolled to her hooves and galloped towards me.

I stepped back as she got low and began lashing out again. I was finding it hard to keep up. I felt my suite beginning to rip as she drew blood from the connections she made. This is bad. I have to do something! Viper laughed as I threw my hooves up and fell into my back. She stood over me and was pushing back against me, trying to force the knife down into my eye.

“I admire your courage to fight for your life! But you’ll be dying either way!” She cackled. “Once I’m done here, I’m going to bask on my new throne! The Viper Family will be known far and wide throughout Hoofington! It’ll be my empire! As it has been rightfully so!” I have no idea what this mare is talking about. I grunted as I pushed as hard as I could against her own, the knife lifting away from me ever so slowly. I then head butted the mare with my horn straight into the eye. She reeled back off of me, screaming in pain as she clutched her bloodied eye. I coughed as I painfully stood up, getting back into my stance. Everything was beginning to slow down. I could hear the ringing in my ears. I can’t die here. Equestria will be doomed, invasion or not.

I then saw Heart shout something before heaving the revolver into the air with her magic. The ponies watched on as it sailed through the sky. Viper had already recovered and was rushing me. It was hard to move. Everything hurt. Time slowed as Viper got closer and closer, knife raised to strike. I felt my hind leg buckle and that was enough to cause the knife to miss me. Viper looked surprised. I grunted, reaching for the revolver in my magic as it sailed towards us and pulled the trigger. The revolver sailed away, but the tracer showed the trail. It went through Viper’s head, barely grazing my cheek.

Time sped up as I felt the pain vanish and I took a loud gasp of air, rolling to the side as Viper fell motionless into the sand. I heard a cackle in the back of my mind along with several clicks. My first ever pony kill. I panted as I clutched my chest, looking at the body of Viper. Every strike I’ve made to living ponies have been aimed to incapacitate or cripple. Cracking necks wouldn’t kill, just close the windpipe enough that they pass out. But this… this was an entirely new feeling.

And now. I understood how Cloudchaser felt. I stumbled my way towards the stairs that would lead me back up to the main deck of the zen garden. I looked over as the other gangers were hesitant to approach. I rasped before looking at them with a glare.

"Let those ponies go. We have a pledge to uphold." I panted. The gangers exchanged glances before stepping aside as Heart and Blitz cantered over to me. I darted my eyes at the rest. "Inform Knuckle Head that the snake that had been whispering in his ear is silent." I then turned and managed to walk properly back into the building. This was so strange. I sold my act, but yet, it felt like everything just jumbled together. What the hell was Viper talking about? I mean, it isn't a surprise that there could be some power struggles amongst the gangs. But I'm here to help dad. Not be a ganger myself. And a curse? I was still feeling a little sick. As for how was feeling aside from that. Empty and confused. I sighed and when we got to the elevator, I looked to my siblings. "Get out of here, you two. This isn't going to be a pretty event." I said. I then put up a hoof at them. "Better yet, leave the city. Everypony knows your face now and I'm certain you'll be hunted down just the same as dad." Heart looked worriedly at me.

"Fie? I..." I held up a hoof and pushed them into the elevator.

"I have a job to do. We'll catch up later, okay?" I smiled. As hurried as I was to get them out of here and to get back to the plan, this was a complete waste of thirty minutes. Whatever happens after the gala, I'll face it when I cross that bridge. But right now, I need to get up top. As my siblings looked at me with worry, the doors closed and they began descending the tower. I walked over to the other elevator and pressed it. I looked back, hearing the hoof steps of many ponies. Darting my eyes and narrowing them, the gangers eyed me. I shook my head and turned to them. "Step up, then. You're not going to stop me." I said. No pony moved. All but one. The mare tipped her hat before holding out my own hat. I blinked in confusion before taking it and studying the mare. She looked up from under her hat.

"I don't know who you are, kid. I've never seen your face around here either. But if you're a first day rookie taking on Knuckle Head's right hoof like that, would have gotten us to kill you when you finished. But." She looked back towards the others who were standing at attention. I slumped. Are they gangers or militia? This whole situation has become a confusing mess of thoughts. "Viper had it coming to her. I'd say you did the boss a favor beheading the snake." I shook my head.

"Don't start respecting me because I did the gang a favor. I'm no pony and I want to keep it that way." I have to continue my act. I can't be held into a spotlight now. I adjusted my suite and tie before turning as the elevator door opened. "I need to return to my patrol. Do whatever you have to do." I then stepped in and pressed the button to the very top. As the elevator closed, I then pressed my ear. "Does anypony read?" I asked.

"Loud and clear." Scribble said. I furrowed my look.

"Dad?" I asked. There was a brief moment of silence before my dad's voice broke through.

"How's the gala going?" He asked. I shook my head.

"I'm heading up right now. I had a slight sidetrack. Dad. I met Blitz and Heart." I said. There was another moment of silence.

"I see." He said. I shook my head.

"Dad. I caught them digging through EMI files. Both of them. I think... whatever you told them, they did listen." There was more silence. I continued. "I managed to gather what info I could from them before we got caught by Viper. I was just on the fiftieth floor of the tower and I... I killed her. Viper is dead." There was a continued silence.

"Are we jeopardized? And more importantly, are you okay?" Scribble asked. I sighed.

"I'm honestly not sure. But the show must go on, as they say. We'll discuss everything once the gala is over." I said. "I made sure those that witnessed Viper and I fight understood I am not to be messed with and if they did, well..." I thought about it. "Perhaps they won't snitch. They seemed pretty done with Viper anyway." I removed my hoof from my ear and slumped against the wall. I winced as the irritating sting of Viper's knife itched. The ride to the one hundredth floor was agonizing. I have never been so lost in my own thoughts alone. Seemed no pony was on the other floors waiting to hop in. Which is good for me. I didn't want to deal with anypony right now. I held up a hoof and studied it, curling it in and out in a flex. There was nothing I could have done. I... I had to survive. For the sake of Equestria and everypony counting on me. It... isn't my fault... is it?

"Fie. You're right. I want a full detailed explanation of the events later. I'm currently taking the long way up, but I'll meet up with you three when I can. Just... becareful. And hopefully, no pony else has to die today." The line was cut and everything was silent. I bowed my head. I don't know what my dad is thinking right now. He did sound worried but... like me, he cannot just drop everything. We're too deep in now and there is no going back. The elevator dinged when I hit the one hundredth floor. The door opened and I readied myself to face the day once more.