> Burning Rubber And Flying Lead
>  by Gearsmash King
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"What are we doing here, Zero?" Sunset asked, getting out of the passenger seat of a Challenger SRT.

"You remember what Saber said." The heavily built man replied, stepping out of the opposite side of the car, "The Shift crew has something we need and she sent us to make a deal with them."

In the years since Sunset Shimmer left Equestria and made Earth her home, she had developed a bit of a bad girl personality. Granted, most of that had been suppressed since meeting her friends. But, some things are harder to break than others. And, on nights like tonight, her less popular side showed. The gun tucked behind her back was clear evidence of that. 

"You seem oddly calm, Z." Sunset commented, removing the gun and checking its ammo, "Normally, your guard is more up, when we meet up with people."

"I'm more calm because Saber isn't here." Zero replied, approaching a large warehouse and reaching for the handle to the door, "I'm her muscle for a reason, Phoenix. You, on the other hand, I don't need to worry about so much."

"But, you still worry a bit? Zero, I didn't know you cared."

Zero just gave her a tilt of his head as he raised his eyebrow, choosing not to be dragged into her game. Receiving a sly grin from the redhead girl, he shook his head and turned his eyes forward again.

The name 'Phoenix' was the only thing the group that Sunset worked with knew about her. She never gave her real name to anyone she didn't trust. It wasn't so much as a skill, more like an instinct when Sunset graduated from CHS. She knew the things she had seen and done during her school life, would either cause trouble or be useful experience. The main reason she used Phoenix as a cover was because her real name was all over the web. Sunset had seen several blurred photos and unfocused videos that showed her being a demon, or transforming into her 'pony' form. But, her name was still used in titles and descriptions. Whether it was internet trolls or bullies, she didn't know. What Sunset did know was, by having her name and magic exposed, it could've made her either a target or a threat. Neither of which she was interested in being.

Opening another door, Zero stepped to one side and gestured through the door.

"Ladies first." He said, holding a stone expression.

"By all means," Sunset replied, returning the gesture, "age before beauty."

Zero grunted and rolled his eyes as he walked through the door, followed by Sunset. 

Inside, they saw tall storage racking packed with pallets of various products and three people dressed in black and grey clothing. The man in front of them, which they assumed was the leader, stepped forward and folded his hands in front of him. 

"You two from LEGION?" He asked, looking both of them from top to bottom.

"Yeah." Zero replied, also sizing up the man, "You got what we came for?"

The man turned and snapped his fingers, signaling the girl holding a briefcase behind him. She approached and opened it. Inside was a glowing green gem. To most of the people in the room, it just seemed like an odd object. But, to Sunset, she knew it was something else. Slowly, she reached around her back and wrapped her fingers around the grip of her gun as a sense of danger invaded her mind. She watched as Zero took out a USB memory drive from his pocket.

"Three million dollars, as agreed." Zero said, exchanging the drive for the briefcase.

"And that little..." The man leaned closer, "Federal problem?"

"About to be taken care of."

"When?"

"Now!"

Almost without warning, the trio and Zero drew their weapons and turned toward Sunset. However, she quickly dived to one side and took cover behind a metal scrap bin. Bullets zipped over and pelted against the bin. Feeling the adrenaline run through her, Sunset quickly got to her feet and leaned against her cover. She wanted to throw lead back at her attackers, but she was outnumbered and outgunned. Her only hope was to escape, but to reach the door she entered from, Sunset would have to leave her cover. The only other door was a large loading bay door a short distance away, but the button was just out of reach of safety. Although, Sunset knew she couldn't stay there for much longer.

"Come on, Sunset!" She whispered harshly, barely heard over the gunfire, "Think!"

Looking around, Sunset glanced around the bin and saw a forklift with an exposed propane tank on the back. Drawing and aiming her gun, Sunset lined up her only chance for a distraction.

"Boom!" She said, pulling the trigger.

The bullet found its mark and the little tank exploded, sending bits of shrapnel in all directions. The hail of bullets stopped, allowing Sunset to dash toward the door buttons and slam her hand against the 'open' button. She took a moment to look at her attackers and saw two were seriously injured, the girl and the other man who stood silently beside her during the meeting. Zero and the leader, were cut but still standing. And the case had been thrown toward the door. 

The door had opened only a foot and a half, but enough for Sunset to slid under, grabbing the case on her way out and firing a few blind shots. Once she was outside, she spotted a custom Austin Martin DB9 and a custom Kawasaki Ninja. She ran to the car, only to find it locked. And a missed bullet proved that she didn't have time to break the bulletproof glass either. So, the motorcycle was her only option, even though Sunset knew that she'd have to ride one-handed as she held the case in the other. Fortunately for Sunset, the keys were left in the ignition. Gripping and turning the key, the engine started. But, as she was putting on the helmet that had been left on the bike, another volley of shots rang out and a sharp pain ripped through Sunset's shoulder.  

Grimacing in pain and opening the throttle, Sunset roared away, leaving Zero and the Shift leader behind. 

"Badge!" Sunset said, trying to reach someone on the earpiece and wire tap she was wearing, "Agent Badge, come in! I've got the proof we need to stop LEGION!"

At first, there was just static as Sunset waited for a reply. But, after a moment, a voice cracked through. 

"You shouldn't have screwed me, Phoenix." A stern feminine voice said, making Sunset's blood run cold, "Or, would you prefer to be called, Sunset Shimmer?"

"W-Where's Badge, Saber?!" Sunset asked, barely slowing the motorcycle, "What did you do with him?!"

"Maybe this will answer your question."

A gunshot and a choking sound came through her earpiece.

"A bullet to the neck is a messy way to go." Saber said, letting Sunset hear Badge gasp before silence, "You should've let Zero kill you, because now we're going to do it slow. So, go ahead, run. You'll just get dragged back here... Because LEGION is everywhere."

The radio cracked and then silence, except for the sound of the motorcycle's engine. Sunset's expression was blank behind the visor as her mind raced. In her hand, was something she believed might help her. But, Sunset didn't even know what it was. All she knew was it was Equestrian, based on the energy it emitted. However, with Badge gone, there wasn't anyone who could help her now. Or was there?

Something in Sunset's mind resurfaced as she realized there might still be a chance to make things right. 

"I really don't want to." Sunset said quietly, placing the case between her stomach and the gas tank, "But, they're the only ones who might help me. I need to get home!"

With her decision made, Sunset opened the throttle wide and raced along the road, toward Canterlot City and dripping blood on the asphalt.
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The morning sun barely peeked over the Canterlot skyline, covering the streets and buildings with light and long shadows. People were awake, or still rising out of bed. However, a rainbow haired girl driving a deep blue '96 Nissan 300ZX was already flying down the street.

"Why did Pinkie have to call me this early?" She asked herself, shifting gears and pressing the gas, "And why so urgently?"

As she raced passed another street, she saw movement in her rear view mirror. Glancing to look, she saw a large grey '86 Chevy 3500 Dually pickup racing to catch up to her. As it got closer, Rainbow could make out the driver and grinned. The truck flashed its headlights and honked twice.

"You might have a 454 in that, AJ..." Rainbow smiled, letting the pickup pull alongside, "But, I'm still faster!"

Honking three times, both Rainbow and AJ stomped the pedals, pushing their vehicles harder. Pinkie's place was still a ways to go and the streets were still fairly empty of other cars, so a short race wouldn't hurt. However, to Rainbow's surprise, AJ's truck was keeping pace with her. Looking over and making eye-contact with the cowgirl, she was met with a smug grin. Turning back to the windshield, she shifted gears and started to pull ahead. But, in the corner of her eye, Rainbow saw the truck veer to the side of the street and barrel down a dirt road that passed through a grove of trees.

"That cheating..." Rainbow hissed, downshifting as her turn came closer.

Throwing the wheel in the direction she needed to go, the 300ZX went into a drift, leaving smoke and skid marks behind it. Rainbow turned the wheel back, straightening out and shifting up again. Just ahead of her, she saw AJ emerge from the treeline and charge back onto the asphalt, kicking up dust and smoke, fishtailing slightly. Quickly, Rainbow caught up to her, using the fishtail to her advantage. She gave a quick taunting honk as she raced by and pulled away, leaving AJ behind and struggling to catch up. But, Pinkie's street was in view and Rainbow threw one more drift, before skidding to a stop in front of a brightly colored house with other vehicles parked out front.

AJ rounded the corner and pulled up behind Rainbow, before both girls parallel parked on the street.

"A dirt trail?" Rainbow chuckled, stepping out of her car, "You really thought that would work, Applejack?"

"It did work..." The cowgirl replied, opening and leaning on her door, "I just gave it too much comin' out."

"So I saw. Even if you didn't cheat, I could've left you way back at the starting point."

"Are ya kiddin'? I could've still whooped ya."

"Then why'd you take a shortcut?"

As they argued, the other four girls of their group exited from the house, Pinkie leading them

"Oh, they're at it again." Rarity sighed, adjusting her sunglasses.

"Why do they argue about who's a better driver?" Fluttershy asked, taking the keys to her green '92 Jeep Wrangler out of her pocket, "They're both very good."

"I think it's a dominance thing." Twilight commented, removing her glasses and checking for smudges.

"Like two alphas? I guess that makes sense."

The two arguing girls barely noticed their friends approaching, until Pinkie slammed her hand against the hood of Applejack's truck, causing both of them to jolt in surprise. 

"Hey, guess what!" Pinkie smiled, holding out her other hand and showing the tickets in her hand, "I won the sweepstakes for Sapphire Shores tickets!"

Rainbow and Applejack exchanged looks, before groaning and looking back at their friend.

"You couldn't tell us over the phone?" Rainbow groaned, rubbing her eyes, "I was on my way here thinking your house was on fire or something."

"I was just so excited," Pinkie explained quickly, bouncing in place, "I had to tell you in person, because I thought if I told you over the phone, then the message wouldn't be clear. Because, you know, sometimes phone signals cut off or get interference."

As Pinkie let her mouth runaway, Applejack just chuckled and shook her head.

"We're in our twenties," she remarked, looking back at the pink-haired girl, "but ya still act the same as ya did when we were in high school."

"Who said I had to change?" Pinkie asked with a wide smile, "I'm having way too much fun being me. Hehe! Last one to the Stampede Diner, buys breakfast!"

"Uh, Pinkie, it's eight o'clock." Twilight said, checking her watch, "It's not safe to race now. Plus, don't you have to be there for work soon, anyway?"

"I meant it jokingly, Twi. Come on, at least cruise with me until we get there. It's been ages since we did."

Not waiting for a response, Pinkie fished out her keys and entered her red '05 Jetta, starting the engine and waiting for the others to do the same. 

Even though most of them owned older vehicles, Rarity and Twilight were the only ones with newer cars. Twilight's car was a purple '16 Lexus RC F with a modified engine and lowered suspension. Rarity, however, drove a white and black '18 BMW M850i coupe with a turbo. Their career choices allowed them to own such vehicles. But, what set them apart for the rest, other than age, was their cars were gifts. The others had bought and repaired or modified their vehicles. 

As the sun rose higher, the six vehicles cruised in a single line with Pinkie Pie leading them. The drive only lasted a few minutes, before the diner came into view. However, rather than break off into different directions, they followed their friend and parked.

"On second thought," Twilight said, stepping out of her Lexus, "I did leave home in a rush, missing breakfast. I could have a quick bite. Anyone else?"

She was met with several positive replies, before walking toward the front door. Pinkie, however, went around to the back. Inside, they found the little diner quite busy, but there was still one empty booth in the corner. They walked over and sat down as Pinkie approached them with a stack of menus, wearing her uniform.

"Anything to drink, for starters?" She asked, placing the menus down.

"Pinkie," Rainbow grinned, "I think you already know the answer."

"Right! Two coffees, one root beer float, one apple juice, and one tea. Pancakes? They're chocolate chip today."

"Yes, please."

With that, Pinkie sauntered away, disappearing into the kitchen, before coming back to serve other customers.

"It's like seeing two different people." Fluttershy said, looking up from her menu and watching the pink waitress, "She was all bubbly earlier, but now she's so calm and mature at work."

"It's professionalism, darling." Rarity said, scanning the options, "I'm sure you're different when you're working at the zoo."

There was silence for a moment, before Pinkie returned with their drinks and left again.

"Just out of curiosity," Twilight said, stirring her coffee, "when was the last time anyone heard from Sunset?"

She glanced up from her drink and was met by a group of inquisitive and concerned expressions.

"Ya know when, Twi." Applejack stated, gripping her glass of juice, "Five months after graduation, she got on her bike and left, never lookin' back. That was over six years ago. Ain't nobody heard anythin' since."

"Yes, but why?" Rarity asked, sipping her tea, "She left in the middle of the night for no reason."

"Maybe there was a reason." Fluttershy commented, looking around at her friends, "But, she was probably too afraid to tell us."

"Why would Sunset Shimmer, of all people, be too afraid to tell her friends about anything?" Rainbow asked, stabbing the float with a straw, "Back in CHS, sure, I can see how that was difficult in the beginning. But, over time, she trusted us and we trusted her. She could've told us where she was going, at least."

At that moment, Pinkie returned with the pancakes and leaned in closer.

"I heard she got into some trouble in Miami about three years ago." Pinkie whispered, causing her friends to look at her curiously, "Or, at least, someone who looked like her."

"How'd ya hear that?" Applejack whispered back, leaning closer.

"You'd be surprised by what I hear in this diner."

The five girls eyed the their waitress friend, before she turned and left. But, her information left them with more questions about Sunset.

After eating their breakfast, paying, and tipping, the five girls said their goodbyes to Pinkie and went to their vehicles. Rarity and Twilight headed further into the city, while Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow went toward the outskirts. Upon reaching an intersection, the trio split up. Now on her own again, Rainbow cruised to her father's automotive shop and parked.

"There you are." Her dad said, checking a clock on the wall, "Ten after ten, you should've been here over an hour ago."

"Yeah, sorry." Rainbow said, grabbing her coveralls and punching in, "My friends invited me out to breakfast and I lost track of time."

Her father just grinned and shook his head.

"You're forgiven." He said, gesturing toward a car, "Filthy Rich dropped off his wife's Mercedes earlier. Nothing major, just brakes, oil, and tires. He should be back shortly for it. You can start there."

"Okay." Rainbow replied, grabbing her tool kit and approaching the car.

It wasn't the most paying job in the world, but Rainbow loved it regardless. For her, it was the cars that made it worthwhile, even though most of them were pretty plain. But, there were times when something sporty, unique, fast, or random came through her father's shop. However, the only exciting one was Spoiled Rich's Mercedes CLS 450. For the rest of the day, it was just average middle-class vehicles. Then the last buzzer of the day signaled for everyone to go home.

"Hey, kiddo." Her father said, placing a hand on her shoulder, "You want to come over and have dinner with your mother and I? We could have a barbecue, it looks like a nice night for it."

"Sure, Dad." Rainbow replied, putting her tools and coveralls away, "I'll follow you there."

With that, both father and daughter left and cruised to her childhood home. Once there, they were greeted by the lady of the house with open arms.

"Rainbow!" Her mother exclaimed, pulling the younger woman into an embrace, "Oh, it's so good to see you, honey."

"Hi, Mom." Rainbow replied, returning the hug, "Dad said there might be a barbecue, so I had to come over."

"What a great idea. I'll start the grill."

They followed her into the house, before gathering what they needed from the kitchen. But, as Rainbow was reaching for some plates, she glanced out the window and saw a glint of light coming from the small garage beside the house. 

"How's the work on the Monster, Dad?" Rainbow asked, returning to the plates.

"Why not go check it out?" Her father chuckled, approaching the window and looking out, "It won't bite."

Rainbow turned and smiled, before leaving the kitchen and exiting the house. She almost jogged to the little structure, before reaching the door and opening it. Inside, it was dark, except for a streetlight's glow pouring in from a window. But, even in the darkness and faded light, something stuck out. Flipping the light switch, the room brightened, revealing an orange and black '70 Plymouth Roadrunner with chrome trimmings. 

"Wow!" Rainbow said, awed by what sat in front of her, "She looks amazing."

"Yeah." Her dad said, approaching from behind her and following the young woman into the garage, "To me, your mother and you hold the top spot in my heart. But, this takes second place."

"How much do you have left to do on it, Dad?"

"Just the gauges and lights. But, it runs. You wanna hear it sing?"

Rainbow nodded her head excitedly as her dad took out his keys. She watched as he opened the door and fell into the seat. But, once he turned the key, starting the engine and letting it idle, Rainbow's grin grew into a wide smile. Seeing her expression, her father watched her as he pressed the gas pedal, revving the Hemi V8. Rainbow could only clap in excitement as he turned off the car.

"How much power?" Rainbow asked, gently tapping the hood.

"Six hundred and ten ponies." He replied opening the hood and revealing the engine, "I put a small supercharger in, redid the valves, better fuel injection, and a new exhaust setup. There's a few other things I did, but she'll haul."

They were so interested in the car, neither of them noticed as Windy entered the garage with a guest.

"Now, Bo," She grinned, catching the man's attention, "am I going to have to fight with a car to be married to you?"

"No, hun." He said, kissing her, "You win every time."

As her parents had their moment, Rainbow approached the young girl behind them. 

"Hey, Scoots." She said, giving the girl a small hug, "What brings you around?"

"I smelled barbecue while passing by and got hungry." Scootaloo replied, returning the hug, "Your mom said I could join you."

With that, the four of them left the garage to eat. For the better part of the evening, they enjoyed the grilled food and swapped words. Often, their conversations were revolved around cars, racing, or Rainbow's accomplishments. But, like most things, the time had come to depart.

"Thanks for letting me stop by, you guys." Scootaloo said, grabbing her helmet and mounting her scooter, "It was really nice."

"Anytime, Scoots." Bo said, waving as she started the motor and rode away.

As Rainbow approached her car, Windy rested her hand on her daughter's shoulder, getting her attention.

"Have I ever told you how proud I am of you?" She asked, pulling Rainbow into a hug.

"Only a thousand times." Rainbow chuckled, returning the hug, "But, it never gets old."

Then, both mother and daughter released each other, allowing Rainbow to enter her car and leave. It was now nearly midnight and the streets were almost empty, except for a few vehicles. Pulling up to a red light, Rainbow noticed two other cars launch off the line as their light turned green. Part of her wanted to join in, but chose not to as she felt the strain of the day on her body. Soon after, she reached her apartment building and parked behind a sporty motorcycle. 

"Kawasaki Ninja." Rainbow said to herself, checking out the bike as she exited her car, "Nice. I guess one of my neighbors bought a new toy."

Walking inside and taking the elevator to her floor, Rainbow approached her door. But, when she grabbed the knob to unlock the door, it opened before she could insert her key. 

"I thought I locked it this morning." Rainbow said under her breath, "But, then again, I did leave in a rush."

Opening the door further, she stepped inside the dark apartment. She knew her way around the place, so she left the lights off as she walked down the small hallway. But, as she entered the living area, Rainbow felt something cold press against her head and froze.

"Make a move and I blow your head off!" A feminine voice hissed.

"E-easy." Rainbow stammered, staying where she was, "I-if it's money you want, there's a jar under my bed."

Suddenly, the lights came on, causing Rainbow to be blinded slightly. At the same time, she felt the gun pull away from her head. This caused Rainbow to turn and face her intruder, once her eyes adjusted to the light.

"Sunset?" Rainbow gasped, looking at the redhead dressed in black.

"Hi, Rainbow." Sunset replied sheepishly, hiding her face in embarrassment as she tucked her gun behind her back.
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"It's been a long time." Sunset said, giving her warmest grin.

To say Rainbow was surprised and upset would've been an understatement. She was frightened and furious.

"That's what you have to say?!" Rainbow exclaimed, balling her hand into a fist, "You break into my apartment, point a gun at me, and all you have to say is, 'It's been a long time?!' What the hell?!"

"Hey, hey! Keep it down!" Sunset replied, wincing as she raised her hands in defense, "I thought you were someone else. I put the gun away, didn't I?"

Rainbow was about to retort, but stopped when she saw the blood on Sunset's left hand. Slowly, she stepped closer and noticed a blood splatter on the matching shoulder. 

"My God, Sunset!" Rainbow gasped, stepping around Sunset and seeing the bloody hole, "You've been shot!"

"Yeah, I noticed." Sunset replied flatly, gently lowering her hands, "But, thankfully, it didn't hit anything vit- HEY!"

Seeing the redhead drop her guard, Rainbow seized the chance to grab Sunset's gun and point it at her. 

"Rainbow!" Sunset exclaimed, turning to face her friend and seeing the muzzle, "What are you doing?!"

"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't call the cops!" Rainbow hissed, keeping both hands firmly on the grip.

"I need your help. Well, yours and the others too."

Rainbow held her stance, but her curiosity twitched. Sunset noticed and continued.

"I didn't want to," Sunset said, taking a step closer, "but you and the other girls are the only ones I know I can trust."

"That's asking a lot, after almost six years, Sunset." Rainbow replied, unyielding to the other girl, but beginning to shake slightly, "You left without an explanation, no phone call, text, or anything. We loved you like a sister, Sunset. But, when you did that, it felt like you didn't give a damn about any of us."

"I know and I'm sorry. It was unfair. But, I didn't want to drag all of you down with me. You've seen the videos and pictures during high school, when I was that she-demon thing. I know you've read comments that are attached. Even after graduation, I was still getting heckled and ridiculed for what happened. But, when I saw them targeting you girls because you were friends with me, I couldn't stand it anymore. People can badmouth me all they want, but once my friends were dragged into it, I refused to cause anymore problems for you. So I left, trying to protect you."

Sunset stepped closer, letting the muzzle press against her chest. As she did, Rainbow strained to keep her composure as the gun twitched in her hands.

"Why come see me and not the others?" Rainbow asked, feeling tears well up.

"Because I knew you were the only one who'd most likely listen to me." Sunset answered, placing her clean hand on Rainbow's forearm, "But, if you feel differently, I understand. You've got a good life here, I don't want to ruin that. If you want me to leave, just say so. I'll walk out that door and you won't ever see me again, if that's what you want."

Finally, Rainbow's tears began to roll down her cheeks as she lowered the gun and hung her head. Sunset placed her hand on the gun and gently took it as Rainbow released the grip, placing it on a nearby table and stepping closer to her friend. Rainbow leaned forward and rested her head on Sunset's good shoulder, crying into the leather motorcycle jacket.

"S-Sunny!" Rainbow sobbed, feeling Sunset wrap her in a hug and returning it.

"It's okay." Sunset hushed, feeling tears form in her eyes, "I've got you."

They held each other for a while before separating. It was almost one o'clock in the morning, as they dried their tears and calmed down.

"Does it hurt?" Rainbow asked, gesturing toward the gunshot wound.

"It stings." Sunset replied, taking a seat at the table, "But, I can't go to the hospital. They'll have to report it to the cops."

Rainbow thought for a moment, before pulling out her phone.

"What are you doing?" Sunset asked, watching Rainbow swipe her screen a few times.

"I'm calling Fluttershy." Rainbow replied, finding the contact and tapping it, "She's a veterinarian at the zoo. She might be the only one who can help us here."

Holding the phone and setting it to speaker, Rainbow and Sunset listened as the ringtone chimed. But, soon after, it stopped and a voice followed.

"Hello?" A sleepy voice greeted.

"Hey, Flutters." Rainbow replied, "Listen, I know it's not the right time to be calling, but I need your help at my place."

"Help with what?"

"It'll be easier if I showed you. Oh, by the way, bring your medical kit. It might come in handy."

There was a long pause on the other end, before Sunset and Rainbow heard shuffling in the background.

"Alright." Fluttershy yawned, groaning as she shuffled around, "I'll be over in a bit."

"Thanks, Fluttershy." Rainbow said, hovering her finger over the screen and hanging up.

Sunset eyed Rainbow with unease, watching her put away the phone. For a long while, neither of them said anything as they waited for Fluttershy arrive. But, the silence was broke as Rainbow glanced at Sunset's hair and pointed.

"What's the deal with that?" Rainbow asked, "If I remember right, you had red and blonde hair. Why solid red?"

"After I left," Sunset explained, wrapping a few strands around her finger, "I realized I couldn't be Sunset Shimmer anymore. My name and appearance were too recognizable, especially my hair. So, I dyed it and started going by another name."

Rainbow leaned closer, looking over Sunset's expression. 

"And what name is that?" Rainbow asked, leaning back in her chair.

"Phoenix." Sunset replied, rolling up her left sleeve and showing a blood covered phoenix tattoo, "I got that a month after I left Canterlot and the name kind of followed."

Shortly after, a buzzing sound filled the apartment, causing Rainbow to stand and approach the little speaker on the wall. 

"Hello." She said, pushing a button.

"It's me, Rainbow." Fluttershy's voice cracked through the speaker.

"Come on up."

Rainbow pushed another button, before hanging up. They waited a moment, before hearing a knock on the door. Sunset stood up and watched as Rainbow approached the door and opened it.

"Hey, Flutters." Rainbow said, pulling the normally shy girl inside, "How are you?"

"Uh, fine." Fluttershy replied, still rubbing her eyes, unaware of the third girl in the room at that moment, "What's going on? Why'd you call me?"

"Well, an old friend came to town and she needed some help. And you were the only one I could call."

"Old friend? Who?"

Then Fluttershy opened her eyes and waited for them to adjust. But, when her vision cleared and her eyes focused on Sunset. 

"Hi, Fluttershy." Sunset grinned, trying to appear friendly.

Fluttershy didn't reply as she stared at Sunset with wide eyes. However, when Sunset tried to approach her, Fluttershy backed away. Seeing the fear and shock in Fluttershy, Sunset stopped moving and lifted her hand in a welcoming gesture.

"Fluttershy, it's me. Sunset Shimmer." She stated, holding her hand out toward her friend, "You remember me, right?"

"I remember Sunset Shimmer was my friend." Fluttershy replied, taking another step back, "But, the Sunset I knew, didn't run out on her friends. I don't know you."

Fluttershy turned away to leave, but her path was blocked by Rainbow. 

"Flutters, please." Rainbow pleaded, placing a hand on Fluttershy's shoulder, "She's been shot and you're the only one we could call for help."

"I'm an animal doctor, Rainbow." Fluttershy replied, brushing the hand away, "If she's been shot, she needs a human doctor at a hospital. You know that."

"I already told her the same thing, but she won't trust anyone else to help her. Please, you're the best chance we got at patching her up."

Fluttershy groaned as she hung her head in defeat and massaged her forehead. 

"Fine." She finally said, lifting her head and meeting Rainbow's eyes, "I'm too tired to argue about this, right now. So, let's get this over with."

She turned and faced Sunset again, showing the redhead an annoyed expression.

"Take off your jacket and sit down." Fluttershy ordered, placing her medical kit on the table, "Rainbow, grab a lamp or flashlight and shine the light on the wound."

Fluttershy didn't say anything else as she grabbed another chair and placed it behind Sunset's, the latter shedding her motorcycle jacket and revealing a purple tanktop. Opening her medical hit, Fluttershy took out tweezers, sterilizer, needle, thread, gloves, and magnifying eyeglasses. Behind Fluttershy, Rainbow had found a flashlight and shined it onto the wound. In the light, both girls could see the glint on something in the wounded shoulder. 

"Well, the good news is," Fluttershy commented, putting on the glasses and gloves, before grabbing her tweezers and sterilizing them, "it's not a deep wound. I can reach the bullet."

"And the bad news?" Sunset asked, turning her head slightly.

"It's going to hurt."

Then Fluttershy inserted her tweezers into the little entrance wound, twisting a bit in order to reach the bullet. Feeling the tweezers touch solid metal, she gently opened the little jaws and closed on the bullet. Sunset, meanwhile, was grunting and wincing with every twist and pull as Fluttershy extracted the bullet. Finally, the bullet was pulled free and Sunset relaxed. But, she tensed up and seethed as she felt intense stinging on her wound. 

"Hey, relax." Fluttershy said sternly, holding a sterilized cloth on the wound, "I said it was going to hurt. The bullet may not have hit anything vital, like an artery. But, it did do quite some damage."

Sunset didn't say anything as she let Fluttershy work. Soon she felt the cloth pull away and be replaced by a sharp pain. The needle pierced through the skin with little effort, pulling the thread along with it. Shortly after, the thread was pulled tight and tied in a knot, before Fluttershy cut the needle free. Then she took some bandages and wrapped Sunset's shoulder.

"There." Fluttershy said, removing her gloves and glasses, "It's not perfect, but it shouldn't get infected. The most you should get out of it, would be a scar."

"Great." Sunset sighed, relieved that it was over, "Another one to add to the collection."

Rainbow and Fluttershy paused when they heard that. Sunset sensed them staring at her from behind in silence, then it occurred to her what she had just said. Standing, she lifted her shirt, exposing her stomach and revealing three more scars. As well as a couple more tattoos.

"I got two of those in New York." Sunset said, pointing at the scars, "That third one I got in New Orleans."

She put her shirt down again, before gesturing to her legs.

"I've got five more." Sunset continued, pointing to different parts of her legs, "Three on my left and two on my right."

"Alright, that's enough!" Rainbow exclaimed, giving Sunset a hard stare, "It's hard enough to accept you're back and in trouble. But, to hear that you've nearly died multiple times is beyond scary, especially since nobody here would've known about it."

Sunset stared back at them, seeing the shock and fear return in the other girls eyes. Shamefully, Sunset took a seat in a different chair and hung her head.

"I'm sorry." Sunset said, glancing to one side and spotting her gun, "Perhaps, I made a mistake coming here. I'll get my stuff together and head out."

"No, Sunny." Rainbow retorted, approaching the redhead, "You're not getting off that easy. And, I refuse to let you run away again. I'll help you. But, if you want our friends to help too, that's on you."

Sunset stared into Rainbow's eyes, seeing the same determination she recognized from her past. Her eyes drifted from Rainbow to Fluttershy, who sat quietly as she put her tools away.

"Fluttershy…" Sunset said, trying to sound comforting, "I know you aren't happy that I ran away. I'm sure the others are too. But, please understand, I wouldn't have come all this way to ask for your help, unless I knew I couldn't do it alone."

"What about just coming home and being with your friends again?" Fluttershy sighed, closing the little kit, "Besides, whatever you're involved in, I don't think I'd fit in for it. But, I'll tell you what, if you can convince the others to help, I might consider it."

"Deal."

Sunset held out her hand for a handshake. However, Fluttershy just looked at the hand and let her vision roll up to Sunset's face. 

"I don't make risky deals." Fluttershy stated, turning her attention to Rainbow, "Could I stay here for the rest of the night? I have to be up early and I don't want to drive home, right now."

"Sure." Rainbow said, gesturing toward her room, "You can crash in my bed with me. It's a double, so there's room. Sunset, you can stay here tonight too. The couch is open."

"Thanks." Sunset replied, stepping to one side and letting Fluttershy walk by her.

Rainbow and Fluttershy made their way into the bedroom, while Sunset slumped onto the couch, placing her head in her hands. It was still hours until sunrise, but sleeping was going to be difficult that night as they thought about what just happened. And what may happen. Then Rainbow flipped the light switch and darkness filled the apartment.
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun came again, bathing the Canterlot skyline in light. The air was cool and crisp as the city was brought to life. From Rainbow's apartment, it was easy to see Downtown, the park, and Canterlot High. It was a nice view to look at. However, as Sunset stood in front of the window with her arms crossed, the view only held a little of her attention. 

"Morning." Sunset said flatly, keeping her eyes focused on the outside world as she heard footsteps behind her.

"Hey." Rainbow yawned, making her way into the little kitchen, "How was your sleep?"

Sunset turned away from the window and took a seat at the table, resting her good arm on the surface.

"I didn't sleep." Sunset replied, tapping her fingers on the tabletop, "With everything that's happened, sleep isn't easy to get."

"Yeah." Rainbow replied, making some coffee and toast, "Fluttershy and I didn't get a lot of sleep either." 

As the toast popped out of the toaster and the coffee perked as it brewed, Rainbow made her breakfast and took out three mugs. Filling two with the dark liquid, she brought one over to Sunset.

"Rainbow..." Sunset said, breaking the brief silence, "All of us need to talk. Not just you, me, and Fluttershy. But, Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, and Applejack too."

"You already said that, Sunset." Rainbow replied, setting her plate of toast and coffee on the table, before taking a seat across from Sunset, "What's all this about, anyway? Even after all this time away from us, I still remember that you liked keeping us in the loop, most of the time."

Sunset looked down at her reflection in the coffee and sighed, trying to let the stress loosen. She glanced out the window again, letting her vision roll to the park. 

"It would be easier if I showed you." Sunset said, looking back at Rainbow.

"Okay..." Rainbow replied hesitantly, taking a sip of her coffee, "Show me then."

"I can't. I don't have it with me. I hid it away for safety. But, if you can get the others to meet me at the park, I'll show you then. Plus, there's something in town I need to look into."

Rainbow didn't say anything as she looked at Sunset and eating her toast. Just then, Fluttershy emerged from the bedroom, ready and tidy for the day. She gave Sunset a quick glance as she walked by. 

"Thank you for letting me stay, Rainbow." Fluttershy said, giving a quick hug before she grabbed her kit, coat, and shoes, "Sorry, I can't visit. One of the tigers is having cubs and I need to be ready to help if something goes wrong."

"Anytime, Flutters." Rainbow said, glancing back at Fluttershy, "Oh, after work, could you meet me and the girls at the park? Say, eight o'clock? We need to have a meeting."

Fluttershy stopped what she was doing and looked from Rainbow to Sunset, putting the pieces together. She frowned at the redhead, causing Sunset to look away again. 

"I'll try to be there." Fluttershy sighed, resuming to tie her shoes, "Where in the park?"

"The old basketball court." Rainbow said, glancing out the window and spotting the court, "There shouldn't be anyone around there by then, so we could talk in peace."

Sunset knew that last bit was more for her benefit, than Fluttershy's. But, either way, it sounded a little intimidating to both of them. 

"Alright." Fluttershy said, opening the door, "I'll see you then. Bye."

"Later." Rainbow called back, hearing the door close and making eye-contact with Sunset again, "I should probably get ready for work too. Do you need a ride anywhere?"

"No thanks." Sunset replied, holding up a hand, "I've got my own wheels. But, I'll follow you out."

With that, Rainbow and Sunset finished their coffee and start to gather their things. Rainbow had to take a bit longer to get ready than Sunset, who only had to grab her jacket and gun. Once both were ready for the day, Sunset stepped out of the apartment, followed by Rainbow as she locked the door. Neither of them said anything as they took the elevator down to the lobby. 

"Nice car, Rainbow." Sunset commented, breaking the awkward silence as she admired the 300ZX, "I always figured you were a fan of Japanese imports."

"Yeah..." Rainbow replied, taking out her keys, "But, I'm also a fan of American muscle too. What about you? Where's yours?"

"You're looking at it. Well, for the time being, I'm riding it, anyway."

Rainbow watched as Sunset mounted the Ninja and started the engine, letting it idle. Rainbow just smirked as Sunset put on her helmet, opening the visor.

"I'll meet up with you later." Sunset said, looking back at Rainbow, "Just make sure the others are there. We're going to need all of them."

Without waiting for a reply, Sunset closed the visor and sped away, leaving Rainbow behind in a instant.

As she rode down the street, Sunset couldn't help but get the feeling she was being watched. Her head swiveled from side to side, watching for anything that seem odd to her. However, since she had been gone so long, Canterlot City had changed and most of the things she knew where different or gone. Sugar Cube Corner was no longer were it had been, instead there was some coffee shop with a fancy name that she couldn't pronounce. Further down, she saw Rarity's old dress shop that she worked at during high school, but now it was bigger and was called Canterlot Boutique, rather than Formal Threads. Sunset slowed a bit as she caught a glimpse of someone in the building, she could've sworn it was Rarity, but Sunset wasn't sure based on how quickly she passed the store. 

Stopping at an intersection, Sunset saw a black '16 Dodge Challenger SRT with red racing stripes in the crossing traffic. She couldn't see the driver from her current distance, but the car scared her as she thought of Zero stopping and getting out to shoot at her. But, as the Challenger crossed, Sunset could see that the driver wasn't Zero. She let out a breath as she watched it drive further away, before her light turned green and continuing on. After riding a little longer, Sunset reached the industrial area and turned into the parking lot of an abandoned steelworks. 

"This place is still creepy to look at in daylight." Sunset whispered to herself, rolling into the building through a large open doorway, "Hopefully, it's still safe."

She slowly rode parallel to the smelting irons and rollers. Finally, she stopped near a set of stairs that led up to the supervisor's office. Sunset dismounted and rolled the bike into a dark spot under the stairs, hiding it in shadow. Once she was sure it was hidden, Sunset ventured further into the steelworks, approaching the maintenance area. As she entered the little area, Sunset found what she was looking for. 

Under a workbench, buried under various tools and machine parts, was the briefcase she had stolen from Zero and the Shift crew. The metal pieces scrapped and clattered as she removed the briefcase from its hiding place. Sunset groaned a bit as she looked at the combination lock on the case. 

"If it had a keyhole," Sunset groaned, inspecting the numbers on the dials, "I'd be able to pick the lock. But, I don't know how to break combinations."

Looking around, Sunset looked at the tools that had been left behind. The electric grinder would've been a good choice, if there was power in the building. But, there wasn't, so she looked at a crowbar and sledgehammer to break the case with. However, she knew the gem inside might be damaged if she did that. There were wrenches, screwdrivers, and a ballpeen hammer. 

"I might not be able to break the combination..." Sunset commented to herself, grabbing the ballpeen and a big flathead screwdriver, "But, maybe, I could break the locking bolt."

Scanning the thin gap between the two halves of the case, Sunset spotted the glint of metal that was the bolt. She lined up the head of the screwdriver with the bolt, wedging into the small space. Once it couldn't go any further, Sunset used the hammer, hitting the screwdriver with power. However, the vibrations of every impact rippled along her arm and stung at her injured shoulder. But, eventually, the bolt cracked and broke after a few more strong hits. 

As she opened it, Sunset was relieved to see the gem inside unharmed. It wasn't glowing anymore, but it still held a strong energy around it. Carefully, she reached out and touched it, feeling the warm emerald green glasslike surface. The gem was not much bigger than her palm, which was good for carrying purposes. But, she had no clue what it was or what it could do. All she knew was that it was from Equestria. Sunset may not have been there in a long time, but being born there allowed her to naturally recognize the magic in it. 

Sunset snapped out of her daze as she heard an engine sound nearby. Quickly, she pocketed the gem and slammed the case closed, before darting toward a staircase that lead to the catwalks above the production area. As soon as Sunset reached the top, a black Mercedes G Class SUV entered through the large door and slowly rolled until there wasn't any room for it to continue. Once it stopped, three men stepped out of it. They wore tactical gear and black clothing. Two of the men were armed with automatic weapons, while the third carried a shotgun. 

"The tracker says this was the last known position." Sunset heard one of them say, watching him hold up a PDA and looking around, "But, I can't get a signal in here. Too much magnetic interference."

"Phoenix is smart, remember?" Another said, stepping ahead of his partners, "She probably knew there was a tracker on the case and picked this place on purpose."

"Do you think she's here?" The third one asked, looking all around the darkness.

"I don't know. But, watch yourselves. If she is here, she'll most likely be watching us. If you see her, don't miss."

From her vantage point, Sunset watched as they turned on the flashlights on their weapons and advanced further into the steelworks. In her black motorcycle jacket, pants, and boots, Sunset was easily concealed in the shadows. Even though it was almost midday, there were places were the light couldn't reach. Slowly, she crouch-walked along the catwalk, keeping an eye on the trio of gunmen on the ground floor. As she moved further, Sunset spotted a stray bolt laying on the catwalk and got an idea. Carefully, she grabbed the bolt and tossed it toward a steel rail on the other side of the floor.

All three men stopped upon hearing the loud clang of metal and aimed, but none of them fired. Instead, the leader signaled the other two to go in different directions, while he continued forward. Sunset watched through the grated catwalk, slowly advancing forward. She allowed herself to glance at the supervisor's office and was relieved to see that she was getting closer to her bike. Looking back, Sunset saw that they were almost at the spot where the bolt hit. 

"She's not over here." One of them stated, looking around the little area.

"No." The second said, kneeling down and picking up a lone bolt off the floor, "But, she's definitely here. Spread out, find the case, keep your eyes open."

All three went in different directions, keeping their weapons aimed. However, none of them noticed as Sunset worked her way around the supervisor's office and down the stairs to where her bike was hidden. However, she remained in the shadows as her eyes focused on the SUV. She saw three exit, but that didn't mean the SUV was empty. Hugging the wall, Sunset drew her gun and advanced toward the vehicle, occasionally glancing back to check the three gunmen. Once she was close enough, Sunset got down on her stomach and crawled up to the SUV. And when she reached it, she took a low crouch and gripped the door handle, ready to start shooting if someone was inside.

But, when Sunset threw the door open, she was relieved to find that it was empty. However, she did find something useful in the SUV. Under the passenger seat, Sunset saw road flares, a butterfly knife, and a small first-aid kit. Glancing to look, Sunset saw the trio still occupied on the far end of the steelworks. Using that to her advantage, Sunset pocketed the knife, opened the first-aid kit and grabbed the bandage roll along with a flare. Quickly and quietly, she closed the door and went around to the gas tank cover. Opening the cover and removing the cap, Sunset unrolled the bandaging and stuffed one end into the tank and unrolled the other end to the back of the SUV. 

"Hey. I found the case." She heard one of the gunmen say, "But, it looks damaged."

"Is the lock broken?" Another said, as she made her way back to her bike and mounted it.

As soon as she started the engine, Sunset heard three voices calling out. But, with her helmet and the sound of the engine, she couldn't make out what they were saying. Quickly she ignited the flare and tossed it onto the cloth, making it catch fire and burn. She didn't stay to watch as she opened the throttle and raced out of the steelworks, followed by the sound of an explosion. 

"That was too close." Sunset said to herself, racing down the road and weaving between traffic.

She quickly patted her pockets, finding the gem in one of them and breathing a sigh of relieve. But now, she had the proof she needed to get the others to help her and that was good. However, given what just happened, Sunset was beginning to really wonder if asking them for help was a good idea. Especially if Saber and Zero got involved.
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset rode hard through the city streets, trying to get as far from the steelworks as possible. She avoided the main arteries and used side streets, alleyways, anything that had little to no traffic. It was still daylight and Sunset had plenty of time, before she had to meet up with the girls. However, there was one more thing she had to do.

Turning down another alley, Sunset pulled up to a garage door. Above it, she spotted a little security camera aimed toward the door, looking down at her. Knowing that she was most likely being watched, Sunset removed her helmet and straightened her hair, before looking back and glaring at the camera. 

"Come on, Fuse." Sunset said in an irritated tone, "Open up."

A small speaker mounted to the wall cracked to life, almost making Sunset jolt in surprise.

"Why?" A voice asked, static making it scratch at Sunset's ears, "You don't have anything to offer me."

"What about when I pretended to shoot you, so you could disappear from LEGION's radar, huh? And, if memory serves me correctly, you said that you owed me. So, either open the damn door and help me, or I force my way in and shoot you for real. Your choice."

There was a moment of silence as Sunset waited for a response. She was thankful that no one was around as she addressed the person inside. But, it didn't help improve her mood either. However, the door did open, rolling up with squeaks and groans of metal on metal. Once it was open enough for her to enter, Sunset slowly rolled inside and the door closed again.

"This had better be good, Phoenix." A man about her age said, emerging from a separate room filled with monitors, "Or, do you go by 'Sunset Shimmer' now?"

Sunset stared back at him, a bit stunned to hear her name.

"How do you know about that?" Sunset asked, dismounting her bike and placing the helmet on the tank.

"LEGION had me as one of their top computer technicians for a reason, remember?" He replied, adjusting his glasses and glaring at her, "I could hack into any network, if I wanted to. I just so happen to hear something about you going rogue a day and a half ago."

"I didn't go rogue, Fuse. I've always been rogue. Everyone was just so convinced by my acting, I could get away with it."

"Until now, anyway."

Sunset approached Fuse, meeting his eyes with her own.

"Let's cut the small talk, alright." She said, glancing passed him and into the monitor room, "I need eyes and ears everywhere around the country. As well as LEGION's files on anything related to something called 'Equestria.' And, you are the only one I know can help me."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Fuse protested, stepping back and raising his hands slightly, "The country? Equestria? LEGION files? What the hell kind of drug are you on, Phoenix? Do you realize how ridiculous and idiotic that sounds? LEGION has the best software security system in North America. There are as many cameras in the States as there are people, maybe more. Most likely, only half of them have microphones. And Equestria? What the hell is Equestria?"

"That's not your problem. You can stay here in your little dark corner of the world, for all I care. But, I need a techy. I need someone who can open doors, keep me and my team off the radar, and feed me info. That'll be your job. I'll be the one getting dirty."

Fuse pondered for a moment, appearing to think about how to answer. But, eventually, he spoke again.

"Fine, I'll help you." Fuse grumbled, turning and going back into the monitor room, "But, after all this is over, you and I are even."

"Deal." Sunset replied, following him and scanning the various flicking screens, "I need to see the camera footage from the Harmony Street and Everfree Road intersection at about ten o'clock this morning."

Fuse took a seat in his chair and tapped his keyboard, bringing up a live video of the intersection and clicking on the timestamp. As they watched, Sunset scanned the screen, looking for anything out of place. But, after a few minutes into the video, she saw four black SUVs and two motorcycles cross the screen.

"Freeze that." Sunset demanded, aggressively pointing at the screen as the video paused, "Can you enhance the two motorcycles? It looks like something is tucked under their jackets."

Fuse did as he was told, enhancing the image and zooming in on the riders. But, even though they could see there was something hidden under the leather, it was nearly impossible to make out exactly what was hidden. However, Sunset had a good guess.

"Uzi 9mm submachine guns, most likely." Sunset stated, glaring at the image, "But, normally, riders only have Glocks or 1911s. An Uzi is a bit harder to conceal under motorcycle jackets." 

"How do you know that?" Fuse asked, pulling up another video from a different camera further down the street.

"I was an enforcer and outrider for transports, before Saber promoted me to be part of her guard detail. I know how they work. But, I'm not concerned about that. What does concern me, is why they would send a team this big for something so small?"

"What do you mean?"

Sunset wasn't really comfortable telling Fuse what she had stolen. However, at the moment, he was the only one she knew wouldn't turn her in to LEGION. Hesitantly, Sunset took the green gem out of her pocket and showed it to Fuse.

"LEGION is in the city, looking for this." She said, holding the gem and watching Fuse as he studied it, "I don't fully know what it is, or why they want it. But, it can't be for money or some collection, they don't need it for that."

"Could it be a USB in disguise or something?" Fuse asked, standing from his seat and leading Sunset into another room.

"I don't think so. It just looks like an ordinary gem to me."

Sunset knew she was lying a bit to keep Fuse from learning the truth. She was thankful that it seemed to convince him.

"Here." Fuse said, flipping on the light and revealing a flattop machine that looked like a computer printer. "Place it on the top. If I scan it, I might be able to find something about it."

"What is this thing?" Sunset asked, gesturing toward the machine, "It looks like a photocopier, but different."

"It's a scanning machine that I 'commandeered' from LEGION. I managed to hide it away, before they sent you to fire me. Basically, it'll scan whatever is placed on the top and identify what it's made of. Hopefully, it can give us some idea what that gem is."

At first, Sunset was hesitant as she eyed Fuse and the scanner. But, after a moment, she gently placed the gem on top and Fuse approached another computer that was attached to the scanner. The smooth glass surface illuminated with a purple glow and a white line of light moved from one side to the other. Fuse tapped on a few more keys and several windows on the computer screen appeared. 

"Now this is interesting." Fuse remarked, adjusting his glasses and tapping a few more keys.

"What?" Sunset asked, looking at the screen, unsure of what the various graphs meant, "Is the scanner not working right?"

"No, the scanner is working perfectly. But, it can't identify anything about the structural makeup of your gem. In fact, it's made up of several minerals and something else. It's almost like a strange form of electricity and... What's this?"

Fuse leaned closer to the screen and tapped some more keys.

"The electrical level in this gem is strong enough to power Vegas, New York, and L.A. combined!" He said, turning his eyes toward the gem, "How it's able to hold that much power and remain stable is beyond me."

"That's interesting." Sunset replied, following Fuse's gaze to the gem, "But, it still leaves a lot of questions. Why does LEGION want it? What does this gem actually do? And is it the only one?"

Fuse turned off the scanner and watched as Sunset took the gem.

"The fact that thing has enough power to fry you, but you're able to pick it up with your bare hand, is amazing in itself." Fuse commented, seeing Sunset deposit the gem into her pocket.

"It's certainly odd." Sunset commented, placing both hands on her hips and looking down at the floor, "Can you look into one more thing, while you poke around?"

Fuse didn't say anything as he watched the normally hardcore woman slightly deflate. 

"Can you look for someone named; Horizon Flare? It's personal to me." Sunset said, lifting her eyes back to Fuse.

"Okay..." Fuse replied hesitantly, adjusting his glasses, "Who's Horizon Flare?"

"She's someone I was supposed to protect. But, someone from either LEGION or the government took her. I don't know where she is, or if she's alright. If you can do that and let me know, I'll be very grateful."

"Sure, I can look around."

"Thanks."

Sunset looked at a clock on the wall and saw that it was almost three o'clock. Reaching into her other pocket, Sunset took out an earpiece and PDA. 

"Can you encrypt this?" She asked, presenting the little device to Fuse, "For everything to work, I need only you, me, and my team to listen and talk to."

Fuse didn't say anything as he took the device from Sunset and plugged it into the computer. He tapped some keys and a progress bar appeared on the screen.

"I'm installing a security virus, in case any unfriendly listeners tune in." Fuse said, setting the PDA on the desk as it was being loaded, "As well as one of my little programs."

"Program?" Sunset repeated, stepping closer to the monitor, "Why not just call it a hack?"

"Because it has 'hack' in the name. H4CKH3LP will directly link up with my computer via satellite from your PDA, anywhere you are. It will allow me to help you, just plug in to any terminal or computer and tap on the digital skull icon on the screen, so I can control it from here."

"Will it cause any issues with communication or anything like that?"

"No, it shouldn't. If anything, your screen will flash for a second, but it'll operate like normal."

The progress bar on the screen moved at a snail's pace, which irritated Sunset slightly.

"How long is this going to take?" Sunset huffed, crossing her arms and watching the progress bar.

"The program and the encryption are syncing." Fuse replied, switching his vision to another computer screen, "Plus, it's creating a private network. But, if I had to guess, it'll probably take two or three hours. You're welcome to wait, unless you have somewhere else to be."

Sunset checked the time on one of the monitors and saw that she still had five hours until she met with the girls. But, remembering that, made Sunset suddenly feel nervous. Spotting a recliner in the corner, Sunset took a seat and chose to wait. 

"Fuse, do you believe in second chances?" Sunset asked, rubbing the back of her neck as familiar faces drifted through her mind.

Fuse paused as he turned in his chair and eyed the woman. 

"Look..." Fuse sighed, removing his glasses, "If I'm being honest, you're asking the wrong person. Plus, coming from you, it doesn't sound right. Yeah, I believe in second chances. But, I think those are only given to certain people. You managed to give me a chance. However, in your case, that might be harder to do."

Sunset didn't say anything as she thought.

"All I can say," Fuse continued, placing his glasses back on his face and wheeling back to the monitors, "is do your best to make yourself worthy of a second chance. But, hey, what do I know? I'm just a computer tech."

Sunset remained quiet as she took out an old flip lighter and cigarette pack from her inside pocket. 

"You got a phone or something?" Sunset asked, putting the cigarette between her lips and lighting it, taking a drag and blowing out the smoke, "I need to make a call."

"Back in the garage, on the workbench." Fuse replied, keeping his eyes on the various screens, "It's a secure landline. Not that it needs to be. Who uses landlines anymore?"
> Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"LEGION Command Base, come in." A voice called over a radio, "Bravo Team calling Command, over."

Zero stood behind several people as they sat at various devices. The woman in front of him spoke into the microphone attached to her headset, addressing the caller. 

"Bravo Team, this is LEGION Command, go ahead." She said, tapping the keys to her computer and bringing up various files.

"Roger, Command. We located the package, finding it damaged and empty. Phoenix managed to destroy our vehicle and escape. We are currently unaware of her location or the contents of the package."

"Is anyone injured?"

"Negative, Command. But, we'll need a transport. Over."

Zero stepped forward and tapped the dispatcher on her shoulder. Turning around, the woman saw the heavily built man looking at her headset, making a "give me that" gesture with his free hand. Without questioning the silent order, she removed the device from her head and placed it in Zero's hand, watching as he put it on.

"Bravo Team," He began, putting some power into his voice, "your request for transportation is denied, based on your failure to recover the package or neutralize Phoenix. At this time, I'm ordering you to continue with your mission, regardless of whether you are on foot or not. You are still expected to rendezvous with the others on time at the extraction point. If successful, you may be redeemed of your failure. Command, out."

Zero handed the headset back to the dispatcher and turned away, leaving the communication room. He turned down a hallway and began walking toward the elevator on the far end. On the walls, Zero passed several bulletin boards with several notices, documents, and invoices. Closer to the elevator, a large sign that read, "LEGION Private Security: A Branch Of LEGION Technologies And Research" was painted in blue on the wall. 

Why someone would need a private security branch for a tech and research company, Zero didn't know. Nor did he care. They paid Zero to do his job and that's all he was concerned about. Although, some might say he did his job too well.

Reaching the elevator, Zero pressed the call button and waited, keeping an emotionless stone look on his face. Several people passed by the large man, but no one spoke to him. Then the elevator arrived and Zero entered alone, pressing the floor button he needed. It was fortunate that he was alone, because once the elevator doors closed, Zero's devil came out.

"AAARRRRRGGG!!!!!" Zero roared, throwing his fists against the metal walls of the elevator, causing dents, "You were armed with two QBZ-95s, a SPAS-12, night-vision and heat-seeking equipment, and the latest tracking software! But, you three were still outsmarted by a motorcycle bitch?! Dammit!"

Zero punched his reflection on the mirrored surface, denting the metal. But, before he could cause more damage, the doors opened and he marched out, brushing by three office workers, who quickly entered the elevator and pressed the button to close the doors. 

Walking down another hall, Zero's presence cleared him a path, until he stopped at another door. Taking a few deep breaths and straightening his shirt, Zero knocked on the door.

"Come in." A feminine voice answered in a level tone.

Zero entered the room and saw a brunette woman sitting behind a desk, eyes focused on her computer monitor. Her fingers tapped at the keyboard. Stepping forward, Zero gently closed the door behind him.

"Hello, Zero." She said, keeping her eyes glued to the screen, "Don't move."

Without warning, a switchblade that she had been hiding under her hand opened and she threw it. The blade sailed by Zero's head and stabbed into the dartboard that had been hanging on the back of the door. 

"You didn't flinch this time..." She said, finally turning her eyes to him, "Either you're used to that, or extremely pissed. Which is it?"

"Both." Zero said flatly, approaching the desk and taking a seat, "Phoenix managed to open the case and take the gem from it. Bravo Team failed to neutralize her."

"I said 'kill' her, Zero. Not neutralize. As for the gem, Project: Nexus can't continue without it. You know that."

"Don't talk to me like I'm a child, Saber. I know how important this is to you. But, you need to understand, not all plans work properly."

Saber turned in her chair and fully faced Zero with a stern expression. 

"This is one of those times where it has to work." Saber stated, folding her hands in front of her, "Was she in Canterlot City, like I said?"

"Yeah." Zero replied, "The tracker lead Bravo Team to an abandoned steelworks, where she destroyed their vehicle and escaped. Amazingly, none of them were injured or managed to shoot her."

"I don't care. In a way, she lead us to her weakness."

"I'm not sure I follow."

Saber turned back to her computer monitor and turned it so Zero could see. On the screen, there were several files. Saber clicked on the first file, opening it and reading the contents.

"This is a class picture from when she was younger." Saber stated, moving the cursor around the image, "The six girls with her were her closest friends."

"What importance are they?" Zero asked, studying the teenagers, "They just look like average civilians to me."

"Perhaps to us and Phoenix, they do. But, to Sunset Shimmer, they're more than that."

Saber closed the image and opened another file.

"I've been doing some digging into her." Saber said, tapping a few keys, "From what I've been able to find, she has no blood relatives, no distant relations, no family at all. Except, these six girls."

"What about Horizon Flare?" Zero asked, reclining in his chair slightly, "Wasn't she close to Phoenix? Or Sunset? Whatever her name is?"

"Zero, you of all people should know, this line of work has no room for children. In truth, she's most likely some separate contract. Sunset has been with us for over a year and not once, did she show that she had serious relations with a child."

"No, but she did ask several times about looking into a missing child, which we did. It makes me ask, why didn't we tell her what we found."

"To not get her hopes up and keep her mind on the mission. But, let's focus on what's in front of us right now."

Saber turned the monitor back to it's proper angle. 

"I'll send you the files of her friends." She said, scrolling there the files again, "You might like reading Rainbow Dash's and Applejack's files. They're a little like you, brutish, arrogant, and direct." 

Zero didn't say anything as he stood up, taking that as his cue to leave.

"Just make sure that whatever you do, doesn't compromise the plan." Saber called, before her office phone rang and she answered, "Yes? He's here? Alright, send him up."

As Zero left, his PDA chimed, letting him know that he had received new messages. Obviously, the files for Sunet's friends. But, in a way, he knew Saber was right. The six girls he had seen would most likely be Sunset's weakness. As he marched back to the communications room, Zero began to think of ways to exploit them.
> Chapter 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rainbow Dash had finished her day at work and was now at the Stampede Diner having a burger, waiting for Pinkie to finish her shift. Normally, the pink-haired girl was finished her day at the same time as Rainbow. However, Pinkie was asked to cover for someone who was running late. Of course, Pinkie wasn't the type to say no, so when Rainbow couldn't reach her on the phone and drove to the diner to tell Pinkie about their friends meeting, Pinkie asked if she would wait. 

"So," Pinkie began, walking out from behind the counter with a tray of drinks for another table, "what are the we meeting up for?"

"Let's just say," Rainbow explained, being as discrete as she could, "someone we know needs some help. Our help to be exact."

"What kind of help?"

"They didn't say, just that they needed it."

Pinkie raised an eyebrow as she walked by her rainbow-haired friend. As she stepped behind the counter again and got behind the register, a young woman around Pinkie's age entered the diner, dressed in a waitress uniform.

"Hey, Pinkie!" She gasped as if she was in a panic, "Sorry I'm late, something happened with my car and I had to get it towed home."

"It's alright." Pinkie replied, clocking-out and stepping away from the register and letting the other woman clock-in, "Table five ordered three cream sodas and table eight ordered a well-done New York steak with mashed potato."

"Okay, I'll take it from here. See you later, Pinks. And thanks again."

"No problem, see ya. I'll meet you outside, Rainbow."

Rainbow nodded as she finished her food, before paying and exiting to her car. As she approached her driver door, Pinkie's Jetta rounded the building and stopped next Rainbow. The passenger window rolled down and Pinkie leaned closer to speak.

"So, where are we all meeting?" Pinkie asked, unsure of where to go.

"We're meeting at the old basketball court in Canterlot Park." Rainbow replied, lowering herself to eye-level with Pinkie, "You know, the one on the far end near the parking lot?"

"Why there? Did this mystery person or people what you to train them or something?"

"No, not exactly. But, it's quiet and private."

"My elbow feels weird, Rainbow. You know that means-"

"That means that I'm not telling you the whole truth. Yes, I know. But, you gotta trust me on this. It's a pretty big thing."

Again, Pinkie raised an eyebrow, but chose not to dig too much into it. Instead, she nodded and rolled up her window, before driving away and toward the park. Rainbow wasn't far behind as she got in her car and did the same. 

It was a quiet ride as Rainbow drove down the street, following Pinkie's taillights in the distance. Then the light in front of Rainbow turned red and she watched as Pinkie rounded another corner, disappearing from view. As she waited for her light to change, Rainbow noticed a motorcycle in the crossing traffic. The rider's dark helmet visor was down, covering their face. But, their head was angled toward Rainbow's 300ZX. At first, Rainbow thought it was Sunset Shimmer. However, the motorcycle wasn't a black Kawasaki Ninja, but a black Ducati Panigale V2. As it accelerated away when its light turned green, Rainbow watched as the rider looked at her for a moment longer, before facing forward again. Then Rainbow's light changed and she continued on to the park. After a while, she arrived and saw all her friends vehicles in the parking lot. Quickly, she parked between Pinkie's Jetta and Twilight's Lexus. Fluttershy's Jeep, Applejack's Chevy, and Rarity's BMW were a little further away from the others, but close enough to the court. 

As Rainbow stepped closer to the court, she heard voices and knew it was her friends. Then, Rainbow walked around the bleachers and found her friends sitting on them, conversing with one another.

"Hey, you guys." Rainbow greeted, climbing up the bleachers and sitting next to Applejack.

"Howdy, Rainbow." Applejack replied, looking around at their group, "Well, the gang's all here. Why are we meetin'?"

As if on cue, the sound of a sport motorcycle engine echoed through the air. This caused the six girls to stand and turn to look. They watched as a black Kawasaki Ninja rolled around the bleachers and stopped on the cement basketball court. The rider shut off the engine and set the kickstand, before dismounting.

"Who's this?" Applejack asked, leaning close to Rainbow.

"An old friend in need." Rainbow replied, stepping down the bleachers toward the rider.

As Rainbow got closer, the rider unbuckled the helmet strap and removed it, revealing Sunset Shimmer's face. At first, the other girls had confused and dumbfounded expressions, with the exceptions of Rainbow and Fluttershy. But, after a few seconds, their expressions turned to distrust, anger, and disgust. The only one who seemed the least upset was Pinkie. Quickly, she stepped down the bleachers, nearly tackling Sunset in a hug.

"S-Sunny!" Pinkie sobbed, squeezing Sunset tightly, "You're... Y-You're home!"

"It's great to see you too, Pinkie." Sunset gasped, caught off guard by the sudden act, "But, could you loosen up? I'm running out of air."

Pinkie let go and wiped away her tears, allowing Sunset to look around at the others. But, her smiled faded as she met their eyes. Desperately, Sunset tried forming words, but her mouth suddenly felt dry and her mouth hung agape. However, the sound of Applejack's boots thudding on the bleachers kept the silence at bay.

"Ya got some nerve comin' back here, after how ya just abandoned us." Applejack stated darkly, stopping two feet from Sunset, "If y're smart, ya'd get back on that bike and get the hell outta here."

Sunset knew that tension would be tight amongst everyone, Applejack especially. But, it caught her off-guard just how much gravity Applejack's voice carried in her words.

"I didn't want to leave, AJ." Sunset stated, finally finding her voice, "But, I did it to protect you. You and the rest of the girls."

"That's a lie!" Applejack spat, poking Sunset in her chest with an index finger, "Ya took off without sayin' anythin'! Folks who do that are usually out to protect themselves!"

"People were calling you demon worshipers, Hell's followers, blood drinkers! And they were calling all of you those things, because of me! So, don't you dare, for one second, think that me running away was for my own benefit!"

Sunset's outburst was followed by silence as the others let her words sink in. She breathed deeply, before exhaling and calming down again.

"I figured that, if I put some distance between me and all of you, things would be better." Sunset sighed, placing her hands on her hips and hanging her head, "And, you all have every right to be mad at me. But, now, I'm in a lot of trouble and you're the only ones who I trust. Even if you don't trust me anymore."

Almost undetected, Twilight had step down the bleachers and approached Sunset, resting a hand on Sunset's good shoulder. This caused Sunset to look up again and meet Twilight's eyes, seeing them as stern and sympathetic.

"Perhaps you should tell us why you're in trouble, before we decide if we should help you." Twilight stated, casting a glance at Applejack, "It's only fair."

Applejack huffed and crossed her arms, but nodded in agreement.

"Alright." Sunset sighed, reaching into her pocket and pulling out the green gem, "This is why I'm in trouble."

All the girls gathered closer as Sunset explained how she had stolen the gem. She told them about the deal, that had turned out bad. She even told them that she knew it was from Equestria, but wasn't sure what it could do. However, what Sunset didn't tell them, was where she had been for six years. 

"LEGION?!" Twilight asked, surprised to hear that name, "LEGION Technologies and Research?! Sunset, that can't be right."

"It is right." Sunset stated, "I've been working in the private security division for over a year and been seeing a lot of shady things. Especially, lately. Why are you so worried?"

"I work for them." 

Sunset stared into Twilight's eyes, looking for any sign that she was joking, but failed to find any. 

"Y-You work for them?" Sunset stammered, feeling a hint of panic setting in.

"Yes." Twilight began, pulling out an ID badge with the company name on the back, "I'm a chemist in the labs, developing medicines."

Sunset stepped back, taking a seat on her bike saddle. Putting the gem away and reaching into another pocket, Sunset pulled out her cigarettes, flip-lighter, and a LEGION ID badge. Promptly, she lit-up and showed the badge to everyone. 

"This isn't a badge, to me." Sunset said, taking a long drag from her cigarette and blowing out the smoke, "This is a ticket to Hell."

"Sunset, you have to understand," Twilight explained, "LEGION isn't out to cause trouble. We're trying to make the world a better place." 

"That's a lie! They brainwashed you into thinking you're changing the world for the better, instead of changing it for their own benefit. Ask me how I know!"

Twilight and the other girls shared glances, before leaning closer. 

"I know this because I was part of their muscle." Sunset explained, "LEGION private security is made up of ex-military, reformed cartel goons, and basically any other moron who can use a gun and isn't afraid of blood. If LEGION didn't receive payment for services, we were told to make them pay-up. If there was something that needed to be retrieved, LEGION didn't care what method was used, as long as the job was done. They want to control the world's resources so that they can control people."

Sunset took another drag of her cigarette, before Twilight spoke up again.

"That's not what we're trying to do, at all." Twilight stated, stepping closer, "LEGION is on the brink of making medicines that can cure deadly diseases. It'll benefit humanity."

"At what cost?" Sunset asked, blowing out the smoke, "How do they test these medicines? Rats and mice?"

"From what I've seen, yes."

"Then you clearly haven't seen the human guinea pigs brought in by the busload. The same ones I see roll through those-"

Sunset cut off her statement as she heard a faint sound in the distance. Quickly, Sunset put out her smoke and stood up from her motorcycle as the sound got louder. Soon the sound became clear as she realized it was a pair of motorcycle engines. Turning to look where the source was coming from, Sunset saw a pair of headlights across the park from them on the pathways. Instinctively, Sunset drew her Glock 17 and turned to look back at her friends.

"GET DOWN!!!" Sunset shouted as she turned back in time to see muzzle flashes and opened fire.

The sound of bullets whizzing by and gunfire, both semi-auto and full-auto, filled the air for a few seconds before the motorcycles rode out of range and disappeared around a corner. Sunset used the brief silence to quickly reload and check on the others. She found them all on the ground, covering the heads with their arms or curled up.

"Is anyone hit?!" Sunset asked in a panic.

But, she was relieved when all of them stood up again, unharmed and shaken up. 

"Get to your cars!" Sunset said, crouching behind her bike, "Get out of here! They're after me, not you!" 

"What about you?" Rarity asked, still shaken.

"I'll be fine..."

Before anyone could protest further, the sound of motorcycles approaching caught their attention. Quickly, the other girls ran for their vehicles. However, when they reached the parking lot, three black Mercedes SUVs rolled in and screeched to a stop. Within seconds, twelve armed mercenaries wearing the LEGION company logo on their sleeves had exited the SUVs and aimed at the girls. 

"Do not move!" One called as they advanced toward the group, "Keep your hands where we can see them!"

Applejack was very close to her Chevy and began slowly moving closer to the driver door, which was facing away from the mercenaries. However, one of them noticed and fired a warning shot that grazed her hood.

"You!" The mercenary called, aiming the gun at her again, "Move again and I will drop you like a deer! Do you understand?!"

Applejack nodded and raised her hands again. However, she didn't keep them up long as a gunshot rang out and a mercenary fell to the ground. With little hesitation, the mercenaries turned and fired at Sunset, who had peeked around the bleachers and fired to protect her friends. This, in turn, gave Applejack the chance she was hoping for and threw her truck door open. But, instead of getting in and driving away, Applejack reached under the driver's seat and took hold of her .357 Magnum revolver, before grabbing a 12-gauge pump-shotgun from her back window gunrack. 

"Rainbow!" Applejack called, getting the rainbow-haired girl's attention, "Catch!"

Rainbow looked in time to see Applejack toss the shotgun to her and caught it, before aiming at the mercenaries. 

"Pinks, Flutters, Twi, Rare!" Rainbow called, taking cover behind her car, "Get behind AJ's truck!"

Out of fear, the others followed her command and hid behind the large pickup truck, while Applejack and Rainbow took cover behind Rainbow's Nissan and opened fire. Shotgun blasts and revolver fire pounded a few of the mercenaries, while others retreated back to the SUVs for cover. All while Sunset provided additional fire from the bleachers. But, being trained in combat, the mercenaries returned fire. Bullets either whizzed past the three armed girls as the ducked behind their covers, or impacted into the side of Rainbow's car and Sunset's metal bleachers. But, soon, smoke and flames began to rise from Rainbow's engine and she began to panic.

"It's gonna blow if it keeps getting hit like this!" Rainbow called out over the gunfire, "And we're dead if we move! What do we do?!"

"I don't know!" Applejack replied, blind-firing through the broken windows. 

"HOLD YOUR FIRE!!" Another voice shouted, ceasing the volley of lead.

To everyone's surprise, Twilight had emerged from behind Applejack's truck with her hands raised. However, in one of her hands, her LEGION ID badge was held up. Slowly, she stepped further from cover and closer to the mercenaries.

"What are you doing?!" Rainbow hissed, still keeping her head down, "They'll shoot you!"

"I'm giving you a chance! So shut up and move away from the burning car! Now!" Twilight replied, turning her attention back to the mercenaries and giving the burning vehicle as much space as she could, "My name is Twilight Sparkle. I'm a Level Two chemist for Dr. Blue Cross at the Canterlot City LEGION medical research facility. And I'm ordering you to cease your actions against these girls."

As Twilight spoke, Applejack and Rainbow heeded their friend's advice and quickly retreated back to Applejack's Chevy, where the others watched. Sunset also watched from her cover, careful not to expose herself for a clear shot from the mercenaries. 

"What's your ID number?" One of the mercenaries asked, stepping forward with his weapon still raised.

"Two-Six-Nine-Tango-Indigo-Eight-Zero-One." Twilight replied, keeping one hand raised while other held out the badge.

The mercenary lowered his weapon and took the badge, before inserting it to a PDA that was strapped to his arm.

"Alpha team to LEGION command, do you read me, over?" He said, placing two fingers to an earpiece he was wearing, "I have a LEGION chemist ordering me to stand down. ID number: Two-Six-Nine-Tango-Indigo-Eight-Zero-One... Chemist says her name is Twilight Sparkle from Canterlot City LEGION medical research... Negative, she hasn't been checked for weapons. Standby."

The mercenary took hold of his weapon again and motioned for a female mercenary to approach closer. This caused Twilight to be intimidated as she watched the mercenary step forward. Even without the tactical gear, Twilight could tell that she had a build that rivaled Applejack's. Promptly and without care, the mercenary groped and prodded at Twilight as she searched for any weapons or devices. 

"She's clear." The mercenary stated, taking a step back and looking from Twilight to the other girls.

"Subject is clear of weapons." The first mercenary reported, speaking into the microphone again, "What are your orders?"

There was another long pause as the mercenaries awaited orders. As they waited, Sunset managed to quietly climb to the top of the bleachers and laid flat to get better cover and a better firing position. Rainbow Dash and Applejack had reloaded and were aiming at the mercenary group again. And Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie were peeking over the box of the large truck.

"Affirmative, Command." The mercenary said, approaching Twilight and taking her by the shoulder, "You're coming with us."

"Wait!" Twilight protested, trying to pull away from his grip, only to have the female mercenary grab her other shoulder, "W-What about my friends?"

"Our orders are to take you to HQ, no questions asked."

Considering her size, Twilight wasn't able to free herself from their grip and soon found herself being shoved into one of the SUVs. This caused alarm among the girls, Applejack, Rainbow, and Sunset especially.

"She ain't goin' anywhere with ya'll!" Applejack called out, squeezing the revolver's and firing a shot at the mercenaries again.

As an expected reaction, the mercenaries returned fire, forcing Applejack and Rainbow to duck behind Applejack's truck again. However, the bullets stopped flying and the sound of tires screeching followed. Applejack and Rainbow peeked out from their cover and saw three sets of taillights shrinking into the distance.

"Rainbow, here!" Applejack exclaimed, shoving the keys to her Chevy into Rainbow's hand, "You drive, I'll shoot!"

"What about us?" Rarity remarked, remind them of herself, Pinkie, and Fluttershy, all still shaken by what just happened, "Twilight is our friend too!"

"You three go to this address. And take this with you." Sunset said, coming from behind the bleachers with a worn piece of paper and the gem, handing both to Rarity, "I have a friend there. Tell him I sent you and we'll catch up with you there."

Rarity looked at the address written on the note, as did Pinkie and Fluttershy, reading over her shoulder. Applejack's eyebrows curled in frustration, but she said nothing as she pushed passed Sunset and got into the passenger seat. Rainbow and Sunset exchanged looks before joining the cowgirl, Rainbow getting in the driver seat, while Sunset got in the back seat behind the driver. With a turn of the key and a roar of the 454 big block V8, they raced out of the parking lot. And the chase was on.
> Chapter 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Hurry up, Rainbow!" Applejack protested, reloading her revolver and shotgun, "They're gettin' away!"

"All units. All units." A static voice cracked, causing Sunset and Rainbow to look around the cab in confusion, "We have reports of shots fired in Canterlot Park. Any units in the area, respond immediately."

To the two girls surprise, they spotted a blinking red light under the dashboard. Rainbow, being the one driving, didn't look at it too long as she shifted gears, trying to catch up to the three SUVs. Sunset, however, looked from the police scanner to Applejack, who just kept her eyes forward and cocked her shotgun.

"I'll explain later." Applejack said, leaning out her window and taking aim.

She managed to fire three shots before being pulled back in by Rainbow and Sunset, causing the Chevy truck to swerve slightly. 

"What the hell are ya doin'?!" Applejack exclaimed, annoyed by the forced retreat into the cab.

"What the hell are you doing?!" Rainbow repeated back, shifting gears again, "You could hit Twilight."

"GET DOWN!!" Sunset called from the backseat, quickly pushing both girls heads down under the dash and ducking down. 

Bullets and sparks pounded against the square-body pickup, some even piercing the windshield. This caused Rainbow to stomp the brakes, allowing the Mercedes G-wagon SUVs to pull away. The bullets stopped and the three girls looked again, seeing the shooters retreat back into their vehicles.

"Twilight is most likely in the lead vehicle." Sunset stated, pointing at the lead SUV, "If I can get on it, I might be able to stop it."

"And how do ya plan to do that?" Applejack asked, shooting the redhead a glare, "I doubt ya have the keys to that one."

Then Sunset saw something flash in the rear-view mirror and quickly turned around to look. The motorcycles who had shot at them in the park were now chasing them. This gave Sunset an idea.

"I'm going to try something stupid." Sunset replied, before opening the back rear window and crawling from the cab to the box. 

Knowing that she was fully exposed, Sunset stayed in a prone position, listening as the sound of the motorcycles got steadily louder and drawing her Glock. Within seconds the motorcycles were just feet from the back of the speeding pickup. And that was when Sunset put her plan into motion. 

As she began to stand up, she leveled her gun and aimed quickly, taking two shots at the riders. The first shot hit one rider square in the chest, causing the Ducati motorcycle to lose control and crash, tossing its rider. Meanwhile, the second shot and hit the other rider in their left arm, the same arm that was holding an Uzi-9mm submachine gun. The weapon fell out of the rider's grip and clattered on the passing asphalt. As the rider tried to recover from the recoiling pain, they were unaware of Sunset leaping out of the box and pivoting in midair, kicking the rider off and taking their place on the saddle. The whole scenario happened within seconds, but Sunset's adrenaline had made it seem to last longer.

"That worked?!" Sunset gasped, releasing a breath she didn't know she was holding, "There's no way that should've worked!"

Glancing forward, the sight of taillights and Applejack's Chevy quickly pulled her from the shock and she opened the throttle. As she passed the cab, Sunset quickly glanced inside and was met by Rainbow's and Applejack's stunned expressions. Sunset only nodded as she passed by, overtaking the truck and accelerating toward the SUVs. 

As she got closer, Sunset saw a mercenary lean out of the closest SUV. This caused her to veer sharply, trying to keep the merc from getting a clear shot. Quickly, Sunset positioned herself directly behind the G-wagon, using it as a blind spot. However, to her surprise, the back window broke as a bullet zipped by her head. Instinctually, Sunset drew her gun and fired back, emptying the clip. Then the SUV began to drift back and forth, before turning sharply and rolling over multiple times. 

"They're not bulletproof?" Sunset noted, glancing back at the wrecked SUV, then looking back at the other two, "Why aren't they bulletproof?"

Her thought was disrupted by another shot as two gunners from the next SUV started shooting. Sunset quickly swerved and swayed, trying her best to avoid the bullets and keep pace with the SUV. She would've fired back, but her Glock was currently empty and it was extremely difficult to reload on a motorcycle during a chase. However, Sunset noticed the reflection of headlights on the rear of the SUV getting brighter. The gunners were so focused on Sunset, they failed to notice as the Chevy truck sped up to them and rear ended them. This caused the G-wagon the fishtail, which Rainbow Dash used to her advantage, catching the SUV by the rear quarter panel and spinning it out, making it crash into a tree. 

Now there was only one G-wagon left, but that didn't make it any easier. Bullets ripped through the back window, giving a clear view of the interior. To their horror, the three girls saw Twilight with a gun pressed to her head. The mercenary holding the gun also held Twilight's phone to her ear. That was when Applejack took out her phone to answer a call from Twilight. Sunset couldn't hear over the rushing wind and engines, but the pale expression on Applejack's face wasn't hard to figure out. Twisting the throttle more, Sunset accelerated slightly, but quickly let off as Twilight raised a hand and shook her head, signaling Sunset to back off. 

Sunset watched as Twilight continued to speak with Applejack over the phone, before hearing the Chevy begin to decelerate and gear down. However, Sunset held her position keeping pace with the SUV as she watched Twilight hang up the phone. She quickly glanced back as she watched Rainbow and Applejack slow down and pull off to the shoulder of the road. Sunset looked back at Twilight and saw her point at herself, give an "okay" signal with her hand, and nod her head in reassurance. Sunset nodded back in understanding, but her worry still showed. 

"Don't worry, Twilight!" Sunset called, allowing the SUV to open the gap between them as she slowed, "I'll get you out of this! I-I promise!"

Finally, Sunset gave in and released the throttle completely, before braking until she came to a stop. She watched as the SUV carrying Twilight became a pair of red dots, before fading into the darkness. Sunset dismounted the Ducati and dropped to her knees, letting her hair drape over her face as she started to cry. From behind her, Rainbow Dash and Applejack pull up and got out, approaching Sunset. Rainbow tried to lean down and comfort Sunset, but was quickly shoved over by Applejack, who grabbed the redhead by the jacket collar and hoisted her upright.

"WHERE ARE THEY TAKIN' HER?!" Applejack screamed into Sunset's face, slamming her against the Chevy's hood, "WHAT DO THEY WANT WITH HER?!"

"I-I... I don't..." Sunset stammered, caught of guard by the cowgirl's actions.

"DON'T YA DARE TELL ME YA DON'T KNOW!!! YA KNOW DAMN WELL WHERE SHE'S GOING!!! TELL ME NOW!!!"

Coming back to her senses, Sunset twisted her body and grabbed Applejack by the back of her head, before slamming it against the hood. Applejack recovered quick, ignoring her stinging forehead and blood dripping from her nose, tackling Sunset into the ditch. Both girls started throwing punches and kicks, trying to overpower each other. Quickly, Rainbow joined into the fray, trying to get between the two fighters.

"That's enough!" Rainbow called out, punching Sunset in the face and kicking Applejack in the gut, "Doing this isn't going to help the situation!"

Having the wind knocked from her body, Applejack laid on the grass panting, while Sunset held her face in pain as she laid on the ground as well. 

"All of this..." Applejack wheezed, holding her stomach, "Is her fault!"

"It doesn't matter who's fault it is right now, AJ." Rainbow countered, extending her hand to the cowgirl and helping her up, "What matters now is how we can get our sister back. And, by the looks of things, Sunset is the only one who could help us right now."

Looking further down the road, Rainbow spotted a sign that pointed to the airport. 

"Sunset, can we catch them at the airport?" Rainbow asked, pulling Sunset to her feet.

"Very unlikely." Sunset replied, wiping the blood from her nose and looking down the road, "By the time we get there, they'll most likely be in the air. They've probably got more security there as well. But, I might have an idea where they'll be flying to."

"So ya do know where they're goin'?" Applejack stated, glaring at Sunset, "Where is it? I'll tear it apart from the foundation, if I have to!"

"LEGION Private Security HQ is in Denver, Colorado. But, you can't just walk through the front door. Not without serious firepower."

Rainbow and Applejack exchanged a curious look at each other, before looking back at Sunset.

"However, I also know another way in." Sunset explained, "But, it'll have its own challenges."

Slowly, she began climbing out of the ditch, followed by Rainbow and Applejack. Once she was at the road again, she leaned against the front bumper of Applejack's truck.

"I have a friend in L.A. who could get us the equipment we'll need." Sunset groaned, taking out a cigarette and lighting it.

"And what about the girls? Twilight's family?" Rainbow asked, slumping down on the bumper next to Sunset, "What do we tell them?"

"The truth." Applejack replied, taking a seat on the other side of Sunset, "We tell 'em the truth and that we'll handle it."

They sat on the bumper in silence for a few minutes, before Sunset put out her smoke and stood up.

"Let's meet up with the girls." She said, making her way to the cab, "I'll ride with you two, since LEGION has tracking devices on all of their vehicles."

Applejack and Rainbow glanced at the Ducati motorcycle that Sunset had been riding, before standing and joining her. Still winded and in slight pain from the earlier kick, Applejack let Rainbow Dash drive. Spinning the wheel and turning the truck around, the three of them headed back into the city, towards Fuse's place.
> Chapter 9
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Alpha Team to LEGION Command, come in." A voice called over a radio.

"LEGION Command, receiving." The woman dispatcher from before answered, "Go ahead, Alpha."

"Roger, Command. Teams Charlie and Delta are heavily disabled and both motorcycles have been taken out."

Once again, Zero was watching and listening from behind the dispatcher. He checked the heart monitors for the teams that had been knocked out, finding only three active. One from a rider and the other two from the wrecked SUVs. The others were flatlined. 

"Let me talk to them." He said, taking the headset from her again, "Alpha team, did you acquire Twilight Sparkle?"

"Affirmative, sir." The mercenary replied, "Currently loading package onto the plane. We'll be airborne in ten minutes."

"Any sign of Bravo Team?"

"Negative, sir."

"Acknowledged, Alpha. Carry on with your operation. Out."

Zero handed the headset back to the dispatcher and turned to leave, before being grabbed by the wrist and stopping him.

"Sir, with all due respect," The dispatcher said, releasing him from her grip, "why didn't you inform Alpha Team about the status of the others? Or to wait for Bravo Team?"

"The mission comes before the man, Channel. And failure to complete tasks end in consequences." Zero replied in an irritated tone, "Bravo Team failed to recover the gem and they failed to rendezvous with the extraction. So, they aren't important anymore. And the three survivors from Charlie, Delta, and the motorcycles, they were expected to escort and remain with Alpha, which they failed to do. So, they'll have to make their own arrangements to get back. Those are the consequences of their failures."

Zero turned back to the door and opened it, before stopping and turning slightly.

"And, Channel..." He said in a low voice, "Don't ever grab my wrist like that again."

With that, Zero exited the communications room, making his way up to Saber's office to inform her of the current status. This time, however, he was more calm as he entered the elevator and seeing the dent he had left before. Once he reached the floor again, the doors opened and revealed Saber standing on the other side.

"I was just coming to speak with you." Zero said, watching Saber enter the elevator and press the button for the lobby.

"Has the gem been recovered?" Saber asked, opening an application on her phone.

"No. But, Alpha Team did manage to acquire one person of interest. Twilight Sparkle. Name ring a bell?"

Saber sighed in annoyance and flipped through the messages that she had received. But, the slight twitch in her face did signal curiosity.

"It sounds a little familiar." Saber stated, texting to someone else, "Who's that?"

"A LEGION chemist from our Canterlot medical research facility." Zero explained as the elevator reached the lobby and following Saber out, "She works for Dr. Blue Cross and is a friend of Sunset Shimmer."

Saber stopped and looked back at Zero inquisitively. 

"She's a friend of Sunset Shimmer and works for Dr. Cross?" Saber echoed, showing interest, "Does she know anything about Project Nexus?"

"I don't know." Zero replied, crossing his arms and checking his watch, "But, she surrendered herself willingly, while the others caused conflict with the teams. Right now, Alpha Team and her should currently be in the air and flying here. They'll probably be here very early in the morning."

"When she gets here, she's to be under guard at all times. Have her brought up to my office, I'd like to chat with her."

Saber turned away, heading for the exit and grabbing her coat from her personal assistant. 

"Oh, and one more thing..." Saber called back, "Firebolt wants to speak with you about the security detail for next weeks shipment."

With that, Saber left the building, where a red Lykan HyperSport that the assistant had brought from the parking garage was waiting. Zero watched as she got in the driver seat and sped away, leaving the assistant where he stood, until deciding to walk back into the building. 

"Security?" Zero said to himself, turning back to the elevator, "Why would Firebolt be concerned about security for a truckload of test samples?"

He re-entered the elevator and pressed the button for the top floor, deciding not to question the subject too much, unless needed.





Saber tore through the streets of Denver, dodging cars, racing through intersections, and barely avoiding pedestrians. All of which didn't phase her as she made her way out of the city. Soon, she reached the outskirts and turned onto a road that led to her home. Soon, she reached her front gate and punched in the security code to open it, before entering and parking in the garage.

It wasn't a mega-mansion, but plenty big enough for the brunette. As she exited the HyperSport, Saber stepped through the door that connected the garage to the rest of the house and went to the kitchen.

"Wine?" Saber said to herself, removing her coat and hanging it on the back of a chair, "No, that's more of a dinner date drink..."

"Who says it has to be for dates?" A masculine voice asked, causing Saber to pivot and toss the throwing knife she had strapped to her thigh.

However, the man she had thrown the knife at had blocked it with a thick paperback novel. He wasn't bothered as he rotated the novel and pulled the knife from the cover.

"Shame..." He said flatly, placing the knife on a side table and inspecting the damaged book, "I was really getting into that. Did you know, that in chapter three, they confess their love for each other? In my opinion, that's a little early in their relationship. That, or the author skipped a few steps..."

Saber's expression changed from surprise to confused and annoyed as she watched the man place the novel next to the knife. 

"I could've hit you with that, you know... What are you doing here, Blade?" Saber asked, turning back to her liquor cabinet and opening a bottle of vodka, pouring it into a glass, "Dad send you here to keep tabs on me again?"

"No, he didn't send me..." Blade replied, standing and grabbing a briefcase as he approached and sat next to her at the counter, "I came here because I've noticed a lot of strange things coming from your branch of the company. Such as large amounts of company funds being transferred to your finances. Why are there records of a transfer of one hundred million dollars to a land owner and a high-end renovation company in Arizona?"

Saber drank the vodka and looked at Blade sternly.

"That's nothing for you to worry about." She stated, rinsing the glass and putting it away.

"Um, yeah... It is something for me to worry about, Saber." Blade retorted, opening the briefcase which was actually a laptop, "Look at this. Hundred million, forty million, three million... All in the span of three months. You've been spending company money, our family's hard earned money, on non-essential things. I came here to ask my twin sister; why?"

"Like I said, nothing for you to worry about."

Saber began walking out of the kitchen only to feel her brother grab her wrist forcefully. Looking down at the invasive hand and following the arm up to Blade's face, Saber saw the irritation written on his face. 

"Didn't you learn last time you pulled a stunt like this and got caught?" Blade asked as Saber ripped her wrist out of his grip, "I can keep some things quiet, but not everything... You already lost your seat on the Board. You're lucky to still have employment at LEGION, because you're the boss's daughter."

"Yeah and your my brother who keeps pestering me about it." Saber replying, glaring at Blade, "Don't forget, if I get in trouble, you're going with me. Because, after all, you're Dad's right hand man and should be on top of everything that happens."

"That's where you're wrong."

Closing the laptop and clamping it shut, Blade stepped out of the kitchen and walked to the front door. Curious to know what he meant, Saber followed her brother for a brief moment.

"I tried to do this the easy way, Saber..." Blade stated, grabbing his jacket from the coatrack and putting it on, "But, seeing how you won't tell me what you're doing, or why you've spent so much money, I have no choice but to revoke your access to company resources. I'll keep what you've already done off the books and keep them quiet. But, that'll be all you're given."

"You don't have the authority to do that!" Saber seethed through gritted teeth, "Everything I've been doing has been for the benefit of the family and humanity! Only Dad could authorize such an action!"

"You don't get it, do you?! Everything you've done has made the company look bad or nearly driven it into the ground! Including stuff done before this little stunt of yours. I'm done covering for you. So, be thankful I'm giving you this much slack!"

There was a pause as both siblings felt the tension between them become worse.

"You have two weeks to get your affairs in order and resign from the company..." Blade sighed, opening the door and being greeted by his personal assistant, who was standing next to a black Rolls Royce Phantom VIII, "I hope you know that this isn't personal, Saber. But, there isn't really any other option."

With that, Blade stepped outside, closing the door behind him and leaving Saber alone. If anyone could see the expression on her face, they'd see the look of anger and pain. Looking down on a table next to her, Saber saw the knife she had thrown at Blade, laying next to the damaged novel. 

"Well then," Saber huffed, sheathing the knife to her thigh again and grabbing her phone, "I'd better get my affairs in order..."

Scrolling through her contacts, her finger landed on Zero's name and tapped it. 

"I just walked through my door, Saber." Zero groaned, answering the call, "Can I at least get an hour or two to sleep?"

"You can sleep on the transport out." Saber countered, quickly rummaging through her closet and finding a large case, "I need you to help me call everyone involved in Project Nexus and tell them to move everything to the Arizona site. If we're going to get it to work, then we need to move now."

Opening the case, Saber found a Katana, a pair of custom made 9mm Beretta handguns, finger-cut gloves, combat boots, and a tactical bulletproof vest. 

"Whoa, wait a minute, Saber!" Zero objected as Saber dressed herself and checked her gear, "What do you mean? Blue Cross isn't done prepping the samples, the equipment we need is only seventy-five percent complete, and we still don't have the gem. We're at least a couple months from getting anything done and ready to move."

"Just get it done, Zero." Saber said, sheathing the sword on her back and holstering the Berettas on her hips, "And contact the flight carrying Twilight Sparkle and tell them to reroute. I'll meet you back at the office in three hours. That should give enough time for us to make some calls and get everything ready to move."

Tapping her phone again, Saber hung up with Zero, before scrolling through her contacts again.
> Chapter 10
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Have you lost your mind?!" Fuse seethed, almost spitting his words in Sunset's face.

All the girls were now at Fuse's hideout, processing the news that Sunset, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack had brought back to them. Of course, it wasn't taken well. However, Fuse was upset for other reasons.

"What else was I supposed to do, Fuse?" Sunset retorted, the two of them glaring at one another, "Just stand there and watch LEGION ride off with my friend?"

"First you steal from them, then you attack them..." Fuse said, before pointing toward the garage where the other girls were sitting, "And now you've invited these strangers into my place, without a second thought. For all you know, they could've been followed here and LEGION could be sending a Predator drone this way!"

"Now you are sounding like the idiot! First of all, LEGION doesn't have Predator drones. The fact that you think they would have those, just makes you seem like some paranoid moron. Second, LEGION doesn't know that you're alive or that they are with me. So, even if they were using any form of surveillance, to LEGION, they'd just be regular civilians."

"But, they are regular civilians and you dragged them into this! Not to mention, you, the cowgirl, and the rainbow chick all chased and shot at them. So, it won't take long for them to put the pieces together."

Walking up to them, almost undetected, Rainbow Dash joined into the conversation.

"Civilians we might be," She said, poking Fuse with an invading index finger, "but we'd go to Hell and back for a sister. We've dealt with things worse than some shady corporate fat ass morons. And don't call me a chick, I hate that."

"Whatever, sweetheart. Clearly you don't know what you're dealing with..." Fuse replied, turning around and taking a seat at his computer screens, "Or, who you're planning on going against."

Tapping several keys, various files appeared on the monitors. But, two were selected and opened. The first contained information on Saber.

"This is Saber Legion." Fuse explained, putting on his glasses and scrolling through the pages, "Her father, Swift Legion, is the CEO and owner of LEGION Technologies, while her twin brother, Blade Legion, is his right-hand man and successor. Originally, both siblings were supposed to take over, but Saber had different ideas for the company, than what her father and brother had. Often, they were ideas that many disagreed with heavily."

"So?" Rainbow questioned, unconvinced and unconcerned by what she heard, "Why should we be worried? She sounds like a rich idealist with no drive."

"No drive? She's got more than drive, she's got training and the knowledge to use it. And acts on her ideas, rather than just sit around and talk about them."

Rainbow held her expression, but even Fuse could see the hesitation and curiosity in her face.

"Saber and Blade were enrolled into a private school when they were fourteen years old and put through various courses." Fuse continued, scrolling to the next page, "However, Saber was the only one of the twins that really showed interest in physical activities and was at the top of her class in jujitsu, fencing, and archery. Blade, however, was more interested in business related subjects. Saber graduated with the highest marks when she was nineteen and joined the military, where she met Ground Zero in a special task force after proving her skills. Even learning more deadly ones. From her record, she was an excellent fighter. But, she was court-marshaled and dishonorably discharged for knocking out her CO."

"Any idea why she did?" Sunset asked, scanning the pages.

"No. After that, she just went home and started working for the company. The records surrounding the incident have been either locked away or erased."

"Who's Ground Zero?" Rainbow asked, leaning in closer.

By this time, the other girls had joined them and were listening and reading the various facts about the pair.

"Ground Zero's story isn't a great one." Fuse replied, closing Saber's file and opening Zero's, "His mother was killed by his father in a domestic dispute when Zero was seven. Obviously, that lead to his father being arrested and leaving Zero to child services, since he had no other relatives to look after him. He was placed in foster care, but was labeled as a 'troubled child' because he'd act out his emotions. Often, anger. As he got older, Zero fell into a life on the streets. One day, he got into a fight with several people, killing three of them and injuring two others. Leading to his own arrest. However, while he was in prison, he was offered a chance to earn his freedom... By joining a special task force..."

Fuse paused as he let the words sink into the girls minds. Clearly, these two people were far more dangerous than they initially figured.

"Obviously, the same task force as Saber." Applejack stated, crossing her arms as she looked at Zero's prison mugshot, "But, this still don't answer why they took Twilight?"

"Maybe they plan on using her to lure us out?" Rainbow added, looking over at Sunset, "What are the odds of us making a fair trade? We give them what they want and we get Twilight?"

Sunset stared into the eyes of Saber's picture, seeing the dark voids of her pupils trying to burn a hole into the redhead's thoughts.

"Saber isn't much of a trader." Fuse answered for Sunset, closing the files, "She's more of an 'all sales are final and no witnesses to ask questions' kind of person."

Being pulled from her glaring contest with Saber's photo, Sunset stepped out of the monitor room and plopped down on the recliner from before. One by one, the others joined her, each looking more unsure of what needed to happen. But, the sound of Rarity's voice broke the silence.

"Do they know about our secret?" Rarity asked, gently grasping the geode that hung around her neck for emphasis.

Sunset glanced down at the geode and noticed that it wasn't the deep purple color that she remembered. Instead, it was a shiny black, like somebody had dipped it in oil. Without realizing it, Sunset's hand felt around her neck, looking for her geode. However, it wasn't there and Rarity noticed. 

"Where's yours?" Rarity asked, making Sunset stop her search.

Sunset looked around at the others, seeing the blackened geodes around their necks. 

"I gave mine away..." Sunset replied, suddenly feeling out of place.

Applejack glared down at Sunset, standing tall and crossing her arms in disapproval. 

"These ain't just souvenirs that you give out freely, Sunset." The farmer stated, grasping her geode and holding it out, "They are dangerous and shouldn't be taken lightly by anyone who don't know how to use them."

At that moment, Sunset stood up from her seat and narrowed her eyes at Applejack. 

"They're not dangerous if they don't work." Sunset replied, looking down at Applejack's geode and seeing a black crystal, "Does yours work, AJ? Or, is it just for decoration now?" 

Applejack reeled slightly at that, but she held her composure. 

"I didn't think so..." Sunset sighed, walking passed the cowgirl.

"Who'd ya give it to?" Applejack asked, trying not to raise her voice, turning to watch Sunset.

This, however, made Sunset stop and turned around to face the group, making her hesitate and almost lose her thoughts. But, she quickly recovered and looked around at the others, seeing the same question in their eyes. 

"We'd better get some rest, we're leaving tomorrow at noon." Sunset said, avoiding the question, "Plenty of time to get ourselves put together for the drive. And, to say your farewells."