Shadow, Love and Pride

XXXIV

Tales of a Peaceful Day

The rest of the day after the raid on the slave camp, the five young guards spent it resting. The next day, Kido declared it an extra day off for himself and his team.

Spike and Kido's Day

It is early in the morning, and Kido is near the entrance to the Everfree Forest, the usual spot where he and his friends of the guard go to train. He's sitting crossed leg as if meditating with his hands resting on his knees under a lone tree in the vast plains. Contrary to his usual attire, he wears a simple red shirt one size too big and baggy jeans. No gloves, no boots, no cloth around the face to cover his scar, no weapons. He sensed a familiar reptilian scent approach.

“Hey Sarge...” Spike stopped himself. “Oh... sorry. Are you meditating?”

“No my friend.” Kido chuckled. “What gave you that idea?”

“Twilight does it to focus on a new spell. She needs total silence and will get really mad if I interrupt.”

Kido laughed lightly. “I am just at peace. Despite the lives I've taken. The unforgivable atrocities I've done. The difficult things I will soon do. I am at peace.” He stopped and looked down to think with a look of sadness. “My soul belongs to the devil himself. Which is why I must make this world, for myself and those around me, as close to a heaven as I can. But it was so unexpected, I gained something so much more in just two short months since the day I arrived at Ponyville.”

“What?”

He looked at his friend with a look of bliss. “Love. From friends, the residents I've helped and pardon me for saying... Twilight despite how short lived.”

“I heard about that. What happened there? One moment she's in the clouds the next she's all bummed out.”

“We had our differences. She found out something about my past and decided it was too much for her. But how is she?”

“Getting better. She was working and studying with enthusiasm yesterday when I got back.”

“I assume you washed the blood before you got there?” Kido looked at him with a sly smile.

“Do you even have to ask?” Spike said sarcastically.

“Guess not. I'm glad she's well.”

“I heard you were the one that broke up with her.” Spike asked out of concern for his oldest friend.

“In a way I suppose. She said something that really hurt me. I wondered if I would be able to forgive and forget. I did forgive her. But the damage was done. I don't see her the same way. The love I had was gone. Just like that. All because of one moment. All because of something she said.”

“Just because of something she said?”

“Yes. It sounds ridiculous. But in all honesty. I would have preferred that she'd stab me in the back that night...” Kido changed his tone. “But moving on. I will soon talk to Twilight don't worry. I will tell her I forgive her and that I will always be a friend. Back to you... Sit and talk to me about how you feel after our mission.”

Spike went to sit in front of Kido, cross legged. “What's with the get up?”

“It's my first real day off.”

“Cool.” Spike turned pensive. “The truth is.  I don't feel different at all.”

“Okay.”

“I mean... Sarge I killed someone. I first stuck two knives in his neck and then after I got the information I needed I almost cut his head clean off...” He turned sad. “I don't feel anything. Like I was doing something casual like... like... like cleaning the library or getting cupcakes at Sugarcube Corner. It's so weird. How the fact that it doesn't haunt me. How I slept so comfortably last night. It's what's haunting me. You told me you think of those you've killed everyday. What's wrong with me?”

Kido remained silent for a moment. Spike lifted his head and looked at him in the eye. “Spike I do think of them everyday. That doesn't mean they haunt me. Well... some do. Only three give me nightmares.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means you did the right thing. Talk to Bellz about it sometime. I taught her that when you do wrong, you feel adrenaline and excitement. But when you do what's right, you feel peace.”

“I think I understand.” Spike turned pensive. “Can I still... you know... pray with you?”

“Of course my friend. But I pray to the Goddess Lupus Mater.”

“That's all right. She sounds awesome from the way you talk about her. What's she like?”

Kido took a deep breath. “Lupus Mater. Means “”Wolf Mother””. She cares for her pack with compassion and empathy. But protects it with ferocity.”

“Is that why you refuse to acknowledge Princess Celestia?”

“Yes. She has failed to protect her pack sort of speak.”

“But unlike Celestia she's not physically here. She can't really protect you.”

“Lupus Mater is more like a teacher. You can't expect her to save you from all your problems. She teaches me in hopes that I will live a good life so I can then teach others to do good.”

“I wouldn't want Twilight always looking over my shoulder checking to see what I was doing at every given moment.”

“See? Twilight taught you right from wrong. Now that you can think for yourself, it's up to you to decide the road you wish to take.”

“Yeah. I actually feel better Sarge.”

Kido laughed. “I read a book about a prophet who believed in the entity called God. He said that one of the keys to happiness was to get to know God, to learn everything there is about him. I like to think that belief applies to the Goddess as well. The book was positively ancient. It talked about creatures called humans, fascinating really.”

“Weird... So how does this prayer thing go?”

“Well you pretty much just sit and relax.” The two friend adjusted their seating to get comfortable. “Now by closing your eyes...” They closed their eyes. “You can ignore the voice from your head and listen to the voice in your heart. Now what that voice tells you, you say it out loud so the Goddess can hear what you desire most. Not in hopes that she will grant it. But in hopes that she may grant you the strength to carry them out and make them reality.”

“Okay. So you start?”

“Very well.” Kido took breath and a few seconds passed in silence. “Goddess know that I wish the best for this world and those around me. My path is tainted in blood but please let me know I did what was right. Please let my words be convincing as a way to avoid cutting down my enemies. Please curse my enemies with a conscience, so they may realize their actions cause pain and suffering to the innocent. I want and need the strength to keep my love ones safe. But Goddess above all, let the souls of my brothers know that as much as they may hate me, I hate myself more. And let my father know that my second chance will not be wasted. Let them know I love them. Let them know I pray.” A moment passed.

“My turn now?”

“Indeed.”

“I don't know if I can come up with something like that.”

“It doesn't have to be pretty Spike.” Kido giggled. “Just repeat what your heart says.”

“Okay.” Spike closed his eyes and tried to force the voice in his head to shut up. In silence Spike spent the longest five minutes of his life. His friend waited patiently. But Spike suddenly heard something. A voice that was calm and sincere. “Goddess give me the strength to fight my nature, so I'll never hurt Ponyville or anyone again. I want the strength to keep doing good things, to help those around me. I want my life to have a purpose, a purpose other than being an assistant. I know I can do so much more. Just give a sign. But over all, I want my friends to be happy. I want to to help keep them that way.” Spike opened his eyes.

“That was good my friend.” Kido smiled.

“Does this make you feel so cheesy?” Spike blushed.

“Always.” They laughed.

“Thanks Sarge, for everything.”

“Your a good dragon Spike. And you're destined to do great things, don't ever think otherwise.”

“I hope one of those things isn't inventory at the library.”

Kido's troll mode activated. “You could try praying.”

“Will that work?” Spike beamed.

“No.” Kido smiled mischievously

“Sarge you really can be a jackass.”

“I know.”

Bellz's Day

Bellz really had no idea what to do on a day off but decided to just stroll around the town by herself. She got some happy faces, she smiled back. She got some odd looks, she smiled back. She got some angry looks, she didn't give a fuck.

She kept walking to the point she exited the town and started seeing a more rural side. After a few minutes she saw a yellow pony that seemed somewhat familiar.

“Angel I'm sorry I didn't get ripe carrots but these are a lot fresher.” The yellow pony said in a whispering voice as she was talking to a smug white rabbit. She presented a basket of carrots in front of the rabbit, which he then kicked away and then slapped the mare right in the face.

“YOU DRY PIECE OF DOG SHIT!!!” Bellz ran to the where the yellow mare and the rabbit were and gave the rabbit the evil eye. “If I see you touch another lady again, I'll use you as toilet paper!”

“Oh no Misses Guard mam sir! Please forgive Angel Bunny! He'll be good! I promise!” The yellow mare embraced her pet rabbit in tears begging Bellz.

“It's okay miss. I just don't like bullies.” Bellz lowered her voice and took a calm stance. “Hey wait a sec... Don't I know you?”

“Oh why yes. We actually met the first day you arrived... when you wanted to... eat us.” She stood up. Angel hid behind her.

“You're one of the elements of harmony?”

“Yes. Kindness.”

“Well absolutely, you couldn't be kinder since you let your own pet beat you over a salad.” Bellz said sarcastically.

“I just don't like to cause trouble.”

Bellz decided to give up on the issue and changed the subject. “I never did get around to apologize to any of Twilights friends about that night. I'm sorry. I really am.”

“Apology accepted. You've been real good to the town. I heard about the fire at City Hall.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Wow, I really wasn't expecting this. Thanks.” Bellz started scratching the back of her head. “Well if you ever need anything, feel free to find me.”

“Oh well... actually... I did go to the station but it's been closed for a few days now.”

“We took down a base with a lot of baddies. Boss gave us the day off yesterday when we got back and today. I didn't need it. But Boss got really roughed up, but he'll never admit it.” Bellz giggled.

“I'll be by tomorrow then. I'm sorry for taking your time.”

“Tell me what's up? Having a day off actually sucks, I love my job.”

“In that case... There's something scaring the animals around my house. I keep them inside, but it's just too crowded now.”

“Then lets go. I'll keep watch of the house.” Bellz expanded her chest in confidence.

“You would do that?” Fluttershy looked relieved.

“Totally.” Bellz pounded her chest. “It's the least I could do after you were so cool to me. Lead the way.”

They walked to Fluttershy's cottage talking along the way about themselves like the best of friends. Angel Bunny kept his distance from his owners new friend. When they arrived, Bellz flew to be  comfortable at the near by tree. The cottage was beautiful, there was even a small river and tiny bridge over it. Fluttershy started to take all the animals out of the house and into their own with promises that the problem will end this night. A few hours passed and it was dark. Fluttershy came out to see Bellz.

“Bellz, would you like to come inside where it's warm?” Fluttershy asked.

“It's allright.” Bellz flew down to be in front of her. “I like the night. But I could use a drink... got any mushrooms?”

“I do. Come in.” Fluttershy lead the way. Bellz had to duck to enter.

“This is a nice place. Real pretty.” Bellz admired the cozy living room. “May I use your kitchen?”

“Certainly. What would you be making?” She lead her guest to the kitchen.

“I'm a carnivore. I need meat. But Boss taught me how mushrooms cooked a certain way can replace it.” Bellz started to gather the ingredients and set fire to the stove.

“I know. It was in the newspaper.”

“Gotta start reading that thing.” Bellz was frying the mushrooms, smelling them anxiously awaiting to eat.

“I'll join you for dinner.”

“Okay. I'm almost done.”

Bellz sat at the table across from Fluttershy with her meal.

“Can I ask you something?” Bellz asked.

“Certaintly.” Fluttershy smiled.

“So you're not... you know... afraid of me?”

“I was... but you've been really nice. A bit rambunctious, but so is Rainbow Dash.” She giggled as she ate.

“I should meet her.” Bellz said with a mouthful. “So you got a boyfriend?”

“Oh... no... no... I've never.” Fluttershy blushed.

“Really? A beautiful thing like you?”

She blushed even more. Bellz noticed.

“Let me get that for you.” They weren't done eating but Bellz decided to make a save. “Hey I'm gonna head back outside... you know... keep an eye out.”

“Oh no. Please stay, I wouldn't dream of having my guest out in the cold.”

“Thanks. I'll clean up then.” Bellz made to go to the sink with the dishes.

“I'll take care of it. Why don't you go sit on the couch?”

“Awesome. It looks fluffy.”

Fluttershy finished up and headed to the living room. Bellz was relaxing on the couch making herself at home, sitting very unlady like. Fluttershy sat on the farther side from Bellz.

“Whatever has been scaring your friends probably knows I'm here.”

“Perhaps. But I still feel safe with you here. And it's nice to have my living room back.”

“This place is bigger than it looks from the outside. You even have room to dance.”

“What makes you say that?” Fluttershy blushed.

Bellz pointed with her thumb to the old looking stereo.

“I use it to sing the animals to sleep.” She smiled. “So you like to dance then?”

“I do. But I can only do it when I'm alone. Like in the shower.”

“Why is that?”

“Well the dancing I learned from my former clan was very... sensual... I never did any assassination jobs but it was taught to us with the purpose of seducing our victims to lower their guard. I still like to do it, you know, for myself. Makes me feel pretty.”

“Well you don't need any help with that?”

“With what?” Bellz gave Fluttershy an odd look.

“I think you're lovely.” She gave an honest smile.

“Are you by any chance flirting with me Miss Fluttershy?”

“Oh goodness NO!” Fluttershy looked ashamed. “Besides. You're a girl. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

“What does being a girl have to do with anything?” Bells lifted an eyebrow as she smiled.

Fluttershy just blushed. “You like girls?”

“I like intimacy, as long as it's honest. I wouldn't mind having a friend with benefits.” Bellz winked.

Fluttershy turned cheery red and wide eyed.

“Well... ” Bellz stood up and walked over to the radio. “Let's see.” She looked through the small box of records. “Here we go.” She took a record and put it on the radio. Slow Arabian music played.

“What are you doing?”

Bellz took off her tank top, dropping it on the couch, revealing that she wears an even tighter sports bra. “I'm dancing and that's decided.” She walked to the middle of the living room. Noticing the look on Fluttershy's face. “Belly Dancing goes better when you free your belly.” Bellz smiled at the stunned mare.

But even though Fluttershy never felt more embarrassed in her life, she didn't complain or protests and never took her eyes off the seductive bat's hips. Fluttershy couldn't help but notice her well toned body and beautiful big blue eyes. Except now that Bellz started removing her jeans. Fluttershy closed her eyes tight. The music suddenly stopped. The mare opened her eyes to see Bellz putting on her tank top.

“Sorry for making you uncomfortable. Was just teasing.” Bellz gave a sly smile.

“It's allright. I just kept wondering how you were doing it.”

“Lots of practice. I won't do it again, don't worry.”

Fluttershy shook her head. “It was actually... nice in it's own way.”

“Really?” Bellz sat on the couch, this time closer to Fluttershy. Close enough so she could hear Bellz whispering. “I could do it again for you if you'd like.”

Derpy's  Night

Derpy had an easy going day. Slept until late and just walked around town, saying hello to everypony, eating at SugarCube Corner and all around just relaxed.

It was night now and the stars were beautiful and decided to head home. She noticed the light outside the station was on. The door was unlocked and she headed inside to be warmly greeted.

“Good night Miss Hooves.” It was Kido smiling from his desk. He stood quickly as always as a sign of respect.

“Good night Wolfboss.” Derpy smiled back. Kido then walked to her friend and knelt down on one knee to be at her eye level. He put his face close to hers. Derpy felt his breath on her snout, she closed her eyes and kissed him. Just a peck. Kido then put his hand on her ear and rubbed it. It caused her to giggle. “Why did you only meet me half way?”

“I like to feel wanted.” He gave her a sly smile.

“You're so mean... ” Kido deeply kissed her this time. Derpy didn't offer any resistance, enjoying the experience. After a minute he let her go. Derpy was breathing deeply. “What... ?” Kido picked her up like a husband would her new bride to take her upstairs.

And the rest of the night. Is none of your business.

Problem?