MLP : SH - 1 The Everfree

One : The Everfree

I sat in a booth at the Muck and Buck Tavern, one of several bars located in The Everfree. It's a town that was created by thieves, marauders and mercenaries, hidden deep within the Everfree Forest. Someplace where they could do their dirty business under cover and away from the law. The Everfree Forest was a dangerous place filled with predators of not only the wildlife but the foliage as well; it made for a decent enough shield from the King's hoof. If you weren't careful about where you walked, you could get killed. The forest was dangerous so we were dangerous as well. But, that was the life of someone like me, someone who frequented this town.

The ponies here weren't all that bad I suppose. Sure, they're rough around the edges and fights break out all the time but I can at least say it's entertaining to watch. The waitress mare whose poofy red mane bounced as she trotted to the tables with their alcoholic beverages gave a hard, swift smack to a patron who had given her a spank as a thanks for their drink. Another buck was so drunk he fell asleep in his puddle of vomit and was softly snoring away. The smell of the refuse mixed with the usual body odor and cigarette smoke all the bars were notorious for so no pony bothered to clean it up. A group playing poker shouted in excitement and frustration while a griffon at the table pulled out his pistol to accuse a minotaur of cheating. The escalation broke a couple of chairs and the waitress threatened them with her cutlass before they settled down.

The bartender here was weak, a scraggly old pony with antlers. Probably caught them in one of the months of Chaos. Discord is allowed to use his powers every so often and create chaos in the land. Everypony knows King Sombra only releases his reins once in a while to placate him, to keep him tame when he's back on his leash. These soap bubble looking objects often float around in the air everywhere and if you're caught by one you catch a random mutation. I'm lucky, I haven't had the misfortune of running into one of them and hopefully I never will.

One of the bartender's antlers had been broken not too long ago when he tried to stop a bar fight on the mare's day off. Some dried blood could still be seen on the stump. The old buck couldn't stop two foals from fighting. He really shouldn't be here in this town, no pony respects him and he can't even replace anything that gets broken around here.

As entertaining as pony-watching is, it's not exactly the reason I frequent this place. No, I don't come here for the drinks either, I'm not the type of stallion who enjoys hindering his senses with booze or drugs. I need to be sharp so my wits are quick and my body isn't sluggish. Being smaller than most adult ponies I need all the advantages I can get. I come here for the secrets. The whispers hidden beneath the chatter of the other creatures. Talks of gold and jewels, of secrets and rumors. Anything of value, I must have it. I have been told by some that I have the greed of a dragon and, honestly, they're probably right.

I focus on different conversations, searching for anypony who might be making plans for a heist. A mare who is roaming from table to table holds up a photograph, asking if anypony recognizes the stallion in the picture. Uninteresting. I hear griffons talk about some King's forces who have made their way to Griffonstone according to a letter she received. Irrelevant. A mare complains to another how her sister has been missing for a week which is highly unusual for her. She's probably dead or captured and taken as a slave. Somepony else speaks of this tonic they've heard of, something that will cure the plague. Lies I bet, there's nothing that can cure the plague.

Then I hear what I'm listening for. A conversation about somepony recruiting for a job.

“So, you know that Count Markus guy right? The 'high and mighty' stuffing peddler in Canterlot?” one pony says.

Hm, Count Markus, Canterlot's auctioneer. I haven't visited his estate in a while. He's probably already replaced what I stole the last time I was there.

Another pony gives a disgusted snort, “Yeah, that rich son of a bitch thinks he's better than everypony else.” I can hear him scratching himself.

“Well CJ and the birds of a feather were signaling a visit to the neighbors. It took a bit of convincing but I got everypony to agree we’d like you to join us. We could do with a better pair of eyes than Cricket. There’s going to be quite the rum stuffing.” The first pony informs.

“Oh yeah? How much rum is in the curbing law?”

That's an excellent question. If the rum stuffing is as good as she's boasting, it might be worth me looking into.

“Well, we got a hole in need of plugging that says there’s something special hidden under the rug. He was supposed to switch hooves with his uncle but decided to keep it for himself. Seems he didn’t want to fall into boredom, get hooked and drop a glove. We don’t know what it is, but it’s supposed to be a tall buck’s bit.” she says. I hear a paper being unrolled, probably the map. “Right there. The hole in need of plugging who gave us a peach about it said it’s in his slave stables. That's why the Count’s been having so many pigs around his place lately. Someone noticed his unusual behavior and someone else sang their song. They thought it was some kind of rare slave but he's just got the usual: seven earth, one pegasai and one unicorn.”

Hm, many guards means a lot of steel. I'll have to make sure and keep my head down. If it's worth a tall buck's bit it might be worth the risk. But why would he hide it in his slave stables… Actually, that's probably my fault. That was one of the few places I didn't steal things from last time.

“Really?” I heard the second pony say, “A piece of unknown contraband worth more than a chunk ‘o gin. You guys have very poor holes to say the least. They can’t even be a little more long tongued about it?”

I would have to agree with him on that.

The first pony spoke again, “The peach said it was worth at least four dozen chunk ‘o gins but, they're not really sure exactly what it was, just its worth. They found a receipt with how much yellow tin they were going to exchange for it but the word ‘Void’ was written on it and it was found in the bin. The description was half a clock of mustang gem shards, whatever in the hell those are.”

What in tartarus is a mustang gem? Sounds like a gamble then. If I've never heard of them they're either completely worthless. That or it's a very well kept secret. I think I'll take my chance. It's not like I haven't stolen useless junk before. Besides, if it's in Count Markus' possession it should at least be worth something.

“You want me to join you guys. To get broken gem shards.” The second pony argued.

The first pony tried to justify her request, “W-well, my uncle said that the mustang gem was some ancient thing, owned by the long gone legit rulers of the Crystal Empire. They can’t be worth a rusted button if it was owned by royalty!”

We'll see if that's true or not. That was all I needed to hear. I stubbed out my cigarette in the ashtray on the table, slid out of the booth I sat at and trotted out the door. I probably should have paid for the glass of water I was drinking but the bartender and the waitress were both too busy trying to break up another fight.

The air of the early night was a little chilly and the clouds high in the sky only let me glimpse the majesty of the glittering starscape a few times before they closed the gaps. I looked around at the town that was so familiar to me. Everything in this place was made of wood and stone. They didn't have the facilities to improve the structures so the residents here made due with what they had. That didn't mean ponies didn't break anything now and again. Several shops had shattered windows that the owners didn't bother bordering up. The hoof railing on the walkways that connected the shops together was damaged in several spots. The wooden planks beneath my hooves had almost disintegrated with time and usage. They threatened to shatter under my weight but they somehow held strong.

I passed Crowfoot's Crap Shack, the local pawn shop, and glanced through the window to see if he had any interesting wares for thieving. Nothing new. Oh well, I had a mission to go on. I grit my teeth as I passed Doc Maggot's Slice and Dice. His place always gives me the creeps and I try to avoid it as much as I can. The thought of somepony's hooves inside me freaked me out let alone allowing somepony access to my body while I was unconscious.

As I came upon the Crippled Cragidile Inn, a drunkard stumbled backwards out the front door. I halted in my tracks, expecting more to exit considering his unique departure from the building. As expected, another pony barreled her way out the door, lept upon the drunkard and began to beat the shit out of him. A stray dog noticed the scuffle and decided to join in on the fight, probably to try and get a meal out of it. That's my cue to exit. Hate dogs, filthy mongrels.

At the opposite end of town, a couple of loud gunshots rang out followed by several others of a lower caliber. Somepony yelled a reply but, from this distance I couldn't make out what they were saying. Wasn't my business anyway.

I reached the end of town marked by the solid short fence of salt bricks. They were also laid through the forest as a marker for safe passage. The forest itself was so alive and hungry that if we didn't have these here, the plants would consume the very town itself, reclaiming its rightful territory so to speak.

Trotting along the path was more difficult then it seemed. The woodland was quite dense, the trees were thick and entangled with each other. The brush and weeds along the forest floor demanded the room to grow and some even looked to be devouring the taller timbers to reach the sunlight. Joke blue was almost everywhere it could find space to grow. It was a plant that gave you a mutation similar to Discord's chaos bubbles. Ponies constantly argue whether the plant was a natural occurrence or something Discord created. An annoyance to those living in The Everfree all year round instead of just on the time he's alloted to screw with the citizens of Equestria.

I could hear timber wolves howling in the distance and owls calling out to the night. The yowls of chimera were nearby as they fought for dominance of territory. At least, that's what I hoped they were fighting over. If it were mating season for them it would be even more dangerous to be traveling through their claimed land. I could hear low sounds of chicken clucking and something slithering between the brush. Clear noises of a cockatrice nearby. If I looked it in the eye it would freeze me to solid stone. I'd better pick up my pace.

The trees cleared and I came upon the town of Ponyville. This town used to be not so bad until the rebellion started. Due to the rebel's leader residing in the village, Ponyville is known as being the main hub of their operation. It's where they plan the war they are waging against the King. The damage to the country they've fashioned isn't so bad, really. With more death and destruction, ponies like me have more opportunities to make a living. More often, ponies aren't home but working on war efforts or in the King's prison for treason which leaves their homes unattended. These are wonderful times for a master thief like myself.

The rebels had constructed a large wall around their small town made of scraps and debris some time shortly after declaring war against the crown. Honestly it looks worse then the buildings in The Everfree. Being a town right next to where the scum of the land live and on the train's route around Equestria, their home was bombarded by threats and damage almost daily. Their pegasai scouts hovered in the air as they scanned for any suspicious looking ponies and their guard stood by outside the massive gate. They halted anypony wishing to enter their domain and were overbearing on their searches and seizures. Anypony caught in their clutches were quite possibly stuck in an interrogation for hours if they weren't known by anypony within their organization.

I knew if I wandered too close to the border guards they might capture me so I steered clear of them. I didn't have time for their foolish paranoias, I had steal to get and the night was still young. My destination was the train station just past the Ponyville gates. I knew Count Markus lived in Canterlot and walking there would take all night so I opted for the transportation. Sure, I would lose a few bits paying for a ticket but my prize would be worth it. I had faith it would be anyway.

As I approached the platform lined with benches, I could see a few ponies waiting around for its arrival. One I passed smelt disgustingly sickly so I made sure to stay away. The blight was a terrible thing to catch and there was no cure. Well, I heard somepony claiming there was but I didn't believe them. The plague left you coughing up blood, it caused your skin to bubble up with infection and it made your organs shut down. I've heard it's very painful and that no pony's survived it. I'd much rather not die in a week or two if I can help it.

I reached the ticket booth and I was separated from the mare inside by a pane of glass. She had a radio playing inside and I could hear the news report that the radio personality, Smile Cat, was reading off between the songs he played. It was all the same garbage of who attacked who, which towns were on fire today and what new laws the King had decreed this week. Most of what he had to say was personal commentary on the news instead of what was actually going on. I'll admit, I sometimes listen to his broadcast too but only to see which parts of Equestria were ripe for the thievery.

"Where ya headed stranger?" the ticket mare asked.

"Canterlot." I replied.

"Seven bits." she told me.

Seriously, seven bits? It was four bits last month. This was the problem with those damned rebels. They go throwing a fit and it ruins it for everypony else. I know, I was just praising them for making my job easier and now I'm complaining about them. Whatever. I grabbed the coin from my saddlebag and handed the perfectly shined bits over in exchange for my ticket. Goodbye precious valuables, your sacrifice will not be in vain, I assure you.

It wasn't long before the train sounded off as it came closer to the station. Steam bellowed from its tower as it chugged along and its breaks screeched as they tried to halt the massive metal beast. When it finally stopped, I boarded and had my admission punched by the ticket pony. Making my way to my seat, the train began to move again. As it lurched forward, the sudden movement caused me to faceplant into the carpeted floor. I groaned as I got up and rubbed my masked muzzle with a hoof.

In front of me on the floor was my small fuzzy friend. She was furiously cleaning off the lint that got on her fur after she fell out of my hood. Others may call me crazy for befriending a rat in these times of the plague but she's my best friend and I wouldn't trade her for anything. Well, I'd have to think long and hard about it if I were offered a large sum but, I'd still like to think I'd choose her over a mountain of gold.

"I'm sorry Thief, are you okay? I always forget you fall out at that part." I told her warmly. She began to give my hoof a couple of licks, assuring me she forgave me. I smiled and helped her back up to my withers.

I found a spot and settled in for the ride. I knew this wouldn't take long, the trip from Ponyville to Canterlot was maybe a couple of hours since the village was so close to the mountain metropolis. While I waited, I watched the world pass by through the dirty window beside my seat. We passed the broken wall of Ponyville and a traveling caravan of three carts with several ponies that were traveling along the road. We had gone past them so fast I couldn't see if any of the ponies were wearing the trademark brand over their cutiemarks that labeled them as slaves. As Saddle Lake came into view, I could see something large break the surface of the water only to dive back down seconds later. I have heard that one of The Eight from the Rouge Rogues was a sea serpent. I have never seen one myself but I have heard they were like massive snakes that called the waters their domain. I suspected I may have just caught a glimpse of one. A small swarm of bats flew high in the sky and I spotted a pegasus trailing a cloud of smoke behind them.

It wasn't long before darkness engulfed the inside of the train as it entered the steep mountain tunnel and up to the entrance of Canterlot. I couldn't see a hoof in front of my face as I looked around. The window no longer provided entertainment for me so I decided to put my other senses to use.

My rat friend, Thief, had been gone for some time now. After I found someplace to sit, she scampered off to explore at her leisure. I wasn't worried for her, I knew she would eventually return to me. Listening for her, I could hear the noises of the night train all around me.

The sound of wheels on the tracks below clicked and clacked as it pulled us all up the mountain, struggling with the train's own massive weight. I could hear the sound of somepony humming a soft tune in front of me. I have a feeling I've heard the tune somewhere before, probably on the radio but I couldn't place it. Doesn't matter.

In the booths next to me and a couple seats behind, there was a mare making her bench squeak as she was mumbling, "Don't trust, don't trust, don't trust." to herself. She continued as I heard a foal struggling in her grasp, "Gotta get out, don't trust, keep them safe. I'll keep them safe for you my love. Won't come back, he won't. Don't trust, gotta get out. Don't trust, don't trust." She seemed terrified of something but it was unclear exactly what frightened her so much.

Far behind me I could hear a filly and colt quietly arguing over something but I couldn't quite make out what they said. Loud snoring was in their direction too, probably their parent or something.

Even through the mask that covered my muzzle, I could smell mildew and dirt all around me like the inside of the train had not been cleaned in years. The musty smell was unpleasant but I was used to smells like this. It was a common thing for me to visit the unsavory parts of the cities. Not to mention the Muck and Buck Tavern is far worse with its air quality.

I finally heard some sign of my rodent friend. It was a soft thud against my seat cushion and a scramble of tiny claws before another thump on the ground. I moved to the edge of my bench to find her trying to jump up onto the seat again. There was a large cookie in her mouth that was preventing her from getting a good grip. I put a hoof to the ground, knowing she had better night vision than I had, so she had a way to climb up. Once I felt her on my hoof, I lifted her up to the seat.

As my vision finally adjusted to the dark that surrounded me, I could make out the rat shape next to me. I gave Thief a few pets as she settled in and began to nibble on her prize. She really is a master thief of her own class, I could never match up to her skills. The cookie she was eating was almost twice her own size, it was a wonder how she managed to carry it here from wherever she found it.

"See! I wasn't lying and I didn't drop it, it was stolen." A young voice startled me. I quickly looked up to see two foals at the end of my bench, a filly and a colt. My ears folded and my jaw clenched.

Ugh, foals. Why did they come over here? I hate dealing with them and I never know how to act around them. I may be a smaller stallion but they're so much smaller than I am, so much more fragile, so much more innocent. I always tried to avoid them as much as I could but somehow they always gravitated towards me, forcing an interaction no matter where I went. I'll never understand why kids don't fear me or stay away like adults do.

Though I prefer to stay in the shadows and avoid conflict anywhere I can, I never minded kicking the crap out of somepony who deserved it. Of course, I had to pick my battles considering there are many who are stronger than I am and I never intend on losing a fight if I can help it. The element of surprise often works in my favor and considering I'm a pony of the shadows it's my main battle strategy.

But with foals… that was a different kind of fight. They could beat me down with their words, spout off truths that hurt and I couldn't do anything against them. Their hoof strikes were nothing because they didn't have the strength of a full grown pony. They could cry and wail because I stole their favorite toy or family keepsake and make me feel like I just ruined their whole existence. Of course I would give the stupid thing back, I couldn't stand the sound of their blubbering. But that's what they did. They broke me down in ways no pony else did. Their crying somehow trumped my greed and I never understood how, I still don't. Interacting with them was exhausting to say the least.

I looked away from them, hoping they would leave me alone.

"Ahh!" the filly shrieked, "Don't touch it! You'll get sick!"

"But that guy's sitting right next to it and he's not scared of it." the colt argued back.

"Teddy, those things carry the plague. It'll make you really sick and you'll die! That's how they all died, that's why we're with him!" she told him, probably referring to the stallion snoring in the back row.

"Well..." the colt began, "what if I want to get sick? What if I want to be with big brother again because you're a big butt!? You never let me do what I want! I want to be with everypony else! I want mommy!" As the colt argued, his voice grew louder and I could hear him struggling in his sister's grasp.

"You gotta be quieter, you want him to come over here and hurt us again?"

I glanced over at the two of them, wondering when they were going to leave. The filly had a hoof over the colt's mouth, trying to keep him quiet. He glared at her as best he could before opening his muzzle to give his sister's foreleg a big lick. She shrieked in disgust and let him go. The filly then waved her leg in the air in an attempt to get the saliva off.

"Eeeww!" the filly exclaimed, "What is wrong with you? That’s gross!"

Okay, I'll admit it, that was kind of funny. I chuckled and looked back out the dark window.

The light emanating from the end of the tunnel began to show, gradually brightening up the cabin we were in. I could feel eyes on me and I turned to the foals again. The young colt was petting Thief as she ate her sweet and the filly was staring at me. Why was she staring at me? Stop that, it's uncomfortable and I hate it. The train station couldn't come any sooner, I wanted out. My ears folded again and I turned away. I could still feel her looking at me, she needs to stop.

Finally, I couldn't take it any more and just spouted, "What?" at her.

"Your... eyes." the filly said breathlessly, "What's..."

Is this filly really that smart? My whole body is covered, she shouldn't be able to figure it out and yet here she is, ascertaining what I am just by looking at my eyes. At least the vast majority of ponies were dumb. Still, this wasn't good, I couldn't have anypony find out what I am.

When the train finally came to the open mouth of the cave that was the train station, the multitude of lanterns that hung from the cavern ceiling made the space almost as bright as daytime. The train began its deceleration as it pulled into the platform where Canterlot's ticket booth was. I could see tents and disheveled shacks all around as a makeshift camp for those not wealthy enough to be let into the city proper.

"Diamonds! You have diamonds in your eyes!" the filly exclaimed.

I looked over at her to see her tiny face brimming with excitement that she had figured something out. Luckily an interruption broke the elation of her discovery.

"There you two are!" said a stallion whose coat was a green so bright it couldn’t be found in nature. He glared at the two children as he scolded them. "Do you want me to put the chains back on you? Get back to your seats or I'm going to have you two branded the second we get there!"

Ah, so they were slaves. Foal slaves weren't all that uncommon in Equestria, I saw them quite often actually. If their masters were nice, they waited until the foal got their cutiemarks before branding them but if not, they gave them their mark as soon as they were bought. Branding prior to getting a cutiemark prevents the pony from ever getting one. It's a sacrifice but at least it's better than starving to death in the gutter.

With the brightness that the train station provided, I could see the foals clearly now. The filly was slightly larger than the colt and they were covered in wounds from whip lashes, marks they would likely carry for the rest of their lives. The colt was cowering under his sister as they both trembled in the stallion's presence.

"Yes sir. It won't happen again." the filly said quietly, her eyes downcast.

"S-sorry." the colt replied in a tiny squeak.

I felt sorry for the foals. They were in this situation because the plague took their family. They didn't choose the life they were now stuck in but, that was the way the world worked. You had your lot in life and you had to make the best of it. Sure I could help them out, beat the crap out of this buck and set them free but what would that do? Leave them to fend for themselves and eventually starve to death or get killed at the hooves of the King's city guards for stealing, probably. I wasn't going to take them on as their new guardian so that definitely wasn't an option either. I just had to remind myself that it wasn't my problem, I couldn't go around saving every foal just because they always made me feel bad in one way or another. The world is the way it is and no pony could change it. There was one thing I could do, however…

As the foals slowly marched back to their seats, the green stallion slammed his hoof on the floor of the train car, causing them to jump in fear and hurry back to their assigned spot. I grabbed Thief, put her back under my hood and I got out of my seat. As I shoved the other buck out of the way so I could make my exit, I swiped his supplies and hid them in my saddle bags. The green pony threw an insult at me for shoving him but I didn't care. And, like the vast majority of ponies, he didn't even realize I had stolen something from him.

When the train came to a complete stop, the train ponies opened the door to let the passengers exit. I stepped out onto the wooden platform and pulled out the whip I had taken from the idiot. Inspecting the weapon, I could see it used to be made of some decent materials but it was well worn. He never took proper care of it and in its current state it was quite useless. I'm surprised it didn't fall apart when he used it on those foals. After tossing the worthless piece of junk in a nearby trashcan, I had made my way to Canterlot.

The camp I was in is known as Estuary Slums. The origin of its name had always been a mystery so there were many stories about it. Some say that during a month of chaos, Discord rose the sea levels so high that this was the only place the survivors had for land. Others tell of a pony named Estuary who was the first one to be kicked out of Canterlot and so, out of spite he settled here and started the camp. There's a rumor this place used to be called Lower Mouth Ghetto and somepony just didn't like the name so they changed it. Doesn't really matter what it's called anyway, this is just where the homeless go when they have nowhere else to sleep. Much to the annoyance of the city guards.

Despite the bright lights overhead, the majority of the ponies here were sleeping so it was easy enough for me to pass through their little shacks and onto the road to Canterlot undisturbed. I soon exited the cavern and stepped onto the grand bridge that would lead me to the treasure I set my sights on.

MLP : SH - 2 The Thief

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Two : The Thief

After I exited Estuary Slums, I came upon the path that led around the side of the mountain and to my destination. It was a pristine road that was kept clean by the misting spray of water from the massive downpour of rapids it arched around. The white painted wooden structure was lined with light marble stones for decoration. The thundering roar of the nearby waterfall drowned out any other sounds in the area and it made the air I breathed in moist and uncomfortable. On either side of the path were elegantly crafted rails to prevent anypony from falling off to their death. Unicorn shapes embedded each of the painstakingly carved pieces of wood that showed off the skill of the carpenter who shaped it.

Every five meters along the path was a tall flagpole that held King Sombra's symbol high and proud. The royal flags blew in the wind, twisting his crest symbol this way and that. I didn't need to watch the flag until it stilled to figure out what the crest was, I knew it by heart. It was a deep red circle with a black line down the center of it like a cat's eye. On either side of the red circle were two black shadowy wings. A great golden crown and a fearsome red horn sat upon the eye. Behind it were three dark purple spires on a lighter purple background. I have seen that symbol since I was a foal and I resented it. The same symbol was etched into the marble below my hoof and I was glad to be stepping on his precious declaration of power.

On each of the flag poles there were lanterns hung to keep the path lit at all times with an ethereal magical flame. In between each of the posts sat a bench overlooking the magnificent view of the landscape below that was Equestria. I never really cared for the scenic view, I enjoyed other visual indulgences. I often saw cities from a high angle as the rooftops were the thieves' highway and I frequented them often. It's hard to be appreciative of a view when you see it nearly every day. This view was no different despite its rolling hills and valleys of farmland instead of the cobblestone roadways and tall brick buildings that I was used to.

As I reached the end of the curved hoof built road, I came upon a set of stairs that would lead me up to the metropolis. I climbed them to their peak and I was greeted with a familiar sight. Canterlot was quite a bit different from most places. It was built into the peak of a mountain and it sat as the highest ground-bound pony built structure in Equestria. The only thing higher than this place was the pegasai cities built into the clouds. How pegasai built anything out of clouds was a mystery to me so don't ask. This was its only entrance so they didn't need any walls to keep them safe from an enemy attack. I suppose if they had the advantage of the sky, the city would fall. Then again, King Sombra would never let that happen.

The crowning point of Canterlot was the massive castle that rose above it all, even the mountain top. It was common knowledge that this was only a sort of second home to King Sombra; he only stayed here when he wasn't in the Crystal Empire. Alternatively, one of his paramounts rule in his stead, a slate gray unicorn mare named Crown Jewels. The other buildings in the city were also constructed to be tall but not quite enough to surpass the castle. The hotel that faced outside of the city wasn't nearly as towering as some of the others but it was quite the architecture. Beside it was a stable and parking garage for traveling merchants to park their waggons and rest their mules or cattle. It was a long, dangerous trek to the mountain peak from the old lava tunnels that weaved through the alp. Some offshoots were still active with the boiling slag and travelers sometimes got lost and perished.

In between the two structures stood a thick wooden gate reinforced with metal. I could see many slaves that were chained to the large door as a means of opening and closing it with a crack of their master's whip. With no demands for them at the moment, they were all curled together for warmth as they tried to sleep. Above the egress was a pathway so the King's guards had a better vantage point to see ponies coming and going.

The King's guards were called Shadow Nights. They wore black uniforms with red trim, silver buttons and gunmetal gray saddlebags with black edging. The King's symbol was on a patch on their left shoulder, bars and stars adorned their right to show their rank. They were each clean, well shaven and had the same mane and tail style no matter their sex. The only differences were their coat and mane colors.

The guards stood at attention all around their post to keep the unwanted riff raff outside of their domain. This included me, of course. Canterlot has very strict laws on who can live there, who can visit and exactly for how long. The ponies of Estuary Slums and these merchants outside didn't fit the ticket and neither did I. I may be an undesired guest but I'm not going to take no for an answer. I'll find my own way in.

While a Shadow Night was speaking with another, referencing the clipboard in her hoof several times, I made my way to the side of the inn and hid myself from their view. I unlatched my bow from its hook under my cloak, grabbed an arrow from my quiver and shot it at the tallest point of the building. The rope that was tied to the shaft dangled down, allowing me to climb to the top with ease. Not one for wasting good supplies, I pulled the arrow out of the wood and packed it away into my saddlebag.

I crept along the roof to an adjacent building that was taller than the one I stood on. Just as I was about to climb up to the window that was within my reach, I could hear the sharp snap of a whip. Out of curiosity, I made my way over to see why they were opening the gates at this late hour. Below me, the slaves pulled the heavy wooden structure and a little filly was escorted out of the city by a couple of guards.

A little gray foal with a long blue mane limped along and grunted in pain. Not hobbling fast enough for their liking, they kicked her forward and she cried out when she landed on the cobblestone. I could see the reason for her discomfort, her left foreleg was swollen and purple. Obviously a nasty wound but I could not see the true extent of it from how high up I was.

The mare with the clipboard stood in front of the foal, spat a code of letters and numbers, addressing the filly, and telling her she was to leave. She apparently wasn't fulfilling her quota at the workhouse and therefore was exiled. The foal tried to talk reason into the guard pony but was only given the threat of 'flying lessons' in return which I took to mean they would toss her off the side of the mountain. She gave up shortly after, knowing she wouldn't win that fight, and began to drag her dead limb down the stairs and towards Estuary Slums.

This fate was quite common for orphaned foals unfortunately. Despite how bad I felt for her, there was nothing I could do. Good luck kid. Time for me to get back to work.

With a short hop, I managed to grab onto the windowsill and pull myself in. I took a quick peek around to make sure I was alone and wouldn't get caught. I wasn't alone. There, sleeping in the bed next to me was a mare, mouth hanging open and drooling on her pillow. Charming. As long as I stayed quiet, and I am very skilled at being quiet, I should be fine. The soft boots I wore on my hooves kept the sound I made when I walked to a minimum; better than my hard hooves clicking against stone or wood and alerting everypony to my presence. I moved to the nearby dresser and took the bits that sat atop it as well as the silver laced pen. Browsing the papers that the writing utensil was laid on, I determined she was trying to write a love letter of sorts. Several scribbled out drafts, each version only slightly different. What a waste of paper. Moving on.

I walked down the hallway, noting how many doors I had to choose from. The door I had just came from, two locked doors to my left and a right turn up ahead. Along the walls were common paintings that filled the expanse of walls, renditions of a boat on a raging sea. Somepony liked ships, apparently. There was a bird cage with a canary sleeping in it and a side table with an unlit lantern to take up empty space in the hall. As I turned the corner there was a large podium that held a hoof built ship in a bottle. It was a sizable bottle but I imagine trying to fit all the tiny pieces through the opening would have been a pain to do. It wasn't worth trying to steal so I left it alone. At the end of the hallway was another window, my own personal access to the city.

I grabbed the gold plated lighter that was left on the windowsill and looked outside. I could see several guards wandering the streets. None were near me but they were walking in my direction. Swiftly hopping out of the window and landing on the cobblestone street below, I made my way to a nearby hay cart to conceal myself. Surprisingly, for being King Sombra's elite guard force, they weren't very observant. It wasn't hard to stay hidden as they walked past me, unawares of my presence. I, on the other hoof, noticed a hefty coin purse on one of the guard's belts. As they casually strolled along, I moved behind them and followed, listening to their conversation. Carefully creeping closer and reaching for the small pouch.

"Yeah, they caught a small band of rebels in the Eastern district yesterday. Only four of them but they were trying to break into Barron Silver Mane's manor." The white unicorn said to her partner.

"Tsk," the green mare rolled her eyes, "Those idiots will never learn. They can't just take somepony's property. You know, if they would just submit, this place would be a whole lot better. The Kings have done great things for this land and they just can't see it."

The white mare swished her tail, "Well, some ponies just can't open their eyes and see the bigger picture. They only think of themselves and their selfishness is what's ruining this country."

As soon as I was close enough, I easily snatched my most recent target and pocketed the goods into my saddlebag. I turned around and began to trot off in the opposite direction and toward a much more expensive prize. I passed several buildings with locked doors, a few ponies quietly chatting and more guards but no pony paid me any mind since I kept out of sight. I weaved through the maze-like city streets before I finally came upon a canal. Not wanting Thief to get wet when I dipped myself into the water, I encouraged my little friend to climb on top of my head so she would stay dry. Once she was safe, I slowly descended into the chilly liquid, trying to keep myself and the drink quiet.

The waterway allowed me a shortcut, bypassing a known guard checkpoint that usually blocked the road. Once I reached a metal sewage drain I could go no further. That's alright, this was my destination anyway. Peeking above the bricks that made up the canal, I could see the wall protecting the estate stretching out to either side of me. Hung on the barrier above my head was a lit torch. Too bright for my taste. I took my bow out again but this time I grabbed a different arrow. One with a small balloon tied to the end that was filled with water. I fired at the flame and just as the thin wooden rod knocked against the wall, the small thin bag exploded, extinguishing the light source.

The sound of hoof steps caught my attention. I could see a pony beginning to walk around the corner. Another guard but not a Shade Night; a hired thug that was paid to act professional. The pony's muzzle was faintly illuminated from the end of the cigarette he held between his teeth. My ears folded and I sunk down further into the water. I heard him grumble a complaint that the light on this side was out, irritated at the wind. Apparently this wasn't the first time the torch had expired. After a moment, he turned around and began to walk back around the wall, giving me my opportunity to exit the waterway.

Still dripping wet, I crept over to where the tail end of the guard buck had disappeared around the corner. Since the barrier was entirely made of bricks, my arrows would not help me climb the tall structure nor could I fly without wings. That's fine, I'm very sneaky when I need to be. I'll just go invite myself through the front door.

I could see the massive metal gate that was guarded by several ponies. One on either side and three patrolling around the outside. Count Markus has never had this many swords here, are these mustang shards really that valuable? Now I'm intrigued. If I want to grab them, I have to get rid of these guards first.

I looked around, trying to find some way to sneak past the guards. There were too many around so I couldn't just walk over there and sneak behind them. Two of them were looking in my direction and they would no doubt spot me if I left the shadows and into the nearby light. I would have to distract them somehow. I looked around at the surrounding street and weighed my options. I could fire a blunt arrow at the bakery sign across the street to make noise but would that really draw them away? I needed something that would make them think there was a pony nearby, something that they would have to investigate. Surprisingly, there were no homeless ponies nearby. There usually were so the guards had probably done their jobs well. I could fight my way through but I'd really rather not. I then spotted a small clay pot with a plant in it on the railing of a balcony on the two story house across the street. I would have preferred a glass beer bottle on ground level but this would have to do.

I notched an arrow on my bow, pulled back, aimed and let it fly. My target shattered, spilling dirt, leaves and pottery shards at the door. The guards looked over to the noise and stopped patrolling but none of them budged so I couldn't yet move. We all waited, the guards calling to one another, debating on if they should check it out. It was then that the window illuminated with light, an irate mare stormed out of the door and onto the balcony. She looked at the broken pot, she glared at the guards on the street and then began to yell at them about breaking her grandmother's favorite plant. The guards then moved closer to the mare so they could yell back at her. Here's my chance. I swooped in behind them while their attention was elsewhere, scaling the metal gate and dropping down into the front yard of Count Markus' property.

I remained undetected as I slipped between a small out building and the brick wall. I stayed there, in the shadows, for a moment to make sure no pony had seen me or would sound an alarm. A minute went by before I heard a door slam and the front guards make their way back to their posts. Perfect, just as planned. I peeked my head out of cover to survey my surroundings. There was a wide paved road leading from the entrance of the estate to the front gates. Across from me was a tall metal pole with a light at the top. It wasn't a fire lantern but an actual electric bulb that buzzed as it struggled to brighten the area around it. Leaning against the pole was another guard, a mare who was fast asleep and softly snoring.

Parked in the driveway was a brougham pony drawn carriage that was colored a deep purple with golden stars and moons elegantly illustrated on it. The vehicle was adorned with white diamonds to represent even more stars. If there were less guards around I might have relieved the carriage of its flashy embellishments. Oh well. On the other side of the yard, beyond the vehicle, was a decently sized two story building. It was probably a servant or guard's quarters. Most wealthy ponies had some place for their non-slave help to stay. I've never been inside though so I can't be sure. Most of the time, the help doesn't have nearly the wealth lying around that their masters do. I don't bother with them when the main house is right there with its more expensive spoils.

The small shed I hid behind I knew to be for the house's utilities. A large generator softly hummed its tune within and an access to the estate's sewage drain I knew was in one of the corners. Count Markus had installed several electric lights since the last time I was here. There was more around the outside of the building and extra standing lamps for the rest of the courtyard area. I looked over my shoulder at my rat friend who was admiring the sights on my back. I put my hoof out for her and she climbed aboard. Per our usual routine, I set her on the ledge where the cracked window was and she scampered inside to do her work. I knew I could count on her to cut the power for me. I then made my way to the other side of the outbuilding. I needed to check the route to the slave barn and make sure it was clear of guards.

Shit! I backpedaled quickly as another guard passed right in front of me. I got too eager, I should have been paying better attention. Hopefully she didn't notice me. I pulled my blackjack out, ready to strike her down if she actually did follow me back behind the shed. My club was designed to knock out ponies but not kill them. It was a good little weapon but I only used it in a pinch.

And so I waited and listened but she never followed. I heard hoofsteps on concrete as she rounded the corner and walked away. I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding as I put my blackjack away. Creeping back over to the corner of the building, I was more careful this time, more methodical in my movements and I listened for any more guards. Nothing. I peeked out but no pony was there. Suspicious? Maybe. From this vantage point I could see the driveway path continued all the way around the mansion with decorative foliage to either side. The wooden deck of the house and its massive double doors were quite tempting but they were not my destination. I looked past it, past the carriage and saw what I was looking for. Almost out of view and behind a shade structure made of wood was the slave barn.

I studied the area, looking for the best path. I could go around the back side of the building, the long way, but I knew he had a kennel back there where he kept his hounds. Count Markus was known for having his dogs in the races and to him, they were his most prized possessions. I have no intention of waking them up as I pass, I'd much rather stay as far from those beasts as I could. With that decided, my only option was the more direct route. I'm fine with that, I just have to avoid the lights.

I stayed in the shade of the shed and I kept an eye out for the other ponies in the area. No pony's looking this way, good. I swooped to the back of the carriage so I would be protected from view. I smirked as I had a straight shot to the front deck. I took one last look around and then I easily made my way to the front of the house. This area was completely black as none of the lights reached this area. I'm curious why he didn't install lights right near his door or by the massive window here. Doesn't matter, more of an advantage for me.

The wood gave a small creek as I stepped on it and I watched the guards to make sure they hadn't heard. I made my way over to the small table and umbrella that was surrounded by four fancy looking chairs. Good, they were still oblivious of my presence. I watched as another mare walked towards me along the path. I stayed low, hidden by the patio furniture and she passed me by.

Past the edge of the deck was the pergola. A wooden structure with no walls which provided shade to the hidden sanctuary within the hedges beneath it. The plant life was dotted with colorful flowers and in the center was a small pond with some fish swimming in it. Once the path was clear, I snuck my way into the oasis.

I stayed there, hidden by the foliage and watched the guards. There were two of them in front of the slave barn, standing at attention but obviously falling asleep. There was another walking the path around the house in the opposite direction of the one that had passed me earlier. The rest of the guards near the entrance were still at their posts and I remained undetected by all of them.

As soon as I was sure I could move out of cover, I did. I leapt over the bush, landed on the other side and swiftly proceeded between the slave barn and the staff building. As I continued, I could hear the guards behind me concerned about the noise I made when I jumped over the hedge. I could hear hoofsteps behind me. Better move.

I came to the back wall of the property and in my way was a large pile of manure. My ears folded at the roadblock before me. Looking around, I saw a metal chute that appeared clogged. I assume it led down to the sewers. Count Markus should really get this fixed. I could hear hoofsteps behind me, probably the guards checking if the slaves were digging out of their confinement. I have to move. I sucked in a breath and reluctantly stepped into the pile. Even though I stayed as close to the wall as I could where the mini mountain of dung was the shortest, I still felt some of the mush seep into my boots. Gross. I rounded the corner and knew I was safe for the moment; I doubt the guards would follow if they had seen me.

It was then that I heard the guard's voice call out in alarm. They were complaining that the lights had gone out. Good girl, Thief. While they were all preoccupied trying to fix the generator I could go inside and collect my prize.

After I knocked the mess out of my boots I looked around at the backside of the barn. No backdoor and the only windows were small ones at the very top for extra air flow. At the end of the ally I was in there sat a tall stack of boxes. Perfect, there's my easy access to the roof. I climbed atop the boxes and stepped onto the roof of the barn. The platform I stood upon was obviously in need of repair. The brick tiles were covered in mold, cracked and some were missing. I could feel my weight bowing the wooden supports beneath me. Not good.

I looked around at the rest of the structure and saw a large hole. There was my door. As carefully as I could, I made my way over to it and I looked inside. I could see several ponies within, some huddling together in a corner and others sleeping alone. The floor was mostly covered in straw which probably hadn't been changed in weeks. I could smell the mildew from here.

The ponies inside didn't concern me because I knew if they saw me, they would ignore me. Slaves aren't exactly the most social of creatures; or, at least, their masters forbid them from being social. Usually, any slave caught speaking to someone they were not authorized to speak to was punished. So, I proceeded. I took a rope arrow out of my quiver and plunged it into the side of the barn then threw the rope down into the pit. I grabbed it and tugged to make sure it held before I descended.

My landing did startle a couple of the slaves but I glared at them and they flinched back. I looked around and didn't see anything obvious that I might have hidden something in or behind. The walls were just single slats of wood and I could see the outside between the uneven beams. The rafters didn't pose any promise either. They were covered in cobwebs and didn't look like they had been touched since this place was built. I folded my ears as I was running out of options and time.

Where in tartarus did that stupid stallion hide it? He probably has a hidden hatch on the floor somewhere which means I'm going to have to dig around in moldy hay to find it. Great. Another option I had was to force the answer out of the slaves however, I doubt they would be willing participants in my thievery. If they were found out, they would suffer lashings so they might scream for the guards for their own safety. I was going to have to find it on my own.

I dug around in the straw, feeling for anything unusual. A rugged patch of dirt, wooden planks or even a thin rope might be clues. In the silence of the night, the shifting of the fodder sounded louder than I knew it was. I gritted my teeth and really hoped I wouldn't get noticed.

I heard shifting on the other side of the barn. I quickly turned towards it and ducked low, watching a pony shaped shadow move about the darkness. It slowly came closer to me and I could see that it was a pegasus stallion. He had a light colored coat but in the darkness I couldn't make out exactly what he looked like.

"H-hello?" he whispered to the corner I hid in.

My ears folded and I took a step back, feeling the wall behind me, trapping me.

"I don't know who you are but you're here for the box, right?" the pegasus asked.

Now this is curious.

He glanced at the door before he spoke again, "It's over here, follow me."

Do I dare? He could be leading me to a trap. Slaves don't do this, they never talk to me so what was his angle. What would he get out of showing me where the box was? I get that he sussed out I couldn't be here for anything else, there was that occasional smart slave but why would he help me? I could hear the guards outside, they were almost done fixing the lights. I don't have time, I have to get the box and get out. Damnit.

I looked around at the other slaves, still either sleeping or keeping to themselves and ignoring us. Hmm, they could ambush me if I'm not careful. Keeping an ear on them and the guards outside, I followed the pegasus to the back of the stable. I kept a distance from the slave who rooted around in the straw, moving it to reveal a small wooden hatch. He opened it, picked up a small box and held it out to me with one of his ruined wings. I looked at him with skepticism. He just smiled at me and told me to take it. I eventually reached out and accepted the gift from him. I took a quick look at it and then stuffed it into my saddlebags.

I raised an eyebrow at him and asked, "Why?"

He gave a chuckle and opened his muzzle to reply but was interrupted by a guard trotting into the barn. I swooped behind him and into the hay while he took a step forward.

"What's all the racket about?" the guard questioned.

With the lantern attached to his back, it illuminated the slave who had helped me out. His coat was cream and he had a short white mane and tail. He was covered head to hoof in lashes, old and recent. I shuddered at the thought of being in his hooves. I looked at the guard. He was large, gruff and a unicorn. I'd really rather not have to fight my way out, especially against him. Damnit, this slave is going to tell him I'm here so he doesn't get more punishment. If I weren't under this hay I would ready my bow for a fight.

The pegasus lowered himself and answered, "I'm sorry sir, I was merely trying to get comfortable. It's difficult with my wounds, you see."

The guard snorted. "Knock it off or I'm going to have to hurt you some more."

"Y-yes sir."

And with that, the unicorn left. I blinked in bafflement at the slave who had not only led me to my prize but got the guard to leave. Why is he helping me? What does he gain from this? I don't understand it, he doesn't make any sense. I stepped out of the straw and glared at the anomaly before me. He only smiled at me in return, walked past me and laid down. I looked around at the other slaves and I could see a couple with their heads up, looking in my direction but as soon as I turned my gaze on them, they hastily feigned sleep.

Fine, whatever. I had to leave anyway. As I made my way back to my rope, I could feel Thief climb my back leg and up to my withers. She settled into her favorite spot and I climbed up to the roof. I pulled my arrow out of the wood, stuffed it back into my bag and went to the edge closest to the property's wall. I gave the yard guards one last smirk before I leapt over the wall, back into the city streets.

MLP : SH - 3 Gridlock

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Three : Gridlock

I would love to have seen the look on his face when he found out his special little box is missing. That's one disadvantage to my line of work, I can't stick around to see the results. I imagine it would be quite amusing to witness. Sometimes I am tempted to, but I know it might take them a while to notice and I can't stick around all day. They usually aren't expecting somepony to steal something from them when they hide it away so well or put it in a large safe. Ah well, I'll just have to settle for enjoying my spoils.

I wonder just how valuable these mustang shards are, I mean, are they just some new slang for a diamond? An opal? What if they really are part of some old relic that once belonged to Equestrian royalty? Now that would be interesting. Unfortunately, I would have to wait until I got home to unlock the box and find out. I wouldn't want somepony to interrupt me and try to take what is now rightfully mine. Finders keepers after all and I would like it to stay that way.

With my saddle bags comfortably full of reclaimed property, I made my way down the streets of Canterlot with a smirk on my face. I stayed as hidden as I could, ducking behind parked vehicles or moving to the shadow of a building. It was still dark out but the light of the morning sun was unmistakable as it barely began to peek out of its hiding spot over the horizon. There were still guards patrolling the streets and I had no intention of being interrupted on the journey home.

As I came to the front of an apartment building slop rained down in front of me, barely missing my head. I looked up to see a mare emptying a bucket of excrement out her window. She almost hit me with that! She could have at least checked to see if anypony was down here before dumping it. I glared at the mare as she took the bucket inside and shut the window. She's lucky I'd rather get home than make a pitstop to get revenge. If I wanted to, I could steal everything she owned.

Moving on, I saw an opportunity to reach the thieves' highway; the rooftops of the city that will provide me an easier route to my destination. It will also help me avoid all the guards roaming the streets. Next to a slave mare that was chained to a wheelbarrow was a stack of wood right in front of the carpenter's shop. It was tall enough for me to climb up and the mare shouldn't be a problem. She was too busy shoveling shit to pay any attention to me.

I suppose I could have just used my rope arrow again. However, I have found that using the same arrow too many times causes the rope to fray, the point to dull or the rod to crack. I really needed to restock my quiver, I have been neglecting it so I only have the one to use today. I had already used it several times in the past week so I'm not sure how well it would keep without getting maintenance soon. I just hope I won't have to use one on the rest of the way home.

I trotted over to the stack of wood and eye'd the mare as she glanced at me. Neither of us said a word to each other as I climbed on top and made my way up to the roof of the building. From here I could see a straight path to the entrance of the metropolis and I easily navigated the tiled roofs to my destination.

Once I reached the buildings that marked the border entrance, I climbed down. Landing on the other side of the gate, I made sure the guards couldn't see where I had just come from. I could hear them chatting, not about me but about more foals they needed to have removed from the city. Those who, by the demands of their ever important paperwork, were deemed exiled until they could correct whatever issue conflicted with the King's strict rules. They were apparently very eager to kick kids out tonight, I wonder why. They also mentioned a coffin birth. I have no idea what that is but apparently it's an omen for the citizens or something. Unimportant, moving on.

I walked out into the open as if I had just exited the inn that is supposed to be for traveling merchants and I walked down the steps. The view from the path around the city's waterfall was the same as last night, only brighter. The sun was slowly creeping upward, waking those of the earth below it. The illumination brought stains on the marble flooring to my attention. They were a deep dark red color and they began most of the way down the stairs, continuing along the path. Some were beginning to be cleaned off by the mist of the falls and would probably be gone by midafternoon.

It wasn't long before I found the source. The little filly was lying still on the floor. It appears she had fallen down the stairs and her injured leg had ruptured. Seeing it up close, it was rather disgusting. It was swollen to unsettling proportions and missing all of its fur. It was a mixture of purple and black that was splattered with blood, obviously none of the filly's natural colors. The original wound that caused the source of the infection was blackened and further up the leg were popped blisters that oozed with puss. Glad I have a strong stomach or I may have vomited. I recognize this, the infection has turned to gangrene and the filly would likely die if she wasn't dead already. Poor thing.

I dipped my head to her some out of some deep seeded need to offer at least my respect for trying to survive before I moved on.

Estuary Slums is surprisingly lively for this early in the morning. I don't like it. Not only does their feeble attempts at building structures make the place even more of a maze than the city is, but now there are ponies everywhere. I know that as long as I keep my hooves to myself, these ponies aren't going to raise any kind alarm. I have been through here a multitude of times over the past couple of decades and they've never given me any kind of trouble. They just make it more of a pain in the flank to maneuver around. Not only that, this place is a town of beggars so I'm not going to be surprised if I get stopped on the way to the train.

I made my way through the makeshift city, careful not to step on any of the foals roaming underhoof. Trying to not raise any suspicion, I made sure to not wander too close to anypony's camp. This was made all the more difficult by about a dozen ponies all speaking to each other and blocking most of my path. As I tried to find another route, I couldn't help but eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Will you be able to make it tonight?" a slate gray pegasus stallion asked.

"Don't worry about us, we'll make the schedule. What about you? You're going to be preoccupied if it's savable." a peach colored mare asked in response.

"I have ponies for that." The gray pegasus replied, "Besides, we have plenty of time. Find Dodge and Bean, they can help me prepare him for the journey."

"Yes sir." she replied with a salute.

The stallion, who seemed to be in charge, turned to a young white colt with a brown vest. "Do we know if Stratta made it in?" he asked the foal.

"Uh, yes sir." the young pony said as he rubbed the scar on his muzzle, "He got in a couple of hours ago but no word on if he found what he was looking for yet."

"Hmm," the pegasus took a moment to think, "I doubt he'll find anything, I keep telling him that's a flawed plan. Just, make sure you get word to me if there are any developments. We all know how, uh… eccentric he can be and I want to provide him with support if he needs it."

The colt scrunched up his face. "Shouldn't you have sent him in with support to begin with?" he questioned.

The stallion gave him a smirk as he replied, "Can't get anything past you, can I? Guess what, you're his backup. If anything happens, you'll let me know and I can get the others to go help him. This way the big ponies can do other things and only help him if he needs it. I trust you, now go on."

The colt gave a proud salute and ran off towards the Canterlot city entrance.

After that, they began talking about the city's sewage problems and the ponies who were captured by the King's guard. It was then that I actually inspected them a bit further. I could see that each of them had a small patch sewn into the sleeve of their clothing. It was a silhouette of an alicorn rising into the sky with a bright sun behind her. I recognize this patch, they all belonged to that rebel group, the Solar Nation as they call themselves.

I'd rather not stick around them. Even though I could eavesdrop some more to see if they were going to cause any mayhem, giving me ample thievery opportunities, I'd prefer to stay out of their shenanigans. If the guards raided their little rebellion parties, rallies or riots, I might get caught up in the bedlam and be thrown in prison just as the rest would be. Treason such as they were causing to the crown resulted in interrogation followed by an execution. I like where my head was, thank you.

Finally finding a path through, I could see the train platform just ahead of me. Unfortunately, just as I had expected, I was stopped in my tracks by one of the residents of the makeshift village. She was a skin and bones mare with a patchy pink coat and she was marked as a slave even though she had no chains. Strange, I wonder how she escaped her master, they never usually just let them go.

She trembled as she spoke, "E-excuse me, sir. Might you have a little food or a bit or two to spare?"

It was obvious she wasn't accustomed to speaking with strangers. Doesn't matter anyway because I'm not about to help her. I didn't have any food on me and I wasn't about to part with any more of my bits that I had to. She was an adult pony, she would have to figure it out on her own like I did. The world is a harsh place and if I spared something for this pony who's to say I won't need it later? Toughen up lady.

I folded my ears in annoyance and I walked around her but I heard her follow me.

"W-wait, please!" she called out to me, "My little one, she's so sick. I need to find a doctor. Even information on one that might help us would be appreciated."

Great, more foals. And they're even sick too. I don't understand what she expects from me. Sure, her kid might get my sympathies but I have no obligation to help. I looked behind me, back to the mare and spotted a filly peeking out of a sizable hole in a raggedy tent. The second I made eye contact with the child, she ducked down and out of sight. I furrowed my brow. She didn't look sick. Maybe that wasn't her foal, there were lots of kids around here after all.

"I don't have anything." I told her. I saw the look of hope drain from her face as she looked downcast. She nodded in understanding and walked back into the maze.

I didn't even get two steps up to the train platform before I was interrupted again. There was a tug on the end of my cloak. I clenched my teeth and turned around, ready to berate somepony for putting hooves on me. Well, not on me, on my clothing but, it's basically the same thing.

To my surprise, the pony that pulled at my cloak was the little filly I had seen in the tent. I took a step back. If she really was sick it was most likely the plague and I definitely did not want to catch it.

She glared up at me. The small ball of yellow and feathers actually had the gaul to glare at me. Color me impressed, not many actually have the guts to do that. "You got a saddlebag?" she asked.

I just stood there and blinked at her in confusion.

"You got saddlebags! I can see 'em under your cape." she accused. Observant little wiseass. "The way they carry you're lyin' to mamma. You do have stuff and you can spare a coin or two!" Correction: Obnoxious little monstrosity.

I scoffed. "My property is none of your business." I told her, "I have no reason to give you anything of mine."

"My baby sister is sick, you'd let an innocent child die 'cause you're greedy? Shame on you!" she countered and finished in a sing-song tone.

Great, the guilt trip treatment. This is exactly why I hate foals. "I'm not giving you anything!" I repeated, hoping she would get the hint this time. I didn't steal anything from them so how on Equus is she making me feel so bad? I'm not responsible for their situation, I didn't cause them strife or get the kid sick. It's none of my business! I didn't feel this way until the damned filly came over. It's always the stupid foals, why are they always inclined to pester me? It's like I'm a magnet to them!

"And why not? Mamma says it's important to share!"

Her mother finally rushed over to protect her filly from my glare. "I'm so sorry!" she said in panic.

"Mamma!" the filly protested as she squirmed in her mother's grasp.

I then saw the mare glance up at me, look back to her daughter then back at me with wide eyes. She grabbed her filly tighter, screamed, "Rat!" and fled into her tent.

The chatter of the village died to a low murmur at the cry. I looked around and saw eyes casting their suspicions at me. Most of the ponies quickly made their way back to their camps to hide away from the potential danger. I'm not surprised. Rats are blamed as the main carrier of the plague. In truth, it wasn't the rats but the fleas that they carried. None of my rat friends had ever brought sickness into my place of dwelling so I was never worried. Then again, my rats never fed off of corpses or lived in filthy places like this. No matter what any other pony thought of my rodents they would never change my opinion. I needed to leave this place; I didn't need to draw any more attention than I already had.

I stepped up onto the trainstation's belvedere and trotted over to the ticket booth. "One to Ponyville." I said.

The stallion behind the glass protected counter moved the newspaper from in front of his face, cocked an eyebrow at me and just stared.

"I need a ticket to Ponyville." I said again.

The ticket pony's expression flattened. "No, you don't." he told me. He then shifted the newspaper back in front of his face.

In frustration, I threw seven bits onto the counter. "Yes, I do. Now give me the damned ticket." I demanded.

As he continued to ignore me, I glared daggers at the newspaper that obstructed my view of him. His paper shield was blocking the full effect of my irritation. Asshole. I swiped my bits off the counter and stormed off. As I walked away, I could hear him grumbling about me thinking I could get away with bringing a rat onto his train. What the hell did he know about rats that made him have so much authority over them?

I grit my teeth in resentment and paced on the decking behind the booth, hidden in the shadow of the small structure. Dealing with ponies was not something I enjoyed. They usually prevented me from doing the things I desired, demanded things of me or they wanted to shoot me. I try to refrain from having to do any sort of business with them if I could but, sometimes it was unavoidable. This was one of those times where I didn't gain anything from the interactions. Today I only received guilt and frustration, not things I could put into my saddlebags. This was unacceptable.

There was nothing I could do about the small family no matter how bad I felt for the sick filly or how angry I was that they alerted the entirety of Estuary Slums to my presence. The only thing I could do at this point was to find a way to rectify my issue with the judgemental stallion behind the glass.

Examining the building, it was just the same as all the other railway terminals I've come across. I knew it was, I've seen it plenty of times before. It was a small square building with a single door on its side and a large glass pane in the front. I knew inside was just enough room for the pony, storage under the counter and a few cubby boxes for mail. There was no way I could sneak inside and steal a ticket, damn. I guess I'm going to have to be a stow-a-way instead.

I had done it before, hiding out on the train for a free ride. It was easier to not get detected if I rode on the roof. Then again, the train tunnel down the mountain might not be tall enough for me to not become splattered pulp. Hiding inside the cabin was easier at night; most of the attendants didn't have the best night vision and I was able to hide pretty decently. With the sun rising, this may be more difficult than I would like.

There was a shift in one of my saddlebags and a clatter on the ground beside me. I looked over to find that Thief had shoved one of my trinkets out of the bag.

"Hey!" I scolded her, "Don't push things out of there young lady!"

I moved my cloak so I could see her poking her head out of my bag, looking as innocent as could be. I shook my head at her and picked up the piece. It was a charm that I stole just yesterday and I had neglected to put it away like I usually do. The beauty had a pure gold cast around a brilliant sapphire gem. The other smaller gems around it created the bust of a unicorn, using the sapphire to be the vast majority of the head.

I used my cloak to try and shine it up some. Unfortunately I don't have my proper tools to polish the charm like it deserved, they are all at home. That's one of the first things I'm going to have to do, I'm slacking if I let something like this go untended. I went to put it back into my saddlebag but Thief wouldn't let me. She pushed it away with her paws, I tried again and she bit the metal.

"Hey, stop that!" I told her, "You know better, we don't chew on things like this." She just wiggled her whiskers at me. The adorable little nuisance. "You're lucky I like you."

I was about to put it in my other saddlebag when I noticed the little yellow filly peeking her head around the corner. She was staring at the trinket in my hoof. My ears flattened. "I'm not giving this to you, go away." I demanded.

Her attention then turned to me and she stepped out so I could see her better. "That don't look like yours." she accused.

"That's none of your business." I snorted.

"How's about we make a deal then." she offered, "I hear you need a ticket, I want that shiny thing. I'll get your ticket and you give me that."

Was she serious? This was definitely not worth the price of admission. This filly didn't even look like she or her mother owned a single bit to their name. "I doubt you can get it." I told her.

She held her hoof out to me. "Gimmie your bits."

"That wasn't a part of your offer." I replied.

"Just gimmie!" the filly demanded.

I looked at the charm that was still in my hoof. Was I really willing to part with such a piece just for a train ticket? In any normal circumstance the answer would be a hard no but this was a damned kid. Yet again, my morals were twisted because this pony was so much smaller than I was. Not to mention she's impressively determined to help her sick younger sister even in the face of a stranger like myself. Usually, most citizens are fearful I may be a slaver or a mercenary.

Glancing up at her, she was glaring at me and waving her hoof, waiting for the bits I was supposed to give her. I sighed, turned my head away from her and relented. "Fine." I said reluctantly. I disturbed Thief's comfy spot as I rooted around for the bits and pulled them out. I watched myself hoof them over and then she bolted away around the corner.

As I waited, I stared at the pendant I still held in my hoof. I silently apologized to the brilliant piece of metal and gemstones that I wasn't able to care for it like it deserved. I sat down on the wooden deck and tried to shine it once more with the end of my cloak. Am I really going to part with it? I'm still torn on the issue. I could just give her nothing, take the ticket from her and be on my way but then she might rally the townsfolk against me. Actually, maybe not considering how they hid themselves at the mention that I had a rat with me. I can imagine the expression on her tiny little face if I told her no. Scrunched up in anger or sadness, crying because I denied her help. I grit my teeth at the thought. I hadn't even told her no and she was already making me feel bad.

I looked up as I heard hoofsteps. The filly was trotting around the corner again with the pass between her teeth. She stopped a fair distance from me and spat it at me. Being made of paper, the gesture didn't have the effect I think she meant it to have as it floated gently downward. The filly held her hoof out again. "I got it now gimmie!" she demanded.

I glanced down at the item in my hoof. Hesitantly, I set it on the wooden deck and slid it in her direction. Gleefully she picked it up with her teeth and ran off. I grimaced. She definitely wasn't going to care for the treasure the way it should be. I sighed. I had no control over that now. Well, unless I steal it back. Hm, maybe.

I walked over and picked up the slip. Looking it over, I saw she actually kept to her word. She could have easily swindled me just now with a blank scrap of paper. With how soon my ride would arrive according to the time stamped on the pass, there wasn't any time for me to retrieve my rightfully stolen property. Damn.

With that, I sat in the shadow of the small structure and waited. Not much time had passed before the long, low bellow sounded to announce the arrival of the locomotive. After it pulled into the station and came to a complete stop, I casually strolled over to the door and glanced at the stallion who refused to let me board his train. He was still reading his newspaper. Good, no objections.

Per the norm, my ticket was punched, I found a seat so I could stare out the window and Thief explored the cabin. Luckily, this time I didn't fall muzzle first into the floor. There were several more passengers getting on then there had been on my last ride so the train took longer at the station and I had a moment to find a seat.

The land passed me by through the window and the sun was shining brightly just over the horizon. There wasn't much of anything that caught my interest this time. Shame, it's hard to find some kind of entertainment over the couple of hours that I know I have to wait. I'm a patient pony though, so I don't mind.

When we pulled into the Ponyville station, I waited for a moment. Thief knew that a stopped train meant she had to come back to me. It was a few seconds later when I saw her scamper in my direction and climb my leg to reach my withers. With my companion aboard, I departed. I could hear somepony arguing outside but paid it no mind as my thoughts were on the locked chest within my saddlebag.

I should have been paying more attention because the instant I stepped hoof off of the train I had a gun barrel pointed into my face. I really don't appreciate the gesture, not to mention I hate guns. They're too… thoughtless. With my bow, I have to decide which type of arrow to use, determine how quickly I want my arrow to fly with how much I'm pulling back on the string, exactly how on point I need it to hit, not to mention I must factor in wind resistances. With a gun it's just a point and pull the trigger and sometimes they go off by accident; bows can't fire an arrow without it being deliberate and calculated. I also am not a fan of the smell of cordite. I'd really rather not get shot today if I can help it.

The pony who threatened me was a very light yellow earth pony mare with a pink and green striped mane. She was trussed up in a leather made garb that was studded with flat metal sheets, allowing for easier movement than full steel armor. She had the symbol of the rebels painted onto her chest plate and her stance told me she held some kind of authority within their ranks.

"What's your business in Ponyville?" she pressed as she gave me an icy stare.

Ignoring her, I decided to look around and see what had these idiots on edge. Maybe I could find something to my advantage that would help me solve this predicament. Two of the station's benches were broken and another was completely demolished, its wooden planks lying all over the place. The glass that protected the pony within the ticket booth was shattered to pieces except the few jagged pieces that still framed the window sill. I could see blood pooled on the counter and dripping on the ground but whoever was injured was nowhere to be seen. The body of the sick pony that had been there earlier was motionless from the several bullet wounds she had and I assumed nopony dared to touch her corpse. More blood splatters dotted the landscape leading to the massive Ponyville gates and there were blackened patches most likely from explosions. Some of the townsfolk were outside trying to repair a sizable hole in their wall and there were twice as many guards as when I had left, all of them on high alert. The train conductor was arguing with several of the guards but I ignored their conversation as the mare spoke again.

"Start talking or I'll start shooting!" she commanded.

"I'm no threat to you, your friends or your little rebel group. I'm just going to the Everfree Forest." I told her.

"Why do I not believe you?" She narrowed her eyes.

"Because you just got attacked, I'm in a cloak and you're a paranoid idiot?" I offered. As soon as the snarky words left my muzzle I knew I should have just kept my mouth shut.

The mare seethed. "Dusty, Silver, take him to Canary. I want to make sure he's telling the truth. If he's not, we have ourselves a new piñata." Great, I get to spend time in a box with the nutjobs. Ugh, can't I just go home already?

Two of the ponies behind her saluted and stepped forward. One was a tan earth pony buck with a straw colored mane while the other was a nervous dappled blue-silver pegasus mare. The stallion stood to my left and the mare to my right. The commander stepped aside and they escorted me away from the train.

MLP : SH - 4 The Belltower

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Four : The Belltower

My ears folded back in annoyance at my situation. I should have been paying more attention. If I had, maybe I wouldn't have gotten stuck like this. With so many ponies around, all of them with a stick up their ass, I have no opportunities to escape. Just about every pony around here is equipt with a firearm and actually paying attention to their surroundings. I'm going to have to bide my time and see where this goes, maybe I'll find an opportunity later.

The walk was short but slow. I could see our destination was a small shack right next to the Ponyville gates. Unfortunately, the young dappled mare to my right made the walk slower than it should have been as she pointed her rifle at me with her nervous, shakey wings. "D-don't try anything, mister!" she said with a gulp.

I rolled my eyes.

"Silver," the stallion to my left started as he adjusted the cowpony hat atop his head, "Pay attention ta where your walkin' an' calm down. He ain't gonna do nothin'. 'Taint no spy, no hostile neither. But he might become hostile if ya keep bein' an idiot."

She blushed, lowered her weapon and looked at her hooves.

Dusty leaned in towards me. "Don't mind the kid, first day jitters an' all that." he drawled.

First day? These rebels must be in some kind of dire need if they're using kids for guard duty. I'm just glad she didn't accidentally pull the trigger. With the mare paying more attention to where she was walking, our pace picked up some. We finally reached the small building and my two chaperones stopped. I glanced over at them, waiting for them to direct me.

"Please give any an' all weapons on yourself to Silver an' head on inside. You'll be interviewed and if y'all are deemed a non-hostile an' not a spy for the King, your weapons will be returned to ya an' y'all will be free ta go." Dusty recited. Then he sighed, "Look just, please don't cause any trouble. This is all basically a publicity stunt to keep the ponies calm. Commander Short Stack knows you ain't a danger nor any other pony from The Everfree but it's procedure in these types of situations. She's also pretty pissed her dumbass brother's in the hospital again and is taking it out on everypony else."

If these rebels are doing this to everyone coming and going from the Everfree Forest, of course this is going to raise tensions between the Solar Nation and the Rouge Rogues. Merchant's not going to be happy with this if he gets the whole place complaining to him and the other Eight about interrogations. Really, I shouldn't worry about it because this is going to be his problem and not mine but, I'm going to have to watch where I step around town if there are going to be pissed off ponies prancing around.

Dusty's command, give up my weapons? I'd really rather not. In this day and age you really didn't want to be without some form of defense. If something irritated that commander she could start shooting for no reason and her cronies would follow her order without question. I don't like this scenario but what other options do I have? There are rebels everywhere I look, all ready for battle. Damnit.

Reluctantly, I removed my bow and quiver, setting them gently on the ground. I pulled my two daggers out of their sheaths that were tied to my rear legs and set them down as well. My lockpicking tools were not weapons so I could at least keep those on me but what about my blackjack? That was the last weapon I had on me unless you counted my mini crowbar. I debated for a moment on if they would actually frisk me for anything else or not. I could risk it, keep my club on me in case of an emergency, but this stallion told me to play along and I would be set free. Should I trust him? Absolutely not. There are very few ponies I trust in this world and I'm not about to start trusting somepony who works for the rebels. I do, however, trust in my own skills so, I pass my blackjack over as well.

"Got anythin' else on ya?" Dusty asked me. I told him no and he gave me a skeptical look. If he tried to search me I was going to kick his teeth in. I glared at him and he backed off, raising a hoof in defeat. I gave an irritated snort and trotted inside.

The one room building was just as unimpressive inside as it was outside. There weren't any decorations, no paint on the walls or even a rug on the dirt floor. I'm surprised they didn't have a banner with their stupid logo hanging up in here. The only thing within was a table and two chairs. On the opposite side of the room from me sat another filly who was just old enough for her cutiemark. She was an off-white color with pastel shades of blue and yellow in her mane. She had a bright orange bird tattooed on her butt, she wore a light armored top and there was a rifle hanging from a sling around her chest.

Another kid? I could handle her. No windows here though so the only exit was the door I came through. That's fine, I'm not leaving here without my weapons and that's the exit that led me to them. I looked at the young mare. She gave me a big smile and gestured at the empty chair. No thanks, I'd much rather stand.

"It's not gunna bite, silly!" she told me in an annoyingly cheery voice.

I ignored her.

She cocked her head at me and shrugged her shoulders. The mare then began to flip through some papers on the desk, grabbed a pencil in her teeth and started to ask questions. "What's your name? I'm Canary, it's nice to meet you!"

"Double Round." I lied.

"Hiya Double Round!" she said and scribbled something on the paper, "Why do you have your hood up inside? It's not raining in here. Or outside for that matter. Are you a spy? Are you trying to be secretive? What kind of secrets are you hiding? Got any good ones? Tell me, tell me!"

I gave her a flat look. Yeah right, like I was going to tell her anything.

"Where did you come from anyway? You kinda smell." Can't argue with that after walking through the streets of Canterlot. "If you want a bath I wouldn't recommend the water here right now, it's kind of tainted and it'll make you sick. You're probably better off using the water from Saddle Lake because it's cleaner but you gotta watch out for the lake monster. Have you ever seen one of those monsters? Those things are called sea serpents. They're this big slimy thing that lives in the water and it can eat a pony in one bite! Why are they called a sea serpent when they don't live in the sea? They should be called lake serpents since they live in the lake. But besides that, why eat ponies? We're not food! Food is like, cake and pasta and salads, not people. I'm making myself hungry, are you hungry? What's your favorite food? I know King Sombra's is grape jelly! Curious how I know? Cause I'm super smart, that's how! I also know that there's exactly two hundred and forty-seven crystal ponies in Canterlot. Of that, only twenty-three are foals and–"

I really have to wonder if this filly is on some kind of drug; she's talking so fast I can't even get a word in edgewise. Would be nice if we could wrap this up. I'd like to go home, but how can I get her to shut up? The door behind me opened as if answering my silent question.

"Hiya Rooroo!" Canary said as she dropped the pencil out of her mouth and waved a hoof ecstatically at the pony that interrupted us.

She was another earth pony mare. Green with a long curly turquoise mane and tail that bounced with every movement. She wore thick barding on her entire body and had twin pistols at her sides. She gave Canary an unamused stare. "Canary Blues, I can hear you through the wall. You need to interrogate him properly and keep off the subject of your stupid crystal ponies. Read the sheet and ask him the questions. Stop gossiping." Really it was a one-sided conversation, not gossip, but who was I to argue? If the filly getting berated got this over with faster, I wasn't going to raise my opinion.

"Aww come on Roo! We're just talking about stuff and things, you don't have to get all huffy about it." Canary pouted.

"Canary!" the older mare barked. The filly flinched and almost ducked under the table. "Your job is to interrogate prisoners, not have a friendly chat with them. Do your job or I will report you, again."

Canary's eyes grew wide and she ran to Roo. "No, please no! They'll put me on bedpan duty again. It's so gross, please don't! I promise I'll be good!" she groveled.

Seeing that both mares were distracted with one another, I easily took the filly's saddlebag. There probably isn't anything interesting in here but I deserve some kind of reward for putting up with the little brat.

"Hey, somepony's gotta clean them. Dr. Patch 'n Stitch and H.N. need all the help they can get with the injured at their clinic." Roo shrugged, not in the least bit moved by the filly's plight.

Canary looked up at Roo with big watery eyes, her bottom lip quivering ever so slightly.

"Ugh, fine." the older mare snorted as she rolled her eyes, "But you have to do your job properly, got it?"

"Yes boss!" Canary said, giving her a salute. Finally, we can get this over with.

Roo gave the filly one last stern look and exited, leaving the two of us alone in the room. Canary heaved a sigh as she slowly marched back to her seat. Picking up the pencil between her teeth, she began the interrogation in a monotonous tone. It seems all her cheerfulness has deflated at the thought of washing bedpans. That's okay, it was getting on my nerves. There's something inherently wrong with people who are overly cheerful. I can't put my hoof on exactly what but, they really put me off. Like this mare before me whose attitude completely capsized and she was now a depressed lump. I can't work with this, I need ponies to be consistent.

Despite my internal frustrations with her, just as before, she still wouldn't let me speak. She read off the questions one by one and spoke an answer for me. Then she told herself out loud that it was probably correct judging by my appearance. I was okay with that. It seemed as if this was her form of rebellion at the no-fun policy. She also stayed quiet for long periods of time, writing down what seemed like a lot more than what she had said the answer would be. Not exactly sure what she was doing but, so long as I got to leave soon and be on my way, I wasn't going to have to steal everything she owned. Assuming she actually owned anything. I doubt it though.

A couple of hours had passed by and Roo came back in. Not surprisingly, Canary wasn't as enthusiastic at seeing the older pony this time. Roo stated that there was a group of ponies apprehended and they needed to be processed. The younger mare passed the clipboard over and told her superior that I should be good to go. After a thorough check of the paperwork, Roo pointed a hoof at the door and told me to leave. Good, finally.

I made my way past her and through the exit, entrance, whatever you want to classify a single door to a room as, and I stopped when I saw Silver. She was playing with my bow. She froze when she saw me and I gave her an icy stare.

"Um…" she began, "Is- Is he…"

"Give him his stuff back and get him out of here." Roo barked.

The filly gave me a sheepish grin as she moved away so I could collect my things. I'm surprised they gave me everything back and I'm even more surprised they're letting me go so easily. They didn't even take a single arrow out of my quiver. I'm not sure if I should find that suspicious or not. And, with that thought, I do a double check of all my gear just to make sure they didn't plant anything suspicious.

Not finding anything out of the ordinary, I finally acknowledge the stallion giving me a hard stare. I raised an eyebrow at him and he swished his blue and white tail in response. That dented tin can cutiemark seems to match his bent out of shape attitude. Whatever. I start walking towards the treeline and he follows me. They're giving me another escort, apparently. He didn't speak a word to me until I was right at the forest's edge.

"Go on, git and don't come back!" he snarled and gestured at the trees with his head. Well that was a fond farewell.

I gave an annoyed snort in response as I trotted off into the forest. Knowing my way around, I easily made my way through and to the town of The Everfree. I entered the mercenary town, passing the buildings I was so familiar with. Trotting along on the rickety wooden path that led through the town I saw ponies, griffons and a couple minotaurs wandering about. Some were going about their business, others standing in small groups and talking amongst each other while others were making deals, selling slaves, weapons or expensive trinkets.

Passing Dr. Slice's office, as soon as his nurse unlocked the door, four twitchy ponies shoved their way inside to get more of whatever drug they were obviously addicted to. As I passed the Rouge Rogue's job board, I saw a couple of stallions arguing with the mare at the front desk. Something about being angry at the price for information. I'm not surprised. Information is just as valuable a commodity as food or medicine. Everything has its price.

As I passed by the Crippled Cragadile Inn, there was a sizable crowd complaining at a tan pegasus with a multicolored mane. I know exactly who he is. He's an asshole and he deserves to be shot. I wasn't about to though, I'd get into trouble with Merchant if I did. It does amuse me that everypony's pissed off at him and he's having a hard time calming the crowd. I could see he was shouting back at them, probably telling them he has no control over whatever they were yelling at him about but they were all so boisterous that his words sounded like garbled nonsense.

I could, however, make out some of what the crowd was saying. It was obvious they were angry with the rebels detaining and interrogating them. I was right, the residents of The Everfree were not happy with the intrusion of their private comings and goings and were not going to keep their opinions to themselves. At least I don't have to worry about the politics between towns. I have always refused to be a member of any organization.

Being registered with the Rouge Rogues entailed a portion of my earnings would be turned in to the leaders so they could pay for the free food they gave to their community. Any jobs had to go through the job board to keep track of who did what and bounties on other members could not be collected in town. As much as having sanctuary within any Rouge Rogue territory is a tempting offer, I prefer not to be owned by some institution or person. Besides, everypony here knows Merchant will beat the shit out of those who mess with me. Perks of knowing the boss I suppose.

Despite having asylum in The Everfree, I do not live here. I continued on beyond the border and toward my destination. The path that led East of the town wasn't maintained since it was less frequently traveled. The brush was thicker which made my progress slower but as soon as I reached the ancient castle grounds, the foliage thinned out.

I had been told this was the home of the ruler of Equestria before King Sombra took control a millennia ago. I'm not sure how true it is but, judging by the damage that time has wrought on the fortress I would say the age is about right at least. The forest has taken the land back for itself. Tall trees grew from inside the structure, breaking down walls with their branches. Vines wrapped around the grand pillars and grass and bushes grew from out of cracks between the aging cobblestones. The work of pony hooves for past royalty has been subdued to the test of time.

When I was younger and I discovered the castle, I had always wanted to go explore the rubble. I imagined there were probably treasures of gold and jewels hidden away within. I was always told I wasn't allowed to go inside. I tried to argue back that there was possibly the greatest treasure in all of Equestria inside but I had to listen to their rules because they were my seniors and they were bigger than I was. As I grew older and wiser, I understood why. As much as I want to find the ancient treasure of kings past, it was not safe to explore a death trap over a thousand years old. The castle was already crumbling to pieces, somepony wandering around and moving rubble would bring its collapse sooner. The urge to find the treasure room was still strong but I had my own hoard to return to.

I trotted around the massive structure and came upon a bending stream. I followed the river away from the castle and around a large jagged rock structure known as Ragged Rock Ridge. As I passed, a few small boulders came tumbling down just ahead of me. I slowed my pace to a stop. Looking to where the rocks came from, I saw one last boulder fall down the cliffside. In my peripheral vision, I caught movement at the top of the ridge. When I looked directly at it, whatever it was had gone. There are rumors about spirits in this area. I don't believe in ghosts and ghouls, they're usually just stories to keep strangers away from some kind of secret.

Moving on, I passed by a bridge that led across the water before I came to a fork in the river. Following the stream Northward, I crossed some railroad tracks that I knew took ponies from Canterlot to Baltimare or Fillydelphia and came upon an open field. Looming above me was Foal Mountain. It wasn't the biggest mountain in Equestria but it had once been important enough for King Sombra to demand a royal city be built here.

I stepped along the cracked stone trail that led through the small line of trees that seemed to guard the mountain range. I passed several cautionary signs that were nailed to the trees, giving several different warnings to travelers. Along the side of the road were a few forgotten suitcases, a broken toy and an abandoned waggon with a broken wheel. The badly torn cloth cover of the vehicle was softly waving in the light breeze of the morning.

I stopped just in front of a large, hastily built wall that obstructed the path ahead. It had a pony skull painted in red on it that took up the entire face of the structure. The barricade was made of large cut stones with a thick wooden beam for support every ten feet or so. Large dark crystals protruded from the earth below to help give the wall extra support. With years of neglect on upkeep, much of the surrounding forest latched itself to the pony made structure and gave it an almost enchanted look.

I grabbed the rope that dangled down from the grappling hook which was already anchored to the top of the stone and I scaled the side. When I reached the structure's peak I was able to see what was hidden beyond. The landscape before me was familiar to me, someplace I felt safe and secure. My hidden home where nopony dares to tread.

Below me on the other side were dozens of carts and wagons. Most were wrecked and broken, empty save for their deceased occupants and drivers. Long dead ponies lay scattered along the path as if they crushed each other while trying to get past the walls. The vast majority of them were unicorns and they were wearing some sort of formal outfits to show their high class status. Earth ponies were still latched to the carts with their slave collars and chains. Some of the bones had damages to them, a cracked skull or a sharp blade lodged between bones and some pierced through with bullet holes. There were adults and children, slaves and masters, civilians and King's guards alike. Nopony survived the tragedy that occurred here so long ago.

I descended to the other side and continued on the road for a bit. Two massive statues loomed above the road. They faced one another on either side of me, built to represent faceless rearing unicorns. The statues marked a change for the road as well as the city limits. The pathway was now paved with white quartz blocks, each having their own unique design of black veins splitting the stones in various ways looking like inverted lightning strikes. On the outer edge of the fancified road were more of the black crystals, framing the sides with its contrast to the white quartz.

Unfortunately though, time had taken its toll on the beauty that had once been and now most of the road was damaged with cracks and foliage growing between. One of the unicorn statues had lost a leg and the other its tail. They weren't truly lost of course, they had fallen to the ground and destroyed some of the roadway beneath. Just like the marble pathway that led to Canterlot, this road also had the king's sigil held high on flagpoles lining the road. Most of the flags were non-existent at this point though.

I continued to follow the elevation as it weaved back and forth up the mountain side until I reached a large wooden platform that was attached to a pulley system high above. Unlike most of the surrounding pony-built architecture, this elevator actually still worked as intended. It also helped that I maintained it on occasion, I don't exactly have the urge to fall off the mountain side from an old frayed rope.

I entered the dumbwaiter, grabbed the line and began to pull. The primitive hoist system did its job and lifted the wooden platform into the air until Thief and I reached the top. I tied the rope off to make sure it didn't drop us back down and I exited into the city of King's Hoof.

King's Hoof was fairly new though shortly abandoned after construction. It was a feat of engineering that stabilized the town between two mountain peaks as well as an overabundance of lower structure supports. It was a combination of wood beetles and constant landslides that impeded construction but the King was demanding so the workers did what they could. What ultimately suspended progress was the illness that was discovered within the caverns of Foal Mountain. It had gone unnoticed at first but then spread like wildfire. Everypony panicked and tried to flee. Very few survived the quarantined city but the plague wasn't stopped. It somehow spread to the rest of Equestria. King's Hoof, eventually renamed to Pestilence Peak, was an abandoned city left to the flora and fauna. And me, of course.

That left the city to ruin. It was a lonely mountain now, isolated, shunned and cold. With nopony to fight against the pests or collapsing shale, the town has begun to crumble down the mountainside. Half of it has already fallen to the abyss but the half I live on seems sturdy enough. I know, I was just talking about how a millenia-old crumbling castle wasn't safe to explore but I live in a decaying city. It's not the same, now shut up.

I trotted on, passing cottages and storefronts. The homes of long gone ponies had a faded symbol painted on the door; a large circle with an X that split it into four sections. In each of the sections were different numbers. The top spot showed how many ponies in total lived in the house, the left numbered how many children were inside. The right counted how many sick leaving the bottom to tally the dead. They were apparently to warn others to stay away or get sick, something that was demanded by the King at the time.

I made my way through the city and towards the incomplete castle. My hoofsteps echoed through the streets as I continued, the only sound I could hear in the uninhabited space. I eventually came upon a small bridge that led over a dry canal. I walked across the overpass and was finally at my destination. The city's bell tower.

The building was as large as it was tall. The bottom level, like most of the buildings in the town, was made of stones held together with soft lime mortar to glue them together. The remaining four floors were made of wood with the second and higher floors overhanging the first by about a foot. The majority of the walls displayed stained glass windows with religious depictions on them. The bell tower itself had notably lacked a bell from this angle.

Due to the fallen news press building that had collapsed in front of the tower, the front door was inaccessible. I knew of another entrance though. Turning back to the culvert, I descended the sewage access ladder and walked towards a pile of bricks. Stone and wood had been blasted out from the inside of the church, leaving a hole for me to enter through and into the basement. I easily climbed the heap and entered the building.

Inside the room was dark and slightly damp, the only light coming from the hole in the wall where the rising sunlight slowly peeked through. Cobwebs were thick and hung low on the rafters, catching bugs and dust alike. Along one wall there was a rack full of unopened wine bottles. In large rows filling the majority of the space were larger racks to hold oaken wine barrels that were still corked.

From a crack in one of the walls, a white rat came running up to me. I knew exactly who she was. One of my older rats, Winter, who Merchant and I used to send notes to each other. I gave her a smile and held out my hoof to her. After she boarded, I lifted her up to greet her and she gave my nose a lick. I sat down and adjusted the small collar she wore, checking for any messages. As I expected, a small piece of paper was attached. I removed it and stuffed it in my pocket. Winter hopped onto my withers, I stood and walked up the set of stairs that led me to the ground level.

The nave of the cathedral looked a bit more inviting with the light filtering through the colorful windows along the front and sides of the building. I stood behind the chancel and was hidden by a thick stage backdrop. Moving around the curtain, I came to the podium where somepony's God was sculpted for them to worship. It was a massive white alicorn doing battle with a monstrous black creature made of many different animals. The flags on either side of the statue were of the white alicorn standing tall while the darkness was below, subdued by the powerful being that dominated the banner. An old dusty tomb had been left open on the dias, forgotten after the last congregation. Beyond the stage were rows and rows of pews. Here and there were skeletons of ponies who prayed in their last moments to the statue before them.

I trotted past the pews and toward the main entrance of the building. I made my way up the spiral staircase next to the large double doors and past the second floor. It was a room that was filled with cots and mattresses. The other end of the room was sectioned off for a large kitchen and a few tables to eat at. The cots were shoved in a corner of the room while the mattresses were violently torn apart. My rats liked to use them for their nests and I may have helped them get the stuffing out. Not surprisingly, Thief and Winter both decided to disembark their ride and scamper off to see their families. I smiled as I watched my companions go.

The spiral staircase led me to the third floor of the cathedral where all of the large desks were shoved to the walls of the room, leaving the center vacant. Along one of the walls was a wardrobe that I knew to contain ancient robes worn by the clergy ponies and their transitional deacons. On two of the desks next to the wardrobe were books stacked up high which were collecting dust; I had no interest in any of their religious texts. The other desks contained materials which I have collected over the years. Stolen documents, journals, unframed paintings and unpolished jewelry. Display cases filled with ornaments and trinkets that shined like the stars and sparkled with the sunlight.

Hanging from the clean rafters of this room were several pieces of silken linen, their designs completely mismatched each other not to mention the decor of the church. Most of them were decorated in brilliant gemstones, others had golden laced thread and magnificent embroidery that had most likely taken weeks of hoof stitching to get just right. My favorite was the mural of the Crystal Empire. The castle was embroidered with fine thread and studded with black diamonds to compliment the white fire opals that topped the citadel. Not many ponies can accurately illustrate the grand city but this one did it justice. I get a shiver down my spine every time I see it, reminds me why I never want to go back.

The elegant scenery I had hung above my work desk that was placed directly next to the winding staircase. Above was a fishing net where I hung some of my tools. On the top of the desk I had left my polishing supplies and a hoof full of unfinished arrows. I really need to work on those, I'm getting low. On the floor next to the desk was a neatly stacked tower of empty picture frames while filled ones hung on every open wall space. In the center of the room I had display stands where the most elegant pieces of jewelry were presented; too precious to be sold to my fence.

I moved to my work desk, pulled down my hood and mask then removed my saddlebags. I removed all the items and put them away where they belonged. In the larger drawer of the desk is where I kept the items in need of cleaning while paper things like bonds or journals got placed into the smaller drawer for examination later. I hung my bow and quiver up on their respective hooks that were attached to the fishing net. I'm still upset that I had given that charm to the little filly. I shouldn't have, she didn't deserve it and I know she's not going to take proper care of it. I need to get it back from her but, not today though.

The last item I removed from my bag was the box I had stolen from Count Markus. It was painted bright red and accented in thin golden lines that made a stunning design. Studded on the lid was a large sapphire with four small pearls around it. At the front of the box was a keyhole. Pulling out my tools, I got to work. I heard the soft scraping of my lockpicks against the inside as I felt around, placing the tumblers into their slots. It didn't take me long to unlock the box, I was well experienced and this lock was amateurish at best.

The inside was lined with dark gray plush velvet which cradled seven shards of a blue gem. I picked one up to examine it. I've never seen a gemstone like this before. It wasn't sapphire, tanzanite or zircon which were the obvious blue gems it could have been. It definitely wasn't a blue diamond, they were more clear than this milky thing was. Though I couldn't figure it out, they were at least of some precious importance to be kept in such an ornate box. Examining them closer, it was clear to me they were part of something larger; two of the pieces even fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. Must have been why the mercs at the bar called them shards, mustang shards to be precise. But what in Equus is a mustang gemstone?

I gave an involuntary yawn and shook myself. Looking out the window I could see the sun rising higher in the sky. It was close to midday, was it that late already? This mystery was going to have to wait until tomorrow then, maybe my fence will know what they are. I left the box and gem shards on the workbench and ascended the spiral staircase once more.

The fourth floor of the cathedral was a small attic room that hid away old scrolls covered in cobwebs. Those I shoved in a corner a long time ago, I needed the room for my barrels. In every last bit of open space they could fit in, this room had over a dozen barrels filled to the brim with golden bits. As I stepped off of the stairs, the floor gave a long groan, complaining at the weight it was forced to bear. The roof above was badly damaged with a large piece of metal protruding through the wood and a couple lengths of frayed rope danged down.

The coins I had collected in my saddlebags I brought upstairs with me so I could add them to my hoard. To the average pony, this was more than a fortune but, for me, this wasn't enough. It would never be enough. I have been collecting and adding to my stash for more than twenty years and I still didn't have what I needed. I wonder if I ever would.

I turned to the ladder on the far side of the room, squeezed between the barrels and climbed up to the final level of the building. This level was more like a gazebo with a short wall on all sides and a rounded roof held up by thick wooden posts. Above me, the mechanisms that once held the large bell in place were broken, ripped down with the bell when the old wood gave way to rot. The bell itself lay on the crushed floor of the tower. Next to it was a small table with two drawers, a lantern and a silver pocket watch on top of it.

I took the note I received from Winter, set it on the desk and removed my gear. Folding them methodically, I placed them neatly in the drawers and I left my boots on the floor. Looking out to the city below, I could see everything. The unfinished castle, the houses and shops, the mountain peaks and the eerie caverns that spawned the plague. The sun shone down over it all, illuminating my kingdom before me. I do not possess a crown, subjects or ponies to till my lands. I do not have ponies to guard my territory nor do I have others to bow to my every whim. Regardless, this empty land before me is mine and mine alone. I am king of rubble and dirt, of cobwebs and wild dogs. It's not exactly what I want but at least it's better than a slave collar. I turned away and toward the fallen bell to read the letter.

'Hey Clout, it's me. It's been months, why not come visit so I know you're alive? I'm getting worried about you. Your shipment has been here for a while now, come pick it up already! I've got a new helper and she really wants to open it. I can't wait for you to meet her, she's absolutely adorable! I wish you would find a mare and settle down already.

I've got a job for you. A stinking journalist got his hooves on information that would get us into trouble and I think you should pay him a visit. My brother also has a job for you. Come see me soon!

– M.'

My eyes lingered on the second to last line and I seethed. Why would I ever do a job for that no good asshole. Merchant should know better. The fuck is he drinking that's making him think I would agree to a job from Flight?

I was brought out of my anger when Thief jumped up onto my shoulder. "Oh, hi." I said to her and she twitched her whiskers at me, "We need to go see Merchant tomorrow." She hopped down and ran inside of the bell. "Oh, is it bedtime already?" I asked with a chuckle, "Alright, I'm coming."

I stuffed the letter inside of the drawer and walked over to the open side of the bell. I moved aside the old raggedy sheet I had hanging over the entrance and into the metal mouth. My bed resembled more of a nest than a cot, it was a pile of straw, cotton and ripped sheets. I curled up on my makeshift mattress, waited for Thief to settle into her spot next to me, I laid my head down and fell asleep.

MLP : SH - 5 Turmoil

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Five : Turmoil

I sat on top of the bell with a mustang shard in my hoof. As I observed it, moving it around and watched the last of the sun's rays reflect off of the brilliant piece. As it sparkled, I felt some kind of connection to it. I had never felt something so odd from anything I had ever stolen before. Of course I have a need to care for everything I procured but, this was a different need. It was as if the stone were something ancient and primal; a living creature that was trying to communicate with me. Something so incredibly important but not just to me, important to… Well, I couldn't place it. The shards felt weirdly familiar and it made me uneasy. I grit my teeth and stuffed it back into the box.

My ear twitched and I hopped off of the bell, the floor beneath me giving a groan. I walked over to my clothes I hung on the railing to make sure they were dry. Hmm, still damp. It's fine, I don't exactly have another set of clothing but I wasn't about to head into town without anything on. Wet duds it is then. At least they no longer smell like manure. Judging by the oncoming rain clouds, I'm going to get wet later anyway. After putting my barding on, I fastened my saddlebags and put the box of mustang shards inside so I could bring them with me to Merchant's place.

I went downstairs to the kitchen and I spotted several of my friends poking their heads out of the mass of mattresses. I greeted them as I picked up a clay pot off of the counter. I then took a knife out of a drawer and headed to one of the dining tables. I set them down, opened the lid of the jar and pulled a couple of apples out. I turned the knob on the large wooden radio I had next to the table and it crackled to life.

As I began to cut my breakfast and share them with the rats who started to gather around me, I listened to the transmission that was put on the airwaves by the newscaster.

A soft melody concluded and the radio stallion began to speak. "Doesn't Star have just the sweetest voice?" Smile Cat asked his listeners, "She was definitely born to sing! I'm grateful that her master saw her for the beautiful gem she is, that's for sure!" There was a rustling of papers before he continued, "Me-ow we certainly have a lot of news tonight. Well, I suppose we'll start off with the hoity-toity business of the upper class that none of us commoners care about so we can get it out of the way."

I chuckled at the antics of my rat friends. The younger ones stealing food from the older ones who weren't fast enough. Some were play-fighting for dominance of the snacks. Winter was particularly smart, staying on my shoulder as she ate hers so none of the younger ones would disturb her.

"First up, the Blues are hosting a birthday party tonight for their youngest daughter who is turning three and none of us are invited! Wonderful, right?" he said cheerfully, "I honestly have no idea why they even paid me to broadcast that in the news but hey, they paid for it so there it is. Why they're having a party so late at night for a toddler is beyond me."

It's not surprising. The upper class only host soirees as a get together for business deals or to make powerful connections. Nopony of their company would actually throw a birthday party for a child because none of them care. It's rare to actually see anypony celebrating birthdays, not many can actually afford gifts or a banquet of food. I'm glad that's not my problem.

There was another rustle of papers and mutterings about no-good attention seeking upscale unicorns. "Next on my list," Smile Cat continued, "we have something from Canterlot's auctioneer who was robbed earlier today. It was a group of thieves around five or six ponies who ransacked his estate. Two of the assailants were killed when they got into a firefight with the guards. Both of the deceased goons were searched and found to have had Rouge Rogue membership cards on them."

It's not surprising that Cracker Jack's gang were dumb enough to get into a fight with the guards. They're not exactly all that bright, especially considering they didn't stash away their cards. That's really not good, that might lead to the investigation being brought into The Everfree if Markus decides to pursue it through the King's court of law. That would really fuck up the good thing I have going. Just another reason to keep an eye out and be cautious.

"One guard was killed and three were injured due to the explosion of Count Markus' electricity generator. Unfortunately for Mr. I'm-So-Important, whatever they were fighting over was not recovered after the smoke had cleared. He refuses to give a description of the stolen item so I'm not sure what he wants any of us to do about it."

That's because I have it and because he wants to keep the mustang shards a secret.

"Oh, he does want us to keep an eye out for his missing slaves." the pony mentioned, "Apparently the explosion damaged his wall and a few of them escaped during the chaos. As for the descriptions, there may have been a small fire in the studio involving the paper with those details on it. Due to this, I am unfortunately unable to give any information on the missing slaves. Sorry mister auctioneer!"

I am bewildered by the fact that he's still on the radio with how often he pushes the boundaries. Smile Cat really does enjoy poking the beast when it comes to the aristocracy or the King's laws. He does have to announce it when he gets into trouble but then he just pokes the beast again. I'm sure he'll be hauled off in chains soon enough. In the meantime, I do enjoy a couple of his jokes on occasion, not to mention the news is oftentimes helpful.

The radio stallion continued with a chuckle, "In all honesty though, I doubt anypony wishes to make a trip to Canterlot to assist in your missing slave search, Markus. Maybe you should get Miss Crown Jewels to finally do something about her city's massive sewage backup. Speaking of which, a dozen rebels were caught and arrested earlier today as they were destroying and blocking sewer drains under the city. Several were shouting the name of their leader, Wulf Song, and stating that he will liberate the land from the evil tyrant King Sombra, demanding others join in their fight. Her words, not mine."

He put on a lecturing tone of voice as he spoke to his listeners in the rebel camp, "Look, guys, with Canterlot's waterfall being the only source of water for Estuary Slums, do you really want to poison an entire town of good folks who are just down on their luck? I have no idea what you're thinking or what the purpose of stinking up the town is but, I really hope you've thought this through. At this rate, that poor little transient camp is doomed."

"Okay, now onto something we might care a little more about. Beach Side Road between Fillydelphia and Baltimare has had an increase in toll price. King Sombra has not commented on this matter but Discord had said, 'It's for your own good.' What that means… I have no idea! Your guess is as good as mine."

Probably the same reason why they increased the price of train tickets. I've heard several rumors ranging from they don't want folks to travel to they want to fund their domination of all of Equus and they need money to do it but I'm not sure I believe any of the speculation. I do, however, think it's stupid. I'd rather not spend any more bits than I have to in order to get around.

"Rumors have it that the ruler of San Palomino plans to speak with our King soon and arrange to merger their lands into Equestrian territory. I don't think that will benefit any of us but if the rumors are true and it does happen, stallions will finally be able to visit without immediately being put into chains. All my cool cats know you can't just waltz on over to Luxurant Matron lands. Well, the stallions at least. Unreasonable laws over there, that's for sure! It would be interesting to see if their pyramid is solid gold like the rumors say and not just a giant sand dune like the maps show. All the privileged ladies over there might be knocked down a peg or two when they have a stallion in charge. I'll keep everypony in the know as soon as I know more."

That's surprising actually. The Luxurant Matrons own the territory to the Southwest of Equestria including the gem farms and their massive quarries filled with gold. They always boast about their wealth and how great it is for the mares over there. Stallions, however, are slaves no matter if you just want to visit for a day or two which is why nopony of sound mind crosses the border. I don't know their full history but they used to be one country with those who live to the Southeast of Equestria. There was some sort of civil war a few decades ago and they split the lands, the stallions living to the East and mares to the West. I'm not sure who got the worse end of the split but if they do merge lands, I'll finally be able to explore and steal to my heart's content. I've always wanted to visit San Palomino and see if everything is made of gold.

"Now, I know that's a lot, my herd, but there's just two more stories to go and then we're back to your regularly scheduled broadcast so bear with me!" Smile Cat said, "A couple of griffon doctors were arrested today and a mental facility was shut down by Discord on the island of Trottingham. Apparently they were experimenting on patients by trying a new procedure that they claim would calm more… unruly patients. I have no information on what this supposed medical procedure is or, uh, was now, but if it had killed several patients and turned others into walking vegetables, I would be concerned too.

"And, last but not least, King Sombra is going to make an appearance in Los Pegasus next week. With the increasing number of plague victims in the city, he has ordered several new Soot Mills to be opened. As soon as he makes his final inspections in a few days, Los Pegasus will have their streets a little cleaner with a new place to burn the bodies. Then again they are just redistributing the bodies as ash floating in the air and spreading it all over the city so I'm not exactly sure if that's technically cleaner or not. I guess it is removing the corpses that are just rotting in the gutters but it certainly doesn’t remove the smell. Or the disgustingness because we’re all breathing in our dead loved ones. Hopefully some pegasus will figure out a way to freshen up our air a bit. Uh, sorry for the imagery, that was even grosser than the sewage problem.

"Anyway, we made it! That was quite a lot of talking so I’m going to turn to every foal’s favorite segment, Spades! Will Detective Shadow Spade finally catch that jewel thief and restore it to its rightful owner? We’ll find out on tonight's episode thanks to our favorite sponsors: 2B Pharmaceuticals, thanks for the tonic boys! We love ya!" he concluded.

The radio show began to play with a short theme song followed by different actors voicing each character. Finished with my meal and with no interest in the story that played, I decided it was time to get going. I put the lid back on the jar and returned it to the counter along with the knife I used. I went back to the third floor, gathered some extra arrows in my quiver and holstered my weapons. As I passed the second floor, I felt the usual sensation of my little passenger hitching a ride to join in on whatever mischievousness we were going to get into tonight.

A low rumble above me caught my attention when I exited my cathedral. I looked up to see the storm clouds had moved in quicker than I anticipated. As a mist-like rain began to sprinkle down, Thief decided to hide under my cloak and I pulled my hood farther down. The critters I passed as I trotted along the near-empty city scurried away into their homes to protect themselves from the oncoming shower. I soon reached the elevator and descended, making my way out of the King's Hoof.

It was little more than an hour later when I arrived in the mercenary town. The little bazaar they had open during the day was already packed up and closed. Nopony liked to stand around and wait to sell their wares without a roof over their head when the weather turned sour. Despite that, the town was packed more than usual with a massive crowd blocking most of the street. Several of them were having heated discussions amongst themselves. Others were waving their weapons around threateningly and even more were actually fighting. Infights such as this were a common occurrence but it was usually just a couple of ponies, not the whole town all at once.

I stayed on the edge of the mass, avoiding everypony I could. As I shuffled around them, I spotted a mare standing on a box and yelling out to the herd, getting more people riled up. "-And we're just going to put up with it? I think not! I don't care what the Eight have to say, they have no right! If the tom of bedlam really want to peek over our fence and see what we're rooton', I say we go pay them a visit and show 'em!" she squawked, throwing a hoof in the air.

"Fast Trick, get off of there before you hurt yourself!" a mare yelled at her in response.

"No!" she whinnied with a look of insult on her face and some of the crowd laughed, "Stuff it Quick Step! You wouldn’t be so quick to ignore their forced office if you had your whole shipment made too!" She pointed a hoof at an orange unicorn with a red and black striped mane who was hauling an empty waggon cage. "And I'm not the only one they've 'confiscated' stuffing from!"

Several looked at the stallion I was passing on the street. He looked tired and annoyed. Friendly Fire was always annoyed at everything, today even moreso. It was obvious that his entire stock of slaves were 'liberated' by the freedom fighters. I don't blame him, I'd be pretty pissed too if somepony stole valuable pieces from my stash.

The unicorn stallion gave Trick a flat look, "Bring me into another of your arguments and I will give you a broken hoof for violating the code Trick."

"Oh come on, the code isn’t really law, it’s more of a guideline. Besides, aren’t you pissed you had over a dozen good slaves made?" she responded over the noise of the crowd.

"Oh, I am." he assured her, "But I’m going to keep my opinions to myself if the Eight tell us we can’t do anything about it." He glared at her and snorted before trotting away.

The mare glared back in shock. "Friendly Fire, get back here! I’m not done yelling at you!" She took a throwing knife out of her satchel but was interrupted before she could throw it at him.

"Get off my booth!" a mare in the crowd yelled as she tackled the painted pony onto the ground.

As the two of them began to beat the shit out of each other, the hoard of creatures began to cheer them on. Whooping and hollering rose up as they fought in the thick mud and somepony yelled over the crowd about taking bets. Several others raised their money into the air with glee.

As everypony was distracted, I noticed a young colt who was slipping in and out of the crowd to steal coin purses. Smart kid, this would be the best time to make bits if that's what you need to do to earn them. That's the way I had to a long time ago. I used to try and cause scenes by getting two ponies to fight each other just so I could steal things.

A slate blue stallion decided to try and take charge by jumping up on top of the wooden structure. He was a known assassin named Genesis. He's not the most reasonable of ponies and he is very stubborn when it comes to his ideals but many respect him more than they do Fast Trick. Demanding everyone's attention, he raised his thundering voice above the noise. "The Eight have made their decision but do they really care what happens?" he asked them, "The only thing they care about, we all care about. Personal profit. They get a bigger score holding back. For us, the bigger score is to act. If we want the rebels to know how smart it is to deny us our plunder, we must show them!" His hoofstomp cracked the wooden counter.

Another voice rose up, "But the Eight’s words are law, we can’t just go against their commands."

"The Eight’s plans have always profited everyone, not just themselves." a griffon shouted.

"The code is law!"

"But they stole our yellow tin!"

"We have to give them a shoulder tap!"

"It is against the code!"

"We should give them the oaken towel!"

"The Eight have laid down the law, we can’t!"

As the crowd rose up in arguments again, Genesis stomped his hoof several times like a judge with a gavel. When the crowd settled some, he continued, "If any creature among us wishes to retaliate, prepare yourselves and meet by the Northwestern entrance at seven clean hooves. They will learn what it means to follow the curbing law of the Rouge Rogues!"

Some cheered while others demanded to follow the code. The Eight don't usually opt for conflict and so, more often than not, they tell the community to back down in situations like this. If I had a voice in the matter, I would be on the side of showing the rebels who's boss. They really need to be taken down a peg or two in my opinion. If they want to oust the King then we're next. I'm sure they don't want a large group of known criminals to run free on the land they just secured. The only reason that King Sombra hasn't destroyed this place yet is because he has a contract with The Eight. Food in exchange for wealth or escort work between Equestria and foreign countries. I'm not sure why he doesn't just use his Shade Knights. Odd if you ask me.

I moved on from the chaotic mass of creatures. As they dispersed, I watched several go into the general store, the blacksmith and the taverns. Some people just have to make sure they're not sober when they go off to war. Idiots.

As I passed the jobs board, I saw the same two pegasai stallions that I saw yesterday. A mare shoved them out the door, yelled, "We ain't tellin' jokes 'ere, go someways else!" and slammed the door in their face. The charcoal pony looked to his companion and complained how they were going to find somepony. Uninteresting, moving on.

I made a left turn and passed a massive camp of tents and decently built shacks. It reminded me of Estuary Slums but without the depressed expression on everypony's faces and more weapons. Very few dared to steal things in Shroud Shanty. This part of the town was reserved for the residents to make camp wherever they desired so long as they didn't claim too large of a space. If someone decided to join a gang, others were happy to switch spots so they could camp closer to their crew. It was actually quite civil on this end of town, unlike the market district.

At the very end of the sea of shelters was a large structure built of hundreds of trees that twisted and tangled together. Somehow, the massive knot of gnarled roots and tree limbs formed the shape of a large pony head. Two lanterns were attached high up to simulate glowing eyes and the open mouth had a curtain hanging down as the door. Outside was a small faded sign that read 'Merchant's Merchandise'.

I have no clue if this creepy thing was naturally grown or if the buck had something to do with the growth of the plants. Either way, I hated it and have always thought it was ugly. Whatever, time to go see the boss.

As I trotted closer, I could hear two ponies arguing inside. Sure, why not, because there hasn't been enough of that today. I grabbed the cloth door and pushed it out of the way. Before I was able to step a hoof inside, a little filly popped her head out. She had a rainbow colored mane that was braided, her coat was a bright red and she was giving me her best glare.

"Piss off, asshole!" she demanded of me for no immediately apparent reason.

I just stood there, staring at her. I've never seen such a foul mouthed child before. Do I berate her or just shove her aside and make my way through? This must be the new 'helper' Merch mentioned in his note. I guess I can't be mean to her, he'll kick my ass. She's so small I'm sure I can squeeze by.

"Excuse me!" she exclaimed as I tried to move past her, "The fuck do you think you're going? I told you to piss off, you want me to kick your ass?"

She quickly stepped in my way and I backed up. As she kept invading my personal space, I kept retreating backwards until she finally stopped. Now I was well away from the entrance, the opposite of where I had intended on going. My ears flattened and I tried to explain to her that I needed to talk to Merchant. "Look, I just came to–" I started but was interrupted.

"I said beat it!" she growled, "You want me to rip your balls off?"

As she took another bold step towards me I rolled my eyes. It's undeniable that she's trying to put on a tough act. You had to learn to be tough here in The Everfree or you got walked all over. Most foals who grow up here tend to adopt the attitudes of the adult residents, learning how to survive from them. I, however, was in no mood to put up with her demeanor. I'm wet since my clothes had not dried and the start of the rain did not help. Not to mention it's kind of chilly out here. Her glare told me she was not going to back down. That's fine, I know where the back door is.

I trotted away, letting her think she was an effective bouncer, and went around to the rear entrance of the shop. As I got closer, I could hear the voices clearer and I decided to eavesdrop instead of just barging in.

"--and I lost two good ponies! You owe me him!" one voice growled. I recognize that voice, it's Cracker Jack. He sounds pissed but I would be too if I ran a gang and lost two of my best ponies.

"I owe you nothing. Your venture was a non-contracted, personal visit to the neighbors. Any non-contracted rooton' is not covered under Rogue code. There is nothing to reimburse." a second voice said. Merchant should know spouting the code is not going to placate that asshole.

"Rose was long tongued about a calle'd pony with his description in the Muck and Buck when Snapdragon and Hoof Shine were in office, I know it was him!" Oops, did they notice I was there? Well, I'll have to be more inconspicuous next time.

Merchant sighed, "Look Cracker Jack, you don't have a smoking gun that he even did anything and if you did, I wouldn’t doubt it would be confect. Regardless, I still wouldn't be able to enforce any type of pulling, cramp word or reimbursement. There is no clause in the code against someone getting a quota before you if it is not part of a contract. Personal ventures reap personal boredom and dropping of a score. This is your problem to solve, not mine."

"Fine, I'll get my stuffing out of his hide." Cracker sneered. Yeah, like I'll let you catch me that easily.

"You know you can't do that. Everyone within Rouge Rogue territory is protected, guild member or not. You go after him and there will be consequences."

"Not if I mark him for a three legged mare!"

"Ugh, would you just go! I have bigger problems on my hooves to deal with than you thinking you're above the code!" Merchant shouted.

"Oh, you mean like that mass of creatures heading out just now to click the rebels?" I asked as I casually walked through the door.

Both stallions turned to look at me. My friend was clearly exasperated that I was here while he was in a meeting and C.J. bristled at the sight of me. He looked just the same as the last time I had seen him; more feline than pony from all the mutations he had. There's a rumor he purposefully seeks them out because he just wants to be a big cat but he denies it. Nopony believes him.

Cracker Jack's long, thick tail swung side to side and his ears were flat as he glared at me with his emerald green eyes. I clopped my rear right leg, signaling for Thief to disembark and she obeyed as quickly as she could. As expected, Cracker leapt over the counter and tackled me. We tumbled into a display rack and crashed into a wall of merchandise on the back wall. He was clawing at me with his rear legs as I wrestled with him. I wasn't one for hoof to hoof combat but on occasion I didn't mind it. Especially when it was with this idiot. I don't know why but he's always had it out for me, ever since Merch brought me here when I was a foal.

The little red filly then decided to join in our brawl and demanded we stop fighting or she would have to kick us out. Merchant was yelling too but we weren't paying attention. I didn't want to get into too much trouble for not listening so, I bucked Cracker hard with my rear hooves and sent him flying across the shop. As I got my legs under me, the little filly was still trying to assert her dominance by beating me up. Her blows didn't hurt but they were obnoxious.

I heard items crashing to the floor and figured the idiot had landed on a rack of stuff. I ignored the foal and turned my attention fully to the mutant across the room. His anger was now directed at Merchant who was refusing to let him past.

"How dare you! He's mine to use up and you deny me of my right?!" Cracker Jack yelled as a piece of the shelf fell off of his back.

"It is not your right to do anything. Especially not in my shop, Jack." the older stallion scolded, "I told you the last time this happened, if Clout was the one who got to your stuffing before you did, he did nothing wrong. Maybe next time don’t have your goons flag wave jokingly or make sure your rooton' is under contract!" He swished his tail in frustration. "Now get out, I'm no longer telling jokes for you!" he ordered, pointing a hoof at the exit.

The feline grit his teeth and growled, the end of his tail twitching as he stared daggers at my friend. "Fine. We're not done with this though, mark my words. I'm tired of this game. You'd better watch your back!" he said at me before turning and storming out the front exit.

The shopkeeper heaved a sigh and turned around to face me. "Seriously Clout, why. I have enough trouble on my hooves and you do this. To him. Why him of all ponies?" he asked as he rubbed his brow with a hoof.

I shrugged. "He just makes it too easy I suppose. Not a very smart gang leader to let his ponies have such a long leash." I said with a smirk.

Merchant gave me a flat look.

"What? Eventually he'll smarten up."

His ears dropped. "And in the meantime he complains to me about what you do to screw up his signals. The Eight aren't foalsitters, ya know." he scolded.

"How else am I supposed to make your day more interesting when I'm not here?" I chuckled.

Merchant's expression softened and he grinned at me. "It's good to see you."

"It's good to see you too. It's been a while." I replied.

MLP : Shattered Heart

by gutterratt

MLP : SH - 1 The Everfree

MLP : SH - 2 The Thief

MLP : SH - 3 Gridlock

MLP : SH - 4 The Belltower

MLP : SH - 5 Turmoil