> Horror At Sandstone Manor > by WinterStormed > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The sprawling 170 mile-long estate of the Canter villa was located at the outskirts of Maritime bay in the surrounding forest. Conceived by Phyllis herself, the richest mare, no, the richest pony in the bay, it is considered the crown jewel and highlight of the coastal town. Complete with 5 square pony-made lakes and gardens bursting with the most beautiful of flowers and the tallest of trees, Canter Villa was more of a humble castle rather than an estate. Hitch stood still at the foot of the mile-long path. Beyond the detailed intricately designed gate, slightly ajar, stood the magnificent residence that rose on a meadow in the distance. The sheriff sighed."There's one way of getting exercise in the morning but I guess it will be worth it." He was right of course. Last night's surprise visitor sparked an interest, something he would like to share with his deputy now. This morning though he may be still sleeping. Lazy butt. Sprout originally rented a flat. Intriguing, since his Mummy, Phyllis did not force him out of the manor nor was it out of hatred Sprout left. That colt was a 100% Mama's foal. Well, he ended back here anyway due to hmmm...destruction of a lighthouse and wage cuts. Hitch at first protested about the unfair punishment for Sprout but he was outvoted by the council. Unsurprisingly, Sprout's mother voted for the wage cuts, forcing him to come back home. Hitch gave a small yawn as the Goliath of home came into view. Four stories tall and at least seventy meters long, the smooth grey stone wall being illuminated by the rising sun. "Please be awake." Hitch pressed the doorbell, hoping Sprout would open the door. He was anxious. After all, a possible lead to a mysterious case would send any pony with the jitters. Hitch sighed as he rang the doorbell for the second time. "Celestial dammit Sprout! Wake your lazy butt already." The inside lights were just now coming on. Hitch wore a worried expression. "Hope I did not wake Phyllis." A loud thud emanated from the building, the sound of some pony tumbling down a staircase. Hitch made a small smile accompanied by a breath of relief. "That's Sprout alright." Hitch waited for a few seconds before the door swung open from within. A grumpy and tired Sprout stood before him wearing pink bunny slippers on his front hooves and a facial expression that left no doubt that he was annoyed by Hitch's presence here. "I swear by the stars Hitch, If this is about another cat stuck on a tree so celestial light help me I am-" Hitch shoved the small box into Sprout's hooves. He decided it was best to show it to him because honestly, it conveyed everything that Hitch wanted to say. Sprout looked at the box curiously in his hooves. "And what I suppose to with this? " "Open it, it will explain why I came to ruin your beauty sleep." Sprout rolled his eyes as he opened the box, his face turning pale as his gaze fell on the object. "P-p-please tell me this is a joke." Hitch sighed as he entered the premises. "No, I'm afraid after you and the rest of the girls left, Zipp arrived." "You mean Princess Pits sister ?" Hitch gave him a deadpan look."Pipp." "Whatever." The sheriff did not argue. "Anyway," continued Hitch."She arrived late due to wolf attacks on the road, thankfully she was protected by her royal guard." Sprout raised an eyebrow. "Guard or Guards ?" There was no way a single guard could fend off the wolves of the forest. They always hunted in packs of four or more. "Not only that," said Hitch, breaking Sprout from his stupor. "He also said the wolves were made up of wood and bark." "It seems your new friend got a screw loose ." Hitch rolled his eyes. "My point Sprout is that the royal guard Anemo Blade is our chance of solving this case !" Sprout yawned as he plopped down onto the sofa. "Let me guess, this Anemo blade character had metal feathers lined on his wings thus saving Princess Zit from the ravaging wooden wolves." "Exactly !," said Hitch excitedly as he opened the box again, not realizing what Sprout said. "It proves my theory of this strange metal object," Hitch revealed another feather which was presumably the guards. Sprout gave an annoyed expression. He remembered that day quite vividly. There was blood, lots of it. Besides the gory setting of the case and the finding of a single metal feather as the only tangible evidence of a blood bath, Hitch proposed that it was some sort of weapon while Sprout it was a metal-monster-pony-eater-bird. "My theory was way cooler," grumbled the red pony. "I guess you're right." Sprout pointed towards the greenish feather. "But remember this metal feather you have of this Anemo-guard looks similar to the one found at the crime scene." Sprout held the metal feather closely. "This one is far more detailed and intricate, you could mistake it for a real feather if it was not for that unusual shine. Another difference is this feather is a mixture of green and blue while the latter was a carbon black spike that is more streamlined." Hitch nodded, impressed how Sprout has come so far. The padawan has finally become a Jedi...yeah right. "Go on, what does it tell us about the ponies wielding these two different weapons." Sprout's gaze fell on the floor, deep in thought, before raising his head. The black spike-feathers belong to a pony who prefers direct combat since it is obvious to the naked eye. I am guessing that these were used more for stabbing and possibly as projectiles." "Projectiles ?" "Yes, Projectiles," said a smug Sprout. "The design literally scream's it and the fact that outside the house was littered with holes that match the size of this feather." "Your guess is all and good Sprout except the fact that only one metal feather was found, which was found on the other side of the house, far away from where the holes were ." "Yeah, yeah thanks for ruining my theory." Hitch grinned."Stop whining and carry on with your analysis." The red pony rolled his eyes. "Let's skip this feather to this much more fancy one. Off the bat you can tell this feather is quality made most probably belonging to a pony with a wealthy backing and in our case the Pegasus kingdom. It is easily hidden which conveys that the pony is more for surprise attacks rather than a direct attack. Presumably a bodyguard, spy, or an assassin..." Sprout's eyes widened. "Hitch! Princess Zit is going to be -" Hitch rolled his eyes. "Zipp." He corrected. "He is not an assassin Sprout. He is part of an elite squad of queen Haven." The Deputy looked at the Sheriff incredulously. "How can you be sure? For all, we know he lied to y-" "He had proof of his rank and Zipp verified it as well. I also explained the case to him as well as the feathers. He should have been here, he agreed to us here to discuss the case." "You What !?" Sprout rubbed his head, all that thinking, and processing of theories gone down the toilet. "Then what was the point of our discussion ?" "Simple, I was testing your deduction skills. Now hold your horses, Anemo said he would meet us here. We just need to wait for a bit." Sprout looked at the huge grandfather clock next to the fireplace. He was not sure how long they going to wait, It was still very early in the morning. "Want a cup of tea ?" Now, why does he have to open his mouth? The door reverberated with the sounds of hurried hooves. Leaving his cup of tea behind with Hitch, Sprout walked towards the door. "It seems your Pegasus friend is an early bird as well...Hey! Hitch, stop drinking my tea !" "Sorry !" Sprout sighed as Hitch continued to drink his tea. "Let's hope he's not a tea fanatic as well." The open door revealed darkish lime Pegasus. "Good morning Deputy Sprout, Sheriff Hitch asked for me at this location to discuss the Rosewood manor case." Sprout stared at him, baffled at what he saw. "What the hay happened to your neck !" Anemo sat down on the couch opposite Sprout with Hitch on a separate couch at the side. The elite royal guard avoided their gazes. "Anemo," Hitch said in concern. "What happened to your neck ?" "They are." Anemo took a pause. "Bite marks." " Was it a monster? Were you attacked on your way here ?" Sprout was worried. If the said monster was in the gardens. It will take the whole day to search that place. Stupid mother nature. Hitch shook his head looking at the wound. "The bite marks resemble that of a pony." Sprout laughed at Hitch's deduction. "Are you serious Hitch? Why would a-" "The sheriff is correct," sighed Anemo, his cheeks tinged red. Sprout looked at him surprised while Hitch raised an eyebrow, not liking the change of color on the Pegasus face. This conversation better not be what I think it is. "Are those-" "N-N-No !," said Anemo quickly, his guard-like demeanor crumbling."It is not a lov-" "Ha !," Sprout said unaware Hitch rolling his eyes. "You were pony napped by a pony cannibal! That explains why you got those bite marks on your neck. The cannibal tried to drink your blood but you escaped! Bravo, my good stallion !" Anemo gave him a confused look. "Don't you mean vampire ?" Hitch hit his head on the table. "Seriously? Vampire or cannibal, it does matter, or Sprouts movie-inspired theory. What matters is who did this to you ?" Anemo looked at Sprout and Hitch. "Princess Zipp." "W-What !" Anemo sighed as his expression turned into a sad one. "Around two hours ago the princess and I discussed a...personal matter. It did not end well, with her going back to her bedroom. She refused my help to get her upstairs and forbid me from my post by her door. Having nothing to do but to obey the princess's instructions I stayed downstairs until Sunny arrived." Hitch looked surprised. "What do you mean arrived ?" "I do not know, it was too early in the morning for any of the shops to be open and I did enquire where she was." "Did she tell you ?" "No, except that it was something important. She looked off and that was when everything started to become strange. Very strange." Hitch and Sprout gave him a puzzled expression. "Strange ?" "Yes, strange. Sunny kept asking about Sheriff Hitch, asking questions such as where he was or who he was with. She was becoming hysterical. She was one of the reasons why I arrived late." Sprout rolled his eyes. "Your definition of late is very different from my definition." The sheriff woke up, his expression worried. "What was the other reason ?" Anemo took a deep breath, calming himself down. "Just as suddenly Sunny became hysterical, she reverted to her normal self and having no recollection of what happened moments ago. While trying to process what was going on, Sunny and I heard loud sobbing upstairs, where the Princess was. I immediately rushed upstairs and when I open the door... I-I-I-I-I..." "And ?" pressed Hitch. Anemo looked at them, the fresh memory replaying... "Princess are you okay !" Anemo ruched towards the crying princess as she clutched a pillow tightly. She did not respond. The elite guard was worried as he drew near towards the hysterical form on the bed. As soon he was by her side she stopped crying. "Princess? Are you-" Anemo deflected the wing hit from the princess, shocked. "Princess what are you- mphfffff !" the green Pegasus eyes opened wide as the princess kissed him full on the lips, not letting go as her hooves enveloped around his body tightly, latching him in. The princess was very athletic and strong but Anemo was stronger, breaking free, Anemo instantly bolted out of the bed, gaping at the princess in stupefaction. Her eyes were glazed and puffy as she stared back at him. "Anemo," Zipp sang, in a soft voice as she got out of the bed, walking towards the door. Sealing it shut. "Ah, now we have some priv-" "Z-Z-Zipp." Anemo for the first time in his life was uncertain of what to do. "What are you doing !?" The green Pegasus backed away from the forthcoming Princess. Zipp pouted. "Awww why are you frightened of me ?" Directly the princess pounced on Anemo, who luckily side rolled to the left. "Zipp, cease this madness !" Anemo was trapped in a corner. Zipp wore a vexed expression, her eyes glowing a slight red. "I love you Anemo! But you do not repay it! Rather, you go for my Sister! Do you mock me like all the guards behind my back? Sympathy for the least popular princess !!?" Anemo's ears flatten. "No, Zipp. I love you. I really do. But your mother has arranged the marriage-" "I do not bucking care what my mother said or did! I do not care about your deceitful claims of love !" Zipp was tearing up, her breathing becoming heavier. "Since you do not love me, I will make you love me! Venti Anemo blade I order you to embrace me !" Anemo stood unmoving. It was his obligation to obey her highness, Queen Haven, regardless of the morality of the order or whether it will affect him personally. But since her highness assigned him to Zipp..... Anemo drooped his head in guilt as he walked slowly towards the smiling princess. Zipp grasped Anemo tightly, nuzzling his neck. The green Pegasus eyes were shut. "Venti ?" "Yes, my princess ?" "Remember the Dark ages? Did we not learn about it during the history classes? " "Yes, I do remember." "The mares use to brand their stallions to show their ownership of them. Some used collars, others used clothes but every mare had their unique brand." Anemo stiffen as he felt her muzzle close to his ear. "Please Z-Zipp. I Love you. Don't do this." Zipp ignored him. "If you are going to be married to Pipp then I don't mind. As long as she knows I had first try..." "... and that is how I got the bite marks, luckily Sunny managed to open the with a spare key, distracting the princess just enough for me to break free. For some reason she could not leave the room though, the door was left ajar. she snapped out of it and here I am." The three ponies sat in silence, forgetting the reason why they were meeting in the first place. Hitch stood up. "I should go and check on Sunny." "No, sheriff, It will make the situation worse." Hitch shot Anemo an annoyed look. "How can it make it worse ?" Sprout turned pale as realization dawned upon him. "Oh no." Anemo looked at Sprout in concern. "Deputy-" "We doomed." Sprout said in a whisper. "I'm doomed." "Sprout, you not making sense." "Don't you numbskulls get it? Sunny became hysterical when Hitch is mentioned, who she loves. Zipp loves Anemo and she became berserk with rage when she found out about your marriage a-a-and Izzy...she's in the house." Hitches eyes widened. "How is she in your mum's house !?" Sprout shivered. "Well, the party last night ended very late and Izzy planned on leaving early this morning and so.....I offered her to stay at my place for the night." Anemo took a deep breath. "Calm down. As you said yourself it is only affecting mares who are in love and since Hitch did mention when I first met him that you only met her yesterday evening right ?" Hitch and Anemo looked at Sprout, unconsciously begging. "Right ?" Sprout looked at them. "L-Last night after I made tea for her, all of a sudden she began to act weird. Her magic became brighter and her movement became more sloppy like she was drunk and then all of a sudden she became normal.... and she confessed her love for me." "ARE YOU BUCKING SERIOUS! It was literary one afternoon !" Hitch said while Anemo's eyes began to dart across the room. "How am supposed to know what is love! ," Sprout shot back. "I was so shocked I did not know what to say and so I-" Anemo's fur went on end. "Please tell me you said yes." Hitch's heart stopped. "I-I-I told her that I will think about it." Sprout said going into panic mode. "She was sad at first but said she understood, she then again began to act strangely before going to bed. I gave her my room and I slept in one of the guest's rooms." "Sprout, is she still here ?" Hitch asked. The red pony nodded. "She's still here." Anemo unfurled his wings. "Then we better hurry before-" The green Pegasus voice was cut short as all the curtains magically closed and lights turned off. Turning the whole mansion into a pool of inky darkness. Sprout gulped. "We too late." "Calm down Sprout, we got this," said Hitch. "Hitch is right," added Anemo."Since the unicorn is after you, you stay between us." The elite guard gazed at the barely visible staircase. "We going to have to go upstairs." Anemo stretched his wings, the blades glinting in the darkness. "Hey elite spud, we trying to subdue her not kill her." "Do not worry Sheriff, these weapons are harmless until I activate them. Although containing the unicorn is going to be a total ball game." Sprout having calmed down, understood what Anemo was saying. Izzy was a unicorn. Unicorns have magic. Dammit. The trio reached Sprout's room door. Anemo tried to open the door. "The doors lock, I am going to have to break in." Sprout waved a hoof nervously. "Do it, I was going to replace it anyway." Anemo knocked down the door as Hitch and Sprout followed, entering the well-lit room. "Geez Sprout, your room is bigger than the entire house !" Hitch eyes swept around the room and on the bed was- "My little Sprout !" "I-Izzy ?" Sprout looked at the unicorn, his cheeks tinged with pink. "Geez! What's with the pose" Anemo said, turning his face. "I cannot unsee that," said Hitch rubbing his eyes. "Izzy are you okay." "No, she's not." Gulped Sprout. "Look at her eyes, it is glowing red a bit !" Izzy pouted. "Awww Sprouty is nervous with his friends are around. Do not worry, let me get rid of them for you." "Izzy, stop !" Sprout's pleading was dismissed as Izzy levitated Hitch and Anemo from the ground. "Oooh, you a strong one !" Izzy chuckled, looking at the green pegasus before grunting. "A bit too strong." Anemo growled as struggled in the aura. "There's no way I am going to be bested by a mere civvie !" Izzy gave Anemo a disapproving look. "It seems somepony needs a bit of fresh air to calm down." Anemo was sent through the window, 4 stories down, the pane shattering into pieces. "Anemo !" Shouted Sprout and Hitch. The sheriff and deputy's hearts stopped for a second before they heard the sound of beating wings. Fortunately, Anemo came busting through the broken window, landing by the two. "Thank the light you okay," sighed Sprout. "I had no idea how to explain to my mummy why there was a dead bodyguard in her front yard." Hitch rolled his eyes as he punched Anemo's shoulder lightly. "Sprout does not mean it, he's very insecure." Anemo chuckled."Yeah, I know." Sprout sputtered at the two. "I am not insecure! ...I just have these feelings of not being good enough and an outlook of uncertainty." "Bro, that's the definition of an insecure pony. " "Enough of this !" Izzy said, looking at the trio talking to each, ignoring her completely. "What you going to do Unicorn ?" Anemo said, his head held high. "Throw fireballs at us ?" "Eh, guys, why is her eyes glowing again," Hitch said, pointing the obvious. "You had to act high and mighty ." Sprout said as he hid behind a chair. Anemo looked at the unicorn as her horn began to glow a bright orange before casting a fireball. Hitch side rolled, the firey projectile missing him by an inch. "Sprout, you never mentioned she could shoot fireballs !" "How am I suppose to know !" said Sprout carrying an extinguisher. "I met her yesterday !" Anemo dodged another fireball. "What the hay are you doing with a fire extinguisher !?" "I am not having my room burn to a crisp! Besides my mummy is going to kill me !" Anemo quickly tried to formulate a plan while Hitch was busy dodging Izzy's fireballs. Gotcha. "Sprout !" Sprout popped his head from his hiding place. "Yes !?" "I have a plan !" "Well, it's about tim-" "You going to have to give yourself to Izzy. " Sprout looked at the guard funny. "Are you mad !?" "Sprout !" shouted Hitch as he dodged another fireball. "He's right! Listen to him !" Anemo nodded at Hitch. He noticed as well. Sprout took a big gulp. With friends like these, I will end up dead before the end of the day. "Izzy " Sprout walked slowly towards the bed. The unicorn immediately stopped her spell. Anemo and Hitch looked on nervously as Sprout sat at the edge of the bed. Sprout held his breath as Izzy clutched him, coddling his chest. He did not know what to do. Sure he had a crush on Izzy, his first crush ever, but it just formed yesterday. Also, the Izzy in front of him was nothing like her original self. The feeling of her warm coat was gone and her sparkling eyes of hope and security were gone too. This was wrong. "Izzy." Sprout said. Pushing her away. "Stop." Sprout regretted what he said when her eyes began to glow again. "What did you say to me ?" S he said in a deadly whisper. oh, buck. "Maybe a quick session of ....cuddling will change your attitude." Sprout did not like how she said cuddling."Guys, whatever the plan is do it now !" Izzy grabbed him, forcing her lips onto his. She then pushed him against the mattress. Things were getting serious. Somepony, help me !!! . Sprout abruptly felt somepony pulling him off the bed with Izzy in tow. Sprout hit the floor hard with Izzy on top of him. "Whew !" sighed Hitch. "It's over." "Thank the night," added Anemo. "So that was your plan," said Sprout as he gently move Izzy by his side, realizing the reasoning for throwing him off the bed with Izzy... Anemo nodded. "The unicorn refused to get out of the bed throughout the entire time, similar to the Princess who did not leave the room after I stepped out of the door." "It's as if the effect is only active within a radius," said Sprout. "That means there be a source or an activating agent- " "Found it !". Hitch crawled from under the bed. "Be careful." Anemo cautiously said. "We do not know if it will affect the unicorn again." "Got it." Nodded Hitch. He looked at it. "Hmmm, a blood-red rose....looks familiar....." "R-R-R-Rosewood manor," said Sprout as he clenched his eyes, the images flooding his mind. Blood, so much of blood. Anemo looked at Sprout concerned. "Hitch, What manor is Sprout talking about ?" Hitch sighed as he placed the rose on the dresser table. "It's the case that we were supposed to discuss with you." "It's seem's that your case's Killer is still alive." Hitch picked up the rose while Sprout was already taking Izzy downstairs. The hospital was where they were heading. To treat Izzy and get the rose analyzed and tested for any foreign substance. The sheriff looked at Anemo."Let's hope not." Sprout yawned. It was around midday currently as he waited outside the hospital with Anemo. Hitch already gave them the news about the rose and the girls: Izzy, Suppy, and Zit. The rose contained a substance. A name that Sprout could not pronounce accelerates a mares heat cycle and...some other stuff that got to do with lust. Whoever did this is a pervert. "Hey, guys." Hitch said."I met with the girls, they decided that they would be going to Zephyr heights until everything is sorted out." Anemo sighed. "I'm afraid this is where we part ways." "What! " Sprout was having none of this. "You are the only thread that's holding this case otherwise we have nothing which excludes the serial pervert killer on the loose." Anemo shook his head. "I am an elite guard. My sole purpose is to protect her highness. The reason why I am even in Maritime Bay was that the Queen ordered it. Now since the princess is leaving I have to leave as well...I have so much apologizing to do, especially to Zip- I mean the princess" "Oh. That's the reason ?" Anemo looked at Hitch. "Yes." "Okay, then let me go ask her then." Hitch then went back into the hospital. "I'm getting a feeling he hit his head at your place." Sprout stretched. "Nah, Hitch is serious. I saw Queen Haven entering the hospital. In fact, she is right behind you." Anemo rolled his eyes. "Nice try deputy. But her majesty-" "Anemo Venti Blade. " Oh no. > Chapter 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The air was sterile of smell quite possibly and thoroughly filtered by that robot pony the doctors and nurses here call " Janitor". Anemo scrunched his nose, the thick smell permeating at close range, his hooves drenched with sanitiser liquid. Maybe he used bleach instead ? Though slightly miffed when the stallion immediately barked at him for not cleaning his hooves before entering the hospital Anemo admired his dedication to his job. Extremely commendable. The four walls of the room were unbelievably white giving the room a well-lit appearance despite the only light source was the resultant of a single massive window pane which was accepting the sun's early rays. The single bed was professionally adjusted with the prose of a skilled artist, it's direction facing the crystal clear pane which in turn faced the vast ocean. The blue duvet, at the front right corner was folded in a neat triangle with the inner blanket in the same pose but proportionately smaller. Anemo examined the triangular folds, perceiving the exact inch difference spacing between the two folds. Anemo gave a slight nod, impressed by the uttermost degree of perfection. The pony responsible could easily be qualified to work in the blades family mansion. This hospital was first class. Anemo set forth a hacking cough, his eyes watering. There were no windows to bring in the soothing sea breeze. Only the ventilated air circulated within the hospital was needed to give oxygen. Anemo stood still in his ' guard ' posture by the bedside. He already bored himself with the notes of details of the room, waiting already for an hour since her majesty, Queen Haven, informed him to wait for her here. Her majesty did say that she would arrive in one hour, no doubt wanting to see Princess Zipp first. Anemo closed his eyes, replaying the scene that unfolded at the lighthouse. He never experienced such feelings before. The way the princess looked at him. Helpless to do anything but give in as his oath engraved in stone states. To obey the command of the Royal family without a hesitant second. The royal guard and the elite guard principles were not based on morality but stability. Stability of the nation, of the monarchy. At first it did not bother him. He knew the Royal family well enough. They were morally correct. But for the first time, after Princess Zipp, he felt something stir in his heart. Rebellion ? Anemo perked his head slightly higher as he heard the creak of the painted door. Hmm-mm. It seems they need to oil the hinges. Emerging from the door, as expected, was Queen Haven and two royal guards flanked by her side. Anemo recognised the two. They were the ones bickering about Princess Pipp's security before he left for Maretime Bay. He refrained from glaring at them, they faces painted with an ugly smirk. The green Pegasus sighed inwardly. It seems I will be having an audience, watching how the Queen berates me. "Leave us." Her tone was surprisingly neutral but her eyes were telling a different tale. She was furious. The guards left, still plastered with their stupid smirks, knowing full well that he might be executed or worse , demoted. There was silence. He dared not to look at her Majesty. He almost swore her earlier and left Princess Zipp, her daughter, unattended in the morning and not to forget that she was drugged and hypnotised. "I am disappointed Venti Anemo Blade." Her voice was concise and clear, edged with anger. Anemo felt his chest constrict. A simple sentence to make him feel absolutely pathetic. "You have failed to prevent any harm coming to Princess Zipp and left her, disregarding my absolute instructions I briefed you before you departed." The Elite guard felt something else, something he never felt for a long time. Shame. "As punishment, you are hereby stripped from your captaincy of the Elite Royal guard and the Royal guard as a whole" Anemo was shell shocked. His posture breaking as lifts his head up at the furious Queen. "Your citizenship has been revoked and you are hereby banished from the Pegasus kingdom" Anemo could not believe what he was hearing, his eyes wide. "Y-Y-Your High-" Anemo felt the blow as it came across his cheek, spilling blood. The Queens metal horses hoe peppered with droplets of blood. He saw it coming. But did not stop it. "I know what you did." The Queen growled, her voice shaking with anger. "Zipp told me everything." Anemo gave a confused look. "Personally, I wanted to execute you but that would reveal to the public that you molested my daughter !" Another blow came, connecting to his cheek. Anemo was speechless. "I-I-I-I would never-" "Remove you armour and your wing blades." Queen Haven said coldly. Anemo looked at her Majesty, painful emotions swirling around him. Did Zipp lie ? "Venti Anemo Blade, are you refusing a direct order from the monarchy ?" Anemo removed his wing blades and slowly took of his single neck armour piece, his pride and joy. He gently placed it on the floor. Anemo picked his head slowly as he returned to his standing state. Anemo peaked his head to see the Queen staring at his neck. He looked down. The bite marks. They were still very visible and a slight pain every time he moved his neck. Anemo wanted to speak, to clear his name but he thought better. A word of a princess is higher than that of a no-pony, as of now. The Queen opened her mouth to speak only to be interrupted by the sound of a rushed creaking noise, The door slamming upon the entry of two ponies. "Hey Anemo ! See, I told you we would find him here." Sprout scowled at the Sheriff. "Yeah, whatever." Sprout looked at Anemo's bloodied face and then at Queen Haven. "Hey, old mare did you hit him in the face ?" Anemo stared in shock as he saw Sprout blatantly and casually call the Queen of an Empire, an old mare. Hitch hooved his shoulder. "Owww ! What was that for ? Are you not surprised how this mare manage to punch the elite royal guard ?" Anemo sighed. "I am no longer a guard, Deputy Sprout" Hitch's and Sprout's eyes widen. "What ? How !? " Sprout pointed at the wound on Anemo's neck after frowning at the Queen. "Is it because the Royal family is scared what ponies would think if they found out Zit tried to ra-" Before I could shut him up, Hitch beat me to it. "I am so sorry for disturbing you Queen Haven" Hitch said, apologetic as held a struggling Sprout, not noticing Haven's shell shocked expression. "If you do not mind I need Anemo, since he is no longer in your service I really do need him in mine." Hitch motioned Anemo to follow him as he and Sprout disappeared through the door. Anemo gazed at the Queen who was in turn staring at him. He could see the dawn of realisation but it was too late. If word got out that the princess did such an act. It would destabilise the whole nation. Either way, he was going to pinned with the blame. Anemo stared at the door before making his decision. He never looked back once as he left the room. > Chapter 3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wrong. Nothing was adding up. Dissonant chords of events have transpired, the mystery becoming an enigma. What is going on ? Hitch sighed as he sat on the bench, next to a snoring Sprout. At first the entirety of evidence pointed to the Rosewood case. The centre binding of it all being the single metal feather. At the time, when Venti agreed to visit and comply at Sprout's place, he 'tasted'' the connection. The Pegasus were definitely involved. It was just the matter of ' to what extent '. But then, the whole caboodle came crashing down. Anemo's disturbing tale that transpired in company with Zipp, prior to his arrival did stow the case away, albeit the details he spoke of were eerily similar to how Sunny acted towards him that very night Anemo and Zipp arrived. Following Izzy's stunt at Sprout's place it became clear that this whole situation was a ball of tangled lines pointing to nowhere. Hitch momentarily winced, his head already a steaming train. Was the Rosewood Manor case connected to these incidents ? Or were they two completely different mysteries ? Okay. The Rosewood Manor case. Case Report Summary : Couple found dead and badly burnt near fireplace. Assumed to be an accident as remains of oil- like substance used to start fires. Reasons to support such theory : The whole Living room was scorched since most items were flammable. Doubts on Theory : The path of the fire seemed to be obstructed by unknown means. By right and by principle the fire should have engulfed the entire Manor. Also on the Victim bodies, although hard to identify due to extreme burns the coroner stated in his report that it would not be incorrect to assume that certain markings of the body were of deep bite marks.....and that according to all of the wounds that they were most likely tortured to death. The Sheriff closed his eyes shut as he tried to get rid of the image out of his head. Recalling when the coroner conveyed his suspicions on what happened...it gave him the chills. Sprout actually vomited. It was his first 'real' case. He was also there at the scene.....heavens the smell of burnt flesh.... There was not much to go besides the strange like needles found outside, confirming that there were third parties involved, most likely Pegasus. There were no suspects, the couples daughter, Moon Light, had a solid alibi. She was seen, multiple reports of her, at the movies theatre when it happened. Now the confusing parts. Sunny, Izzy and Zipp. Sunny became crazy possessive when he spoke with Pipp at the party but eventually calmed down when he explained it to her. Izzy on the other hoof was turned down by Sprout before she went crazy. Zipp....well he did not know what was going on between her and Anemo but the way he recounted his encounter foretold that Zipp was madly in love with Anemo but was possibly turned down as well. A Light bulb went off as Hitch perked up at his discovery. Love ! All three scenarios had something to do with Love. Hitch stopped his train of thought. He knew it had something to do with love but why did it feel...off ? Hitch groaned as he massaged his temples. "I think that's enough for now." He muttered. There was the Black rose too. It was familiar for some reason. He could not put a hoof on it but he had a nagging feeling that he was not going to like the revelation when he remembers. All in all, he is force to conclude that there is no connection between these three incidents with the Rosewood Manor case.....for now. Hitch perked up when he heard the ding of the sliding doors of the hospital opening. "Sprout !" The sheriff said, tapping his shoulder. "Anemo's out of the hospital. We got to go." Sprout yawned, his eyes still closed shut. "Five more minutes Mommy, just Five more Minutes and I will cook breakfZzzzzzzzzzzzzz." Hitch rolled his eyes as he brought his mouth to his ear.If this was not going to wake him then nothing will . " SPROUT WAKE UP !" Sprout shot up straight. "I'm Awake ! Geez....." The deputy scowled at Hitch. "Couldn't you just tap my shoulder or something ?" Hitch shook his head as he chuckled lightly. "Come on. Anemo is approaching us. We need to continue this investigation at once ." Sprout immediately groaned. "Uggggghhhh ! Why can't we continue this troublesome work tomorrow ? " Hitch wagged his hoof. "No Sprout, as a great pony once said. What you can do tomorrow, do it today and what you can do today, do it now." Sprout sighed, no doubt hearing the same advice countless of times. "Ohhhhhhh, I hate Mondays. Let's go Mr Perfect. I'll die of old age by the time that snail comes here." Hitch smirked at the Deputy. "I'll take that as a compliment." They proceeded towards Anemo. Hitch knew Anemo was troubled. His face conveyed as much. "Hi Anemo. I take it you want to continue the investigation ? " Anemo gave a sigh. Hitch did not know what Queen Haven said to him but he did know that he was no longer part of her elite force, his missing wing blades accentuating the point. "Something is not right. He majesty was acting.....not like her self." Hitch gave a puzzle look, no doubt his mind working, and Sprout, well, being Sprout. "I know, right !" Said Sprout matter-of-fact. "Why does she use so much of make up ? I mean even with it on you can tell she's an Old H-mphfff." Hitch gave a sheepish grin towards Anemo. "Sorry Captain but Sprout does not come with a filter......or a mute button." Anemo gave a sad smile. "It's fine. I am no longer in her majesty's service. Though it is offensive, I have no grudge and Please Anemo is fine. " The sheriff smiled brighter. "Only if you call be Hitch. All my friends call me that." "Deal....Hitch." The two shook hooves. "Deputy ? What about you ?" Sprout gave a smug look. "No, I think I will prefer you calling me Deputy." Anemo nodded. "Whatever you say Sprout." Sprout smirked only to realise what he said. "H-H-Hey !" Hitch and Anemo began to laugh at the scowling Sprout, his expression, comedy gold. "Ha,ha,ha,ha. Soooo funn- guys ?" "Y-Yesss." Hitch said as he brushed a tear from his eyes. Sprout pointed his hoof towards the sky behind them. " If the mare we saw in the Hospital was Queen Haven then who the heck is she ?" Both stallions gazed upon the sky. At first glance they were confused. A chariot being carried by dozens of Pegasus guards followed by two squads. They eyes widened in shock. In the chariot stood, appeared to be....Queen Haven.....waving at them. "Captain ! And you two ponies I forgot about !" She shouted from a distance as the chariot descended towards them. "Sorry for all the guards ! I just read Sunny's letter about the situation. " Sunny. Hitch felt a chill in his heart. All the girls were in the hospital ! "Shit." Anemo began to sprint towards the hospital. "Hitch, Sprout ! Explain the situation to her majesty. I'll get the girls !" Hitch looked at his confused Deputy. " Sprout, you heard him. Tell Queen Haven seal all exists to the hospital. No pony must come out !" Sprout sighed as Hitch took off in the direction of Anemo. "Why am I always the one to do the talking ? Ah yes ! How can I forget ? It is due to my eloquent form of conversing with others." Sprout scoffed at the thought as Queen Haven approached. "Yeah right. Eloquent speech my flank." "Yo Granny ! I got some orders for your stallion dolls." ******* > Chapter 4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hitch Trailblazer was is the epitome of patience, understanding and Kindness. His passion for his job combined with his sincerity to help others was what made him so popular in Maretime Bay. But at the present moment, his nature was running on fumes while his patience was running thin and his kindness tank empty . "What do you mean they were never moved ?" The Sheriff’s tone imbued with a light but visible irritation as the Receptionist sweated in his seat. " I personally placed Princess Zipp, Miss Izzy and Sunny to room 3 ! They are not there and now you are telling me I made a mistake !?" Hitch sighed as his anger resided. The receptionist appeared to be close to fainting. "Sorry about that. I'm just a bit... high strung right now. Look, I did check room 3 and they are not there. I even triple checked the whole of the second level." Hitch felt a gust of wind by his side. "Anemo , did you find them ?" Anemo shook his head. "I checked Level 1,2 and 3 and double, triple checked. They seem to have vanished ! Maybe they are in the medical staff apartment's ?" Anemo had a crux. The staff rooms were conjoined to the hospital but it would not make any sense. The cameras were downed but all hospital personnel Hitch and Anemo conversed with, vocalised that there was nothing out of the ordinary. In fact the first floor, where Sunny and the others were located to was the most busiest floor of this very day. "What about that door ?" Anemo pointed at the double doors besides the Elevator. Hitch glanced curiously at them. He did not recall there being any doors there. When was the last time he payed the hospital a visit ? "Unco-operative, where does that lead to ?" "I'm sorry Sheriff but I do not have the clearance to divulge any information about Level 0." Unco-operative gulped. Hitch was screaming internally. "Listen here Unco, I am the sheriff of this town. You are obstructing my obligations to protect and serve. It is a criminal offence." Unco was agitated as he vibrated in fear at the gloomy aura of the two stallions in front of him but he remained unyielding albeit with a nervous tone. "I'm sorry S-S-Sheriff but I can't afford to lose my job, maybe if you co-" "What the hay are you two dawdling at the receptionist ! Did you find Izzy or were your'll trying to make a pony cooperate who's name is literally the opposite of what you two are trying to do ?" "Is he always like this ? " whispered Anemo. "Only when he's worried or upset." Hitch whispered back. "Sprout, you supposed to be with Queen Haven." Sprout waved his hoof. "I gave her the message and she complied and as a reward I gave her a gift." Anemo assigned a suspicious gaze at Sprout. "Sprout what did you do ?" Hitch rolled his eyes. "What type of gift you gave the Queen ?" "You know." Sprout said nonchalantly."Some words of advice although she took it the wrong way." "Care to tell us the advice you gave her majesty." Anemo was bracing himself, it isn't easy to upset her majesty. "Well, I gave her solid advice. " Sprout said with smile conveying a job well done. "I told her that at her age she needs to eat more junk food-" Hitch and Anemo sighed in relief. "- because she needs all the preservatives she can get, I mean with that face- " Anemo lunged at Sprout. "I'm going wring you neck Sprout !" Sprout hid behind Hitch. "Come on Anemo ! I was really sincere. I really meant it this time." Hitch conveyed a pleading look to Anemo. He relented. "Fine. Just stop making fun of her Majesty. It get's under my coat." Sprout rolled his eyes, scoffing. "Fine. Ugh...Nothing is more ball wrecking to self esteem than underappreciated one liners. " Hitch inhaled a copious amount of oxygen. He was feeling jittery. They were wasting time ! "Anemo you go to the Queen and escort her here. Explain the situation but not the case." Hitch could see the conflict in his eyes. "Anemo, please, this is really important. For a friend ?" Anemo was taken aback. Friend ? He never had friends, he was always focus on his training and duty to her majesty. That's how he rose to the top. Dedication. The captain glance at the two earth ponies. No, he did have friends. Two of them. "Yes." Anemo nodded. "For a friend." Hitch watch as he galloped to the exit before turning to Sprout. "Sprout I nee-" "No." Sprout adamantly shook his head. "Nononononononononnono, I am not dealing with that mare again." Hitch sighed. "Come on Sprout ! The hospital surrounded by Pegasus soldiers is definitely not going unnoticed. The reporters are going to attempt to sneak in." "Don't you mean a reporter will try to break in ?" Hitch gave a sad smile. "I know you think I'm giving you lesser tasks but that's not true. You know I always have your back buddy." Sprout grumbled. "Oh, so you playing with that card now. Aarggggg ! Fine I'll do it. But if she does not listen I'm going to throw off the roof. From News Splash to News Splat ! " Hitch chuckled nervously. He doesn't really mean it right ? "Okay." He tapped his shoulder. "Good luck !" Hitch watched him as he went to the exit as well. The Sheriff gazed at the the shiny double- doors. Level Zero. Hitch ignored the protest of the the receptionist as he entered the mysterious level. Actually it was no longer a mysterious. It was exactly like any other level with one long corridor and patient rooms connected to it. Hope rose in his chest. They must be here ! "Time to search !" BLOOD. So much of BLOOD. The ice white room was splattered with red in the form. On the left side of the room laid three mares on hospital beds. They were alive but seem to be in a deep sleep. On the right, propped against the wall was a pony. Stallion. Pegasus. His stomach was ripped open, most probably while he was alive judging by his front hooves bored with deep slashes. Victim’s blood was used to paint the room. His wings were opened wide pinned with long and thin black spikes, three on each wing. Victim was a medical personnel of the hospital judging by his shredded grey coat and bloodied cap. His identification card was nearby. Squeak Clean. The janitor. Victim’s body smelled strongly of chemicals. Hypothesising that victim was forced to drink cleaning agents. Cause of death : Unknown. Too many possibilities'. Hitch gasped for breath, his body was trembling. The scene before him was horrifying but he had to calm down. His heart was settling. The girls were fine, although the black roses tucked behind there ears was giving him the chills. What is he forgetting ? What is the connection ? There was no doubt that this incident is related to the Rosewood case. The enigma was now a mystery. Hitch frowned at the deceased pony. He did not deserve to leave through such, no doubt, horrific and agonising death. He knew the stallion since he was a foal. But as an earth pony not a Pegasus. Hitch jumped in surprise as the door abruptly opened, revealing a sweaty Anemo. “Hitch the Queen i- Good heavens !” The greed Pegasus composure dissipating at an instant. Anemo’s eyes immediately fell towards the girls. “They fine Anemo.” Hitch said as he steadied his breath. “I already checked.” “What the hell happened here !?” Hitch sighed in concern. “My guess is that Squeaky Clean figured out something was wrong and moved the girls to hiding here, without any pony knowing. It seemed that whatever did this. ” Hitch pointed at the body. “Found them.” Hitch then stood right in front of Anemo. His eyes dead centre into his. “Hitch what are yo-” The Sheriff raised his hoof for silence. “Anemo. I am going to ask once. Do not lie because I will call out your bluff. Did the Pegasus nation sent agents to Maretime Bay ? Prior to the unification ?” “Not that I know off. According to my knowledge, these last two months were the first time in centuries our two races met.” Anemo was troubled. Hitch scrutinised his face before sighing. “Sorry about that Venti.” Anemo gave a small smile. “I understand. I am just as confused as you are. ” He glanced at the ponies wings. The spikes catching his interests. “ Good heavens ! This is a WB gen 0.9 wing blade.” Hitch took out the spike from his satchel. “Is identical to that one ?” The green Pegasus inspected it. “Where did you acquire this ?” “ Around one and a half years ago. Rosewood manor case.” “You think they are connected ?” “Yes but I do have a problem. You see we know that the suspect is a serial killer and is mentally unstable. But I do not know where the Pegasus fit in all of this. In the Morn today before you could come, Sprout and I were theorising the differences between your wing blade and the ones we obtained had different purposes. My question is : Is the Pegasus Monarchy involved or is perhaps a terrorist or some shady organisation from your territory.” Anemo nodded. “I understand. I too have some questions for her majesty. In fact, we should talk to her majesty after we secure the girls. As for your hypothesis on the wing blades is, I’m afraid, incorrect. You see the wing blade this stallion was using is one of the earliest, if not, the first of it’s kind. The wing blades I am using is the latest model. The Wc gen 4 wing blade. One of it’s kind. If I may add to your theory. This stallion and possibly others in this town are agents no doubt but agents of the past. I theorise that they were deployed for a reason but it seemed the mission was a failure or loss of communication and the mission was aborted. By the wing blades they are using. This probably happened 35 to 40 years ago. In fact. It is possible her majesty's mother had something to with this. ” Hitch groaned. “This case is getting on my nerves. But you most probably right. These agents have not done anything to hurt any pony.” Hitch looked at Squeaky Clean’s body. “In fact I think they are trying to protect them. It is possible that these Pegasus agents were deployed to hunt down whatever this thing is.” *Drip* Anemo nodded. “But enough of that let’s- Hitch ?” “Yes ?” “There’s blood on your muzzle.” Hitch wiped his muzzle. “Where did th-” *Drip* Hitch and Venti slowly looked up, the faces contorting into horror. HELLO HITCH REMEMBER ME ? DID YOU REMEMBER THE PROMISE YOU MADE ? OH ! I SAW YOUR DEPUTY, TIMES REALLY DO CHANGE SHERIFF, HEEE HEEEEEE I REALLY ADORE HIS COAT COLOR.....SOOO TASTY XOXO YOURS FOREVER YOUR BLACK ROSE “N-N-N-No. It cannot b-b-b-be.” Hitch fell to the ground, ignoring Anemo. The black rose. He remembered. A case erased from history. “We need to get Sprout NOW !!!!” Anemo carried Hitch up. “What about the girls.” “I’ll get them out of here. You faster than me, get Sprout before it’s too late.” Anemo immediately took off. Hitch whimpered as he stared at the ceiling above him. “S-S-S-Sandstone Manor. W-W-Why ?” > Memories > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Deputy Hitch, you ready ? ” Hitch yawned. He was sleep deprived, again. “Sheriff, do we really have to do this early in the morning ? It’s Saturday. A nice cold Saturday. You know, the type of Saturday you want to sleep in. ” Sheriff Glock rolled his eyes, amused by the young stallion’s protest. They were already by the manor. No going back now. “This is rather important Hitch. So listen up. Yesterday, around 12 at the station, Miss Sandstone came by, with a rather peculiar tale.” “A peculiar tale ?” Grumbled Hitch as he rubbed his sleepy eyes. “Did Sand Scone claim that her spectacles were stolen by Unicorns again ?” Hitch did not hide his irritation. Waken up this early for this ? Glock shook his head, Hitch misheard him. Sleepy head. “No, Deputy. I am talking about Miss Sandstone.” Hitch’s ears perked up. “You mean Rose’s mother ?” The Sheriff took note of the warm tone he used. “Yes and I’m afraid her tale involved her daughter. According to her mother, she has been acting strangely since Thursday. ” “What do you mean acting strangely,” Hitch replied in a worried tone as Sheriff Glock knocked on the door. Strange. Thought Hitch. He was with her on thursday. From sunrise to sunset. Nothing was out of the ordinary. “ It is not for me to say Deputy.” Glock frowned at the door, knocking a second time. Minutes went by. A third time. No answer. Shit. “Perhaps Miss Sandstone is still sleeping.” Suggested Hitch. “It is early in the morning.” A look of concern furrowed the Sheriffs brow. What the hell did you do this time Sandy ? “No, Miss Sandstone specifically told me to come at this exact moment today. “ Hitch cast a gaze of concern over to Sheriff Glock who was pawing the ground. He never seen the Sheriff so anxious before. Was there something the Sheriff not telling him ? “Deputy Hitch, I will take it from here. Take the day off.” What ? Hitch narrowed his eyes. Something was up but he did not care. This was his first actual case. No way was he going to miss it, besides it concerned Rose. He had to make sure she was safe. Hitch put his hoof down. “I’m sorry sir but I am going with you. You said yourself that if I ever want to become sheriff I would need experience and now you tell me to go home ? Sorry Sir. I am not leaving. ” Sheriff Glock raised an eyebrow at the young Stallion before a small grin formed. “ I thought you wanted to sleep in today ? Sleepy head.” Hitch rolled his eyes as he gave a sigh of relief. “Thank you sir.” Sheriff Glock nodded his head. He had no choice but to involve him. He did not want to resort to this, involving a civilian, who might end up six feet under, he was not like the others but this was important, hitch, he suspected was the Colt, Rose always spoke fondly of during his weekly visits. Glocks expression shifted into a serious one. “Just follow my lead, okay ? Also whatever you do. Do not freeze up.” Deputy Hitch listened intently. “Yes, Sir.” “Good. Now help me break this door.” It took them a minute to breach the manor via a window. The door, which was made out of solid oak did not budge. Fortunately Sheriff Glock spied a window close enough for them to reach. “Next time we come I’m bringing a sledge hammer to break that stupid door to pieces. ” Hitch said as he moved his right foreleg. His shoulder was sore. Glock gave a signal to keep quiet as he whispered to Hitch. “You search that way and I will search this way. If you find something, give a yell. Got it ?” Hitch nodded as they went there separate ways. The manor although not as big as his friend’s manor was still a sight to behold, well, if it was not so dimly lit and the deafening silence. It was extremely depressing and downright creepy. Hitch entered into another room. The kitchen. “Nothing.” It was pretty dark here. Hitch sighed. “No wonder Rose rarely smiled or laugh when I bring this place up in our conversation's. It’s as if she lived in a haunted house all her life.” Hitch’s ears immediately perked up as he heard a scream. Miss Sandstone. The deputy immediately rushed towards the source of the distress mare, hoping Sheriff Glock heard it as well. Hitch burst in a rather large room that had a long rectangular table. The dining room. There was also a fireplace that was lit. The smell emanating from it was disgusting and foreign but all of that went to the back of his mind his eye's gazed at the pony on the table. Sheriff Glock ! “Sheriff !” Hitch scrambled on top of the table. Glock was covered in blood. Especially his sides, his vest soaked in blood. “W-W-W-W-What the hay happened !” Hitch was in shock. He was freezing up ! “H-H-H-Hitch.” Glock said as he coughed blood breaking Hitch out of his stupor. “Take Miss Sandstone and run. She is by the fireplace.” Hitch felt his fur stand up. He was scared. Very scared. No ! Hitch shook his head.” I am not afraid. I am not afraid ! I AM NOT AFRAID ! “ Steeling himself, Hitch lifted Glock of the table. “Depu- *cough* Deputy what are you doing ?” “Saving your flank sir.” Hitch walked towards the the fireplace and sure enough Miss Sandstone was laid sprawled on her back. “We need to hurry.” Glock said with a cough. “Before she comes.” Hitch realized what was wrong. Rose ! He forgot about rose ! "Sheriff. I need to find Rose, she might need my help !" "No". Glock said weakly. " You don't understand, RosMHPIJHI!!-" “ Hitch ? Is that you ? “ “ Rose ! Gosh, you okay... ” Hitch said with relief, a tiny smile on his face. She’s okay, Where the hell she was at ? Hitch grunted as he held Sheriff Glock by his side. Strange. His eyes were closed. Did he fall unconscious ? Most probably, he lost a lot of blood. Glock was trying to say something before that...owwww. Hitch twitched his right foreleg. His shoulder, still sore from earlier was preventing him from carrying Rose’s mother. Panic was setting in, the shock was ebbing away, he’s barely holding together, this situation was pure horror. They had to get out now, especially Sheriff Glock, he needs medical attention right now . Maybe carrying them out of the house one by one ? Or.... The deputy glanced at Rose. She was strangely quiet, staring at him. Those two soft pink orbs that once twinkled with kindness were now brimming with something.... Hitch felt his heart pounding as the gears of logic and reason clicked in his head. He slowly took backward steps. Why did he not notice this before ? “R-Rose, is that b-blood on your muzzle ?” The flicker from the candle flame revealed dark liquid dripping from her snow white muzzle. “R-ROSE ! Answer me !” Hitch said with a shrill before tripping on his own hoofs, sending Glock and himself flat down on the floor. “Aughhh!” Hitch’s foreleg was throbbing with pain. Her soft chuckle made his fur stand on end. A-A-Are those fangs ? ”Still clumsy and cute as ever. You need not to worry Hitch. I’m not going to hurt you....just step away from the sheriff... ” A small smile formed on her face. “...I’m not done with him yet.” The wooden floor squeaked and creaked as she walked towards them. “Rose, Stay back ! Listen to me, Its not too late to stop this madness. I promise-” Hitch saw red glittering dust enveloping him.“Huh ?” He was immediately flung across the room, colliding with the wall. “Argg !” He groaned in pain as curled his body.”R-R-Rose, p-p-please...” His vision began to fade, the lasting image of a predator walking towards it’s prey. > Forgotten Memories > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- His whole body convulsed, staring at the nightmare scene before him. He was still on his side, his breaths soft yet rough. His lungs pushing against cracked ribs. The pain was intense but it did not matter... “S-S-S-Sherif-f....” He dragged his body towards his mentor. Sheriff Glock was dead, lying in a pool of blood. His front hooves were missing. Glock’s face was disfigured beyond recognition. Laying besides him was Miss Sandstone..remains. She was barely recognizable as well. Her coat was drenched with blood. Strangely, there were huge amounts of feathers on the floor. Hitch felt tears streaming down his face. "I-I-I d-d-don't want to die." He was scared and terrified. Hitch dragged himself across the room towards the entrance. He had to escape. Guilt and shame boiled within him. Cowardice was there as well. He was leaving a father figure and a civilian behind. But he had to. He was a messenger of sorts. Everypony was in danger. The mare he once knew....and had feelings for was actually a physcotic serial killer ! Hitch froze. Clip Clop Clip Clop Clip Clop " Ohhhhhhhh were do you think you going sweetheart ? " Hitch immediately began to drag himself to the door. His pace, much faster now, was causing unimaginable pain. But it was better than dying. "Oof !" Hitch felt a hoof pressing on his withers. He screamed in pain as she applied more pressure. " That sound ! Music to my ears." She cooed. Hitch felt her body against his back. He tried to turn but her hooves immediately went for this muzzle forcing his head to face the entrance. He felt her muzzle by this neck, flinching as her fang grazed it. " You are a fine specimen. I see why she's fond of you Deputy Hitch." "She ?" Hitch felt his fur stand on and as the mare chuckled. "Whether you believe it or not, I don't really care. I am not Rose. My name is Chrysalis." Hitch for some reason felt relief and hope wash over his heart. Rose would never do something like this. She was a sweet and kind mare. He frowned as it was only for a moment that he realised something. Why would a killer comfort him ? Was she playing with him ? How can she not be Rose ? She looks exactly like her. Except for her voice. It carried a murderous and sadistic tone. "Why ?" "Why what ?" Her eyes bored into his. "Why did you tell me that ?" Hitch shudder as he felt Roses muzzle slowly going up his neck to his ear. Her breathing was soft, but her words.... "I can't play with a broken toy. It's no fun." ...induced despair. She violently moved him on his back against the hard wooden floor. Her eyes hungrily scanned his body. There was not a single trace of blood on her. Her coat was ice white as ever and her pink mane seemed to be combed as if she was preparing for this. Her tiny yet noticeable fangs glinted in the darken hallway. "R-R-Rose, please don't do this....." She pouted at the pathetic display."I clearly recall a few seconds ago that I told you my name was Chrysalis. Rose is gone. I am in full control now. She shouldn't have given me control but she didn't have the will to carry out her revenge and so she naively gave control to me to do her dirty work." Hitch was lost. Confused by all this information. Revenge ? Control ? Why is she spinning such a tall tale ? Why the lies ? "Hmmmmm." Her hoof traced a circle around his chest. "You don't believe me." He did not. "Oh well. Too bad." "Arggghhhhh!" Hitch began to scream as Rose bite into his neck. Her red mist surrounded his muzzle, clamping him shut. He thrashed as she began to bite harder. Her hooves wrapping around his body tightly. Slurp Slurp/b] Slurp Slurp After a few painful minutes Hitch stopped thrashing. He was feeling weak and her biting became more subdued. "Ahhhh." She licked his neck. "Drinking blood is much better than stealing love. The Changelings have come a long way . " Her gaze fell on Hitch who was fighting to stay awake. He made another weak attempt to escape but she tightened her grip once more. Hitch looked at her with terror and tears in his eyes. He lost so much in such a short space of time. He saw things that he should have not seen. Experiencing things that ponies should not experienced. Feeling pain that he would not wish on his worst enemy. This was a nightmare. A neverending nightmare. "You monster." He wanted to shout the words. To make her wince or it least annoy her but it came as a soft and feeble croak. Rose smiled. Her muzzle was stained with his blood. " If you think that was torturese then you going to have a difficult time with me. That was only a warm up." " Kill me." He was going crazy Rose gave a cruel smile. "Rose made me promise that no harm must come you. That naive mare. Did she really believe I would keep my promise ? Don't worry Blood bag. Once I'm done torturing and playing with you or until I get bored I will suck you dry. So Sorry, not really sorry. " Hitch began to sob. He was broken. Theres no way he can recover from this. Rose gave a sigh of anoyance." Arggh ! You broke too soon. It seems you are no use to me....well in this broken state but don't worry, I'll fix that." Rose lifted her hoof as red mist began to swirl as it began to take shape of a rose. A black rose. "WWWhat's that ?" Hitch said in fear. Ohhh. This little thing ? she twirled it around her red mist. It's a little project of mine. It's purpose is to simply erase a ponies memories of any encounters with me. She sighed. But you have experienced too much...trauma shall we say for it to have an effect on you. Well the desired effect that is. Normally merely activating the black rose near the target would suffice but with you. I will have to wipe your brain blank and for me to achieve that, it will have to be administered. Mouth to mouth. Hitch stared in horror as Rose put the plant into her mouth. Rose managed to smirk as she chewed it, once again holding the struggling stallion. "No ! Let go ! Let go of me !" He tried his best to free himself but he was too weak to do anything. Her lips immediately with force, went against his, pushing the chewed plant into his mouth with her tongue. Hitch choked as he was forced to swallow it. She did not stop there. Clearly enjoying herself she carried on with the kiss her tongue playing against his palate. Eventually she ended it leaving Hitch gasping for air. You have about a minute before you lose your memories Rose smiled at the defeated stallion. Just so you know Rose always wanted to kiss you. Guess I beat he- Arghhhh ! Rose imesiatly held her head. "No ! Stop that ! You had your chance ! This is my body now ! ARGHGHHGHHGGRHGGGHHG! " Hitch watched as the mare fought with herself before she fell on top of him. Now's my chance. Hitch tried to push her off. "H-h-h-hitch ?" The stallion stopped as he stared at the mare on top him. That voice. It sounded like Rose. His Rose. "Rose is it really you ?" "Yes it's me. Please believe me. I know it's hard to believe but please please trust me. I'm Rose. Rose. The mare who waited with bated breath , once a week to meet a stallion who actually cared for me. Who just simply wanted my company. I'm Rose. Your Rose. I-I-I-I'm not a monster. Please don't leave me !" Rose began to sob against the stallions chest. Hitch was not conflicted. He was not suspicious. He was tired. He simply did not have the strength to care. Merely the hope that this was Rose and not the physcotic mare from a few moments ago was enough. He wanted his Rose back. Slowly and painstakingly he lifted his forelegs and hugged the sobbing Rose. "I know " he said softly as he looked back into the past. "I love you with all my heart. I enjoyed your presence. That smile on your muzzle. The talks we use to have and the sunset walks we had every week. I'll never leave you." "Thank you. " She said softly. They hugged each other in silence for some time. "Arghhhh." Hitch grunted in pain. It's seems time was up for him Rose ended the embrace, her face full of sadness. "You need to leave." Hitch looked at her confused. "You do not need to worry about the black rose. It's magic was disrupted when I took control. You'll only lose memories of today ." "What about you. We can get he- " "No." Her voice was with finality. "I must end this. This experiment of theirs. I must destroy everything." " Rose I'm not understanding what you- " "It does not matter ! You must not get involved ! This is something I can't go back from. You derserve a normal life. A happy life. " Hitch felt red mist wrap around his body as its took him out of the manor. "No Rose ! Don't do this !" Rose gave a sad smile to the Sheriff as she closed the door. "I will always love you." As Hitch was laid on the ground his vison began to fade.....and so too, his memories fades as well. It was said that night you could see the burning Sandstone manor. From the other side of Maritime bay. It's occupunts, assumed to be caught in the raging fire as well as the valiant sheriff who had tried to save the ponies inside. Deputy Hitch was the sole survivor having appeared to have lost his memories of the incident. He was promoted three days later > Chapter 5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Why are you here ?" " Why are you asking a question that you already know the answer to ?" The voice hissed." I haven't broken our agreement." The second voice chuckeld. A rather emotionless one. "Don't lie to me. I'm not an idiot. We have been watching you since your little field trip at Rosewood Manor and I must say, you killed quite a few of them. Which was not part of our agreement." The voice snarled, stomping it's hoof." I cannot believe this ! What has become of the changeling nation to care for others besides our own ? Ponies on top of that ? You all have become weaklings !" The second voice hardened. " May I remind you Chrysalis that your life was only spared because the Queen deemed it so." Chrysalis growled." She had no choice to 'deem" it so. I am Queen Chrysalis ! It would be a waste to let such an opportunity go. " The second voice chuckled once more." Do you even know why she let you live old hag ?" Chrysalis was silent. "She let you live because disposing you would be losing ancient history of our past. My mother's words. Not mine. I wanted to suck you bone dry. Yes Queen Chrysalis. " The voice was laced with mock and sarcasm. " You belong in our History museum. In fact that's where we were going to put you. In a obsidian gilded cage. So the little foals on excursion can point at you and say 'Wow ! We used to look so barbanaric back then ! ' " "HOW DARE YO-" *SLAP !* There was a thud. Something hitting the floor. "You see Chrysalis ? We are much better than you in every way. We are Vampires not changelings. We have evolved into something beautiful. Into much ferocious hunters you could ever hope.. We are stronger, smarter and more...pleasing to look at. Way more pleasing to look at. You, on the other hoof, according to what our lectures are teaching at our university's right now, is that you are not even classified as a changeling. You are a proto-changeling. A relic of our embarrassing beginnings." There was another sound of something breaking. *CRACK !* "ARGGGGG !" Chrysalis screamed in pain. "I hope you are ready Chrysalis. I'm not done yet." "Stop ! You cannot kill me ! T-The que-" She was cut off. " The Queen wants nothing with you now. After the mess you made it's better if you just disappear..." "P-P-Please." "Fortunately, my mother has given me the honour of wiping you out of existence." There was immediate shuffling, the wooden floor creaking. "What are you doing ?" "I dare you to come near me !" Chyrsalis was hysterical."If you do, I'll throw this pony out of the window !" Sprout's fur stood on end. Throw me out a window ? What the hay ! When Sprout regained consciousness he met a dark world. At first he thought that whoever ponynapped him, gorged his eye's out and ate them. He was right about the cannibals ! Before he gave his all, in an unrestrained mare-like screaming fashion, he realised it was just a black sack covering his vision. He couldn't move. Being tied to a chair to an extent they were one and the same. The Deputy tried various methods of escaping. None worked. But Sprout was not a pony to give up. This too shall pass. It might be like a kidney stone. But. It will pass. After working himself for another go, he heard hoof steps. He stayed silent and still like a tree on a windless day. He could not see them, since he was faced towards a window, which he could barley see due to the stupid sack on his head, but he could feel the killing intent behind his back. The mares, were in some shouting match. Well the one called Chrysalis was. The other one sounded calm and emotionless. She also liked hitting stuff. Well, he was hoping it was just stuff and that the sound he heard was the breaking of furniture and not bones . So yeah, very creepy. So creepy in fact he hoped the shouting Chrysalis was the one who ponynapped him. He obviously regretted saying that. This crazy mare wants to throw me out of the window ! "Put. Him. Down." Chrysalis felt her body involuntary shudder at her tone. It felt different. It felt downright scary. " Only If you let me live. Then I will put him down." "You forfeited your life when you took him into this accursed mansion. No deal. If you let him go. I will give you a painless death." Chrysalis cried in frustration. "What's so special about him !? I murdered an elderly couple. You did not bat an eyelid. I killed two guards, you did not even bother to confront me. But when I ponynap a deputy, who is depised by everypony, who is loved by no pony. You should of seen how foolish he looked when I made that dumb unicorn confess to him. It was pathetic. Is it because of this outcast you came here ? In my sancturay ? Telling me I lost my right to live !? " "Yes." The mare said matter-of-fact. "I actually did not care about who you killed or why you killed or that other useless garbage. You simply chose the wrong pony. I've been watching him for a long time. He's mine. I don't like it when somepony touches my belongings. " "But you said it was because I broke the agreement !" "That to. I only told her highness your mess up's when you whisked him away from the hospital. You just made it personal . Now let him go before I tear your limbs one by one." "Fat chance." Chrysalis snarled. " I'm not dying alone." With a swift swing she flung Sprout , his chair as well, through the window. The pieces of glass flying everywhere. "AAAAAAAAAAAAH !" That mother bucker actually did it ! Thankfully the sack came off his head, giving him the opportunity of seeing the ground before he goes splat. Surrounding the mansion were dozens of pegasus soldiers and the earth pony border patrollers. They all stared in baffled as the strapped pony waved and gave them a toothy grin. If I'm going to die. It's gonna be a memorable one. > Chapter 6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Anemo sighed as he came to the side of his friend. " You okay ?" The green Pegasus bumped the sheriff's side. "Yeah. I'm fine. Just worried" Hitch said, glumly, as he watched the medics carry the stretcher away. Sprout might lose his left foreleg. What on Equestria would make him do such an act. He was lucky enough he made it through that nasty fall. It could've been a whole lot worse than a missing limb. Hitch felt a chill as he remembered why any sane pony would jump from this wretched mansion. Sprout was damn lucky to escape that crazy monsters clutches. His heart literally stopped beating when he found out Sprout was captured. The sheriff felt a tap on his back. "Don't worry about Sprout, Hitch, he'll pull through." Hitch gave. " I know. He's a hard guy to get rid off." Venti laughed. "True. True." They both stood in silence as they gazes fell back on the blackened mansion. It clearly endured a really ferocious fire. But the mansion seemingly stubborn, endured. Besides some shatters glass and unstable support structures, including it's scorched exterior, the mansion seemed completely unscathed, nowhere near a probable collapse. Even the the heavy wooden door was intact. Creepy. Venti frowned. The placed reeked of death. He could sense it .The Pegasus soldiers were right to give the mansion a wary look. That was all Anemo could identify with so much of ponies surrounding the mansion like a noisy construction site. The quick analysis of the chaos was quick and simple. There was a lot of commotion. The fearsome Royal Pegasus guards from the Zephyr Kingdom were patrolling around it and even the rarely seen Elite Royal guards could be seen encircling the commanding Tents while the earth pony border patrollers were erecting more tents and sharpening spears. The monster it seemed, was trapped by the Zephyrs kingdoms finest soldiers and the Earth ponies best patrollers. Anemo hoped it was enough but that thought went to a halt when the most important piece to the whole debacle was in front of him. "You still haven't told me what happened at the hospital." Hitch sighed. Ah. He brought it up. His memories of this desecrate place replayed in an instant after he saw the bloody message on the ceiling. He almost lost his mind after he relived it all over again. Venti found him curled into a ball on the floor. Hitch tried to shrug him off. " It was nothing Venti. Just remembered some bad memories." Really bad memories. He was surprised he took it well. It seemed the that the spell, through time, wore his 'break in sanity' to normalcy. But his grief was fresh. The loss of that day would be remembered till his grave "Care to elaborate ?" Anemo said. He suspected it had something to do with the mansion. He needed to know. It was obvious he was a receipt of that infernal black rose. Back at the hospital when he informed Hitch about the discovery of what the Black Rose actually does. He just nodded his head like an inmate on death row, as if he already knew what it did in the first place. The only sliver of emotion which was clearly reflected on his face was that of realization when I told him that Sunny, Izzy and Princess Zipp lost their memories. The effects of the Black Rose were very intriguing. It seemed to be very calibrated and calculated on each of it's victim. Princess Zipp remembers everything. The encounters with the wolves, bunking in Sunny's place and everything in between. But she recalls no pony accompanying her. She recalled coming to Maretime Bay on her own. Venti felt his insides churn when he heard her say it. Izzy, on the other hoof, was just like the princess but a bit more extreme. She claimed she had never spoken to Sprout before, does not recall anything about being inside Sprout's mansion or even encountering him since his reign of terror ended. Anemo winced at that. Sprout is going to feel that one. But worst of all was Sunny. She remembered everything thing except Hitch's relationship with her. They were just good friends she said when he interviewed her. You could actually hear his heart shattering when he broke the news to his earth pony friend. They were all played. It hurt a lot. Was these last few day's even real ? Venti knew it would be worse for Hitch. He's been dating Sunny for at least a month now. Hitch stayed silent, mulling over the question , thinking what to stay. " I'm sorry Venti. You are my friend. I trust you but....How can I say this ? How can I explain this without you seeing me like a crazy pony ? I'm barely holding myself together." Venti nodded his head. He could of sort of understand what he was trying to stay. Suffering soothes the guilt. He knew that too well. But he's getting frustrated. "We all have something to bear alone Hitch but I'm out of the loop here. Every pony is hiding something and it's getting very irritating. Why were there undercover Pegasus here in Maretime Bay way long before the so called 'official' contact between our nations ? What is her highness is hiding ? Why did her highness bring the elite royal guards here ? Who or what is this monster ? So, I'm sorry Hitch I don't care, I can never think you a crazy pony, at this rate I'm already one. I'm torn between my loyalty between my queen and my country and my friends. I already know her highness is hiding something from me. me. Her most trusted confidant. So I really do need my friend to not hide as well." Hitch looked ashamed. " Sorry Venti, I did not realized what a tight spot you were in. But be prepared what I'm going to tell you. " "I'm ready," Venti said. "I already have an idea what's going on but it's just an idea." Hitch took a deep breath. " It was an early morning call from Miss Sandstone. I was but a newly appointed deputy a-a-a-and, I was not supposed to be there....." Venti winced. Hitch was shaking. "This was a bad idea. It'-" "No !" Hitch said, tears falling from his face. "I have to tell some pony. The sheriff and Miss Sandstone were Pegasus's, Sandstone wasn't Rose's mother ! She was a damn experiment to them! She had no pony ! They tortured her ! They merged her with a monster ! She died in front of me Venti ! My mare friend ! I was going to propose to her that afternoon !" Hitch fell to the ground in a broken mess, sobbing uncontrollably, every pony near were looking in confusion. Did he just say Sheriff Glock was a Pegasus spy ? Experiment ? Does that mean we have Pegasus's disguised as earth ponies ? As the earth patrollers and Pegasus guards talked amongst themselves as suspicion and accusations from both sides began to erupt, Venti stood still. Venti couldn't help but feel a sense of dread for what was to come. The mystery of the mansion, the Black Rose, and Queen Haven. He knew all seemed to be connected in some way but now..... He felt something churn inside him. Disgust. Ashamed. He was always proud of his nation, the monarch. It's why he enlisted. But. Everything changes now. It began to rain and the sound of thunder boomed and reverberated everywhere. Venti looked at the gloomy mansion. There were still some questions left unanswered. Why here ? In Maretime Bay ? What were they experimenting on more then 40 years ago ? Why in the first place ? It seems all the answers were in there. That was when they heard the bloodcurdling scream.