My Little Pony: Assassin's Creed

Chapter 5: The Sparkle Bounds

At Canterlot, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna received the appearance of the scroll. Before they could opened the message, they saw the small writings on scroll's sides. They both read it softly:

'Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Do not open and read the message. Be sure that no one is inside and with you.'

Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna looked at each other. They headed to the door, and opened it. Princess Celestia looked on her left, and Princess Luna looked on her right, making sure that no one is on watching or eavesdropping on their conversation. They quickly closed the door, and then they closed the curtains. Using her golden magic, Princess Celestia opened the message.

Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna read the message together and carefully:

'Dear Princesses,

I'm happy to make a report that we found the Wind Assassins. Not only that, I reunited with my brother, Starlight. And we learned the reason behind the attacks on your Administrative Staffs and Military Officers. They were the Demon Knights. They not only want to control the Equestria, but also planning worst: freeing Grimmore from his imprisonment. It was also their ancestors were the responsible of bring destruction to the Wind Assassins' ancestors and brotherhood.

But their ancestors escaped from Masyaf and separated their ways in rebuilding and restoring their lost strength and brotherhood over centuries and years, before they reunited as one.

We still don't know who else were Demon Knights. But we do know one thing, we will find them. We will questioned them of how and why they planned to free Grimmore. And we will make sure that our enemies' fate are sealed. As much as I hate it, it was the only way to stop and defeat our enemies. If we chose to let them live, they will plan something more dangerous and diabolical plans.

Princesses, please be very careful of trusting your governments and officers. So far, the only ponies we know of can be trusted: Hoity Toity, Fancypants, Fleur Dis Lee, Trenderhoof, Sapphire Shore, General Spanish Steel, Captain Cranky Roll, Lieutenant Hardstone and Private Kenny.

Please be careful.

Your faithful student and friend,
Twilight Sparkle'

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna looked at each other, nodding their heads, knowing what to do next.

Princess Celestia turned to her back, saying, "Did you get that, old friend?"

"Yes," The white hooded came out from behind, "This is most disturbing... We need to deal with this at once. But we are blind to know who we are dealing with. But we'll keep an eye on Twilight Sparkle and others before returning here."

"Good luck, old friend."

"Do not give up. It's not over."

Swoosh!

Princess Celestia turned back, and found the mysterious hooded pony was nowhere to be sighted or found. He must have gone and help Twilight.

Turning to Princess Luna, she ordered, "Gathered the ones we can trust. We are at war. Not against Dark Mystic Ponies or Apocalypse Ponies yet, but against Grimmore and his Demon Knights. We must be very careful of it. Who knows what danger lies ahead..."

Princess Luna nodded her head, "I understand."

In the afternoon, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna gathered their trusted allies: General Spanish Steel, Captain Cranky Roller, Lieutenant Hardstone, Private Kenny, Sapphire Shore, Hoity Toity, Fancypants, Fleur Dis Lee and Trenderhoof. The Princesses told them about the situation they were in, as well as dealing with Demon Knights. Their trusted allies had shown their great concern and worry about Demon Knights. They mumbled in concern.

Princess Celestia spoke firmly and calmly, "Now you understand about this mess. Do you know someone you had suspicious on? Anything unusual among your sides?"

Hearing of what Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had spoke of, governors, celebrities and even officers, calm themselves down, taking every bits of the information they can, after going through the explanation of both Wind Assassins and Demon Knights. They thought for the moment about the ponies they had suspicious on.

Captain Cranky Roller cleared his throat, "I do had suspicious on two ponies including two death ones. They were Robert De Sable, Sibrand, Sir William and Majd Addin."

General Spanish nodded his head, explaining, "The Captain spoke the truth. Before Sir William and Majd Addin's death, they both were in charge of military army and putting some discipline and training on our soldiers. But for some strange reason, William had put strict discipline on soldiers, without food or taking a break. Majd Addin executed most of both peasants and soldiers for giving dishonorable and treason against you. I was lucky to stop and teach them a lesson for trying to harm them, without my permission."

"Not only that, General," Hardstone spoke up, "Robert had been hiding and claiming that he'd been busy or sick, to see you. As for Sibrand, during his patrol duty on air and Canterlot's entrance, he's been acting strangely. He shouted about 'Assassins will never had my head'. He even yelled at his own soldiers. I'd say that is very odd."

"You don't think that..." Private Kenny said in concern, "They're actually helping Grimmore?"

Hoity Toity nodded his head, saying in concern, "By the sound of it, I believe it is. But they were not the only ones we had suspicious. Three ponies: One is a family, and three ponies in the government."

"Hmm. Hm... Hmph," Sapphire nodded her head, "Starting with the Head Doctor of Canterlot's Hospital, Garnier. I heard some rumors about that Unicorn being mad. Seeing the poor colt caught by some Royal Guards, when he said he didn't want to go in, made me suspicious on him. They just took him in. My, my, my, I just hope he's okay."

"Well, you're not the only one you had suspicious," Trenderhoof said in worry, "I had mine. Do any of you recall Rodrigo Borgia?" Everyone nodded their heads, Trenderhoof sighed before he continued, "When I decide to go to Maris or Tirorenza, he and his family followed me, saying that they want to provide me 'company'. I thought of it as friends. But once I get there, they told me that they had some business to attend. But I overheard something about 'taking over her rule'."

"Dear me! That is more like trying to take over Princess Celestia's throne!" Fancypants exclaimed in concern, "This is terrible. And I thought I had my stupid brother of my own to deal with: Takesteal. My, he is nothing but hungry power Unicorn to earn more powers for himself. Thinking that I had connection to Princess Celestia. While that is true, but it doesn't mean I wasted my time of having fun in my leisure. What an idiotic he really is."

"Don't forget about Carlo the Tricky," Fleur Dis Lee reminded her husband, "He's been trying to get you to step down, and letting your brother to take over. I'd say they hate you a lot. For Emolio, he's been doing some kind of strange business and raising taxes on our citizens."

Princess Luna nodded her head gently, turning to Princess Celestia, with her concern looks, "It appears that Wind Assassins were right to be suspicious on our enemies. Though one thing I'm truly concern the most is... what should we do with them? Should we deal with them at once?"

Princess Celestia shook her head, explained, "Knowing Rodrigo and Robert.. They both served as my Head Advisor and Spanish Steel's Second-in-Command, they are one step ahead of us. And if we charged in and captured without any of the proof, the citizens will support and believe in Rodrigo than us."

"So how will we deal with this problem? We cannot do nothing! We need proofs to prove that Rodrigo Borgia and his collaborators are the traitors!"

"We won't, Luna. Twilight and her friends will deal with traitors, while leaving us to handle and give the valuable information to them, should they return to our home. We must not involve in attacking Rodrigo and his minions. The citizens will have suspects on us."

Princess Luna nodded her head and smiled, "I see. Divide and conquer. An excellent idea, sister. We all shall do our best."

"Indeed," Princess Celestia smiled gently, turning to celebrities, officers and governors, "My dear friends, keep your eyes sharp on our 'friends'. Pretend to be their friends. Learn more of their motives and personalities. If you can, report to me. Grimmore must not be freed."

"Yes, princesses," Everyone exclaimed, saluted.

Princess Celestia narrowed her eyes in determination, "I will make sure that the enemies achieve nothing."

Within the dungeon-like, with torches lighted on each pillar, seven ponies have been gathered on the round table. One of them wore the black hood, looked at each other, having discussion to talk about.

"Maestro Rodrigo Borgia, and sir Cesare," The bald white Unicorn wore the Royal Guard's armor, with his cape spoke, "It is an honor to see you made it here in time."

Rodrigo smiled beneath his hood, said, "Yes, indeed it is. My son and I had managed to convince the princesses that we had some business to attend. And so, we did. It's good to see you all had made it here, Robert."

The reddish Unicorn with short and messy black mane, short tail and wore the silver Royal Guard's armor and had crimson cape: Cesare smiled gently, "Indeed it is. Though I would have my own time with mares, but instead, I've been called for meeting. But where're the Pazzi and Emilio?"

"My lord, the Pazzi, are occupied with dealing the matters of their own now," Carlo the grayish Unicorn with his small mustache and beard, wore in blackish Italian robe smiled and explained, "therefore, they do not have time to come and visit. As for Emilio, he's occupying with Hoity Toity, Fancypants and Fleur Dis Lee about the business. Both Takesteal and I were informed about it."

"Carlo spoke the truth," Takesteal, old dark green Pegasus with long white beard and short mustache, wore grayish and cyan mixed Italian robe, spoke gently. "But it doesn't mean we should wait for our meeting to begin. Am I right, Garnier?"

"Indeed, we would proceed it," The silver old Unicorn with white old mane, dressed in brown English old robe, Garnier said nobly and humbly. As the meeting began, he spoke: "The plans we made so far are in good progress, though there were some rumors that our fellow comrades and loyalists had accidents."

"There was no accident!" The yellow Pegasus with blond gentle mane, wore the white Royal Guard's armor, argued, "Both of our staffs and officer were attacked and killed by the Wind Assassins!"

"Wait! What," Cesare exclaimed in concern and fear, hearing of what Sibrand had said, "Are you saying the Assassins had emerged from their shadows and assassinated our colleagues?!"

"Yes," Sibrand answered firmly yet concerned and feared.

"This is not good," Robert said in concern, "Our plan will be foiled. The chances in building the new order will be least of our chance. The Assassins had roamed freely to assassinate us. We would have to delay our work."

Rodrigo, remained calm and firm, spoke, "Do not worry. While our work may have been cut short, but it does not mean our goal is over. In fact, the Wind Assassins do not have the knowledge of three important items yet. We still had our chance to get it down. We will succeed it."

"But father," Cesare interrupted in concern, "I fear the Assassins may onto us, sooner or later."

Rodrigo smiled, "If they do, then we had our little spy to deal with this problem at once. Took that little boy to held our enemies to delay their seeking and assassination long enough for our Knights to be prepared."

Robert smiled, "Yes. I know what you mean. We have gathered the information we need. Our powerful yet forbidden weapon is with us."

"Leaving two for us to find," Cesare said calmly, "Yes, you are right, father. Our fight. Our struggle. Our victory. All are not lost yet. We still can find those two. We need more information to find."

"Yes," Rodrigo nodded his head gently, "Everything we had build, goes very well."

"But what about the Princesses?" Robert questioned, "I fear they may had suspicious on us. Sooner or later, we will be in trouble."

Rodrigo smiled, "Even so... it would be too late for them to realize our true intention and purpose of freeing our one and true master of all. They will not make preparation against us. No matter what happen... We must find two items at all cost. Kill anyone. Interrogate them, who talked about these two important tools. Once we gathered what we need, we shall launched for not only the Coup D'etat, but the glorious day to our Demon Knights."

"Yes," Demon Knights nodded their heads.

"Good. Now, we proceed with the plans," Rodrigo smiled in impress, "May the Demon God of understanding guide you."

"May the Demon God of understanding guide you..." Demon Knights said.

At the Tirorenze, within of Wind Assassins' Hideout, Altair remained behind at Al-Mualim's office for discussion, June and Starlight guided Twilight, her friends and family back to the dinning hall, having some discussion, through the stairways and hallways.

Twilight and Shining Armor looked at each other, nodded their heads. They both approached to the front, with their little brother. They haven't spoken with him since the day he left Ponyville. They want to spent some time with him by helping him, dealing with the Demon Knights.

"Starlight," Twilight said calmly yet softly. Starlight turned to his sister. "So, you're planning to assassinate our enemies?"

"Eeyup. That's the plan," Starlight nodded his head.

"Then, you're gonna need some help?" Shining Armor asked.

Starlight looked annoy and suspicious. Hearing of their tones, had make him realize and noticed that both Twilight and Shining Armor were thinking of him as little brother. He calmly shook his head.

"Are you sure? I mean, come on, Starlight, I had good experience of facing lots of bad guys, monsters, Dark Mystics and even the Demon God. After all, I am a heroine and Princess." Twilight insisted.

Shining Armor nodded his head, agreeing with Twilight, said: "Besides, you've got the military officer with you. I've faced lots of dangers and battles before.

Starlight groaned angrily, turning to both Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle. He glared at them: "Hey! I, too, got some experience! I was the Equestrian Eliminator. I fought many battles and complete the missions. Trust me! I know how to handle it!"

Hearing of what Starlight had said, both Twilight Sparkle and Shining Armor laughed out loud. It had made Starlight annoyed and angered. They still thinking and treating him like a child.

Shining Armor chuckled, "Yeah. Like forgetting to clean your mess, as usual."

Twilight Sparkle giggled, "You act like a kid."

Starlight argued, "Hey! You're sounding more like Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash. Stop being overprotective over me."

"That's what big brother and sister do," Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle said proudly.

Starlight groaned, "Look! I don't need some crazy overprotective big brother and sister to look after me. I can handle it! Besides, I'm the stallion, for Mystic's sake! I fought many battles before, even without my Shadow Magic."

Twilight huffed, "If I recall correctly, you got yourself captured by the Demon Knights. And you could have been killed. Is that how 'I can handle it'?!"

"That doesn't count!"

"It doesn't had to! Whether you like it or not, I'm going! You are a baby brother!"

Starlight gasped in shock. How dare she! Twilight and Starlight narrowed their eyes at each other, glaring and growling at each other.

"Come on, guys," Shining Armor chuckled gently, "Let's come down. Besides, you need an older brother to look after you both."

"BUTT OUT!" Twilight and Starlight shouted at Shining Armor.

Shining Armor gasped. How dare these two! Acted like immature children! He groaned angrily, "You two better watch your tone, or I'll treat you like a colt and filly again! I don't care of what you think I am!"

Twilight giving her annoyance glance to her older brother, said, "Shining Armor, have you forgotten of who is the one saved your flank from letting your love drained by the Changeling Queen! And not to mention of who is one had to get Starlight out of troubles from bothering Boris?!"

"In case, you both had forgotten. Who is the one saved you both's lives when you were attacked by our enemies?!" Starlight argued.

Shining Armor groaned, "Or maybe, have you both forgotten of whom is the one had to save you guys' flank from getting bitten by a snake?!"

Shining, Twilight and Starlight continuously argued like the children argued over the candy. Everyone chuckled and giggled out loud, watching on their friends' arguing.

"Okay, guys," Ben said, approaching to the front, "Let's not forget of what we're supposed to do."

Flash nodded his head, reminded his friends, "Besides, we need to find and get Element of Shadow, not to mention deal with the Demon Knights. Or else who knows what kind of bad things were about to happen!"

"I'm afraid they're right," June said, "This is not the time to argue."

"Besides, Twilight, Shining Armor and Starlight," Spike spoke up, "Don't you think that helping each other is a great idea, Starlight?"

"All of you are adults," Nyx said, "You should act one! We are a family. We should stick together."

Ben smiled, "That's right. Just like how we handle the situation from End of Equestria. Besides, Nyx's right. Aren't you too old to argue like foals? And not to mention and no offense, I think both of you and Shining Armor, are too overprotective."

Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor and Starlight looked at each other, having some thoughts, realizing of what their family had said. They all laughed together happily. They shouldn't argue over the matters. They should be helping and dealing with the problems together as a family.

"I guess you all are right," Starlight said sheepishly, turning to his siblings, "Sorry about what I had said. I guess... I got myself carried away. I haven't had time with my family when... I was still Equestrian Eliminator."

Twilight nodded her head and smiled, "Yes, I agreed. I too forget that. It's like going back to our past, just the way it was. I'm sorry too."

"Yeah," Shining Armor admitted, "But as an older brother, I'm bound to do anything I can to look after you both. Twiley is the true reason of why I'm so determined to look after you both. You two are my precious and special siblings I ever had."

"Me too, BBBFF," Twilight nodded her head.

"Don't have to tell me twice," Starlight nodded his head, "Besides, I guess it wouldn't kill to have you two come along and help me out."

"Yup," Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle said proudly.

Shining Armor, Twilight Sparkle and Starlight hugged together for the moment. Their friends smiled in please and approve. They departed from their hugging.

"Alright, then," Twilight smiled, "Let's find and hunt the Demon Knight and interrogate him."

Upon entering the Dinning Chamber, Twilight, her friends and family, as well as June, were about to leave and headed straight to Leonardo's home. They had the mission to perform and fulfill with...

Rarity screamed in fear. Everyone turned to Rarity, with their concern looks.

"Rarity?! What's wrong?!" Sweetie Belle asked in concern, "Did you step on mud or something?! Did you hurt your hoof?!"

"The uniforms," Rarity answered, pointing at the couple of Wind Assassins, who sat on their benches, having their lunches and foods. Their clothes had holes, burned marks, scratches, shreds and thorns on their uniforms. Rarity groaned angrily, "They looked terrible! I must fixed them at once!"

Starlight gasped. He turned to Rarity with his concern looks. He protested: "Rarity, I don't think that's the good idea -!"

"You don't think?! YOU DON"T THINK?!" Rarity interrupted angrily at Starlight's face, making him shock and scared. "My, my, my! Mr. Starlight Sparkle! You are like your sister! Know nothing about fashion! This kind of dresses I will not accept it! In fact, I might have an idea to fix it."

"Are you sure? I mean, these are Wind Assassins. Meaning that they don't want their uniforms to be altered."

"Humph! Don't worry, darling. I assure you that everything will be find. Have I ever let you all down before?"

June sighed, "If you think those uniforms need to be done, then so be it. But please, do not alter it too much, or giving the idea of new uniforms, like your Ponyville's Pegasi Uniforms. Oh my. That's terrible."

"WHAT?!" Rarity shouted in shock, turning to her friends, who looked away and whistled innocently. She groaned angrily, "Why didn't you all tell me about it?!"

"Well...." Twilight and her friends said in embarrassment and guilty.

"I could have change it into better ones. That would have saved some embarrassment!"

"Sorry."

Rarity scoffed, "Well, no matter. Now if you don't mind, I've got some dresses to save. Sweetie Belle, I may need some help."

Sweetie Belle giggled, "No problem. I will do my best."

Rarity, levitated the needle, strings, cloths, glue and so one from her basket, approached to the Wind Assassins, along with her sister. They both telling the assassins about her purpose. Wind Assassins passed their uniforms to Rarity and Sweetie Belle, in sewing and fixing them.

Before Twilight and her friends were about to leave, someone screamed angrily. Everyone turned to Applejack, who looked very upset and angry.

"That is not the way of cooking the food, you all!" Applejack protested angrily, pointing at the chefs and cookers, cooking the foods showing burnt forms of foods, vegetables and even apples. Most of the Wind Assassins ate them in both unsatisfying and difficulties. "How could the Assassins eat them like that?! Apple Bloom and I should stay behind, and fix their foods at once. Somepony sure know how to fight, but had lousy in cooking."

"On it, sis," Apple Bloom nodded her head, turning to her friends, "Sorry. Seeing what those ponies been doing with their cook, my sister's right. They really need some help."

June nodded her head in understanding, "Yes, I understand. Mei You Wen Ti, Xiao Ban You. (No worries, my little friend)."

"See ya, Twilight," Applejack smiled, hugging Twilight Sparkle, "Be sure, you'd stick with Starlight. He's part of your apples, just like you are to me. You risked everything for me. Just don't lose him."

Twilight hugged back, smiled, "Yes. Thanks for the advice, Applejack. I'd really appreciate it."

Both Applejack and Twilight Sparkle departed from theur hugging. Applejack and Apple Bloom approached to the kitchen, explaining and arguing with the chefs about the cooking he had made. Applejack and Apple Bloom cooked their foods, the better ones. They also allow the Wind Assassins and chefs to learn of how they cook.

Twilight smiled and rolled her eyes in annoyance yet happiness, turning to her friends. She has suspicious on them. She asked: "Anyone else wish to stay behind?"

"Oh dear!" Fluttershy exclaimed in concern, pointing at the wounded and injured Wind Assassins who sat near to the walls or cushions, waiting for being treated by their doctor who wore the black robe with black top hates, she explained, "Those ponies need some help. I wish to stay here, if you don't mind."

Princess Cadance nodded her head in concern, saying, "I wish to help as well. Seeing how wounded they are, Fluttershy may need more than just bandages and medicines."

"I could help too!" Pinkie Pie smiled happily, bouncing in front of her friends. Everyone looked oddly at Pinkie, with their concerns and worries. "Don't worry. I may not be good at medicine or bandages, but I'm good at one thing: making everyone smile!"

June giggled lightly, "Very well. Besides, we could use some of doctors and nurses to help our brave Assassins."

Princess Cadance, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie smiled.

Princess Cadance gave Shining Armor a kiss on his lips, smiled, "I'll be fine. Besides, you, Twilight and Starlight needs some quality time to be together. And this mission is perfect."

Shining Armor smiled, "Yeah, thanks."

Princess Cadance, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie headed towards the Medic Room, helping and treating the wounded and injured Wind Assassins. Both Princess Cadance and Fluttershy helped treating and tending the wounds of Wind Assassins, leaving Pinkie Pie to make them smile and happy.

Twilight, her remaining friends and Wind Assassins were about to leave.

"Halt!" The voice halted Twilight, her friends and Wind Assassins. They turned back and saw Altair, approaching them, explaining, "Flash Sentry. I need you to stay behind."

"Why?" Flash asked.

"Al-Mualim and I wish to discuss with you, about your ability and ancestor. We wish to know about your abilities. He believed training and missions may helped you in finding out about you," Flash thought for the moment, nodded his head, in agreeing with Altair. Altair looked shock and concern, asked, "Are you certain? I was told that you wish to assist Ben in battles."

"Yeah, I know. But I really want to know more about myself, ever since I got this... strange power within me when I was a colt. I want to know. I want to know what kind of ability I had. I want to know how I got it first. But I also want to know my ancestor. I want to use it to help Ben."

"I understand."

"If Flash goes, then I go," Ben said seriously. Everyone looked concern and surprise. Ben turned to his family and friends, "Don't worry. I'll be fine. Besides, I'd really want to help Flash, after everything he had done for me. I want to stay behind with him. He is my best friend."

Twilight smiled, nodded her head, "I understand. Be careful."

"I will." Ben smiled.

Ben and Twilight gave the kiss for the moment. They departed. Twilight noticed Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo and Phobos remained behind with Ben.

"Let me guess; some action to see?" Twilight asked in amusement.

"As much as I want to stay with you guys, but I can't." Rainbow Dash admitted. "Besides, not only I get to see cool stuffs that Flash has, but you and your bros need to get together."

"She's right," Scootaloo nodded her head, agreeing with Rainbow Dash.

"Best of all, I don't need to risk my life, all over again," Phobos said.

Twilight rolled her eyes in annoyance, yet smiled. Altair led and guided Flash, Ben, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo and Phobos, back to Al-Mualim's office.

"Anyone else?" Twilight asked calmly. Everyone remained silent and quiet. Twilight smiled, "Good. I think it's time for all of us to go for the mission."

"Indeed," June nodded her head, "Let us not make Ezio and Tirorenze Wind Assassins waiting."

At Leonardo's Workshop, Twilight's family and June had arrived to the top. Both she and Starlight explained the details to him about their next mission.

"Si (Yes)... It appears your brother is up to the next impresa difficile (challenge), my friends," Leonardo said in concern, "What you are dealing with is the ruthless, cruel and selfish family. The Pazzi are known to be the richest and powerful ponies among the Tirorenza. The family are Francesco de Pazzi, Viere de Pazzi and Jacopo de Pazzi. Jacopo is the most easiest target to deal with, but for Francesco and Viere, you need to be very careful. They are known to be violent, aggressive, crafty and cunning for their battles."

Starlight chuckled in amusement, "Save the history lesson, Leonardo. Besides, I've beaten the worst than these guys."

"I understand that you had 'assassinate' and 'dealt' with most of our enemies, but it doesn't mean that they will take on you so lightly since Grimmore might have inform them about you."

"Meaning?"

"It means that Pazzi might be prepared for your arrival and assassination. But be warned, you need to keep Princess Twilight, Nyx and June together with you. You see, Viere is known to get what he wants. Whatever you had, he shall get it from you by force, and even mares and fillies: youngest and beautiful are his best."

Twilight groaned, "Just what I need, another lustful pony to deal with. First Boris, then King Sombra and now Viere. Can't the ponies stop lusting on me? This is getting annoying."

"Yeah. It's very getting annoying. But Twiley, I bet I know the reason behind lusting on you is because you're beautiful and great," Shining Armor explained.

"No kidding," Spike answered in annoyance, "Sure lots of stallions coming after you."

"Don't tell me, Spike. Let's get rid of them first." Twilight said in annoyance.

Leonardo smiled, nodded his head, "Indeed. But first, you need to find Ezio. He has some experience and battles against our common foes like Pazzi before. If I recall correctly, the last I saw him is at Auditore's Mansion."

"At least, that's good news." Starlight sighed in relief.

Leonardo chuckled lightly, "Buon per voi (Good for you). He will be pleased to see you, though he still had grudge against you."

"Well, better than Malik," Starlight said.

Starlight smiled, putting his hood, covering his face, heading out of Leonardo's door. Leonardo shrugged, upon looking at Twilight, Shining Armor, Spike and Nyx's concern looks.

"What's up?" Twilight asked in concern.

"You're gonna like how Machiavelli reacts to your brother," June answered in concern.

During the night, Twilight's family and June had arrived at the mansion of Machiavelli, as they explained their plans to the owner.

"Ah. Starlight. What an honor to see you here, my friend," Machiavelli the yellowish Earth Pony with short brown gentle mane and short tail, wore the black and red Italian Robe, complained angrily, "I haven't seen you since you and Ezio had dealt with couple of Demon Knights, before you've been transferred to Altair. To what I owe to the former Eliminatore Equestre (Equestrian Eliminator)?"

Starlight smiled, "It's good to see you too, Machiavelli. Still holding the grudge?"

"Of course. While it had proven difficult for me to get over, but it does not mean that I should held it very long. Duty must come."

"Yeah. Gotta remember that."

"So, what brings you here?"

"Sir Machiavelli," June said in concern, "Al-Mualim had sent us to deal with the House of Pazzi."

Machiavelli nodded his head while smiling, "Good. Both of you had made in time. Both Ezio and Mr. La Volpe had found and gathered the information about the Pazzi. However, I've been told that our enemies will come when they tried to deal and assassinate Lorenzo Medici."

Spike groaned in upset, "So what's with the assassination of Medici?"

"The Pazzi wants power and control of the city," Machiavelli explained calmly and seriously, "Medici are in-charge of Tirorenza as their rulers. If Lorenzo died, not only the Tirorenza fall into Pazzi's hooves, but also Demon Knights."

"In other words, we can't let that happen?" Shining Armor asked. Machiavelli nodded his head. "Well, sign us in. As long we help Starlight, I'm sure everything will be fine."

Machiavelli nodded his head in understanding, said, "Indeed. However, when it comes the assassination, you must not interfere Starlight's work, no matter what happen. First things first, my friends, find and assassinate your enemies. Find anything that the enemies had."

Starlight sighed, "Yes sir. What do you need us to do?"

Machiavelli nodded his head gently, said, "But, since your brother and sister are here, I wish you two to be involved with Starlight and June, of the mission. I want you find La Volpe."

"Why?!" Spike complained.

Nyx nodded her head, smiled, "I understand. Besides, you would feel the same thing with Lorcan. This is the best chance for mommy and uncles to get together."

Machiavelli smiled, "Indeed. I will watch your little ones while you and your siblings had some 'fun'."

At the Mansion's room, Twilight had put both Spike and Nyx on their beds. June also slept on her bed. Twilight looked at both Starlight and Shining Armor, on the balcony. She headed straight to them, deciding to talk with them.

"Hey guys," greeted Twilight. Shining Armor and Starlight smiled. "Ready for tomorrow?"

"You bet," Starlight smiled, "I survived the worst."

Shining Armor smiled, "Me too. Three of us are finally working together. Just like before... That's what I had hope for."

Both Starlight and Twilight smiled, agreeing with Shining Armor's opinion. They nuzzled his face gently. Starlight sighed, was in concern about bringing his two siblings to his mess and mission.

"Are you sure you can handle it?" Starlight asked. "You know you can stay back of it."

"No way," Shining Armor said, "Besides, we are together. No matter what happen, we are a family. We will overcome it."

Twilight agreed, "Shining Armor's right. We didn't come here to just for fun. We are here for you, Starlight."

Hearing of what Shining Armor and Twilight had said, Starlight smiled. He was thankful of their supports. She smiled, "Thanks, guys. We'll work together as one. We are a family..."

Starlight hugged both Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle together. And they hugged him back.

On the next day, Starlight, Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor and June came out from Machiavelli's Mansion, walking across the streets of Tirorenze, leaving both Nyx and Spike behind for Machiavelli to watch them over. Looking around of their surroundings, they watched many ponies passing them by, showing their smiles and happiness, chatting, talking, playing, watching, eating and drinking. They smiled happily, watching them.

Shining Armor spotted two colts and two fillies playing the four square.

Shining Armor smiled, looking at the sights. "You know, guys. This kinda reminds me of the past. The time where we go and have some fun, playing the four squares."

Twilight giggled happily, "You mean when you brought Cadance to play? Boy, seeing you and her hanging out together, and loving each other, proved me I was right."

Starlight chuckled, "Yeah... It was a great time..." He paused, realizing or remembered something important, "Hey... Do you remember the time when Shining Armor had his pouch stolen, on our way home?"

Twilight giggled, "How could I forget? Shining Armor gone berserk by the time, his bits got stolen. Demanded to have his bits to return, he went all by himself to chase the thief, making all of us to follow him."

Shining Armor chuckled in amusement, "Tell me about it. I gave him the piece of my mind on him for stealing what is not his."

June smiled gently, she sighed in happiness, "You must have great family, to stand beside you, Starlight."

She sighed, having thoughts: I'd really wish I had one like you, Starlight...

Starlight smiled in approval and happiness. He was about to do something, he was knocked and pushed his aside. He shook his head gently, looking around his surroundings. He noticed something, looking in front of him, the thief pony dressed in poor Italian grayish vessel, smirked while tossing the pouch up and down.

"Hey! My bits!" Starlight said angrily.

"What bits? I don't have it," The thief said, sticking his tongue out. He then turned, quickly galloped off. "Catch me if you can, signore!"

"Give me my bits back, thief!" Starlight cried.

Shining Armor chuckled, "Here we go again."

"Get him," Twilight exclaimed.

The chase is on. Twilight, Shining Armor, Starlight and June galloped in high speed, chasing after the thief who pushed some ponies asides. Causing them to fall before the Sparkle Siblings and June, to dodged, jumped over and moving around the innocents, aiming at their target.

Crossing the city blocks and ponies, the thief reached his ends, showing in front is the building and his sides were as well. The Sparkle Siblings and June had arrived as well. Seeing the opportunity to capture him, they slowly approached him with both cautious and patient. Before they could do anything, the thief quickly grabbed the bricks, climbing to the top.

Starlight turned to June, who looked at him. They both smiled together. Both went to buildings' sides, climbed up to the top, brick-by-brick, climbing up. Shining Armor, showing his eyes in widened of shocking and surprising. How does Starlight and June do that?! Is that even possible?! Twilight giggled, levitating her older brother through her magic, both of them flew to the top quickly.

By the top of the building, the thief reached his ends. Before he could do anything, both June and Starlight blocked his front path. He turned back yet found himself trapped again. Twilight Sparkle blocked his way.

"Okay, pal," Starlight said calmly, "I would like to have my bits back."

The thief smiled and laughed lightly, tossing the pouch to Starlight. Smiling behind of the young Unicorn, causing him to be confused and curios. Turning back, he, his siblings and June encountered the lightish brown Earth Pony had his brown short mustache and beard, wore the white hooded robe with silver plate on his left shoulder, his both hooves had silver gauntlets and white cape; and another is lightish red Pegasus wore the brown hooded robe with cape.

"Well, you seemed to be slow, as usual, Starlight," The Earth Pony commented gently.

Pegasus chuckled, "Indeed. He still couldn't catch up on one single thief. But lucky for him, having allies with him, makes quite quicker than before."

"Ezio Auditore! La Vope!" Starlight exclaimed in excitement. Three ponies chuckled happily, approaching and hugging together like brothers. June smiled while Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle looked confuse and surprise. He continued, "Aw man! It's great to see you again."

Earth Pony Ezio smiled, nodding his head, "Indeed. I haven't forgotten of what you and I did with two snake scoundrels of Pazzi's."

"Not only that," La Vope smiled, commented, "You saved the thieves of mine. I'm in your debt, my dear boy. And trust me, my boy, the sooner you work hard on your job, the sooner you'll have redemption."

Starlight smiled, turning to both his siblings, introducing, "Ezio and Vope, I'd like you to meet my family: Twilight Sparkle and Shining Armor. Twilight and Shining, meet Ezio and Vope."

"It's an honor to meet you, Sir Ezio," Twilight greeted, with her bow.

Shining Armor smiled, bowed as well, "Me too, as well, Mr. La Vope, for a thief."

Ezio chuckled, "Charmed for your sister. I wonder if she -?"

Starlight chuckled, "Sorry, Ezio. My sister has been taken by the Prince."

"Merda (Crap)!" Ezio said in upset. He smiled back, knowing that he'll get his chance on the ladies. He continued, "Anyway, that is not important. The important is to deal with the Pazzi Family."

Vope nodded his head, "We had taken care of Jacope. He seemed to be easy target. He is nothing but a lamb."

Starlight nodded his head, "So, what's the plan?"

Among the local ponies, Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor and June were among the crowds, watching the event's going.

Showing concern and worry, Twilight turned to June, asking, "Do you think it will be alright? I've got the bad feeling about it. Using Medici as the bait. It's wrong."

June nodded her head, saying, "I know what you meant. But as long we are not close to them, the Pazzi will revealed themselves."

"Well... I hope we can save the Medici in time." Shining Armor said in concern.

The crowds cheered out happily, making Twilight, Shining Armor and June to be alert of the situation. Looking around of their surroundings, they turned to the front, saw the lightish blue Unicorn had the shot brown mane in curved shape, wore the blue Italian robe with greenish shoulder pats and long navy cape, and on his side is his younger brother Unicorn with his long curved shaped, dressed in blue shirt and jean with Italian vest, walking towards the citadel while smiling and waving to the crowds.

"The first Unicorn is Lorenzo Medici," Twilight explained calmly, "Before him is his younger brother: Giuliano. Right on the schedule."

"But where's the Pazzi? They should be there by now." Shining Armor said in concern.

Using her Wind Instinct, June looked around in her surroundings, finding and seeking out her enemies.

With the kick on her instinct, June felt something unexpectedly. Throughout the crowds, most of the ponies are in black and white, leaving Twilight and Shining Armor to be in blue. Sensing the wind blowing her, June turned to her right, spotting the crimson ponies, pushing their enemies aside.

"Found them," June said, making both Twilight and Shining turned to her. She pointed at to the front. "We move now!"

June pushed the crowds aside one-by-one, Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle followed her. At the front of the crowds, Francesco De Pazzi the crimson Unicorn with black braided mane, wore the black Italian ancient shirt and pants, with black cape, and his son, Vieri the Pazzi is the young Unicorn wore the same dress as his father, along with their crimson Royal Guards came out from them.

Francesco, Vieri and their Royal Guards took their swords and spears. They yelled in anger, charging right at both Lorenzo and his brother Giuliano. Francesco swung his sword on Giuliano's head. Giuliano's head dropped to the ground, making his body fell.

Lorenzo gasped in fear and shock, "Brother! NO!"

The crowds screamed in fear and scared, quickly turning and running away from the sights and scenes.

Francesco smirked evilly, turning to Lorenzo, saying arrogantly, "Your days are over... Once you are dealt with, we, Pazzi, will rule this area."

Vieri smiled, "Indeed. We can do what we want. Today ends Medici, and tomorrow Pazzi takes over the Tirorenze."

"Not if we stop it first," Twilight spoke up. The Pazzi and their guards turned and encountered her, Shining Armor and June, armed themselves in battle. "Pazzi, you are under arrest for the against the Royal Sisters and Lorenzo De Medici!"

"Royal Sisters?!" Lorenzo, Francesco and Vieri asked in shock.

"How did they know about this?!" Vieri asked in shock.

"Doesn't matter! We finish of what we had started! Tirorenze is ours to take!" Francesco yelled angrily, charging at Lorenzo, who shown concern and worry. Raising his sword up in slamming at his enemies, Francesco was about to kill his enemy. The blades crossed and clashed hard. He gasped in shock, "What the-?!"

"Sorry. Did I stop your assassination?" Ezio taunted, making Francesco looked upset and angry. "Coz today is not the day."

Ezio pushed his Hidden Blade against Francesco back. Ezio took his long sword out, charged and swung his sword Francesco's for several times. Vieri turned and charged at Twilight, Shining Armor and June. Vieri swung his sword, slamming on them. They quickly moved back. Vieri growled angrily, continuing his sword on Twilight, Shining Armor and June for several times. La Volpe and his thieves jumped on the crimson Royal Guards, attacking swinging their swords and battling for several times, killing their enemies quickly and hard.

Ezio swung his sword on top of Franceso's top, but he quickly dodged down before thrust his sword at Ezio. The experienced Assassin dodged back, and swung his sword against his enemy's blade hard for several times while he swung his sword back hard. Francesco quickly swung his sword on top of Ezio's, but he quickly dodged to the ground, causing him to thrust his on the ground. Ezio quickly jumped back, swinging his sword hard against Francesco's, and swung his on his enemy's head. Francesco dodged down, swinging his sword on Ezio's ground. Ezio jumped over Francesco. Before the Pazzi leader could do anything, Ezio grabbed Francesco hard, striking and thrusting his Hidden Blade on body. Francesco Pazzi shouted in pain.

Ezio placed Francesco Pazzi down, speaking with him for the last moment.

"Curse you..." Francesco said painfully, "So close... Yet, perfect..."

"Perfect?" Ezio asked curiously, "What is the meaning of this? You're not expecting to take over Tirorenze?"

"No... We are just distraction. Our maestro... needs some time... Finding... two more lefts..."

"Two more? What are they?"

"Element of Shadow... Forbidden Knowledge of Apple..."

Hearing of what Francesco had said, Ezio had his eyes widened in shock and concern. Francesco fell to the ground. He noticed the paper on his enemy's pouch. He took it out from his enemy.

Twilight dodged the attack from Vieri, before punching on his face. Angered by the punch, the young Pazzi swung his sword against Twilight, who quickly summoned her Starblade out, blocking her enemy's. She swinging her sword against Vieri hard for few times. Vieri swung his sword hard against Twilight's hard, pushing her back.

Vieri was about to swung his sword against Twilight. Blasted by the powerful beam attack, he was being pushed to the wall hard. He looked up and saw Shining Armor, who smirked, gathering enough of his magic, preparing to blast at his enemies. Vieri dodged to his left before the blast hits on the wall. Vieri quickly blasted his Unicorn Blast at Shining Armor, who dodged the attacks for several times.

Vieri was about to blast his Unicorn Blast, but had his face kicked. Vieri looked up and encountered June, who armed herself in the battle. Vieri punched on June for several times on her head, body, limbs and bottom. She dodged the attack, fought back hard on his body very hard. For the final strike, June kicked on Vieri's face to the ground hard.

Angered by Twilight's, Shining Armor's and June's avoidance, Vieri quickly gathered his energy on his horn. Standing up quickly, he blasted his powerful attacks on Twilight, Shining Armor and June to the wall hard.

Vieri chuckled evilly, held his sword high up, aiming at Twilight, Shining Armor and June, preparing to kill them.

"I'll have Twilight Sparkle and this Wind Assassin as my wives," Vieri said evilly, "And then, I will finish Shining Armor off... for good."

Shining Armor groaned angrily, "You won't get away with this, Vieri di Pazzi!"

"Both me and June will never be your wives! We had our own family and friends!" Twilight agreed.

Vieri chuckled lightly, "Trust me... You already had one... Me!"

Vieri raised his sword up high, preparing to finish his enemy off for good. Before he could do anything, something stabbed on his back hard. He yelped in pain. Vieri dropped his sword. He looked down, seeing the blade piercing through his body, bleeding out painfully.

Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor and June gasped in concern. A familiar character appeared behind of Vieri, said angrily, "Not if I stop you first. And by the way, Twilight had her own coltfriend. Punk!"

Starlight groaned in pain, "Curse you, Assassin!"

"Starlight!" Twilight, Shining Armor and June cried in joy.

Starlight pulled his Hidden Blade out, pushing Vieri to the ground hard. Starlight galloped at Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle, hugging them.

"You okay?" Starlight asked.

"Yeah, thanks," Twilight smiled, hugging Starlight hard. "I guess you don't need me to protect you. But you're still my baby brother."

Starlight rolled his eyes in annoyance. But he sighed. He knew that his sister and brother do had hearts and caring for him. He should treasure the feelings.

"Yeah," Shining Armor smiled, "You saved us."

Shining Armor hugged Starlight. Starlight hugged both his older brother and Twilight Sparkle,

Starlight smiled, "I couldn't have done this, without you. But Ben's and others were right. We still need each other to help."

"Yeah," Twilight and Shining Armor nodded their heads.

Starlight turned to June, who smiled happily. June smiled back. She was about to said, but Starlight hugged her gently and tightly, while swinging her around him, laughing together happily. Starlight nuzzled on her head gently, making her blushed. She nuzzled back on him. He was so worried for her safety.

Starlight and June smiled happily, looking at each other. They stopped at once, realizing something. Turning back and saw both Twilight and Shining Armor, smirking at their youngest sibling, with their pride and teasing looks. Starlight and June gasped, turning back to each other, blushed and having red marks on their face. They quickly yelped, turning away from each other, covering their faces, with their hoods.

Twilight and Shining Armor smiled, and chuckled gently. The older siblings had little suspicious and guess that Starlight has feelings for June.

Ezio approached to Lorenzo, who was sitting down on the stairs. He breathed in and out, calming down from the event giving a heart attack.

"Are you alright, Lorenzo?" Ezio asked calmly.

Lorenzo nodded his head, answered, "Yes. I am. But my brother... He's gone. Curse those Pazzi!"

"It's okay. They are dead... for good."

"But... what do they want with the Tirorenze? I thought they are interested in ruling the streets, not taking over my rule. It is very unlikely on them."

"True... Because... I wonder the same thing." Ezio said in concern, looking at the paper, reading it carefully. "I had the feeling that everything Pazzi did is just distraction. Leaving their main group in finding the main goal."

Lorenzo looked concern and worried, asked, "What do you mean, Ezio? Is it something that your father and I had found something that involved with Forbidden Weapons, made by Grimmore himself?"

"Yes. But not only that. They maybe close. One step in finding the Element of Shadow..." Ezio said in concern. "They have found the staff, but for the apple and Element. They are still looking for them. And so far, they almost finish the part of Element of Shadow's Map. We need to stop them before they could achieve on something..."

The mystery on Demon Knights' purpose continued...

To be continued...