> Lucid > by Rutilus.Luna > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > From The Desk Of Dr. Redheart > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Dr. Nurse Redheart, This letter is to inform you that your transfer request was reviewed by the Academy and approved. Your ending date at Ponyville General Hospital will be on the first day of spring, 7 days from today. You will have an additional 7 days to relocate to Maretropolis where you will begin your first day at the Maretropolis Home For The Criminally insane. Best of Wishes, Thermo Scope -Head of Academy Transfer Department Memo addressed to Nurse Redheart Nurse Redheart, or should I be calling you Dr. Nurse Redheart rather? Congratulations on the promotion. Sorry I wasn't able to make to your graduation. Sick ponies never stop and somepony has to be dutiful and diligent. Are you sure you want to take this case? The Mane-iac? Every paper I've read up on her hasn't been able to pinpoint anything. I don't want to sound unsupportive, but what do you think you will be able to do? Our best minds couldn't figure her out, and you just completed school. Horse apples, that does sound pretty mean doesn't it? Sorry. I'm just concerned is all. We all are here. If this doesn't work out, if she proves to be too much of a nut to crack, please come back. Everypony is going to miss you. You'll always be welcome here. I can't stop you, so best of luck. Truly. - Dr. Bluevein Ms. Redheart, I am pleased to tell you that the condo you were interested in will be available by your specified move-in date. Considering the time of the year, I would strongly recommend getting all of your utilities taking care of before you arrive, lest you want to deal with some pretty cold weather. Your monthly rent will be 1250 bits as discussed; however, and I do apologize I wasn't able to get this any lower for you, the pet deposit will still be 400 bits due on move-in. Congratulations on your new home! -Happy Homes Realty Where to start? Your Mom and I are just so proud of you. Completing school, sticking through with everything. And now, taking on one of the most infamous cases out there. I don't think there is anything you can't do at this point. I'm sure that you will solve it. Your Mom's a bit of a nervous wreck, with it being Mane-iac and all. So do be safe, if only for her sake if not your own. We want you to come back with trumpets blaring. So let us know if there is anything that we can do for you. Love, Mom and Dad Dr. Redheart, At your request the patients room has been outfitted with a recording set-up. This was a costly endeavor; however, so I am severely hoping that you will be putting it to good use. - Scrimpy Frugal Maretropolis Home For The Criminally Insane Financial Department > Session #1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 18:45 "Testing, one, two, three. Testing. Good." "Are you sure that you're ready for this doc? She is a loose cannon. Actually managed to take out the Power Ponies if it hadn't been for their sidekick." "Come on now Shield. I've been waiting for a chance like this for a long time. I've studied and made contributions to all sorts of medical fields. I can't simply leave this one unconquered. It would seem like such a waste after all of the effort I've put forth to get this far." "Whatever floats your boat. I'm no psychologist, I don't study this crap or care. I just know that you can't cure crazy. Fool's endeavor." "Thank you, for that motivational speech. I'll be sure to let the Academy now just how much support I was given by the staff here." "Sheesh, just speaking my mind. No need to jump down my throat. Sorry." "Apology accepted. This is simply something I have to try. I've cured all manner of illnesses, but never one of the mind. This is my last test, my own personal proof that I deserve the title of doctor. Is she ready?" "Soon, those drugs that we gave her should be wearing off in just a few minutes. Maybe sooner, given her size." "Excellent, thank you Nightshade. Shield, remember, the safety word is hogwash. I need you on alert, this may get ugly." Stop. - 18:51 Recording - 19:13 *Sound of writing on paper* "It would appear that apparently she will be asleep a little while longer then expected. For the purpose of my own records, I will be doing a light physical examination while dictating. From the offset, she appears to be physically fine. Her proportions are uncommon, but not unheard off. * shuffling of paper* Looking back at her file it would seem that she experienced a severe growth spurt after her accident. Hmm, she weighs very little compared to the average pony. She doesn't appear to be malnourished in anyway. Her jumpsuit was unable to be removed when she was brought in. Whether that is from some form of magic or some other pleasant manner is currently unknown. Her mane is currently locked into a specifically made apparatus, although it is a wonder it was not cut. While she sleeps I can see some movement on the roots, suggesting that her control of her mane is not magical and instead it is an unconscious control. Similar to pegasi and their wings." *More writing on paper* "Must you drone on?" "You're awake? Wonderful. How are you feeling?" "Feeling? FEELING? I'm in a straight jacket with my mane constrained, rather painfully I might add, and you have the audacity to ask me how I am feeling?" "..." "I suppose that was a bit rude of me to yell. How about a pretty please, with sugar cane and lollipops, with cinnamon and severed throats, with you and your loved ones severed heads on a SPIKE will you let me go? Mwahaha!" "Are you done?" "..." "Let us establish some groundwork here. I am Dr. Nurse Redheart. I am here to help you on your path to recovery. I can not do it alone however so I will need you to at least try to meet me half way." "Dr. Nurse? Seriously? A bit of a self fulfilling prophecy, don't you think?" "It is my birth name. I am not ashamed of it. Do you mind if I call you by yours Ms.-" "SILENCE! She died long ago. And you will not speak to her." "Okay. What would you prefer I call you during our sessions?" "Do you think that some ploy will work on me? Do you think that I care about this? About getting 'better'? I will get out of here, and the Power Ponies will not be able to stop me next time." "I would appreciate it if you were to answer my question." "And I would appreciate it if you were on fire, its a bit chilly in here." "I see, well, if this is how this session is going to go. I will not take anymore of your time today. These meetings will take place once a week from here on out. I do hope that you will change your mind and seek treatment of your own volition. I bid you good day." "..." *A door opens and closes* "Do you think that you made any progress?" "Honestly, I have no idea. I hope so. I suppose that we will find out next week. Maybe something that I said will get through. You can take her away." "You got it doc." *Door opens and closes* "What have I gotten myself into?" Stop - 20:00 > Session #2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 13:53 "-so as I was saying, she turned around and threw her drink at me for no reason. Completely uncalled for." "Shield, must you be so crass? I don't want to have to deal with your nightly horrors when I am going over these recordings each night. I have better things to do." "What? Come on doc, don't tell me you agree with her." "In fact, I do. Personally I would have done worse. The rare moment you are lucky that she works there." "Harsh doc, harsh." "Has she been any more communicative since our last session?" "Unless you consider death threats to be the tip of the communication iceberg, no. My security has been having a hay of a time with her." "Unfortunate, but expected. When will she be arriving?" "Should be any minute now, so long as Nighty managed to put her out quick enough." "Nighty?" "Nightshade." "Does she let you call her that?" "No." "Noted." *Door opens* "Dr. Redheart, she should be ready." "Thank you Nightshade. Shield, the safety word is again, hogwash." "Yeah, yeah, got it." *Footsteps followed by door closing* "Look what we have here, medically redundant. Here to make me all weepy and kiss my brain and make me feel all better inside. Ha!" "Glad to see that you are awake this time. Have you decided on what you would like for me to call you?" "This rigmarole again? Aren't you a broken record?" *Writing on paper* "Am I boring you redundant?" "The contrary actually, you are quite interesting." "Oh ho ho! I didn't realize I was that tantalizing. What say you undue these constraints and I can show you what my mane and I can really do! HAHA!" "..." "What a cute blush! Have I touched a nerve? Ha!" "According to the security reports you've been ramming your head into the wall of your room. Why?" "Spoilsport. My head itches. My mane wants to move, to be free. It was never meant to be caged. I was never meant to be caged." "That is what I am here to do. To help you through your disease so that you can walk as a free mare again. So, again, what would you like me to call you?" "..." "Feel free to take your time." "I'm thinking! Mane-iac will do, I suppose. I don't care." "Excellent Mane-iac. Why choose that, if you don't mind me asking?" "I told you. I don't care, and that is what everypony else seems to call me. I never bothered on a name when I awakened. Never felt it mattered." "Really? Your name doesn't matter to you?" "Why should it? I am whatever I am. There is no need to identify me by an archaic system of classification. You crave water. Something you need to live. At the end of the day, would you care if everyone decided to call it something else? It's still the same liquid you crave, its just not water anymore. I am akin to water, at the end of the day I exist, regardless of my name." "That's a unique way of looking at it. Do you usually think about philosophy like that?" "I think that this is a waste of your, and my own, time." "You enjoy being combative, don't you?" *Writing on paper* "I enjoy existing. Currently I am not." "You're not existing at the moment? What does it take for you to exist?" "..." "Mane-iac?" "I'm done here. Take me back to my cell. You are boring me." "We can talk about something else if-" "I'M DONE!" "I see. This has proven enlightening. If you truly wish i stop today, I will not press you any further. If you find the desire to speak, I'm sure that an additional session could happen. Just say the word." "..." "Well, I wish you well for the week. I will let security know you are done for the day." *Door opens and closes* "How did it go this time doc?" "Progress, small it may be. The director will not be pleased by it however. Please inform Nightshade that Mane-iac is done for the day and wishes to return to her room." "Aye-aye doc." "This is going to take a while. I think I'm going to go out tonight and get myself a nice stiff-" Stop - 15:26 > Progress Report #1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- To Aniso Anagra, As per your request, here is the first fortnightly progress report on our patient. As it stands i have little to offer that hasn't been determined by others before me. Contrary to others; however, I disagree that she displays symptoms of megalomania. In our second meeting she expressed that all she cares about is existing. When pressed for details, she was hostile towards answering, opting to stop the session entirely. I'm not sure as to how to dig that deeper, but I think that it is a good lead to follow on. The second thing that I noticed is that doesn't display much violent behavior at the sessions. The first week was full of threats towards me and my family, but the second session was much calmer. She preferred to simply lay on her back and speak. Or opt not to speak as the case may be. She even saw fit to attach a nickname to me. Not a particularly nice one, but not a particularly mean one either. She is rather evasive on topics she refuses to speak of. Such as her past or modus operandi. It may require a bit of trickery for her to open up to me, but it may be worth it. I will take the next two weeks to find out more before we resort to any such tactics. I would like to thank you again for approving the funding for the mic room. It has been a life saver when it comes time to review notes. - Dr. Nurse Redheart -Dr. Nurse Redheart I am intrigued to hear of your hypothesis and will continue to allow you to continue these sessions. As medical professional, we are bound to aid in the healing of the sick; however, be aware that there are a lot of ponies that would prefer to simply see her rot, or worse. That may pose a problem should nothing substantial come from your camp in the upcoming weeks. As for your unsavory tactics. I cannot condone such actions, publicly. If they backfire on you, you will be solely responsible for the repercussions. If they damage the hospital's reputation in anyway, it will be your job and career that will be on the line. That said, on a more personal level, make results happen. -Aniso Anagra > Session #3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 11:30 "Miss Nightshade I beg you to reconsider. So far you have been the best at subduing Mane-iac for transport." "That, thing, licked me! I refuse to deal with it." "She licked you? I'm sure that you've probably encountered worse in this profession." "Shut up Shield! Nopony asked for your opinion." "Chill out. I'm just confused is all. You have been working here, what, 23 years or so? A single lick doesn't seem like that should be cause for you to threaten resignation. Unless, where did she lick you?" *Smack. A door is slammed* "Miss Nightshade!" "OW! BUCK! Why?! It was just a question! Damn Nighty, that hurt. What the hay was up with that Doc?" "Are you so dense?" "What?" "This is why you are single. I will leave it at that, my patient is waiting. And don't attempt to convince Miss Nightshade to return, leave that to me." *Door opens and closes* "I still don't get it." "Mane-iac, why in Equestria would you- what happened to your eye?" "I opted for a new make-up." "In the design of a black eye?" "Oopsie! Looks like I've been found out. You're so clever. Someday I hope I may be able to get something past you." "What happened? Was it Miss Nightshade?" "Turns out most of the security here isn't terribly appreciative of comments related to the size of their batons. And who is that?" "She claims that you licked her, and you have no idea who she is?" "Oh, her. She needs to take a bath, I saw an opportune moment to lend my services." "What?" "Cats do it all the time, no one questions them. Why should someone in an insane asylum be questioned for the same behavior. Maybe for just a brief moment I thought I was a cat." "You're toying with me." "Meow." "Really?" "Meow, meow." "Must you be so difficult?" "Bwahaha! Must you be so serious all the time? It only entertains me for a while." "I'm your doctor, not your entertainer." "You're a fool on an errand with the wrong job title, truly." *Sigh* "Mane-iac, I realize you are going to take this as a game. I realize that you don't care about getting better, that you would rather continue making this city pay for unspecified crimes, but I have a job to do and I am going to do my best at it. I know I can't make you take this seriously, but for just once can you try?" "..." "..." "Let's try this again shall we? Why did you lick my coworker?" "Boredom, mostly. Besides, it's not like I have much else at my disposal, with the straight jacket and my mane restrained. Consider it a hug." "She was quite distraught with your action. She is threatening resignation." "A shame, she tasted rather sweet." "..." "Are you blushing? Bwahaha! I suppose you learn something new everyday." "Does it bother you in the slightest that you caused a fellow pony to consider quitting her workplace of 20 years?" "No, why should it? I doubt you would car if I swatted a fly and annihilated it's existence. Why should I care about I pony I don't know? Life is full of change anyhow. Who's to say it wouldn't be a blessing in disguise. Maybe she hates it here, hates you. I know I don't. The second one at least." "..." "If she enjoyed working here, truly, why would she be so quick to quit? Put things into perspective Redundant, this facility doesn't revolve around you, much less Maretropolis or Equestria." "You enjoy sowing discontent?" "I enjoy opening ponies eyes to the truths they willfully ignore in exchange for fragile comfort. I have my eyes open, and that is why this city must burn. It doesn't deserve to exist any longer. You think of your job as helping me, I think of you as ignorant." "Then help me see what you see. Tell me why this city deserves such destruction." "It is a pinnacle of oppression. Look at the crime system here." "The crime rate is excellent here." "True, but have you ever thought to question why?" "I can't say I have." "Next time you go out, pay attention. You'll see it, the presence that pervades everything here. This city is a testing ground for a massive amount of control, and it is working. See how many eyes watch you, see how some ponies never seem to leave certain areas. This city is under lockdown by those damn Power Ponies and the Royal Sisters are in on it. The Elements of Harmony are a weapon against the other nations, and the Power Ponies are the secret police." "Okay." *Writing on paper* "This is why I resort to other methods. You and the others eyes are sewn shut. It may hurt to see again, but you will all love me later for it." "Is that what you want from everything you have been doing? Love? Recognition?" "Does that surprise you? Did you think I craved power? That I wanted control? I want none of that. I want true freedom and the destruction of this corrupted Tartartus of a city is just the first step. If ponies want to adore me, I can't say I would complain, but it is not what I want." "I think you have an interesting view on the state of things." "I think that you would have quite the interesting taste." "A shame that won't happen, isn't it? Unfortunately we are out of time for this session. Contrary to what you may believe, I do have other responsibilities around this facility that do not revolve around you." "And the little kitten bares her fangs at last! Bwahaha! I'll look forward to playing with you from now on." *Door opens and closes* "Don't say a word Shield. Mane-iac wants this to be a game, and the only way i am going to get anywhere is to play along. Banish whatever crass thought you have swimming about you." "Wasn't going to say anything Doc." "Good, now where is Miss Nightshade?" "I think she went up to the director's office. If you hurry, you may be able to catch her." "Excellent, I will leave you to turn off the equipment." "Sure." *The sound of running down a hallway* "How the hay do I even turn this off? I've never bothered to give it a good look at, much less bother to learn how to use it. That...no. Hmm...I wonder what Nighty tasted li-" Stop - 14:00 > Session #4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 13:42 "Mane-iac, how are you this afterno-" "Nope, not playing this game today." "Oh, okay. Can I ask why?" "IS it possible for me to stop you from asking a question?" "...Right. Why do you not want to speak with me today?" "Never said that, clean out your ears. BWAHAHA!" "Then what did you mean?" "What I said, not going to play this game today. I've been thinking, and I want to try a different game." "Go on." "We are going to switch roles. I get to ask you all of the annoying questions!" "...That's it?" "...Yes? Why?" "I guess I just expected something more." "Doctor Nurse Redheart, you have the nerve to think of me like that? Care to share your fantasy? Maybe we can blur the edges and it will bleed into reality. BWAHAHA!" "And we are back to status quo. However, I do think that letting you get to know me better is an interesting idea. I will play along with this new game. Fire away." "Tsk tsk. Redundant, in order for us to switch roles effectively, we must be willing to walk in another mare's horseshoes." "Meaning?" "I think that you would be sexy in a straight jacket." "No." "Really? That's a shame. *Yawn* This new medication they have been forcing down my throat sure is making me sleepy. I may have to cancel this session in order to rest. Maybe this medication will solve all of my deep rooted problems." "And maybe I can arrange for an IV of caffeine." "Blah! Don't poison me further!" "This is part of your game isn't it? And me refusing is refusing to play?" "That is likewise, part of the game. And that was your one hint." "..." *Door opens and closes* "Fetch an orderly, and an extra jacket." "Doc, you can't seriously be considering this." "This may be the chance I have been hoping for. A chance to actually level the field and get through to her that I am on her side. I don't like it anymore then you do, perhaps even more so, but I have to." "I...Fine, but let it be known that the head of security does not approve. I have no legitimate grounds to stop you, but I wish I did." "Thank you Shield, I wouldn't expect anything else." "Don't thank me yet." "Ma'am, here is the jacket you requested." "Excellent. Put it on me." "What?" "It's a part of the therapy, Put me into the straight jacket." "It's fine kid, doctor's orders." "Okay." "Ugh, must it be so tight? I can hardly breathe." "Sorry ma'am. It may be a size too small. It was all we had." "To Tartarus with it all. Somepony care to wheel me in? I can no longer up and open the door myself." "Not quite living up to the expectations Doc? You seem a little stressed." "I may lack the physical strength of Miss Nightshade, but I guarantee that I can do a lot more to make you wish you had never been born." "Temper, temper Doc. Your patient is displaying considerable patience at the moment, and it seems rude to leave her wanting." "..." *Door opens* "Besides, she has a point, a straight jacket does give you a certain appeal." *Door closes* "You are only delaying the inevitable!" "If this is how you act with a straight jacket on, maybe if you take mine off I will be fine." "I doubt it, but I suspect you will be able to breath easier." 'Actually I no issues breathing. Probably because I lack the ability to gain weight. Oh well, works out for me." "Congratulations, would you like a cookie?" "I prefer cherries. But now is not the time to be dreaming of what is out of reach. What is your name?!" "Nurse Redheart. I told you that a while ago." "That's it? I thought it was Doctor Nurse." "Doctor is my title." "So you made yourself redundant?" "I furthered my education and made myself useful to society." "Don't you feel special. Why are you here?" "It's where I work?" "Ha. Funny, witty, humorous. Why are you here? Why me? This isn't the first time I've ended up here, you are new." "I...I thought I may be able to do some good." "And this had nothing to do with your own inflated ego?" "What?!" "I knew it! You're using me!" "I'm not using you for anything.' "Am I to believe that you chose to come here and study me all for my benefit? I don't buy it." "..." "Silence of the guilty conscience." "I did come out here to help you. That's what I like to do. It's why I got into this field in the first place. Did the thought cross my mind that it would be an amazing career boost? Yeah, it did. But it is not why I am out here." "..." "..." "How much do you weigh?" "You know you are never supposed to ask a lady her age or her weight." "That rule applies to stallions only and you know it." "Regardless, not telling." "Fine." "Any other questions?" "Do you actually think that you have a chance of curing me?" "I don't know. I feel like there is a missing piece of the puzzle that is the key. I'm not sure if I will be able to find it." "You're the first pony to be honest with me about that." "Really?" "Yeah, it used to give me hope when this started. I've found myself bothered by the lie less and less by it as time has gone on." "Ponies like to have hope in their lives. For some it is the force that gets them out of bed in the morning." "Maybe. How long do you plan on staying?" "As long as I feel there is a chance, no matter how slim." "Do you have any family?" "My parents, but I was an only foal. They never tried to have another." "Not trying for one of your own? You seem like the 'appropriate age'." "Not interested." "I see." "Mane-iac? Are you alright?" "I think I need to retire. I need to think." "Not going to ask anymore personal questions? It's kind of a relaxing change of pace." "I will take you up on your offer, later. Some other day. When you get done taking off that straight jacket, will you come over?" "Sure, I suppose." "Shield, will you come get me?" *Door opens and closes* "Seems like your gamble may have actually paid off, maybe that is just me." "I hope so. Now get this damn thing off." "Ah, but you will lose that magic glow about you." "For your sake, I will pretend I didn't hear that. Thank you." *Door opens and closes* "What was it that you wanted?" "Come closer." "..." "Don't be so scared. Closer." "I'm trusting you." "Not a wise decision to be honest." "You're not helping." "Wasn't trying, now come closer." "What do you want?" "..." "..." "That was all. Now scoot out of here and let me go to sleep." "..." "Amazing, I know, right? BWAHAHA!" *Door opens and closes* "What's up with the crazy blush Doc?" "She licked me." "Oh no. Don't tell me that you are planning on quitting now? If I need to go in there and kick her flank I've been itching at the chance. I knew that she was just going to cause trou-" "Shield, I'm not quitting. She explained it to me last week. It's a hug." Stop - 15:39 > Progress Report #2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- To Aniso Anagra, In regards to your previous statement, "make results happen", I am pleased to state that things are moving forward at faster rate then expected. After a brief indulgence of her desires, I was able to get her to open up to me more then before. She seems to alternate between a more serious persona, displaying paranoia and minor delusions about herself and those around her; and, what I would consider to be a teenager. She acts rashly in this mindset. Preferring to tease others and just be a general nuisance rather then harmful. She displays genuine ignorance that her actions are considered harmful or bothersome in this mindset. In her serious mindset however, it almost is a complete opposite. Displaying the traits that are more commonly associated with her. Megalomania to an extent, paranoia, delusions, and sadistic tendencies. If that was all she displayed this would be the single most clear cut case of being a sociopath in the last several decades. No to say that I believe she isn't a sociopath, I suspect it quite likely. I do believe there are other factors at work however. At this time I will continue to form a more solid case, but, with what I have now, I can only hypothesize as to the additional factor(s). - Dr. Nurse Redheart To Dr. Nurse Redheart, To me it would seem that you have everything under control at this time. I would like to urge that you listen to Shield a little closer from now on however. I heard about your little straight jacket incident. I hope that was the reckless behavior you mentioned before. On to the matter at hoof, I admit that your results leave much to be desired. I was hounded by a reporter these past few days without any statement to give on the situation. I am aware how this field works, but I am obligated to tell you to please get a move on. What you told me will only satisfy the sharks for so long, and if the sharks aren't satisfied, then the higher ups won't be either. I'm sure that you are aware that fecal matter is subject to both the laws of gravity and inertia. - Aniso Anagra > The Visitor > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 10:15 "Again, I would like to thank you for consenting to being recorded." "Darling, it is far from being a problem. I adore the chance to have this conversation immortalized. I must insist that I get a copy however." "Um, okay, I suppose that wouldn't be a problem." "Stupendous. Marvelous. Serendipity." "...Right." "Don't mind me darling, this is merely something I have been looking forward to for a long time." "Shield, is she ready?" "Seems so Doc. Is your friend?" "Miss Silk Coat, are you ready for the-" "Mrs. darling, Mrs." "Mrs. Silk Coat, are you ready for the meeting?" "I'm shivering in anticipation. Burning in fevered passion. Temperate in refined class." "..." "There is no need to stare darling, I know the effect I have on ponies." "Right threw this doorway, she is ready for you now." "Panorama." *Door opens, closes* "By Celestia, where did you find her Doc?" "I didn't, she found us." "She must be dumber then a rock farmer." "One that glanced through a dictionary. Had to have glanced, she certainly didn't read it." "No kidding there." "Well well, look at you, all gift wrapped for me and everything." "..." "Best not to sit there with a scowl on your face. It's so ugly, and you know what they say, make a face long enough and it will...nevermind." "..." "What's a matter? Cat got your tongue? Choking on a hairball?" "Buck off town bike! I have no desire to see you here. Or anywhere else other then your funeral." "Such hostility. And to think we used to be so close. I remember you used to always want to braid my hair. You were always so good at it." "Trust me, I've only gotten better with hair. If I could, I would love to show you." "Tempting, but alas, no dice today. I've read all about your little powers dear sister, and given our current relationship, I can safely say that I'm pleased you're locked up to rot in here." "This place has never confined me before, it won't now. And when I'm out, count your breath." "So scary. I'm quaking in my boots." "Why are you here? To be the agonizing pain in the flank mortals can only aspire to one last time?" "I'll give you one part of that, mortals definitely aspire to be me." "Whorse!" "Watch your language, daddy wouldn't approve." "..." "Oh? Did I hit a sore spot? Allow me to rub it in. Dear old daddy kicked the bucket." "Lies!" "Why in Equestria would I lie about that? I'm excited to be honest. Ecstatic. It took a lot of convincing you know." "What?" "He loved you right up till the time he passed away due to mysterious circumstances. But he did it for me." "Get to your point." "He wrote you off. Took you out of the will. All that was his is now mine." "As if I care about father's material possessions." "I don't think you understand, I own EVERYTHING. Including, but not limited to, this very instillation you currently call home." "What?" "You never did hear about that did you? He bought this entire place to make sure that you got better. He was so proud of you, so concerned when you ended up 'sick'. He was obsessive. It was unhealthy, but he wouldn't listen to me. No, he never did." "Who in there right mind would even consider listening to you. In my supposed wrong mind I can still smell your superficial corrupted stink no matter how far away." "I just wanted to let you know that thanks to dear old daddy, I own you. It's taken me forever, but I managed it, I own you dear sister." *A loud spitting sound* "I was wondering if you would try something like that. I'm happy you did." *A loud scream followed by heavy breathing* "Dear old daddy got a shock stick as a wedding gift. For protection. I prefer retaliation." "Go...away..." "Hmm, maybe. But I will definitely take one more for the road." *Another loud scream, followed by heavy breathing and light sobbing* "Ta-ta little sister. Take care." *Door opens and closes* "What happened in there?" "She didn't take our father's passing very well I'm afraid, they were always very close." "I see. I'm sorry for your loss." "I'll pull through, I can only hope that my poor sister is able to do the same." "Well, the Doc here should be able to get her all patched up soon. She knows her stuff." "Does she now? Good to know that I can rest easy." "Yep. Allow me to escort you out. The Doc was called to the ER but she told me to let you know that she appreciates your coming here. Thinks that maybe it will help your sister out." "We can only hope." Stop - 11:00 > Session #5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 14:00 "So, how was the vacation?" "It was, revitalizing. I didn't realize how much I needed to take one." "If I knew that all it took to get a paid vacation was to get licked by a psycho, I would just waltz up and ask her." "If you thought there was any chance that she would lick you, you would have tried by now." "You know me too well Nightshade." "We've only been working together for the last 9 years. It would be a little insulting to not get to know each other at least in passing." "I suppose so. It's weird to think that it has been that long." "A bit. But it's been fun, all things considered." "So what do you think of the Doc?" "Redheart? She is, dedicated I suppose. I'm not sure whether or not she is a good fit here, truth be told." "You think? So far I would definitely agree with dedicated. To what is where my doubts lie. Otherwise I think she is alright." "Her loyalties?" "Yeah. She seems more dedicated to this case rather then any other of her duties here. I know that she transfered here for the case, but it seems like that is all that she ever really cares about." "I think I know what you mean." *Door opens and closes* "Is the patient rea- Oh, Miss Nightshade, it's good to see you back." "Dr. Readheart, thank you. And to answer your question, yes, she is." "Excellent. Pardon my rush, I merely need to speak with her as soon as possible. *Door opens and closes* "She seems frazzled." "I agree, maybe it's her time, or maybe it's Mane-iac's and she needs supplies." "As much as I should feel inclined to smack you, I somewhat missed your off sense of humor." "Nighty, you missed me?" "Don't press what little luck you have." "Duly noted." "Let me start this off by saying that I am so sorry, I had no idea that would happen." "...What?" "...You're not mad?" "About?" "The whole thing with your sister?' "Oh, that. Am I supposed to be mad about it? I'm annoyed that I can't go and throttle her within in an inch of her life, maybe even past that, but that is about it." "But..." "What is there to but?" "I heard the recording and I felt terrible about letting it happen. I was called away, I should have stayed." "Quit being an idiot." "Come again?" "Quit. Being. An. Idiot. Shall I repeat it again? Turn it into a song and dance number. Currently I can pull off a mean worm." "How can you be so nonchalant about this?" "Because ponies hate me? Hi, I'm a super villain, and I go by the name Mane-iac. Did you suffer amnesia since the last time we've spoke? Maybe the straight jacket is the key after all. HA!" "I...I don't understand." "Clearly, must I spell it out for you?" "..." "..." "..." "..." "I'm waiting for you explain." "And I'm waiting for you to answer my very simple question." "Seriously?" "I'm a pony, not a donkey." "Could've have fooled me. Besides, I thought you were a cat?" "Oops, you caught me. Are you going to punish me now? I just don't know if poor little me can take it." "I think that I will." "I'm ready, be gentle." "By ending this and getting back on topic." "Spoilsport." "Just focused. Please explain." "You like to over think things all the time, you know that? Most ponies do." "Go on." "You apologize for my sister's behavior, which you had no control over. You say you would have stopped it, and maybe you would have, but that would require precognitive abilities the likes of Princess Luna. You treat this whole thing as if it was obvious, but I never spoke to you of my family. You had no idea what she is like. I suppose I could have declined, but I was feeling gracious that day with my time." "You, are oddly forgiving." "No, I'm not. Most ponies simply hold on to the little things far too long. Firefighters aren't blamed for letting fires start, that don't have the ability to tell when it is going to happen. They are damage control. You, are damage control. There is a large difference between forgiving and not harboring an irrational grudge. I would hardly consider myself forgiving." "What would you consider yourself then?" "Pragmatic." "Your weapon of choice against the power ponies is a very large can of spray." "I have certain appearances to keep up. Anypony can hold up another with a dagger of the like, but it takes class, elegance, and creativity to do what I do." "Except for creativity, most would probably disagree." "I lack the drive to care." "I would suspect so." "..." "Would you like to tell me about your family?" "Not really, no. A bit of a sore subject. A little more literal at the moment then usual." "I see. If you ever feel up to it, I would enjoy listening." "I can't imagine why, that is all that you do. Listen to this pony, that pony. 'Tell me your problems! I'm here to help!' Bah!" "You're being defensive again." "Since when has that been a big no-no?" "It's not." "You're not going to drop it are you?" "Wasn't planning on it, no." "..." "Well?" "Given my experience dealing with doctor's, I would say this is rather unorthodox. Usually it is a case of 'Why don't you talk to me about something?' 'No.' 'Darn.' What would your boss say if he heard about this gross breach of protocol?" "If I was a gambling mare, I would wager that you are an unorthodox patient. That or he frankly wouldn't care." "..." "So are you going to talk about it? Or are we going to sit here for the next hour or so reenacting a vegetable garden?" "I find that rude, our current vegetable garden is really quite pleasant. I'm friends with many of them. Better at listening then you." "Maybe, but have you ever gotten a gift from them?" "Really, a gift for me? You shouldn't have." "Then I suppose it's a good thing I didn't give it to you yet then." "Shock and awe, mares and gentlecolts we have a stone cold liar amongst our midst!" "Quid pro quo." "Gesundheit." "This for that. It's old Equestrian. I do have something for you actually. But this one comes with a price, speak." "A price, not much of a gift then?" "Mane-iac." "..." "..." "..." "You are dedicated, I'll give you that. Most ponies give up around this point. Kudos to you." "Thanks, I guess." "I do appreciate your apology, even if I think that it was unnecessary. I do not like to spend time thinking about my family. Not enough fond memories for me to bother wasting what life I have left. Ask away." "I don't mean to pressure you." "Little late for that, don't you think?" "I'm sorry I got caught up in pushing you." "At least you manage to look adorable when you do it." "I won't say that you are bad on the eyes." "Finally, a compliment! I've sat here all this time stroking your ego and finally I get a little stroking of my own. HAHAHA!" "..." "Are you smiling?" "I think that I am, yes." "You should do that more often, I don't see many of them here." "I...I will try." "So you wanted to know about my family huh?" "I think that it would help." "Alright. Shoot." "Let's start with your sister." "What is there to say? She is a power hungry whorse." "Is that it?" "That is all that she is to me now." "What did she use to be?" "She, was my older sister. She helped me a lot growing up, I think. She wanted me to be like her. I suppose I was going down that path until the accident. She taught me about how to do up manes. Since my mother was never around, she sort of took on that role. At first I probably wouldn't have been as successful if it wasn't for her. Later on, she turned jealous and spiteful. She tried to turn father against me whenever she could. I loath her existence." "I see. You mentioned that she adopted the mother role for you?" "I guess." "..." "She tried to take care of me when mother was gone. So I suppose that she ended up raising me more then my own parents." "What about your mother?" "She fled when I younger, around five or so. I hardly remember her. I hope she is rotting in a field somewhere. Her actions broke father. He never pursued another ever again." "I see. Did you ever try to get in touch with her?" "Never had any reason to. She wanted nothing to do with me or my sister when she was around. Her leaving only hurt father. And for that I have no desire to ever see her again." "I understand. You seem to hold your father in high esteem." "He, he was special to me. He always pushed me to excel at whatever I did. Always had my back. I haven't seen him in such a long time. Nurse, can I ask something of you?" "Certainly." "When my sister was here, she said he had passed away. I need to know if she was lying or not. I need confirmation one way or the other. Please." "I will do my best." "Thank you." "Mane-iac, are you alright?" "..." "Mane-iac?" "I'm not sure that I want to talk anymore. I need to think." "Are you sure?" "Yes." "Okay then. Before you go, I got you some dark chocolate." "That's my favorite." "I would imagine, you are being charged with regular thefts of their carriages." "Good times." "Mane-iac, if you need to talk, please let someone know. I will make time for you." "Thanks." *Door opens, closes* "Hey Doc! Are you alright?" "Yes, I'm fine. Just a particularly revealing session. A lot of heart to heart. I think I'm making a significant amount of progress." "Cool. Nightshade wanted me to pass along that she is having a get together for some co-workers and that you are invited." "Oh, that's nice." "That's nice? Will you be coming along?" "Sure, I'm sure that I will be able to fit that in to my schedule." "Nighty will be delighted." "Yeah. Listen, I've got to go. Please turn off the equipment for me." "You got it Doc. See you tonight." *Door opens and closes* "I wonder what the hay happened in there." Stop - 16:00 > Session #6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 14:12 "So she didn't show up after I left?" "Seriously Shield, will you stop asking me? I already said that she didn't. Besides, you were the last one to leave. Two hours after everyone else left." "It just bugs me. She said that she would come." "I know." "Doesn't it bug you?" "Not really, no. I didn't expect her to show." "Why?" "She is to obsessed with her work. She doesn't really interact with anypony here unless it's work related." "Yeah, I guess." *Door opens* "Nightshade, Shield, how are you both this afternoon?" "We are doing alright. Your patient is eagerly waiting for you today. Not a single snarky comment from her the entire time." "Honestly, I'm not surprised. Let me know if anything comes up." *Door closes* "She didn't even mention not coming, much less apologize." "Just drop it Shield, it's not worth it." "Are you sure?" "Yeah." "Fine." "Thanks, no need to make an issue out of it." "Good afternoon Mane-iac." "..." "You seem contemplative." "I've been thinking over the past few days." "Really? Would you like to share?" "Later, but not now. Did you find out what I asked? "..." "Nurse?" "I did. And I'm sorry. Your sister wasn't being malicious. I brought you his obituary. They had some very kind words to say about him." "Heh. They did, didn't they?" "Would you like a moment?" "What would be the point? My father isn't going to burst out of the obituary if I stop to ponder his passing." "It's unhealthy to ignore your stresses." "It's not a matter of ignoring them. It is choosing to grieve on my own time. I don't exactly get a lot of times to interact with another pony that doesn't wish me ill." "I see. If that is the case, I did contact your case worker on your behalf." "You did what?" "In regards to your sister's assault. With the recording, it should be a pretty simple case to get a conviction." "..." "I haven't officially submitted the paperwork yet though, I wanted you to make the choice." "You went and did this on your own?" "Sort-of, like I said, I haven't officially gotten the authorities involved as of yet." "And you won't." "What?" "You will not get them involved." "Why not? What she did is illegal, and she deserves to be punished." "And you think that the 'authorities' here will do a damn thing? Most will look at her as a hero. In case you forgot, I'm pretty universally hated." "The evidence is irrefutable." "And evidence is an item, and items do have a tendency to get lost." "You're being paranoid Mane-iac." "And you are being delusional. Besides, if you are asking for my input, there it is plain as day. No." "Mane-iac." "Nurse, I will address my family issues myself." "How?" "That is what I was going to talk about later, but you seem intent on bringing it up, even if unwittingly." "...Sorry." "Consider yourself forgiven, I have no desire for there to be bad blood between us at the end of it all." "At the end of it all?" "I suppose I should tell you what I am planning on doing to fix my family issues then?" "Mane-iac, what did you mean?" *Cracking, followed by a loud ripping sound* "Mane-iac!" "That feels a lot better. I wasn't kidding about that itch all that time ago, I'll have you know." "What are you planning on doing?" "Calm down, I'm going to get to that part. I just need to have a nice stretch first. It's been a while." "..." "SO, the plan. I'm sure you have seen my criminal record?" "I have, robbery, extortion, assault, conspiracy, to name a few." "All true, and all good times, but there is one crime that I have never committed. Never had a reason to, never felt the urge to do. Care to hazard a guess?" "..." "I'm waiting." "Murder." "Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a winner!" "Why now?" "Well I thought. About my sister, my past, my future, about a lot of things; and what occurred to me is that the way things are, my sister simply needs to be punished. By the ones that she has wronged, by yours truly. And what better answer for her crimes then her own life?" "Mane-iac, I'm asking you to please rethink this. If you do this, all of our work will have been for nothing." "I value your opinion Nurse, I do. Your the first pony to treat me with true respect since my rebirth. It's something that I hold dear to me." "So you'll rethink this?" "By Celestia no! HAHAHA!!" "Then what are you going to do?" "Other then what I have planned, I decided that I need to test myself." "Test yourself?" "See, I've never committed a crime of this caliber on anypony, much less one of my own flesh and blood." "Mane-iac, what are you doing with your mane? Mane-iac, let go!" "So I need to prove I can do it to somepony else. Somepony I have less connection to, but still a solid connection. It was a simple choice really, only one eligible candidate." "HOGWASH! HOGWASH!" "Hogwash? On the contrary, I'm being quite serious, almost enough to be, deadly so. HAHAHA!" "Please don't do this. Please!" "I do love to hear you beg for it. You have such a pretty voice, I'm going to miss it." "I can help you, we can make things right together, but you have to put me down. Please. I can't breathe." "Nurse, Nurse, Nurse. I think that you have forgotten something. See, what you have failed to realize in your final moments is just where you are. In the grip of a criminal in a home for the criminally insane. You can plead all you want, I like to listen to it, personally; but, at the end of it all, what you need to realize is that I am here for a reason, I can't be reasoned with. Reason doesn't occur to me. You may have forgotten, but the rest of Maretropolis hasn't, I haven't, the rest of the staff here hasn't. As much as I have opened up to you, I am still the Mane-iac. MWAHAHA!!" "HOGWASH! HOGWASH!" "Hogwash? What is she going on about Shield?" "Oh no. That's the safety word. This is Security Chief Shield, Over. We have a code purple in the interview room, I need all available security personnel here asap, over." "What is going on?" "Doc is in danger. Hogwash was her safety word in case the Mane-iac tried something, when she tried something." "Can I do anything?" "Stay out of the way." *Door opens, slams shut* "-HAHA!" *Door crashes open* "STAND DOWN MANE-IAC! WE HAVE YOU OUTNUMBERED!" "What?!" *Snap, thump* "Buck! Somepony get her to the ER!" *Crash* "As fun as it has been gentlecolts, some of us actually have important errands to take care off. Ta-ta for now! BWHAHAHA!" "Follow her!" *Hoofsteps running away, crashes, and laughter* "Hey! Is the Doc going to be alright?" "She is in bad shape sir, the Mane-iac snapped her neck. She was breathing, but only just barely." "Buck. Alright, thank you. Go back to your post. We can't all be chasing that lunatic all over." *Door opens* "Shield!" "Nightshade, you safe?" "Yes, she never came to this room. What happened?" "Mane-iac escaped, and she hurt Doc pretty badly. You should probably go see if they need her put under, I imagine that if they don't, she will want to be anyway." "Okay..." "I'm going to shut this off and figure out what happened. Make sure my men are alright." "..." *Door closes* "Buck." Stop - 15:27 > From The Desk Of Dr. Redheart #2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maretropolis Times Mane-iac Escapes! It was a quiet Thursday afternoon when the Mane-iac broke out of Maretropolis Home For The Criminally Insane. Her whereabouts are currently unknown, but she is expected to be considered dangerous. Police warn that any contact with her should be handled delicately. 'It shocks me sometimes how nonchalant the press is with her escapes nowadays. Figured you might get a kick out of this. Get better soon Doc' - Shield Nurse, It's your dad, although I suppose the envelope would have told you that. The director got a hold of us as soon as he could. Your mothers a nervous wreck. What happened? All we were told was that you were attacked on duty and were put into emergency care. Please send us a response as soon as you are able. Luv, Your Mother and Father. The Academy of Medical Arts Newsletter. A significant breakthrough has occurred this last week and has been deemed worthy enough for an immediate update. The experimental Collum Sanare spell has seen its first use outside of clinical testing and has proven to be a success. Dr. Anagra performed the high energy cost spell himself in an emergency situation in Maretropolis and was able to save the patients life. While the patient is still in recovery, there are expected to make a full recovery with no long term damage. A full article will be published later this month with more details. Dr Redheart, As soon as you are able, we need to speak. Face to face. - Dr. Aniso Anagra > In The Visitors Home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recording - 1345 "-insist on recording everything in your life?" "Only things that are important to caring for my patients." "I see. That doesn't explain why you want to talk to me though. Yes that, creature, was my sister at one point, but not any longer. Although I suspect that you already know that." "I listened to the recording between you and your sister, yes." "Are you here to press charges then? I assure you that I was not kidding when I told her that I owned the facility. Technically you are employed under me." "I am not. Mane-iac was adamant that I don't. I am here to learn from the source what her life was like before her accident. Her records seemed to have many details missing about her life pre-accident. I seek to rectify that." "Right. And what possible reason do I have to help you? As far as I'm considered, good riddance to bad rubbish. She ruined our father and deserves to pay for her crimes. Besides, with what she did to you, I'm surprised you still want to help her. She attempted to kill you. A first for her, if I recall." "She did try to kill me. Maybe. I think she reacted in surprise. She didn't actually do the damage until security came bursting in. And, I have never failed a case I've taken on that could be fixed. I refuse to let your sister be the one." "So its a matter of pride for you? A vanity project? Heh, I suppose I can respect that, but your barking up the wrong tree. You will only be a dedicated fool." "Maybe to some extent it is a matter of pride, but I took an oath to help others in need and I intend on seeing that through to the end." "...Bearer, a pot of tea and some scones if you would." "You're willing to talk?" "Yes. No. I willing to answer some questions. If I feel your questions are pointless, I will let you know. And have you removed from my sight." "Thank you for at least giving me a chance." "Get on with it, I have much better things to do with my time. I assure you." "I'd like to start early on if you don't mind. Mane-iac mentioned in one of our sessions that your mother left and that you helped raise her. She seemed to think that you both had a healthy relationship when you were younger." "We're sisters doctor. Despite our current mutual despise, we grew up together. As for our mother, I'm not surprised that is her version of events. She was yound when our mother...passed on." "Your mother is dead? My condolences." "It is of no matter. She passed on a while after my sister was born. I'm not sure what happened, but after the birth something seemed to change. She got extremely aggressive and mean. Constantly starting fights with our father. She became a bit of a nightmare. Then one day she simply disappeared. About two days later we got a cop at our door to announce her suicide. I was there when my father was told the news, I doubt he had the heart to tell my sister." "No one ever informed her? She seemed to think that your mother simply left one day." "Father didn't want me to mention it. After sometime it was simply habit to not discuss it. I'm not sure if you've had somepony close to you die, but it is frequently considered to be bad form to constantly speak of the dead." "My apologies." "..." "So, what happened after her passing?" "It is not entirely inaccurate to say I helped raise her. Our father did not take mothers suicide well. He had a hard time adjusting to her lack of presence. I stepped up to the plate and decided to take charge myself. Father would go to work, return, and accomplish nothing else. For a while we fell into a rhythm. I took the place of our mother, while father grieved and played with my sister." "He abandoned all of his responsibilities on you?" "Yes, and he gave all of his affection to my dear little sister. I tolerated it for some time. Then he called me by our mothers name and our rhythm fell apart. We never saw him much after that. So I helped raise my sister because I was the only one around to do so." "And you grew to resent your sister?" "Not immediately, no. It was after I graduated from school. I was so proud of myself. And yet he still showered all of his attention on to her. No matter what I did, his light was always my sister." "I see. What would say was the final breakdown between you and her?" "Her accident, obviously. I'm almost offended you had to ask." "I have to ask. I attempt to assume little in these scenarios. Introduces more bias. What happened after her accident?" "After she lost her mind? Our fathers went right along with it. He threw everything he could at helping her. Celestia's sake, the Power Ponies worked for my father for the longest time. It was never about saving the city. It was about protecting his baby girl from herself. All I could do was watch as our father drove himself to an early death. I will not forgive her. I can not forgive her." "..." "Did you want me to have some grand revelation? 'I LOVE MY SISTER!' or some other trashy feel good movie nonsense? Sorry to disappoint." "What was your sister like before the accident?" "Good of you to change the subject. Sister was quiet. Always had been. Not necessarily anti-social or any of that garbage but she always had a desire to never waste her breath. She was determined, and shockingly intelligent. She constantly did better then me academically. It was no surprise her business venture was successful, it was simply a matter of time." "Did she have many friends?" "Heavens no. Acquaintances galore but she never let anypony close. And good on her for it. Waste of time." *Door knocks, opens and closes* "How much more time of mine do you intend on wasting? She is a lost cause and your denial wont help either of you." "Madame, you have a letter. A currier said it was urgent." "Thank you Bearer." "I will say this has proven to be quite valuable. I can use this information. I do want to help your sister, and I am, was, making progress. She was opening up to me." "Whatever floats your boat doctor. It's your life to waste." "That is the only other thing I was going to ask you." "More?" "After the accident, Dr. Anagra removed me from the case. Since your word has quite a bit of pull, I would appreciate if you would reinstate me as your sister official doctor. As her lone surviving family member and her mental state, you do have say on her treatment." "Do I now? And what if I were deem her unsuitable for treatment. After her stunt, it wouldn't be difficult to get Anagra to agree. He isn't fond of his employees getting injured." "I don't think that you would. Your father would be rolling in his grave if you made that decision and I don't think you would be able to live with yourself." "And I think you've overstepped your bounds doctor." "Am I wrong?" "One third of your pay. Every paycheck. Or I will personally see to it that you lose your job entirely." "What could you need my money for?" "Truthfully? Nothing, but you need it. And to test your resolve, I want you to pay to be her doctor." "..." "I'm waiting doctor. As I said, good riddance to bad rubbish, and I'm not keen on recycling." "Fine." "Excellent, I'm glad we could agree." *Tearing sound* "And it appears that you're in luck, she has been recaptured. Oh, and they are asking my permission to have your mane cut off." "Don't. Part of her mutation is that her mane has nerve endings. She would be in agony." "I see. Well then, we cant have that can we? I suppose I'll just check this box marked yes and put my signature on it. Thank you for helping me make that difficult decision." "..." "There is nothing more to discuss. Bearer, please escort the doctor off of the premises. Good day to you doctor." "..." Stop - 1532