Under Loyalty's Flag

Chapters

Chapter 2: The Ragnarok
Chapter 3: Calm Seas and Rough Decks
Chapter 4: Confrontation
Chapter 5: A War of Secrecy
Chapter 6: Baltimare
Chapter 7: Diamond of the West
Chapter 8: Pyrate Dealings
Chapter 9: Royal Convoy (Part 1)
Chapter 10: Sepulcher
Chapter 11: Always Sunny in...
Chapter 12: Precaution
Chapter 13: A Rare Opportunity
Chapter 14: Caramel's Lesson
Chapter 15: Etiquette on Deck
Chapter 16: Games
Chapter 17: Split Loyalty (Part 1)
Chapter 17: Split Loyalty (Part 2)
Chapter 1: Manehatten Life
Chapter 9: Royal Convoy (Part 2)
Chapter 18: Relationships

Chapter 2: The Ragnarok

"C'mon Berry! We gotta get to the docks!"

Rainbow dragged her friend by the arm. The sun had not risen over the horizon yet. Manehatten was empty except for the early risers and the non-sleepers. The two women ran through the wet streets. It had rained after Caramel left the tavern. This did not surprise anyone as the island city was always partly overcast. However, Rainbow's mind was not on Manehatten, but the Bay.

"A new life Berry! I've always dreamed of being on the seas. Th wind in my face, the water splashing ar..."

Berry shook her head. "No you haven't."

"Way to take the fun out..."

"Hey, you made me stop drinking. You know that makes me cranky the next day."

Rainbow rolled her eyes. She had been thinking about Caramel and his ship throughout the night. She did not actually get much sleep due to her restlessness. Yet, was she cranky? No. Berry was just being stubborn, Rainbow thought. Berry was content with her lot and needed nothing more. Always relying on Rainbow to her the bits for booze. Rainbow nodded in her thoughts. She was doing something good for Berry. Her friend needed to get out and live for once.

They turned a corner and saw the docks at the end of the narrow street. The bustling sounds of activity could be heard in the distance. The sailors were already up and running. As she approached the docks, she quickened her step, to Berry's annoyance. They passed the the last line of dull buildings and stopped in awe.

The docks were lined up with ships o various sizes. Rainbow was not learned in the names or functions of different ships, so she saw them all as the same. Sailors rolled barrels and carried crates up the walkways to the ships. Most of the sailors were burly men, but there were a few women here and there. One such woman was talking with a man in white robes. She had many tattoos covering her very dark body and she had a white and black striped mohawk. Rainbow recognized the man as Caramel and ran over to him.

"Captain, we're here."

Caramel turned around. "Ah, yes, my new sailors. Uh...I never did catch ya names."

"I'm Rainbow Dash, this is Berry Punch."

"Aw, fitting names I should say. Well, Miss Dash and Miss Punch, this is my First Mate, Zecora of Zebrania"

The tattooed women bowed slightly at them. "For our first meeting in time, I say the pleasure is mine."

Caramel chuckled. "That's her way of saying hello."

Rainbow looked about. "So, which one of these boats is yours."

Caramel frowned. "My ship is out in the Bay. Our way of getting ahead of traffic. We have a rowboat ready to depart."

The captain pointed at a rowboat nearby. Rainbow looked out into the Bay. Certainly enough, the Ragnarok was out there, still as statue. She inspected it with as much awe as the others. The craft seemed graceful as it sat in the waters. Rainbow's stare was interrupted by the whistling captain. The woman turned to see everyone was in the rowboat. She was quick to get in with them.

Caramel sat back. "Now Miss Dash, if you are going to be a sailor, you must learn the ropes. It will not be easy, but I believe you will learn quickly. First things first, you must do what I say, when I say it. So, row me to the ship."

Rainbow blinked at his sudden command. "Uhh...Can't you do it?"

Zecora snapped back at her. "Your captain has ordered you, now follow his command through."

Caramel intently stared at Rainbow. "Row. The. Boat."

Rainbow grumbled and took the oars. She heaved them back to push the boat forward. Caramel gave her a smug look as she did so. She looked back over her shoulder. The ship was much farther away now than what she had thought before. That was probably due to her not expecting to be rowing the boat the entire way. Wait, she thought. She looked at Berry Punch, who was simply lounging next to Zecora.

"Why isn't she helping?" Rainbow questioned.

The captain waved a finger at her. "Nah ah Rainbow, I told you to row, not her. Keep rowing."

Rainbow grumbled again. In her frustration, she began to row harder and faster. If she was going to do this, she thought, might as well make it quick. The wind picked up as they went out into the Manehatten Bay. She rowed harder and harder, showing the captain her anger at being told so rudely. Caramel winked slyly at her. This made Rainbow even more angry at the man. Soon they were flying across the water at the speed she had created. Berry lazily watched her without a care. Rainbow glanced over her shoulder. The ship was closer, but still far off.

"Ya gettin' impatient lil' hydra?" Caramel asked mockingly.

"Oh shut it you." Rainbow hissed.

Zecora opened her mouth to say something, but was stopped by the captain. Rainbow could tell that he was amused by her and didn't want his fun to be spoiled. Her arms began to tire as she rowed them to the Ragnarok. The sun was now over the horizon. The pink morning was beautiful and delightful to see, but Rainbow acknowledged none of it. She was thinking solely on the captain and rowing, rowing, and more rowing.

"Keep rowing like so and your arms shall become as strong as a buffalo." Zecora told her.

"Uh....Thanks?" Rainbow replied.

"Don't worry," Caramel said. "You'll get used to her sayin's and rhymes soon enough."

"I hope so 'cause it drives me head round." Berry complained.

"Doesn't take much to do that." Rainbow retorted.

The shadow of the mast covered her. She didn't realize that she was coming close to the ship, as she was facing the other way. She continued to row with vigor. The captain hesitated before pointing.

"Uhh...You might want to stop."

"She turned her head. To her immense surprise, the rowboat was about to collide with the haul of the ship. She desperately tried to stop the boat by rowing in the other direction. It wasn't enough though, as the boat struck the ship, lurching them all. Indignant chatter rose from the deck above. Caramel stood up.

"Well, everyone's gotta start somewhere right? Whatever my boys tell ya, listen to them good, they got sound advice."

Zecora grabbed two ropes and threw them to the deck above. Caramel skillfully climbed the side to the deck. Rainbow was impressed by his agility. The boat started to lift up as the sailors above pulled the boat out of the water.

"Heave! Heave! C'mon lads, we gotta stay sharp!"

The boat was pulled over the ship's railings via pulley system. The boat was then set down gently on the deck. Zecora stepped out and walked away. Rainbow and Berry Punch remained in the boat. Rainbow was awed by the activity on the ship. Sailors scrambled about, climbing the rigging or rolling some barrel to a new location. Massive white sails were folded up along the yards. The high masts of the ship loomed over them. A large black flag flew at the very top. Cannons lined the sides of the ship, she could see about six on each side in sets of two. Above the captain's quarters was a carved statue of a gryphon with outstretched wings. Two sailors stared at her with disdain. Caramel voice called out to them from the wheel.

"Yeah, we got ourselves two greens. Make 'em at home lads."

One of the sailors turned to the captain. "They don't look sea-worthy cap'n."

Caramel nodded. "Not yet. Gotta teach them first."

"Cap'n, I don't mean to offend, but are you sure? One of them is the size of my thumb."

Rainbow's temple bulged out. "Hey, you take that back!"

"Oi! What's ya gonna do, green? Bite me toes?" The sailor mocked.

Before the sailor could react, Rainbow slammed her fist in his face. Blood squirted from his lips as the knuckles ran deep into his jaw. The other sailors turned around in alarm when the sailor landed firmly on the wooden deck. Rainbow walked over to him and pulled at his thin shirt.

"Naw, I'll just bite ya face off!"

Rainbow pulled her am back for another punch, but the hearty laughter of the captain stopped her. She glanced over at him. He had one hand on the wheel and the other holding his side. Rainbow was starting to get annoyed in how humorous he found her and her actions. She let go of the sailor and began to walk toward the captain. The sailor spat at her as she left him on the deck.

Zecora was whispering something into the captain's ear. When Rainbow walked up the short flight of curved stairs to him, she stopped. Caramel kept his smug look. Rainbow crossed her arms and glared at him.

"Yes, Miss Dash?" He asked.

"You're not gonna say anything about me just sluggin' one of your crew?"

"Of course not! Ol' Hunter had it comin' anyway. Besides, you're one of my crew now, remember? I consider ya'll equal, even if ya a green. I've got confidence in you, Miss Dash, otherwise I wouldn't have selected you. You've got fight in you, and you'll need that on my ship."

"Why? We're a cargo ship right?"

"Oh...Er....Yeah, we get cargo an' stuff. We're gonna go get that right now. Hey Dark Moon, get over here, show the new gals around the ship."

A young sailor with white spiky hair walked up to Rainbow. He greeted her with a smile, though it was not the friendliest. Berry Punch joined them. Dark Moon looked at both of them and bowed.

"G'day m'ladies. I shall show you the ship. Follow me."

The man turned around and began walking away. Rainbow hesitated before realizing he had started the tour. She quickly walked up to his side. Berry lazily waddled behind them. The young sailor gestured at the main deck.

"This be the deck lass, this is where all the action happens. Above this is the sails n' rigging. A girl like you will probably spend most of her time up there. You look spry, maybe you'll be in the nest at the top. But that depends on where the cap'n will put ya."

Rainbow looked above her. The rolled up sails were high above her. She didn't not mind climbing and was certainly not scared of heights, so being up there wouldn't bother her. Dark Moon walked to the middle of the deck. There was a large hatch and stairway leading below deck. He motioned for them to follow. He did not wait for them to respond and headed down the stairs. Rainbow could tell that he was trying to get through the tour as quickly as possible. She caught up with him at the bottom of the stairs.

Below deck was just a frantic as above. Sailors of all kinds scurried through the thin halls, or better put, pathways. Crates and barrels were crammed in every space available. At the back of the ship was a broad woman chopping fish up. Dark Moon patted Rainbow on the back and pointed to the front of the ship.

"That way be the crew's quarters. The captain has his own sleepin' station above, we sailors sleep down here, but we sleep on the deck sometimes. Here, follow."

He swiftly moved to the sailors' quarters. As they passed, many sailors watched Rainbow and Berry with curious eyes. One of the sailors gestured with his fingers to another, indicating that the green in front of them was rather small. Rainbow growled at this, bit kept her wits about her. She may have slugged one sailor today, but she did not want to push her luck. Finally, Dark Moon stopped and pointed at two hammocks.

"These belonged to the men you are replacing. Take care of them, it'd be for the better. Now, I've gotta run."

With that, Dark Moon left them. Rainbow threw herself in one of the hammocks. Berry slowly took the other. Rainbow noticed that her friend had been awfully quiet the whole morning. She leaned toward Berry. The girl gave her friend a confused look to ask what was wrong. Berry shook her head.

"What do ya think is wrong?"

"I don't know, that's why I'm asking."

"I don't think we belong her Dash, we're not sailors. I love land, not water."

"I know that, but remember the bits, Berry. All we do on land is get drunk and waste money, here, we won't do that. I say we let this ship take us wherever they want. I'd be happy to live in Baltimare or Fillydelphia. As long as we got bits."

"Yeah, but we still aren't sailors. We don't know a thing about keepin' a ship afloat."

Rainbow shrugged. "We'll learn, even Captain Caramel said so. Trust me, we'll be fine."

"All hands on deck!"

The sailors below deck scrambled to their feet and ran upstairs. Rainbow shot up and followed them. She didn't check if Berry got up or not. When she reached the deck, the whole crew was gathered around the captain, who stood by the wheel. Caramel paced back and forth on the railing in front of the steering wheel. He lifted his arms to his crew.

"Lads n' lasses, our time here in Manehatten is done. We sail for Baltimare. But first, we shall retrieve our cargo from our lovely investors. Hehe, and you know what that means boys. Rest and drink will have to wait, let's get out of this bloody Bay. Move! Release the sails! Gotta catch a breeze!"

The sailors ran about the deck. Many climbed the rigging to the sails. Others fastened ropes to the railings of the ship. Caramel grabbed the wheel and began to turn it. The ship came alive. Rainbow became imbalanced with the sudden movement of the brig. The seasoned sailors took no notice of her and went about their errands. The sails unfurled and the ship lurched forward.

"Look alive, Miss Dash." The captain shouted merrily at her. "I didn't get ya to stand about. We need the top sails opened. Why don't ya climb up there and cut them loose?"

Caramel pointed above her. The sailors had not reached the top sails yet. The urge to beat them to it them rose in Rainbow's heart. It was a competition of who could release hem the fastest. Rainbow quickly grabbed onto the rigging and climbed up. It did not take long for her to catch up with the sailors above her. Faster, faster, she thought. The sailors she passed awed at her. It was clear that she was the fastest of all of them, and she was a green. She reached the top yards. She loosened the ropes that held the top sails, letting them fall open.

The ship sped up with the addition of the top sails. The other sailors hopped down off the rigging. Rainbow swung herself to the main mast and quickly descended. When she reached the bottom, the mumble of the other sailors could be heard around her. However, the hearty laughter of the captain rose above the noise.

"Haha, mighty impressive Miss Dash, I see a bright future with you on board. Mighty bright indeed."

The ship glided above the water. The captain steered the ship around small merchant vessels and fishing boats. The Ragnarok was much larger than most of the ships in the Bay. It was also much faster, as it sped by the other ships with ease. The ship headed due east, away from the Bay. Rainbow turned to see Manehatten becoming smaller in the distance. With the sight of her home leaving her, she started to feel doubts about joining the ship. In retrospect, her decision was rather impulsive and not well planned. It was the promise of bits that compelled her to speak with Caramel and now there was no turning back.

"Well, better make the most of it." She said to herself.

Chapter 3: Calm Seas and Rough Decks

"C'mon Miss Dash, put some back into it!"

"I don't see why you're doing this captain. I'm a sailor, not a warrior." Rainbow replied to Caramel.

"Ya already consider yourself a sailor? You've only been here for three days!" Caramel told her.

"Yeah I do. Woah! Next time warn me."

"There ain't no warning out here on the seas, Miss Dash. Ya fight for your life out here."

"From what?" She asked.

"Anything and everything. Buccaneers roam these waters. I don't want ya to die at their hands without putting up a fight. En garde!"

Caramel swung his sword wildly at the young woman. She ducked under his swing and his sword stuck in the wood of the mast. The captain growled loudly as he was angered by the damage he caused to his ship. He then attacked with his other sword. Rainbow deflected the blade. Caramel pulled his sword out of the mast and cackled with laughter.

"Haha, you're gettin' the hang of it. Keep this up and we'd be ready to board a schooner!"

"What?"

"Oh, I mean, be a bodyguard!" He smiled sheepishly.

"That's not even remotely similar to what you said." Rainbow observed.

"Oh, quiet you! Hya!"

He swung at her again. His attack met nothing but air as Rainbow jumped back and away from the blade. The captain followed up with a downward slash. Rainbow placed her swords up defensively. The cutlasses met with a metallic sound. Caramel held his swords there and then casually lifted them away from the girl. The captain then sheathed the cutlasses. Rainbow sighed with relief.

"That'd be enough for today, lass. We need to get ya in shape before we get the cargo."

"Yeah, you've told me that before. Why do I need to use two swords anyway? I mean, wouldn't training with only one be better?"

"Oh Miss Dash, you're a sailor, remember? On my ship, no one fights with one sword. That's too simple and formal. We fight like animals here, using every hand and foot to dice the other. It's all about survival in any bloody way possible."

As if to demonstrate what he meant, he lifted his hand upward, showing Rainbow his calloused palm. Suddenly, a well-made blade extended itself from beneath his sleeve. Rainbow jumped back, as she did not expect a weapon to be hidden like that. He gave her a smug look and the blade disappeared in his sleeve. Rainbow gulped and sheathed her own swords. They were the swords of the deceased sailor she had replaced. Apparently, they keep everything and discard the bodies with nothing. They had even gave her the sailor's clothes. The same ones he died in. She, not surprisingly, refused and stuck with her light blue shirt and gray trousers. The captain grinned at her and walked up to the wheel, taking it back from Zecora.

"Alright Miss Dash," He called out to her from the wheel, "Get on with ya duties. We should be meeting our investor...Soonish."

Rainbow turned and headed below deck. There was not much activity on the ship due to the calm sailing. As she walked down the steps, the other sailors glared at her. She stopped and returned their harsh stares with confusion. One of the sailors approached from the shadows. His eyes reflected the midday sun. Rainbow raised a brow at him. He responded with a mocking smile.

"Well, well, ain't it the cap'n's new pet?"

"What are you talkin' about?" Rainbow demanded as she sized up the sailor.

"Oi, nothing, nothing at all. Just ya slackin' off with the cap'n. Training ya to fight? Pfft, he ain't never did that with any of us. Ya get special attention. Why? Did ya show him ya tits?"

"Shut it you! I never did anything like that!"

Rainbow was shoved from behind. The force knocked her to the floor. The sailors laughed at this. Rainbow turned to see that a female sailor had shoved her. The ship rocked up as it went over a wave. Rainbow flipped herself back on her feet. The sailors continued to laugh at her. One of them stepped forward.

"Ya still a green, dame. The cap'n may be lovestruck for ya, but we still think ya need to prove yourself. Only the best can sail on this ship. It's how we stay above the rest of the sluggards on the sea."

Rainbow raised her fists. "What's with ya guys and being the toughest out there? We transport cargo. We're not in the Equestrian Navy!"

The sailors laughed again. Rainbow growled at them. Some of them held their sides in hysteria. One of the sailors fell to the ground in laughter. Veins swelled on Rainbow's temple. She grabbed her swords and drew them. This did not seem to intimidate any of the sailors.

"Oh look guys!" A female sailor shouted and pointed at Rainbow. "She thinks she can fight us! Ha! She doesn't even know what we are!"

"Oi, is that what the captain told ya, Miss Dash? Ha! You aren't the brightest, are ya?"

"Haha!"

"STOP!"

The sailors ended their laughter immediately. All their heads turned to see Caramel at the top of the stairs. He face was red with anger and his swords were in his hands. His blue eyes searched everyone of the sailors, as if to remember each of their faces. There was a dead silence as he did so. Some of the sailors looked to the ground and avoided eye contact with him. Rainbow, however, gazed right at him. He did not seem to notice her. Finally he addressed his men.

"Look at ya! All of ya! Bunch of shites! Who do you think ya are? Some nobles in Canterlot? I can't believe I have such men on my ship. You're suppose to welcome greens, not drive them away. I will not stand the ridiculing of another on board my ship. If ya have problems, give it to me, and not.....this. Miss Dash, with me please."

He turned and walked out of sight. Rainbow hesitated before following. The sailors grumbled and spat at her. Some even gave her rude gestures as she passed. She cursed and sheathed her swords. She quickened her step and followed the captain across the main deck. She saw that Zecora was at the wheel again. The captain walked with an angry step. He headed for the Captain's Quarters. He stopped and turned to her, letting her catch up. Once she did, he opened the door and allowed her to go in first.

The Captain's Quarters was clean and spacious. All along the walls were paintings and small sculptures. Most of the paintings depicted beaches and ships. All of them were well painted and in similar style, suggesting that they were all down by the same artist. Rainbow saw many different color paints and even some paintbrushes on a side table on the left. In the center of the room was a large, rounded table. Maps and ledgers were sprawled about on it in a less-than-neat fashion. To the right of Rainbow was another table, but this one had a rack of odd swords on it. Most of the swords were elaborate and rich in design. They appeared to be weapons of a noble or some wealthy merchant. The captain walked by all of this and sat behind a rectangular desk at the back of the quarters. The desk had the symbol of the Gryphon Kingdom carved in the middle. Caramel placed his hands on the desk, his face was darkened by the light that came from the window behind him.

"So, what was that about?" He asked in a calm demeanor.

"I....Those sailors are just jealous." Rainbow replied.

"Jealous of what?"

"I..Look, they think ya favor me for some reason. I don't get it. They said that you're treating me special like."

"Ha, I guess they have forgotten what I've done for them. Don't mind them lass, they'll come around. It's always tough for a green the first few days. After we get the cargo, I bet they'll look differently at ya."

"Yeah, about the cargo. What is it exactly?"

"Hehehe." He chuckled.

"Well?" Rainbow said impatiently.

"Ya wouldn't believe me, lass. I haven't been......Truthful with you the past days. I guess there is no point in keeping it a secret any longer. You see, Miss Dash, you don't live in the world you think you do. It's far stranger than ya realize."

"Oh, I bet that."

"Don't jest, I'm being serious. When I'm serious, you better be too. Now, the cargo is being held by these religious freaks. Now, we are going to take their cargo, take it right from them. Then we sell it to the highest bidder, whoever that may be."

"Alright.....?"

"The cargo is something called an Element of Harmony. Yeah, Harmony, it's their way of life or something. Well, there are odd things about these Elements, things ya don't wanna hear. It's not something we want to keep. We'll take it and go to Baltimare. From there, we'll sell it and rack in the bits."

"So....Are we pirates?"

"Aye, but I prefer the term, rogue privateer. It sounds fancier and not as savage."

"You...I didn't become a sailor for this! I...I...I'm a criminal now!"

"Indeed, but remember lass, the bits, always about the bits. You asked first and I let you on, now ya work for me, under me. Don't be a Disloyal one and leave. That wouldn't be nice."

Rainbow gulped as she thought about this. The whole Element thing did not stay on her mind. She was starting to worry about what she had dragged Berry into. She was a pirate, on a pirate ship. This was not what she wanted. However, the echo of herself through Caramel, the bits, the money, that's why she was there. Did it really matter how she got the bits? She stole money in the past, but only a little, just to get through the night. This was much worse than that. They were attacking and sinking ships for some odd artifact or another. Her eye began to twitch with the worst going through her mind. The captain raised a brow at her. She didn't respond to him and stared in space.

"Uhh...Miss Dash?" Caramel ventured.

No response.

"Miss Dash!" He shouted.

"Gah!"

Rainbow returned to reality. Her gaze met with Caramel's cold eyes. She gave him a sheepish smile in an attempt to ward off his intimidating stare. This, however, did not work in the slightest. Rainbow resorted to slowly backing away from the captain, still giving him the awkward smile. As she now knew what he was, she saw him in a different light. This man was a buccaneer and a captain. She was a simple performer, a very poor one, but nothing else than that. Her dreams of being a sailor were going downhill. But could she leave? No, that would be Disloyal, she thought. Remember the bits and make the most of it.

"Uhh....Don't worry about me, cap'n, I'll stick with ya." She said after the silence.

He nodded his head. "Good, I expected as much. I know this is a lot for you to handle, but you'll pull through."

"Why didn't you tell me before?"

"Because you wouldn't have joined if I did."

"You wanted me to join?"

"Aye, after that fight in the bar, I saw what I wanted to see. A young woman like yourself, ready to stand up for herself. Admirable. I saw a bit of myself in ya when I was your age."

"I doubt I'm anything like you." Rainbow said in an skeptical tone.

"Heh, maybe. But that's a story for another day. We're done here, Miss Dash, go back out there. If any of the lads taunt ya again, slug 'em."

Rainbow nodded and turned away. Caramel stood up and gazed out his window, watching the wake of the ship. Rainbow listened to her own footsteps as she walked out of the Captain's Quarters. When she opened the door, the cool sea breeze blew by her. She then walked over to the side railing, next to the quarter deck. It was mid-afternoon and the sun shone brightly in a almost cloudless sky. Rainbow gazed around, no land of any kind in sight. Ever since yesterday, they had not seen any land. They were still going outward at a mostly southeast direction.

"That ship better be around here." Rainbow thought aloud.

"Ship sighted sir! She's a big one too!" Shouted a sailor.

"Aye." Zecora said from the wheel. "A ship with the make of Equestrian. One they call a galleon."

Rainbow tilted her head to see what they were talking about. Her eyes widened to see a massive ship in front of them. Its sails were taller than any building in Manehatten. The sails had a yellow tint to them with Celestia's Sun in the middle. It was clear this ship was meant for war. Cannons lined up three decks high on the sides of the galleon. The wood was gold and yellow, giving the ship an almost lively appearance. The ship flew a massive flag of the Equestria Empire. Water was parted by the ram at the bow of the ship. The monster was heading right for them.

"Don't be alarmed, this ship means no harm." Zecora assured the sailors.

Sailors appeared from below deck. They stood on the railings to see the galleon. The Equestrian ship turned slightly and slowed down. Zecora ordered the top sails to be lifted and the Ragnarok slowed down as well. The galleon stopped right next to them, not ten meters away. Both ships came to a halt. The Ragnarok was in the complete shadow of the Equestrian galleon. Rainbow could see Royal Guards in golden light naval armor walking on the deck of the monster. One Royal Guard with purple armor and lots of blue plumage on his helmet stood erect next to the railing and addressed the crew of the brig.

"And who is this Gryphonian Brig on Equestrian waters?" He questioned harshly.

"This be the Raganrok captain, a ship that partakes with no faction." Zecroa answered.

"Would you be the captain of this ship, Zebran?" The Royal Captain asked with disdain.

"No, I am no captain, he is resting in his cabin."

"So be it. I hope you have kind intentions with such a ship. She is a marvelous one, I shall say. If you are not Gryphon, then we have no quarrel with you. Happy landings."

With that, the captain walked away from the railing and the galleon began to move again. The Ragnarok's sails also unfurled again and the ships departed their own way. Rainbow watched the galleon sail away. The stern of the ship was by far the most elaborate with large windows and lanterns. She saw that the ship still had cannons facing their direction with four cannons facing the back. She gulped.

"I hope we never have to face one of those."

"Maybe lass." A sailor told her. "Depends on what's she carrying. I think we can take her on."

"Why did they question us?" Rainbow asked the sailor.

"Oh, it's cause we're on a Gryphonian ship. Those blowhards hate anything that ain't Equestrian and so they want to sink every ship that gives them the wrong eye. So get used to them doing that."

"Rainbow!"

Rainbow looked to see Berry running to her. Her eyes were just as wide as her friend. She pointed at the galleon and squirmed.

"What....What was that thing?" She wailed.

"Pftt, greens." The sailor muttered.

Rainbow glared at him before answering Berry. "Just an Equestrian galleon. They're friendlies."

"Sometimes." The sailor muttered again.

"What does he mean?" Berry gestured at the man.

"Nothing. Just messin' with us greens." Rainbow told her.

Rainbow felt a wave of guilt hit her as she finished her words. Berry was still in the dark about it all. Caramel was not training her nor giving her such instructions like he did for Rainbow. The rainbow-haired girl rubbed her chin. The whole situation was still suspicious. Berry crossed her arms and looked at Rainbow with a frown. She had been becoming less talkative as the days without a drink grew. Rainbow finally motioned her to follow.

"Let's go to the bow. I need to talk to you."

"Alright." She responded reluctantly.

They quickly walked over to the front of the ship. Sailors went about their ways and generally ignored them. Though a few snarled at Rainbow. She turned her eyes away afraid from their angry glares, so as to not be aggravated by them. When they finally reached the bow, Rainbow leaned on the railing. The bow of the ship had a figurehead of a screeching gryphon. It was one of the indications that the ship was of Gryphonian make. Under it was a large hooked ram on the prow. Before, Rainbow thought it was just something to part the water, but now she new it was another weapon on the ship. Berry leaned on the railing opposite of Rainbow. The look on her face was less than pleased.

"How ya liking it so far?" Rainbow asked in an attempt to break the ice.

"Same. I'm gettin' better at the tying and the scrubbing. But, yeah, the same."

"Well, I hope this will improve it."

"What?"

"This is a pirate ship, so.....We're pirates." Rainbow tried to say it casually.

Berry only responded by opening her mouth and then closing it. She then shrugged and did nothing more. Rainbow blinked in surprise.

"Is that all ya gonna say?" Rainbow asked.

"Mmmyeah. I see no difference, as long as we get the bits, right?" She tried to sound optimistic.

"Yeah, but no worries or anything?" Rainbow was still surprised by the calmness of her friend.

"Naw, I guess we're pirates. Does this mean more drinking?"

"Uhh....I'm sure."

"Then I'm game." She said simply.

"Yeah, you better be, Berry, cause I think our 'cargo' is coming soon."

"Our cargo out here? There's nothing in sight except water and the occasional dolphin."

Rainbow rubbed her face. "Berry, we're pirates, that thing is gonna be on a ship. We have to take it."

Her face darkened. "Oh. Well then, I hope we survive."

"I do too, Berry, I do too."

Author's Note

Lots of fun with this story so far.

I wonder which Element it's gonna be.....

Who even carries Elements anyway?

Chapter 4: Confrontation

We are outward bound for Baltimare

With a heave-o, haul!

An' we'll heave the ship with flair!

Good Mornin' Equestria!

An' when we get to Baltimare

With a heave-o, haul!

Oh, 'tis there we'll drink and gleeful share

Good mornin' Equestria!

Them gals down south are free an' gay

With a heave-o, haul!

Wid them we'll spend our hard-earned pay

Good mornin' Equestria!

We'll swing around, we'll have good fun

With a heave-o, haul!

An' soon we'll be back on the homeward run

Good mornin' Equestria!

An' when we get to Canterlot

With a heave-o, haul!

For the very last time we'll prance and haught!

Good mornin' Equestria!

With ol' Tia and Luna too

With a heave-o, haul!

We'll drink an' dance wid a hullabaloo

Good mornin' Equestria!

So a long goodbye to all you dears

With a heave-o, haul!

Don't cry for us, don't waste yer tears

Good mornin' Equestria!

The Ragnarok's crew ended the shanty with a collective cheer. Rainbow sighed in relief as she finally sung in key with the seasoned sailors. She heard the laugh of Caramel as he steered the ship. It had been one day since Caramel had told her that they were "rogue privateers." The seas had remained calm and they had actually seen a couple of islands. She learned that these islands were called the Mid Sea Isles. The sailors said it indicated that they were close to their prize as they were now on the sea route it took. Rainbow didn't want the ship to come too soon, as she was still nervous about what would happen.

"Oh! How can I think this way? I'm Rainbow Dash, I'm better than this." She said aloud.

"We all hope so." A sailor mocked.

Rainbow waved him off. She had gotten used to the sailors' taunts about her and they stopped bothering her. After Caramel's intervention yesterday, many sailors had changed their perspective on her. Berry thought that was because they were intimidated by their captain and didn't want to upset him again. Rainbow wasn't sure if this was true, but she didn't really care, as long as they were being nicer to her and not calling her short, she was satisfied.

She leaned on the railing of the ship and watched an Equestrian schooner sail by. With her experience so far, she was now able to tell one ship from another. Every ship was built in such a way to fit its purpose and not just style. Schooners were for quick merchant runs and even low-class privateers. Brigs like the Ragnarok were for fast naval confrontations and chases. Every plank in the ship served a purpose, just like every crew member had a position. Rainbow nodded as she thought about this. She hoped she would be a fine addition to the crew and their adventurous.

"Ship sighted sir!"

The shout of the watchman made all the sailors lively. Some climbed the rigging to get a view of what the watchman saw. Others ran to the ropes, as in preparation for something massive to happen. Rainbow looked at the captain to see his response.

"What is she?" He shouted back.

"By the shape and rigging, I'll judge a corvette, sir!"

"That would be her! Lads, prepare the cannons, loose the sails! I want everything she's got! Our prize is in sight!"

"Bring her to a proper sail! Do it quick without fail!" Zecora repeated the captain's orders.

"Not already..." Rainbow muttered as she climbed the main mast.

"Fly the colors!"

"Aye sir!"

Sailors came from below deck with a large black sheet. They unfurled it to reveal a white skull sewn into the black sheet. The peculiar skull had the odd triangular symbol that was on Caramel's hood as one eye. The other eye was a bright red cross. The whole skull was placed on a white pike. They then tied the flag to some hooks and raised it to the top of the main mast. Rainbow saw it pass her as she stood on the yards. The intimidating symbol in the middle of the flag showed that the ship was a buccaneer.

"Heave it lads! Give me every inch of wind! These ships are a fast lot, we cannot let them escape!"

"I think she's spotted us sir!" The watchman yelled.

The corvette turned and headed straight for them. As Rainbow was now done with the sails, she quickly descended to the deck. Sailors positioned themselves along the cannons. Rainbow looked at the corvette. It was not as tall as the Ragnarok, but much longer and smoother. The wood was painted black. The square sails were a dark gray. It's flag was black with a bright red symbol with two white swords crossed below it. The symbol was the one on Caramel's hood and flag.

"She's comin' for us! We're in for a fight lads!" Caramel shouted to his crew.

Rainbow took her position next to a cannon near the bow of the ship. Her heart was racing as the corvette came closer and closer. Whoever was the captain, they certainly didn't want to back down from a battle. A sailor next to Rainbow smiled at her.

"Ya ready lass?"

"By Tartarus yes!" She said boldly.

"That's the spirit. Now, one last word of advise, watch for splinters."

"Here she comes! Get ready!"

"Fire the fronts!" Caramel ordered.

BOOM!

The cannons that faced the front of the ship fired with a booming sound. Cannonballs flew at the corvette. The shots glanced off the curved front of the enemy ship. Then, the corvette responded with its own frontal cannons. Rainbow ducked as a cannonball blew away the railing next to her. The Ragnarok lurched to the side.

"Give her a broadside!"

The corvette and the brig sailed side by side. Both ships roared with their cannons. The sailor next to Rainbow pulled his cannon and it fired. Wood flew in every direction. Some sailors were impaled by the large pieces of wood. The sailors on the corvette were having similar issues. Their odd white robes were stained with blood.

"HAHAHAHA!" Caramel laughed manically.

The ships circled around each other. The cannons roared and roared, most missing their targets. The laugh of the captain continued as the ships battled. Water flew through the air from the massive splashes of the cannonballs. Suddenly, the Ragnarok skidded in a tight turn.

"Don't let up! Catch the wind!"

The brig caught the strong breeze an sped towards the corvette. The frontal cannons raged again. The enemy ship set off another broadside.

"Brace!"

The cannonballs ripped through the bow of the ship. Rainbow was knocked down by the force. She found herself on the deck with a large splinter jabbed in her arm. The sailor ran over to her and painfully pulled it out of her arm. Rainbow grabbed her wounded arm to cut of the blood.

"We're gonna ram her! Hold on tight!"

"What!?"

The sailor and Rainbow flew to the deck as the Ragnarok slammed itself into the stern of the corvette. The entire ship lifted upward from the force. The ships were stuck for a split moment. The frontal cannons fired point blank into the corvette. Wood from the enemy ship soared over the crew of the brig. The corvette turned for another broadside.

"CHAIN SHOT! CHAIN SHOT! DON'T SINK HER!"

The corvette fired into the brig. One of the Ragnarok's cannons shattered from the raw power. A sailor close by Rainbow disappeared as a cannonball met him directly. The brig returned fire. The chain shot ripped the masts of the corvette. The crew cheered as the masts toppled into the sea.

"We got her sir! She ain't movin' now!"

"Get the grappling hooks!" Caramel shouted.

The Ragnarok rounded the corvette and stopped at the stern of the enemy ship. Sailors drew their swords and cheered. Some sailors threw hooks into the corvette and began to pull. Rainbow grabbed her swords and readied herself.

"This is it."

"Board her! Board her! So them the taste of true Freedom!"

Caramel ran and jumped to the other ship. He was ahead of his crew who swung on ropes and climbed to the corvette. Rainbow hesitated. The sounds of clashing swords were heard from the other ship.

"C'mon lass! Glory awaits!" The sailor told her.

"Let's do this!"

Rainbow ran on a rope and quickly tiptoed her way to the other side. Caramel was fighting with several of the white robed sailors. The enemy sailors wore hoods just like his. The entire deck of the corvette was in Chaos. Rainbow watched the battle. No one seemed to mind her at all.

"What do I do now?"

Suddenly, a large enemy sailor swung at her with a sword. She ducked under his swing. He quickly followed up with another attack. Rainbow deflected his blade and kicked his knee. The sailor grunted and returned with a punch her across the face. Rainbow flew into the railing. Before she could recover, the sailor kicked her off the ship. Rainbow tumbled helplessly into the sea.

All the sounds of war disappeared as she was submerged in the water. Her stomach ached from the kick. Despite the pain, she swam to the surface and took a refreshing breath of air.

"What a bloody way to start a pirate career." She mumbled.

A white robed sailor fell over the side and into the water with her. She was prepared to swim away until she saw the sword in his back. The water around him became crimson. Rainbow swam over to him and pulled the sword out.

"Might as well get back into the fight."

She placed the grip of the sword in her jaw and grabbed onto the corvette. She then began to climb the wet wood. The ship was easy to ascend. Many of the footholds were holes made by the cannons. As she ascended, the clash of swords returned. Cheers and screams were heard from above. She finally swung herself over the railing.

Bodies covered the deck. Caramel stabbed a sailor with both of his swords and lifted the body to the air before throwing into the wooden deck. His eyes were wild and he was constantly cackling. After he was done with the enemy sailor, he instantly moved to another target and stabbed him in the back. A white robed sailor swung at him. He deflected the blade with ease and then stabbed the sailor through the neck with one sword and through the chest with the other. A pirate knocked a female enemy sailor down to the ground next to the captain. He quickly turned and stomped on the face of the sailor, incapacitating her.

"A little help lads!"

Rainbow turned to see a wounded pirate fighting a sailor. The ally was clutching his bloodied side and only fighting with one arm. Rainbow ran at the sailor from behind and gutted him through the chest with her sword. The white robed sailor tensed up with shock. Finally, his body became limp and he slumped over.

"Thanks lass!" The pirate thanked her.

"No problem!" Rainbow replied.

"Drop your weapons! Drop 'em all! Now!"

Both Rainbow and the pirate looked to the center of the deck. Caramel was holding a silver robed female sailor and had one of his wrist blades pointed at her neck. Rainbow noticed that her robes were much more elaborate and decorated than the others. The other sailors on the corvette threw down their swords and lifted their hands in surrender.

"All of your bloody weapons!" Caramel demanded.

The sailors began to unstrap devices from their wrists and threw them to the ground. The silver robed one did so also, removing two instead of the usual one.

"Tie 'em up lads. We got the ship now."

A collective cheer rose from the pirates. Caramel threw the woman to the ground. Two pirates walked over to her and tied her hands behind her back. Caramel leaned over her and removed her silver hood. The woman had a fair face with silver hair and lavender eyes. A thin white streak ran through the left side of her hair. The captain chuckled.

"So what's your name captain?" He asked her.

"I am Den Master Silverspeed, ya bloody pirate!" She yelled at him with a Cloudsdalian accent.

"Silverspeed? And a Den Master? Well, this is mighty find, ain't it? Now, is this ship's name Eagle's Eye?

Silverspeed remained silent.

"I'll take that as a yes." Caramel grinned at her.

Eagle's Eye lurched when the brig hit her. Zecora had steered the ship so that the pirates could connect both of the ships with a wide plank or gangway. Pirates walked freely between the ships. Caramel started to pace around the corvette's captain. Silverspeed snarled at him with hatred.

"So.....Where is the Element of Hamrony?" He asked in a polite voice.

"To Tartarus with you and your crew!" Silverspeed replied.

Caramel stopped in front of her and grabbed her chin. He made sure his face was almost touching hers. Some of the pirates guffawed at this. However. the captain looked dead serious.

"Alright. There is one simple choice here. You see your men over there? So helpless, the lot of them. My men can easily find the Element, this ship ain't that big. You have a choice, tell me where it is and your men live. Don't tell me and they die. What's it gonna be?"

"If you can find it so easily, then why ask me?" Silverspeed responded.

"Simple m'lady, I rather have you tell me. Now, choose."

Silverspeed looked at the deck. "It's in the cupboard below deck in the chef's quarters. It's in a golden box."

Caramel stood up. "See? That wasn't so bad. Glad you could be of assistance."

Silverspeed growled. "The Brotherhood will come after you for this! You dare intervene with our war, and for what? Bloody bits, that's what! We'll never stop chasing you! You and your demonic crew!"

"Yeah, you Assassins will chase me, won't you? Well, then I need a backup plan. Lads, take her and lock her up on the Ragnarok. We'll need a hostage for this. You guys make sure the other Assassins won't try anything funny. Take all their wrist blades, we could use some more toothpicks on board. You three, find some rum. You two, with me."

With their orders, the pirates moved about. The captain grabbed the Den Master's robes on the chest and pulled them. The action ripped her clothes and revealed her chest. He looked at her chest with interest before letting go of her. Two men took Silverspeed by the arms and dragged her across the gangway and onto the brig. Caramel went below the deck of the corvette with two sailors. The rest of the sailors picked up the wrist blades from the living and dead Assassins. Rainbow heard a whistle from behind her.

"Hey, lass, take these."

Rainbow turned to see the sailor she had rescued throw her two wrist blades. She assumed they were from the Assassin she killed. The sailor smiled at her while he clutched his side. He walked over to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"What be your name, lass?" He asked.

"Rainbow Dash of Cloudsdale, yours?"

"Neon Lights of Baltimare."

"Well, nice to meet ya."

"Thanks again for the save, I would have been in Tartarus if it wasn't for ya."

"Just doing my job." Rainbow boasted.

"Rainbow? Where are you? Are you alive?" Rainbow heard her friend call out.

"Berry! I'm over here!"

Berry Punch waddled across the corvette and looked at her friend. She was covered in small scratches. Her sword was red with blood. The glare from her startled Rainbow.

"So....We survived." Rainbow said with a sheepish smile.

"That......Was......Awesome!" Berry shouted and hugged Rainbow. Her expression made a complete turnaround.

"Uhh...Berry? Did one of the cannons hit ya?" Rainbow said as her friend squeezed her.

"I've never felt so alive! No amount of booze could of done this! I love this new life! Thanks Rainbow!"

"Uhhh.....Anytime?"

"Heh, I'll leave you gals alone." Neon chuckled and walked to the Ragnarok.

"Berry, you can put me down now."

"Oh sorry." Berry placed her small friend on the red deck.

"You know, that wasn't so bad. I mean, I got kicked off the ship, but not too bad. I wouldn't mind doing that again." Rainbow said.

"Neither would I. Rainbow, I can see it now! Us, both the wild gals of the sea. Going from Baltimare to Manehatten, gettin' bits the whole way. What a life."

"Aye, it is a life. Let's make the most of it."

"Let's."

Rainbow and Berry walked over the plank and back on the familiar brig. Caramel had not yet returned from the Assassin corvette. The sun was covered by the clouds of the west. They had the prize now, they could get to Baltimare, to pay day. The pirates were all talking about the fight moments ago. There were a few that didn't make it through the battle, but the time for remembering them was not here. The pirates realized that their lives were merry and short. This life seemed promising to Rainbow now. To be a buccaneer on the Equestrian seas. What could be better?

Author's Note

I wish I had a picture of Caramel's flag...It would be easier to describe it like that. It's a skull with the left eye as the Assassin insignia and the right eye is the Templar cross. And the skull is on a pike. Is that better? I hope so....

Chapter 5: A War of Secrecy

"So long, fair lads n' lasses of white! Hope we never see ya again!"

Caramel waved at the unfortunate Assassins who stood on their motionless ship. Since all the masts were torn down on the Assassin corvette, they were stranded on the sea. The Ragnarok slowly gained speed as the brig separated from the other ship. The pirates cheered and waved their hats at the Assassins as they left them. One Assassin or two yelled curses at them, only to be received graciously by the rogue sailors. Even Rainbow joined in the fun of mocking them.

"Alright lads." The captain addressed his crew. "We be off for Baltimare now. We have the Element of Harmony right here!"

The captain held up a decent size golden box. The box was lined with blue stones on the corners. The lid had the picture of an elaborate unicorn head with several circles around it. The crew gave a hearty cheer at the sight of it. It didn't look like much to Rainbow. Certainly not something worth fighting over.

"What about the ship sir? She took many blows during the fight. Ya think we should dock in Fillydelphia for repairs?" A sailor asked the captain.

"The brig's a strong one. I think she'll last the trip. We'll fix and upgrade her in Baltimare unless she gets worse or we meet trouble on the way."

The sailors nodded in silent affirmatives. Some sailors went about their constant errands and others began to chat on the main deck. Rainbow heard a whistle from the captain. She looked at him to see him gesturing for her to come over. She jogged up to the quarter deck. Caramel gave her a mischievous grin and let go of the wheel.

"Take it." He gestured at the wheel.

"Uhh...Ya sure about this? I could crash her."

"Oh, Miss Dash, do you see anything out here that you crash into?"

"Well...No."

"Then have a go."

Rainbow walked over and placed a hand on the large wheel. There indeed wasn't anything out there in the sea for them to hit, so she was confident in her level of survival. Besides, she boarded a ship and won. How hard could this be? Rainbow smiled in confidence until a very agitating problem arose as she stood there.

"Cap'n....I can't see over the wheel."

Rainbow glared at the captain as he began to laugh and hold his sides. It seemed that this was his plan all along. Her shortness was the butt of a joke yet again. She growled loudly and stomped over to the captain. He wiped away a tear from his eye. The young woman slammed her foot on Caramel's toes. The captain kept laughing, but now held his foot in severe pain.

"That wasn't my intention Miss Dash, I swear." He said through his laughs and grunts.

Rainbow angrily walked down the curved steps. The Ragnarok went with the waves and wind as no one was controlling her. The girl walked to the middle of the main deck. Caramel was still clutching his foot on the quarter deck. Some sailors laughed at their captain's pain. Though discreetly and well out of his hearing range. Rainbow couldn't help but grin. She walked down the steps to below deck.

"Hmm...I wonder if there's anything to eat." Rainbow uttered when her stomach growled.

Rainbow started to make her way to the chef's quarters. Her feet dragged through puddles of water. Those puddles weren't there before, so this wasn't a good sign. Rainbow turned to see a couple of sailors walking through the water as well. She pointed at the water and raised a brow at them.

"Where did this come from?" She asked them.

"There's a leak somewhere. Cannon must've blown a hole in the hull. Don't worry, we'll find it and fix it." One of the sailors replied.

They swiftly passed her on their mission to find the hole. Rainbow continued her way to the chef. The chef and Zecora were talking with each other in the chef's quarters. The Zebran leaned on a barrel while the chef was filleting a fish. Both of them took notice of the young woman. The chef grumbled and pointed her knife at a barrel.

"If ya hungry, there are some biscuits in there. Otherwise, you can leave." She said harshly.

"Now hold on a bit, Miss Dash, would you take this to the prisoner's pit?" Zecora asked.

The first mate handed her a plate of food. Rainbow looked at it curiously. Zecora pointed down the hall.

"We always like to make the prisoners feel welcome. And that we are not so felon."

"Alright. I'll take it to her." Rainbow said.

Rainbow turned and carefully balanced the plate in her hands as she walked through the puddles. The Assassin prisoner was held in the brig of the ship. The crew did not refer to the brig as the brig much since they were on a brig ship. So many referred to it as "the pit," "scurvy hole," or "the cage." Rainbow made a left turn in the hallway and into the darker part of the ship. It did not take her long to reach the pit, but the water made it less than easy.

In the dark room were two cells. One was empty while the other held Silverspeed. The Den Master sat in a dry spot in her cell. Her arms were crossed and her silver hood was over her face. A single shackle was on her left foot. The chain was attached to the wall of the ship. Rainbow walked over to the cell and tapped on the iron bars.

"Hey, I got something for ya." She showed the Assassin what she was carrying.

"How nice of you." Her voice was dry and sarcastic.

"I don't need to give it to you." Rainbow Dash shrugged.

"I do not desire food, pirate, only freedom from this place."

"Well, as far as I can see, you're stuck here."

"It seems so."

Rainbow placed the plate on the floor and slid it to her through the bars. The Assassin did not move at all. Her frown remained on her face and the hood shrouded her eyes. Rainbow started to pity her. She was a pirate, this is what they do, she reasoned. However, the caged individual before her made her feel guilty. Rainbow leaned on the bars and tapped them to get the prisoner's attention.

"Hey, so, why the get up?" She asked.

"If are you referring to my robes, it is beyond the comprehension for someone as simple as you." Silverspeed snarled.

"Hey, no need for insults. I'm jus' asking."

"Hmph. I am a Den Master of the Assassin Brotherhood. These robes symbolize my rank and experience."

"What do you do?"

"Do you not know? You are an underling on Caramel's ship. I would think he would have informed you of us."

"Hey! I am no one's 'underling,' Miss Gloomy, now answer me."

"You're a bold one, rainbow-haired girl. My Brotherhood is one that works in the dark to serve the light. We wish to establish Harmony and Freedom to the lands that possess none. To rid the world of Chaos like you and Absolute Order from the Templar. We do so by killing those who seek humanity's destruction and helping those who cannot help themselves."

"Chaos? Nothing Chaotic about us."

"Really? Look at you, a vermin bent on ruining poor innocent sailors. Causing destruction and mayhem and for what? Bitpieces of course. The world does not deserve one like you."

Rainbow nodded. "Well, if there is one thing you Assassins love, it's to lecture people. Have a nice time in your little home."

Rainbow turned and started to walk away. The chain attached to the Assassin rattled. The young woman ignored it and kept walking. The splashes of the puddles were the only sound. Silverspeed called out to Rainbow in a rather desperate voice.

"You pirates do not know what you're getting into. This war is not meant for your kind. You should do well to back out."

Rainbow stopped and grinned at her. "Really? I have a feeling the Ragnarok and the Assassins are going to be well acquainted after this. If Caramel thinks you guys will pay so well for a little Element, you guys are basically walking money bags."

"Listen! Those Elements are not to be trifled with! They are beyond anything you know."

"You're right. It is. All I know is that I want to make a living for myself."

Silverspeed shook her head slowly. "What is your name, pirate?"

"Rainbow Dash. Do well to remember it."

Rainbow shut the Assassin up with those words. Caramel was right, these people were some religious freaks. They were folk that Rainbow did not want to be affiliated with. However, the warnings that Silverspeed gave her remained in her head. Caramel and her seemed to say the same thing about the Elements. What were they that they were talked about with such solemnity?

Rainbow considered this as she exited the prisoner's rooms and walked towards the steps. Besides the odd creatures of the wildness and the Two Sisters, the world seemed pretty "normal." There was nothing that seemed supernatural or out of the ordinary. Were these Elements supernatural? What exactly did they do? Rainbow asked these questions to herself as she walked onto the main deck. Seagulls swarmed about above her. She leaned on the main mast and looked out at sea.

Were the Elements that important? She asked herself this. They were only something to bargain with. They would be done with it soon enough and she will probably never see it again. Rainbow nodded in agreement with herself. However, the curiosity of it all nagged her further. She looked at the captain on the wheel. She could ask him about it, or she could ask Silverspeed. The latter did not appeal to her. The Assassin's self-righteous nature towards her made her almost nauseous. That only left Caramel. The young woman started to make her way to quarter deck.

"Ello Miss Dash! Came to apologize?" Caramel chuckled as she walked up the steps.

"As much as I would love to do that, no. I have a question for you."

"Anything, Miss Dash. Fire away."

"Who are these Assassins?"

He nodded his head slowly while he steered the ship. "Aye, the Assassins. They's a bunch of odd folk who preach Freedom and Harmony and also some Creed. They go about, killing anyone who disagrees with them. Freedom huh? Bunch of hypocrites, the lot of them. I've never been in their Brotherhood, but I hear they are strict and unforgiving. You see, they are the opposite of Freedom. Even their leaders, the Bearers of Harmony, don't have much choice. Most Bearers are forced into the Brotherhood."

"How are they forced?"

"That's where the Element comes in. You know why I ripped Silverspeed's robes? I was checking to see if she was a Bearer. Those Elements, six of them in all, embed themselves into the Bearer's chest and take over their minds. The Elements have a mind of their own, yes, born in witchcraft. If ya ever come across a Bearer, pity him or her."

Rainbow grimaced. "That's awful. Why do they use such things?"

He shrugged. "Religious aspect? I don't know. What I do know is that it gives them an advantage over their smug enemies: the Templar. These assholes want everything to be Orderly where there is no Freedom. Ya see the difference between 'em? Most Assassins are poor folk and the Templars are haughty rich folk. Not always though. However, as far as I know, the Templar don't use such methods like the Elements."

"Then what are we in all this?"

"That's a mighty fine question, Miss Dash. I have wondered it meself. I believe we are on no one's side. We are true Freedom. We do what we want and how we want it. No one is above in command. Everyone has a heavy say in anything and everything on this ship. The Ragnarok is a nation and brotherhood of its own. No kings or emperors to tell us what to do. The only Creed we follow is a simple one: Live to help, never to hurt. We never raid civilians on these waters. Only those who are living to harm others, like the Assassins, Templars, the Imperials, the Gryphons, thugs, ya get idea. And throughout it all, we make an income for our humble nation. All hidden from the eyes of the watching Sisters."

"Heh, I never thought of any of this when I signed up." Rainbow chuckled.

"No ya didn't, lass. You should be proud though, ya made it this far. Keep this up and you'll be a captain of your own nation."

"Nah, I rather stay a sailor for now."

"Heh, that means I get to keep ya. Well, Miss Dash, we are a day out of Baltimare by my bearings. The place is wild. The Assassins and Templar compete for the city everyday. So watch yourself. I don't need ya with a dagger in your back behind some tavern. I don't know how long we'll stay there. Until we sell the Element."

"Who are we selling to?"

"The highest bidder."

Rainbow nodded in understanding. She now understood the situation. Whole secret war and other crap. She was surprised that she wasn't surprised by all of what Caramel said. Maybe she knew something was up all along? Oh, not but how much of it really mattered? Caramel knew what he was doing and they would get a payday soon. Also, Baltimare sounded like a place Rainbow could get used to. Berry would love it too since the port was known for its spiced rum.

"Always the booze..." Rainbow said aloud.

"Indeed." Caramel nodded.

Rainbow forgot that she was standing next to him. "Uhh....Anyone there you know?"

"In Baltimare? Well, there is a gorgeous lass. Been sweet on her for nigh three years. She works at the "Black Dragon Inn." We should visit her."

That wasn't what Rainbow meant when she asked him. She turned her gaze to the waters that surrounded them. She could see tall mountains to the west as they went south. The seagulls continued to scream above their heads. All she could do was wait. Wait? She turned back to Caramel. He gently held the steering wheel in his left hand with his right by his side.

"Can I take the wheel?" She asked.

"I thought you'd never ask." He grinned and stepped away.

She walked over and took his position. She could not see over the wheel, but why did that matter? She had Caramel by her side and the other sailors to watch for her. Her ability to navigate did indeed rely on others, but maybe that was for the better. If she could trust others to guide her, then there were no issues. The steering wheel felt warm to her touch, as if the ship wanted her to steer. As she steered, she could feel the wind and the waves, all trying to push her off course. It did not take much to keep on course. She only needed to make minor adjustments here and there. Caramel stood by her like an officer. He was smiling at her. She grinned back at him.

"Not so bad." She remarked.

"Aye, that is until ya sail in a storm. Rogue waves and howling winds. These are calm seas."

"Can I dock her when we get to Baltimare?"

He hesitated before shrugging. "Uhh...I see no harm in it."

"Really? Alright!" Rainbow beamed.

"Oh Miss Dash, you're like a little captain already."

Rainbow glared daggers at him. He merely grinned mockingly back at her. She calmed down and continued to steer the Ragnarok. The brig sailed across the waters easily. To Rainbow, it was almost a work of art. It felt natural. It seemed like the world had faded away into an ocean and they were the only inhabitants. It was an interesting thought and one that Rainbow had never considered before. As she steered, she almost felt peaceful. She would certainly not mind taking the wheel more often. However, one question remained. Why did Caramel choose her to steer? She never seen any other pirate take the wheel other than Zecora and the captain. She opened her mouth to ask, but she didn't want to interrupt the peaceful feeling. She shut her mouth and gazed to the sides, as the only thing she could see in front of her was the wheel. Caramel stayed quiet as well and they sailed on. Sailed straight for the Baltimare and whatever waits them there.

Author's Note

Why is the rum gone?

Chapter 6: Baltimare

"Land sighted! It's Baltimare!"

The Ragnarok crew gave a cheer and some threw their hats in the air. Seagulls and pelicans flew around the tall masts of the brig. Rainbow steered the ship towards the docks. They passed a massive fort on a peninsula. The fort was armed with many cannons and mortars. On the top of the fort was a statue of Empress Luna in a elegant dress. Her right arm was holding a flag poll that waved an Imperial flag. The statue was very large and well-made. It was all perfected by the late afternoon sun. Rainbow gazed at it. Caramel stood beside her and pointed at it.

"That be Fort Moonlight. It's the second largest fort in the Empire. Second to Fort Fillydelphia. This fort guards the entrance to Horseshoe Bay which is right around this edge of land."

Rainbow turned the ship around the peninsula. Once the rocks and palm trees were out of the way, she could see the city in its entire splendor. From the Bay, she could already tell that Baltimare was a much livelier place than Manehatten. The city had a white beach all along the Bay. The buildings varied in architectural design. Many buildings were different colors, like blue, green, red, or orange. Most buildings were a baked tan, as they were made of clay. Though she could see many brick buildings. Tall spires rose formed the Baltimare skyline. Some buildings had black or blue domes on their roofs. Smoke rose from several places. Rainbow assumed they were from factories or some sort of facility. The best and most brilliant part was the water. The water was clear green. It was not like the brown waters of Manehatten, these invited one to swim in them.

"How do you like it so far, Miss Dash?" Caramel asked.

"It looks great. Uhh....Where do I put her?"

"Doesn't matter. How about over there? There's an empty pier."

Rainbow stood on the tips of her toes to see what Caramel was pointing at. She then adjusted their course. They were still going at full sail.

"Lay off the wind lads! Prepare to dock!" Caramel shouted.

The sailors pulled the ropes and the sails retracted to their yards. Rainbow stuck her tongue out and eased the Ragnarok passed the other ships in the port. One such ship was larger than even the galleons in the bay. It was black with dark blue sails. The sails had a bright crescent moon on them. Luna's Moon. The massive ship was anchored in the middle of the Bay. Rainbow could tell that it was much too large to dock. It also was prepared for war with at least 5 decks of cannons. And more cannons on each deck than a galleon. The sight was impressive but also extremely intimidating.

"What is that?" Rainbow asked.

"Ah, that is the ELS Artemis. She's one of two Equestrian conqueror ships. They serve as the Two Sisters' personal flagships. So I assume that Empress Luna is in Baltimare right now."

"ELS?"

Caramel huffed. "Empress Luna's Ship. I know, kinda vain right? But, they have been ruling for several centuries now, I guess they can have this much."

"Dock's comin' close sir!" A pirate shouted in fright.

"We're gonna crash!"

Rainbow returned her attention to her current task. She saw the pier right in front of them and steered to the side. She barely missed the wooden pier and brought the Ragnarok to its side. The ship stopped as the sailors roped her safely to the dock. They were finally on land after six days of seafaring.

"Haha, that was too close. If you had hurt my ship..." Caramel didn't finish the sentence as Rainbow ran from the quarter deck. She was excited to see such a city. She heard her captain again when she was about to jump on the pier.

"Miss Dash!" Caramel yelled at her. "Ya can't leave yet. We need to unload the cargo and get settled."

"Cargo? You mean the Element?" She asked.

Caramel raised a finger to his lips. "Shush! We keep that quiet ya hear? No, we need to unload the other cargo so that we'll look like normal traders."

"Oh..."

The sailors began to walk back and forth from below deck. Some sailors came out with barrels of rum and cider. Two sailors set up a gangway to the pier. Rainbow did not really know what to do. She had never been in this situation before and the curiosity of the city was burning at her.

"What should we do with the prisoner?" A pirate asked.

"Keep her in there for now. We need her in a secure place from the Brotherhood." Caramel answered.

"Sir, Royal Guard here to talk with ya!" Another sailor shouted.

Caramel sighed and walked onto the pier. Three Royal Guards were standing waiting for him. The Royal Guard in the middle had a different type of armor. His armor was reversed in colors from the primary gold and secondary blue. His crest was not a blue feathers but instead a spiked fin. Rainbow assumed this showed his rank. Caramel stopped in front of them and placed his hands on his hips. The white from his robes reflected the sun into Rainbow's eyes. The blue Royal Guard spoke to the captain.

"G'day captain! I am Lieutenant Lazarus of the Night Watch. State your business to be on this dock."

"We're here to drop rum and cider off for the Black Dragon Inn."

"How long do you think you shall be here?" Lazarus asked in his professional manner.

"Don't know. Mistress Swirl likes to send us on little errands through town. We may be here a few days or a few weeks."

"You better clear that up with her." The Night Watch ordered. "Or I shall have to confiscate your ship if you outlast your stay."

Caramel snarled. "I'll keep that in mind."

"Good." The lieutenant swiftly turned and walked away with the Royal Guards flanking either side of him.

"Damn cocksucker." Caramel muttered as he returned to his ship. "Change of plan lads, we gotta make good time. Get going. Neon, Miss Dash, find us a hideout. We can't leave our stuff here."

Rainbow walked across the gangway and she saw that Neon Lights. Neon was bandaged all along his stomach and chest from the boarding. He could still move rather well for being injured. She followed him closely to the captain. He looked back at her and smiled before facing Caramel.

"What shall we look for cap'n?" He asked Caramel.

"A nice cozy compound along the shore or something like that. Somewhere not too crowded."

Neon nodded. "Gotcha. What if we don't find a vacancy?"

"Then make one." Caramel answered and walked away.

Neon and Rainbow ran off the pier and onto land. The sea breeze blew through their hair and the sand reached their toes. The townspeople walked about and chatted. The men and women here wore much brighter clothing than in dull Manehatten. They were also more exposing due to the warmth of the area. The women wore more scantily clothing than Rainbow had ever seen before. Neon grinned at this. Rainbow tapped him on his shoulder.

"Any ideas where to start?"

Neon rubbed his chin. "Let's go this way. There are some fields over on the south side of town."

They entered the streets and made their way south. The city surrounded them with sights, sounds, and smells. Drunks walked about holding their mugs and bottles. Women giggled as they gossiped on the street corners. Seagulls laughed out at the people and squawked for food. Royal Guards talked as they patrolled the streets. Most of them were in Night Watch uniforms. Rainbow assumed this was due to the Empress being in the city.

"They should be here any day, Applejack. That is, if they truly intercepted Silverspeed."

Rainbow and Neon stopped and looked down a street. There were two female Assassins, one much taller than the other. The taller had blonde hair and green eyes. Her dark gray and orange robes were more of armored steel than silk. A large ax was slung over here back. The woman who spoke to her had much finer white robes. The silk robes were designed with Canterlot floral patterns and light blue jewels lined on her belt. A Crystal Republican rapier with a golden hand-guard rested on her hip. Rainbow could only see a purple curl of hair from the white hood. Her figure was more delicate than the blonde. She spoke with a haughty accent.

"Oh, don't look at me like that, darling. We will get Loyalty back; bet on it." The white Assassin finished.

"They already know." Neon whispered. "We better hurry."

Neon tugged on Rainbow's shirt and they continued through the city. The young woman was alarmed by the appearance of the Assassins. Already? They must have had more influence in the city than she had thought. They passed a large building with spires in every corner. In front of the building was a spacious plaza full of merchant stalls. Most of the stalls smelled of fish.

"This is the City Square. The Governor likes to come out here and declare the new regulations and stuff. Politics. I never got them."

"Governor?"

"Governor Mare. She's a Templar, well, we think she is. Kinda acts like one. She ain't too bad though. Except when she bans certain drinks. Usually ends in riots."

"Well....That's something." It was the only thing Rainbow found to say.

They passed the city square in little time. The city was not as large as Manehatten, but it was less crowded and the homes seemed to be built soundly. However, as they headed to the south side, the streets and homes became more and more poverty-stricken. It was almost an instant change. Vagrants lined the streets with their pipes and rags. The sandy streets turned into dried mud and clay. The houses were unkempt and some were even roofless.

"Sad ain't it?" Neon asked. "You see, this is where Caramel started his nation. He was born in Ponyville, but this was where his father lived. They call this the "Gutter." It's like this due to the Assassin and Templar war. The Assassins use gangs and other thugs to do their more trivial work and to control territory. The Templar use corrupt officials to dominate the people. It's always been the worse down in the Gutter. Caramel's father told this to him and gave him his ship. Sun's Pearl. Ever since, Caramel's been well, Caramel."

"Can't we help them?" Rainbow asked and gestured at the woeful people before her.

"I don't know. We do what we can out at sea, but, we don't fight on land. Caramel's hoping to build a fleet with all the wealth he gathers. It's a long-term plan."

"Does he want us to be captains?"

"Aye, all of us. He tries to train everyone to be a captain so that they'll get their own ship and sail with him. But, that was years ago, I think he's forgotten about Baltimare's problems and his plans."

The two passed by a couple of shady fellows. They did not look Assassin, but their style of dress suggested they were wealthier than those around them. Their colors were mainly red. Rainbow noticed that they were armed with some sort of metal and wooden stick. She had never seen anything like it before. Neon stopped her and pointed at them.

"Templars. We're close, so let's follow these goons."

As soon as he finished his sentence, the Templars started to walk away. Neon gestured to Rainbow to take the roofs. Rainbow acknowledged and climbed. The Templars were chatting as they walked at a quick pace. Rainbow silently jumped from roof to roof while Neon stalked from the homeless crowds.

"Did ya hear? The Governor is upset with all the violence lately. Says the Royal Guard ain't doin' their jobs. I think mercenaries are gonna be the new guards here in no time."

"C'mon Maxwell, ya paranoid. City's doing fine. Yeah we got rogues here, but what city don't? It'll blow by like tempest. One moment it's here, the next it's gone."

Rainbow silently jumped across a gap in the buildings. A curious cat ran off scared from her intrusion. She peered down the street. The Templars were heading to the edge of the city. Probably to a plantation of some kind Rainbow concluded. All she could really see was a wooden watchtower. She climbed up to a taller roof.

One soldier sighed. "Can you believe it? We get a job here in the hot and muck while Hunter gets to go to Dodge Junction. Pfft."

"C'mon Max, do ya really think that Dodge Junction is any better? At least we got nice water here. Don't get me started on the girls."

"You always prattle about women, Conner! Women only get ya into trouble. That's why the Assassins have so many of 'em!"

"Well....You do make a point..." Maxwell trailed off.

Rainbow paused. She did see plenty of gals on the Assassin ship. Those two Neon and her spotted were both women. Maybe there was something up with that. After the pause, she shrugged. The roof she was on ended. There was no house nearby for her to jump on. She instead climbed down the wall. The Baltimare homes were more smooth and slippery than the Manehatten abodes even when wet. Manehatten buildings always had boards or windows jutting out to make easy foot or hand holds. She didn't have too much trouble and landed noiselessly in the sand. She knew how to be silent from her younger days of pilfering bread or snacks from people in Cloudsdale.

Neon ran to a small hut and hid behind it. The Templars stopped suddenly. Rainbow turned away and acted unsuspicious as possible. The soldiers saw her and raised their brows. One took a step forward but was held back by his companion.

"Max, she's got rainbow hair. I don't think we should mess with her. Probably a loony one." He said.

The two turned and continued their trek. They were almost to the plantation. Rainbow turned to follow but the sound of Neon grunting made her stop. She looked at him with confusion. He gestured for her to come over. She did so slowly.

"Rainbow, this is the Miser's Fields. The ones I talked about were just east of here. These fields weren't occupied last time I was here. Something's made the Templars take it over."

She glanced around the hut to see the fields. "What do we do? Cap'n said to take them if need be."

"I know, but there could be dozens of soldiers there. The Templar always got new lines of devices up their sleeves too. Our swords jus' ain't gonna cut it."

"Then what do we do? Go back to the ship?" Rainbow asked again with impatience.

"Naw. Caramel won't like that. Hey, remember those two Assassins? Maybe we can lure them here to fight them for us?"

"No, cause then we're need to deal with them too. They looked tough. Well, only one. The other looked like some Canterlot damsel." Rainbow said as she recalled the women.

"Only one thing to do. Take them out one by one. We gotta infiltrate it." He paused and looked at Rainbow. "You'll need a hood. The whole city can see hair like that."

"Alright already! The sun's almost down and I'm sure Caramel's gettin' impatient. Let's go already!" Rainbow loudly whispered.

"Ya know, the impatient ones are the ones caught!" Neon whispered back in the same manner.

"We gotta make a plan." He continued. "You see those bushes over there? Ya sneak that why. I'll go this way. Stay close though. If we raise the alarm, just run. You're one of the fastest girls I've ever met. It won't be hard for ya to get away."

"What happens if they come close? I don't I can pull them down with my bare hands. I'm too sma...Not big enough for that."

Neon grunted and pointed at her wrists. Rainbow looked down to see the Assassin wrist blades. "Oh..."

"Let's go. Quietly."

Neon silently moved to the edge of the fields. Rainbow followed. The fields were high with tall sugarcane and other plants as well. Since the day was almost done, no one was working the fields, leaving only the night guards on watch. Rainbow could count at least seven soldiers, one being a bird's eye on the shoddily built watch tower. The two moved up again to the bushes Neon mentioned.

"Alright, here's where we separate." Neon reminded her.

Rainbow nodded and went left while Neon went right. So far they had not been spotted. Rainbow hid in a bush to avoid detection. The bush was thick and rather spiky, giving the young pirate sharp pains in her exposed arms.

"Of course it would be bloody uncomfortable..." She mumbled.

She spied Neon moving up. There were no guards near her so she followed his example. she pulled the hood she bought from a vagrant over her head. With the sun below the horizon, all she had to do was avoid light. She lowered herself to all fours and crawled from the bush to a pile of discarded wood. As she sat behind the pile, she heard a loud cough come from the other side. There was a Templar right across from the pile. Her heart sunk upon this realization. She turned to look for Neon, but he was out of sight.

"Think..." She quietly muttered.

She picked up a small stone in her hand. She silently prayed and then threw it off in the distance. The stone tumbled and cracked upon its landing. The Templar stirred a little.

"Eh, dumb rabbits." He said lazily.

Rainbow huffed in frustration. She chanced being seen and slowly rose to look over the pile. Once her eyes could see over, the dark form of a soldier was clearly in front of her. He had his back to her, leaning on the odd stick that the others were carrying. His head was rolling around on his neck. It was like his neck was not strong enough to hold it up. The young pirate squinted at him. She could just walk over to him, but another soldier may see her. She had to make him move his sleepy hide.

"Psst!" She hissed loudly.

"Huh?" The soldier stood erect and look around.

Rainbow fell back behind the pile. "Psst!" She repeated.

"What kinda hellish creature is that?"

The Templar started to walk toward the pile. Rainbow felt his footsteps in the ground. Because of her size, the Templar could not see her from the other side. If Neon was hiding behind the pile, he would have been rather easy to spot.

"I know I heard something..."

The Templar rounded the pile. His eyes widened upon seeing her figure. Rainbow sprung from her low position onto him. She wrapped her legs around his torso and jammed the wrist blade into his screaming mouth. The soldier leaned forward with one last effort and the two fell to the ground. Rainbow escaped from under the bleeding man and shoved his corpse to the side.

"Guh...That was nastier than I thought. Next time I aim for the throat. Not his mouth!"

"Intruder! Intruder! Gah!"

Rainbow jumped up. She saw a Templar running across the field. Suddenly, a hatchet flew through the air and into his back. He fell into the sugarcane plants. Neon sprouted out of a bush and dusted his hands off. Rainbow could see his grin in the dark.

"Well, that's the last of 'em." He laughed.

"What? You said there were dozens!" Rainbow exclaimed.

He shrugged. "Miscount. Only was 14. No problem though."

"No problem? You know how long it took me to kill one? A single one!?"

"Aye. A bloody important one too. If ya didn't keep him distracted, he would have seen me too early. Remember Miss Dash, these guys ain't Assassins. They always got the numbers, but lack the skills. 14 Templar ain't no harder than cuttin' a head off a chicken. Heh, they run around in the same manner too!"

Rainbow frowned at him. He shrugged a second time and began to pick up the soldiers' weapons and gear. He didn't move the bodies at all. The young pirate could see his bandages in the dim light from the torches and lanterns. He did this while recovering from wounds. Her eye twitched.

"He's awesome..."

"What?" He looked at her.

"Nothing!" She said quickly.

He pointed at her with the arm of a soldier. "Go and tell Caramel we've got a place. Make it snappy alright? If he gets angry at us for being late, just remind him of the reason. You got that?"

She nodded. Neon returned to whatever he was doing. The sky still retained the pinkness of evening, but barely. She took a nearby torch to light her way. She was fast and speed counted here. Not only for Caramel's impatience, but she did not want to leave Neon alone. They had plenty of enemies in the city. She sighed and sprinted toward the docks. The blood from the soldier felt cold on her shirt. She made a mental note to get a new one.

Author's Note

Sorry for the delay. It's been awhile.

This story is still going, don't worry!

If ya are keeping up with Harmony's Creed, expect callbacks!

-Cheers for That!

Chapter 7: Diamond of the West

"Wake up ya blubberin' bloody piece of...Eh....Whatever."

"I'm awake."

"Of course ya are, Miss Dash. Of course ya are."

The captain threw down his short cigar into the dirt. The morning light surrounded the fields of the small plantation. Pirates went to and fro from the Ragnarok anchored by the shore and the hut where the crew was staying. Rainbow was resting on a heavily leaning palm tree. The trunk's grooves were not the most comfortable bed in the world, but it was better than most things she slept on. Caramel was sitting on the grass with what looked like a large pen and a small canvas was on his knees. He was not paying her any heed as he looked out into the Bay. An array of paints in small bowls was at his side. Rainbow, in her half-awake state, was confused by his actions.

"Uh...What ya doing cap'n?" She yawned in the middle of her question.

"Painting." He said absently.

"Painting? Aren't ya a pirate? You know, y'ar and buccaneer...y? What does a pirate captain have with...art?"

His absent gaze shot to her. "Miss Dash...If there's one thing I'm good at, it's art. Why should I reject my inherent talent because of a name?"

"Well...When you put it that way..."

"Besides, it helps me remember where I've been. After a while, all these places look the same in your mind, but not on canvas. On canvas, everything is how it should be: unique. It's my way of collecting memories that will last longer than my own. To tell ya the truth, I painted before I was a....rogue privateer. No one teached me. Teached meself. Saw the great arts of the 1st Imperial Era in Canterlot. Ever since, I've aspire to be like 'em. I ain't gonna let some ships and fighting, and lootin' get in my way."

Rainbow sat up on her palm tree. The captain continued his painting in silence. She pushed herself off the trunk, her feet landed in the soft dirt with a rather loud thump. She walked over to Caramel and inspected his art over his shoulder. From the first glance, his boast about being good was wholly satisfied. The semblance between the actual Bay and his art was incredible. With every stroke was a new blade of grass, a new texture on the bark, a new reflection on the water. His strokes ceased and he turned to her.

"Do ya mind? Bloody Hell! Ya slept in that shirt? Looks like ya ran in a butcher shop!"

Rainbow looked down at her shirt. It retained the blood stain of the soldier she killed the previous night. The shirt did indeed look awful. He blinked at her for a couple seconds before reaching in his pocket and pulling out a few bitpieces. He then lifted them for Rainbow to take.

"Go get yaself a new one lass. Las' thing I need is my crew lookin' like cannibals......And don't get in no trouble."

Rainbow accepted the bitpieces from the calloused hand. The amount he gave her was far more than what was necessary for a simple shirt. She placed them in her pocket. Just then, she realized that she was wearing a shirt that made her look like a murderer. It would be better to change before going, she thought. She instinctively started to take off the shirt. Caramel growled angrily.

"Miss Dash, I'm trying to paint a damn piece of beautiful historic art here! I don't need distractions....No matter how temp...I mean, have some decency."

She pulled her shirt down. "I can't go like this. I'll be pummeled by the Guards. I need a clean shirt. Well...I don't know of any spares."

He slid his work aside and quickly took off his sleeveless jacket from his robes. He then tossed it to the young pirate in silent frustration. Rainbow gave him a mouthed "thanks" and put the jacket on. It was, needless to say, too large for her and the ends went almost to her knees. The captain returned to his work without commenting on how ridiculous the girl looked.

"I'll see ya around I guess..." Rainbow muttered before walking away.

Rainbow left the captain to his art. She was heading for the city, but stopped. Maybe she could bring Berry along? She nodded enthusiastically and headed back to the hut. Laughing pirates were standing outside the door, playing with the tools they gathered from the dead Templars. Talking about the Templars, their bodies were all still where they died. None of the crew felt like moving them, so they stayed unmoved. Luckily the smell had not started yet. Rainbow knew that they bodies had to be pitched somewhere soon if they were staying at the hut for another night.

"What's with you Rainbow?" A pirate at the door asked her curiously. His eyes were on the jacket.

She crossed her arms. "Don't ask. Hey, have ya seen Berry?"

"Yeah, she's in there." He pointed inside.

Rainbow followed his finger. True enough, Berry was in there. The purple haired woman was face down on an old and worn table; her hand clutched an empty bottle of Ponyville cider. Rainbow walked over to her and nudged her slightly. Berry mumbled but stayed fast asleep. Rainbow performed the same action again, this time with more force.

"Berry. Berry!"

"Wha...? Huh!" She sat upright. A second later she wailed and covered her eyes. "Gah! Brightness! Sick and torturous brightnessss...."

"C'mon Berry. I'm going into town, wanna come with? It'd be nice."

Berry cocked her head lazily, her eyes were only half opened. "Nah, I have me dranks..." She lifted the bottle to her mouth, only to find nothing coming out of it. "Damn..."

"Hey, I got some bits, I'll buy ya a drink. How 'bout that?"

Berry nodded slowly. "Sounds....delee..dely...great."

Rainbow patted her friend's shoulder. "I thought you would say that."

"See, I told ya it would be nice."

"Yeah..."

Berry gulped down her new bottle of apple cider. For some odd reason, the cider was cheaper in Baltimare than back in Manehatten. Rainbow was certain the distance from Ponyville was the same, so it had to be a different reason. She mentally shrugged and left the thought behind. They had cider, that's all that mattered. Now, they had a tailor to see.

"Do you know where the clothes are?" Berry asked between her gulps.

"Of course. I got a good look at the place last night. Should be right over here."

They turned the sandy corner and the tailor some was in view. It wasn't much of a shop, as clothes were not as necessary in the hot weather, but it was fine for what it had. The two had to dodge some people moving barrels of who knows what before finally reaching it. The store had several shirts available in an elaborate array of different colors. However, the hardest part was finding a size that fit her.

"G'day lasses, may I be of assistance?" A deep voice called from the back of the shop.

The two turned to see a large man smile at them. His teeth were unusually white and even. He was obviously the owner and maker of the clothes. His hair was gray, but he lacked wrinkles and everything that came with gray hair. Rainbow returned his smile and Berry tried her best to make her face into a smile.

"We're looking for a shirt. Kinda ripped mine." She pointed at her jacket.

The tailor nodded. "I see. I have many shirts. Do you want blue, yellow, red, orange?"

"White's fine." Rainbow said.

"No, it is not." An elegant but firm voice uttered behind her.

Rainbow turned around to see a young woman leaning on the wall. Her hair was purple, her robes were white. Not any average robes either, but fine and complex Assassin robes with a belt lined with light blue gems. She was the same Assassin Rainbow saw the day before, only this time, the woman's hood was down. The Assassin gave them a friendly grin. Even though this woman was an Assassin, Rainbow had to admit that she was by far the most beautiful woman she had ever seen. The Assassin brushed her curly dark purple hair out of her eye, revealing a deep sapphire iris. Her red lips parted as she continued.

"Darling, with hair like that, white is simply too simple." She pushed herself off the wall and sauntered over to the two pirates. Her strides were just as regal as her appearance. "I suggest a light blue. Like the sky. Cyan."

The tailor nodded. "I agree, Lady..."

"Rarity. Lady Rarity." The Assassin answered.

Rainbow stayed silent. The fact that an enemy was standing right before her was unsettling to say the least. Berry seemed quite unaware that the young woman was an Assassin. Rainbow was frustrated by this. She's even wearing the usual white, she yelled internally. Rarity brushed Berry aside and stood in front of the small pirate.

"With hair like that, you must be a bold one." Rarity continued. "You're not afraid of being watched or judged. I can tell these things from looking at a woman. But you lack fashion, my dear. I can help you with this, darling."

"Darling?" Rainbow deadpanned. "Seriously? I don't need fashion. I dress like how I want."

"Are you? Are truly satisfied with a simple white shirt?"

Rainbow faltered. "Well...When you say it like that..."

Rarity squealed. "Oh, I couldn't do this with Applejack. I see an opportunity. I see a grand opportunity to make you fabulous."

"I have a limited budget." Rainbow muttered.

Rarity waved her off. The action was like that of a noblewoman. "Don't worry about that. Money is not an issue with me."

"I don't like the sound of that." The tailor muttered under his breath.

"This is boring."

"Hang in there Berry, It'll be over soon."

The three of them sat on an old bench. They had not gone far from the shop where they met each other. Rarity giggled in excitement as she sketched designs on a piece of parchment. After having been with her for an hour or two, the pirate realized that Rarity was much younger than thought previously. Rarity was, at most, in her very late teens. Even though Rainbow was only 20, this small difference in age seemed excruciatingly large because of their conflicting personalities. Rainbow yawned in boredom while Rarity repeated her quick and deliberate actions. Turning the parchment to its side, looking at it from different angles. It was freakin' parchment, Rainbow uttered in her mind, it's the same damn sketch any way you look at it!

"Oh, I forgot to ask. What is your occupation?" Rarity questioned. Her eyes remained on the sketch.

"I told you, I'm a sailor." Rainbow mumbled.

"I would never have guessed that."

"That was what you said last time." Rainbow flopped her head to the side. The knowledge that this girl was an Assassin boggled with her mind. She was not some deadly warrior, she was a Canterlotian princess wannabe, Rainbow concluded. How did she get recruited into the infamous Brotherhood? She appeared no better a fighter than an egghead scholar! Rainbow lowered her eyes to the sketch Rarity had been working on. The design had many unnecessary features and accessories. It was made for a strut down a Canterlotian road, no the open seas. It would only weigh Rainbow down. Besides...

"That's hideous." Rainbow commented.

Rarity grunted loudly and crumpled the parchment ruthlessly. She then chucked it across the street and actually hit a man on the head. The man cursed and searched for the offending culprit. Once he saw Rarity, his anger vanished and he continued on his way with a new merriness in his step. It must be great to be great looking, Rainbow thought. The young Assassin took several deep breaths before slowly turning to Rainbow. The movement of her neck seemed hard and limited. Rainbow could practically hear the creaking of an old door as she did so.

"You're not an easy customer." Rarity remarked without moving her teeth.

Rainbow shrugged nonchalantly. "I never asked for your Canterlotian designs. All I wanted was a shirt."

"Fine! What would you want to wear? There has to be something you want." Rarity said.

"You know what, there is."

Rarity's expression lifted. "Oh? Like what?"

"Something to match my colors. You know, like rainbows. But not too heavy. You know? I want a hood, for you know...the sun. Lots of pockets and stuff for...tools. No sleeves. I don't like sleeves. I got it! Have the sashes be like rainbows. Like seven, all their own color. Can ya see it?" Rainbow leaned back on the bench.

Rarity tapped her chin. "Yes. Yes I do. It's very..." She paused and looked at her own robes. "Like mine..."

The pirate shook her head. "Naw, make it simpler, more "me" like."

The Assassin glanced at the pirate. "It will not be difficult at all. You know I am a prestigious seamstress in Canterlot. Do you really want to waste this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on something so...simple?"

"Yes." Rainbow answered abruptly.

"Alright. The customer is always right. I'll see what I kind do, darling."

"Please don't call me that."

"But..."

Rainbow silenced the Assassin with a cold stare. Rarity nodded and began her work. Since she had already gotten some fabrics and supplies, she did not have to leave them. Rainbow slid down to a more comfortable position on the bench. Her feet barely touched the sand underneath. She turned to her friend. Berry was sleeping soundly with her mouth wide open. An occasional snore roared from within her throat. Rainbow covered her face and sighed loudly.

"Of bloody course..."

"What took ya two so....WHAT?!"

Caramel jumped back in fright like a startled cat. He stood there staring at Rainbow for an astoundingly long time. His face held confusion, fear, anxiety, and trace amounts of several hundred other emotions. One thing Rainbow kept noticing was his twitching eyebrows. He did not blink nor did he speak. She decided to end the awkward silence.

"So...What ya think?" She gestured to herself.

Rainbow's new clothes consisted of a cyan shirt with hood, seven sashes, each the color of the rainbow, her arms were bare up to the forearms where she had long padded gloves that covered her hidden blades, thin light brown trousers began where her shirt ended, which was not certain due to the many sashes, brand new boots were on her feet, and the last touch was the tight "x" that her two swords made on her back. Without the hair, she hardly looked like the pirate that left earlier.

"I...I told you to get a shirt...Not an Assassin." Caramel uttered softly.

"Isn't it great? I mean, I'm not one for fashion, but this stuff is awesome." She beamed.

"How did ya afford all this?" Caramel asked.

Rainbow reached in her pocket and returned the bitpieces that the captain had given her. "You see, this Canterlotian woman did all this for me out of Generosity. That's what she told me."

"Generosity....Why did you abstain the part where she was an Assassin?" He crossed his arms.

"How did you know?"

"I didn't. Thanks for tellin' me. Only Assassins would talk about Generosity like that. You decided to be an Assassin huh? Unlike you, I earned my robes. I killed that son of bitch and took his robes. I did not have some wench make me some. But I must say, they look bloody fantastic. Don't get any blood on 'em. I must ask, why the swords on the back?"

Rainbow's cheeks flushed. "Because..." She averted her eyes to the ground. "They would slide on the ground if they were on my hips. Cause...You know...I'm too...shor..sma..."

"Short n' small?" Berry suggested.

"Damn it!" Rainbow bellowed and stomped off, leaving Caramel and Berry in the field.

The captain turned to the other. "So, what did you do?"

Berry pointed at herself "Me?" She asked lazily. "I drank and slept."

The captain sighed. "Of bloody course..."

Chapter 8: Pyrate Dealings

"Then she was like 'rainbows darling, rainbows.' As was like 'yeah do what ya want bitch, I don't care.' I mean, do ya think I'll ever sound like that? 'Darling, darling, dresses, rainbows!' Kinda sickening."

The crew laughed at Rainbow's imitation of the Assassin she met earlier that day. The only ones who didn't laugh were the drinking Caramel and Den Master Silverspeed, who was tied up in a corner of the hut. The Den Master's face was that of a wife who had just met the murderer of her husband. She scooted along the floor closer to them.

"Do not speak of Rarity that way! Oh, if I had my hands free, you would all be dead!" She yelled with unrestrained anger.

Rainbow took a sip from her mug. "I'll try to remember that."

"Ugh!" Silverspeed fell back on the wall; her teeth bared. "Of all animals I had to be stuck with, it had to be you!"

The crew laughed again. The Den Master gave up and sat in shameful silence. Rainbow and the crew gave another hearty cheer before pouring more rum and cider down their throats. Caramel chuckled with a broad smile before standing up. Upon his action, the crew instinctively fell silent. Their captain stood up only when he had something to say. An occasional pirate would belch or whoop to disturb the sudden silence. But once they all calmed down, Caramel cleared his throat.

"Alright ladies and gentlemen, the moment ya all been waiting for: The presentation of the Deal. We got a mighty fine loot from the Assassin ship. A prisoner and well.....Something that should be quite valuable."

Caramel picked up the gold chest and placed it on the table. A collective "oooh" was uttered among the crew. The captain patted the chest with delicate care, as if it was a purring cat. Rainbow had to lean forward to see the chest past all the burly men in front of her. With a wide grin, Caramel continued.

"To those who are new, we privateers of the Ragnarok like to make our own Pyrate Deal. This deal requires a trade. We take the valuables from the ship and then trade it back to their owners for bits. Lots of bits. This time we have this Element. The Element of Loyalty. A crystal that is held by the Brotherhood as sacred and holy. Isn't that right Den Master?"

Silverspeed huffed indignantly. "Indeed. The Element of Loyalty is nothing to be played with you bastards. It has power beyond all your knowledge."

"See? Very valuable. The Assassins would do anything to get it back. Since the Brotherhood performs most of their dealings by the blade, we have little Silverspeed here as insurance. They try to kill us, we kill her. If they do the Pyrate Deal, they get both their Den Master and their little Element. They have to give us the bits though, hehe."

The crew chuckled in unison. Some chugged more drink down and others commented on their personal successes in the boarding of the ship. One crew member poked his head above the rest and flailed a hand.

"Let's see that Elemen' Cap'n!" He said.

"Yeah." The crew agreed.

"Fools..." Silverspeed uttered.

Caramel shrugged and started to open the chest. "I don't see why not."

He lifted the lid and there it was, a pulsing red crystal. Rainbow was surprised by its shape. She had expected a clean cut diamond shape but the Element was jagged and uneven. Its crimson color was intense and beautiful though. The bright red pulse of the Element brightened the crystal with each soundless thump. As Rainbow inspected it, she felt a sudden odd sensation crawl through her body.

"I see you. I know you."

"Who said that?" She asked the pirate next to her.

"I didn't hear nothing." He told her with confusion.

Caramel closed the chest and locked it. The tingling in Rainbow's bones stopped as abruptly as it started. She felt tired and delusional. Her vision was becoming blurred and she was seeing double. Her dizziness made her fall backwards off the bench she was standing on. Pirates gasped upon hearing her land on the floor. Some shrugged and continued drinking, a few snorted in drunken laughter, others inspected her with worry.

"You alright?" Neon asked.

"I guess I had too much cider..." Rainbow moaned.

"There's a way to fix that Miss Dash." A pirate guffawed. "More cider!"

This statement was received with cheers of merriment. Silverspeed started to bang the back of her head against the wooden wall mumbling "idiots" and "morons" rather loudly every time her head struck the wall. Rainbow remained on the floor, staring at the high ceiling. Cider had never done that to her before. She had been tipsy far more times than countable, but she did not feel tipsy at all. Her wits were about her, she just could not use them.

Caramel spoke up again. "Don't everyone get drunk. The Assassins will find us soon. We can't let them waltz in here and take our products. If we all get as drunk as a drowned chimera, we'll all be dead by morning."

"Hmph. The most sensible thing you've said all day captain." The Assassin remarked.

The order ruined the reveling of the crew. Most put their drinks down and refused to touch them again. Some gulped down the remaining rum in their mugs before being satisfied. A few, like Berry, neglected their captain's wishes entirely and drank more. Rainbow was in no position to drink as she could hardly get up off the floor.

Neon got up from the bench and leaned over her. "Ya sure you're fine, Miss Dash? You look as pale as a windigo..."

"What are ya standing there for? Help me up!"

Neon easily pulled Rainbow off the floor. The young pirate almost lost her balance and fell again, but recovered it at the last second. Odd, she thought, she always had great balance. She ran along clotheslines in Manehatten, why was it so difficult to stand on a wooden floor? She tried to take a step, but the dizziness prevented her from doing so. By now, everyone at the table was watching her. Berry looked the most concerned among them. Silverspeed gave her an understanding nod. Rainbow noticed this and was about to say something.

Caramel interrupted her thoughts. "Do ya need rest, Miss Dash? There's a bed upstairs."

"What? Yeah, that'd be great..." Rainbow said absently, her eyes still on the Den Master.

With Neon bending down to put Rainbow's arm over his shoulders, he appeared much like a hunchback due to their problematic height difference, but he dealt with it for the her sake. Caramel took a step back as the two passed him and went slowly up the stairs.

"To Hell with it..." Neon muttered.

The pirate picked up Rainbow and the process of transporting her quickened. Rainbow never liked being cradled, even if it was necessary. She grumbled at the thought of being carried around like a kid.

"I'll get you later, bub." The young pirate growled.

"For what?"

Rainbow waved a hand. "Reasons."

Once they reached the top of the stairs, they turned down the hallway and into a bedroom on the left. The room was small and cozy. The Templars had kept every room in immaculate condition. However, the pirates' presence had already ruined the cleanliness and order. Drawers were open. Rugs were flipped over. The bed in particular had its sheets and blankets sprawled in about in an uneven manner.

"Here ya go, lass." Neon said as he gently placed her on the bed.

Rainbow remained silent as he left her in the dark room. The sounds of downstairs could be heard clearly. Caramel was telling one of stories. One that Rainbow had heard before. The rugged captain always told the same stories.

"Him and his damn sea turtles..." Rainbow said to herself.

Her wits were coming back to her. She was no longer seeing double and the dizziness had left. She sat up in the bed. To her surprise, her head did not spin with the movement.

"Guess I'm doing better than I thought."

Suddenly, a black figure landed on the balcony in front of the bedroom's window. Due to the darkness of night, Rainbow could only see the figure's outline. The figure carved a clean circle in the glass with some sort of blade. It then popped the cut of glass out to make a hole. Rainbow slowly got off the bed and crouched behind it. The intruder had no idea of her presence. The figure reached through the small hole and unlocked the window before carefully opening it. Like a phantom, the figure crawled through the window and into the room. Rainbow extended her wrist blade and waited.

The intruder took forever to get from the window to the open door. Rainbow was becoming inpatient with the figure's technique of remaining silent. When the figure finally passed the bed, Rainbow pounced on it with her blade ready.

The figure gasped and caught Rainbow's wrist before the blade reached its target. Rainbow could now see the intruder's face in the darkness. It was Rarity. The Assassin seemed to have recognized Rainbow as her face was shocked.

"You're a pirate?" She whispered.

"Yeah and a good one too."

Rainbow threw her other hidden blade at her. Rarity reacted by kicking Rainbow into the wall. The strength astounded Rainbow and left her aching in the wall. The Assassin cursed and ran back out the window.

"You're not gettin' away that easily!"

Rainbow recovered and chased after her. She jumped out of the window and onto the small balcony. Her eyes caught Rarity's foot being lifted onto the roof. The pirate wasted no time in climbing the small height to reach the top of the hut. Once on top, she saw Rarity standing in front of her, a small rod in her hands.

"Got nowhere to go, I see. C'mon, show me what ya can do, Canterlotian." Rainbow taunted.

Rarity rolled her eyes. "One: I actually was raised in Ponyville. Two: this."

She placed the rod to her mouth and blew. A sharp pain was felt in Rainbow's neck. She felt around the pain and took out a small dart. The pirate grimaced at the dart. Her eyes began to blur and her limbs started to give way. She knew what was going on.

"You cheeky prick." Were her last words before falling in her forced slumber.

"I am telling you, Applejack, I made the robes for her."

"Well, she knows how to return a favor, that's for sure."

Rainbow grunted and sat up. Rarity was standing in front of her with a tall and built man. The man was in red and dark brown armor. It was in the style of an Assassin, but also not. The man looked more like one of the Templar soldiers than an Assassin. The young pirate could not see the man's face because of the hood. Upon hearing her grunts, the man turned around.

"Well, it looks like this varmin' just came back to the livin'. How ar' ya feelin' sugarcube?"

"You're....A woman?!" Rainbow screamed.

The tall and burly woman sighed. "Yeah...Name's Applejack. I'm sure a drunk like you has 'eard of me."

"Well, yeah! You're one of the Apple family in Ponyville. You have the best cider. I just...didn't think ya was an Assassin."

Rarity chuckled. "My my, Applejack, you sure can predict them. I guess these are your more regular costumers?"

"Naw. I'm sure more decent folk buy my family's cider. People like her just steal it from them."

"Hey!"

Applejack walked over to Rainbow and picked her up with one finger. Saying she did so effortlessly was probably a true statement. The thick Assassin then gripped Rainbow's robes and brought the pirate to her face.

"Ya wanna prove me wrong? You pirates are liars, cheaters, and low down criminals. You have no say here. Got that?"

Rainbow meekly nodded. Applejack released and Rainbow fell to the ground, which was a significantly ways down. Applejack then walked away into another room. Now that she was not being threatened by a giant woman, Rainbow looked about the room. The only word to describe it was "empty." There was no furniture, no paint on the walls, not even a single aspect that made the room stand out. The only light in the room came from the torch in a corner. It was, however, enough to light up the room entirely. Rainbow could clearly see Rarity and the motionless Assassins that leaned on the walls.

"So...Where are we?"

"A Den." Rarity answered.

"What are ya? Dogs?" Rainbow laughed.

"We like to think so. We have Dens. Wolves have dens. We are similar in many ways, the wolves and Assassins, we hunt in packs, help each other when needed, and none stay behind. It is only fitting to name our hideouts after them."

The young pirate stood up. Some Assassins lifted their heads and watched her. Unlike the Assassins on Silverspeed's ship, all these Assassins wore a dark gold with black hoods. Rainbow was uncomfortable under their emotionless gaze. She took a step closer to Rarity as if she was the beacon of safety.

"Why are they colored like that?" Rainbow broke the horrid silence.

"They belong to this Den and wish to be able to identify themselves through color. Nothing more than that."

Rainbow acknowledged this with an awkward nod. The staring Assassins did not even blink as they watched her. Rainbow took another step towards Rarity and all the Assassins drew their blades and pointed them at her. Some of the swords almost poked Rainbow with how close they were to her.

Rainbow raised her hands. "Bit touchy..."

"They should be." Rarity said. "After we lost one of our own not even a month ago, the Brotherhood has been protective of its leaders."

"You mean when ya lost the Bearer of Loyalty, right?"

Rarity face hardened. "Has your captain told you this?"

Rainbow nodded."Yeah, cap'n knows all ya'lls secrets. The Elements, the Bearers, all of it."

The young Assassin pointed at Rainbow. "Watch her. I shall speak with the Bea...Applejack."

Rarity exited the room. The Assassins took her spot and surrounded Rainbow completely. The pirate began to form a plan of escape in her mind. She would need her wrist blades to do so. When she thought that, she saw that her hidden blades were missing.

"You guys took my blades!" She complained

"Of course we did." An Assassin said. "Not for our protection, I have you know. The idea of a pirate like you wielding the blades of our Brothers is...appalling. You had to kill an Assassin to get them. Who did you kill?"

"Uhhh....Some chump in white?" Rainbow shrugged.

"Did you really think she'll know?" An Assassin asked the first.

The first faltered. "I....Not really...no. It's just worth a shot mate."

Rainbow tapped one of the swords pointed at her. "Can ya guys like...give me some space?"

An Assassin put away his sword. "She's no threat. A girl her size can't even peel a banana without help."

"What did you say?" Rainbow asked with bared teeth.

The Assassin chuckled. "You heard me. You're tiny. How old are you? 13?"

"I'm 20, you idiot!"

"What happened? Did your mom not teach you how to grow? Or are you a dwarf? Heh, where's your beard?"

One moment, the mocking Assassin had a grin on his face, the next, he was missing at least three teeth. The frightful explosion of rage from the insulted pirate shocked every Assassin in the room. The little abomination pounced on the Assassin and continued pummeling his face to a bloody pulp. An Assassin grabbed her and threw her off. In her rage-induced fit for violence, she flipped herself upon landing and raised her small, but deadly, fists.

"I'll take ya all on! Let's see how short I am when you are all on the floor lookin' up at me!"

"We can't kill her; otherwise they'll kill the Den Master." An Assassin moaned.

Like an acrobat, she jumped at the closest enemy. He grabbed her flying leg and spun her into the ground. With her free leg, she repeatedly kicked his crotch. He released her with a high-pitched squeal of pain. She back flipped away from the group and charged again.

She slid and swung her legs under an Assassin, tripping him. Another Assassin came after her. She spun around to kick him in his knee. The whole room became a mess of flying bodies and loud grunts. Amidst the dark gold robes, a blurry light blue and rainbow figure danced about. Due to the pirate's hair, she appeared like a streak of colors in the dim light.

"I've had better drunk bar fights than this!" Rainbow mocked.

She kicked an Assassin into the wall. None of the Assassins were down for the count as they backed away from her. She grinned in triumph. This triumph was short lived as a hand grabbed her neck from behind and slammed her into the wall.

The Assassin held her up against the wooden wall. Her hood was down, so Rainbow could see her attacker's face. The female Assassin was older than the others. She had long dirty blonde hair and angry green eyes. Her robes were a even darker shade of gold than her fellow Assassins. The firm hand that held Rainbow in place was gloved with brown leather, but her other hand was not.

"You dare harm my Brothers?" The Assassin said with a low hiss.

"Naw, we were just practicing." Rainbow tried to be funny.

"You think you're funny huh?" The Assassin growled. "Let's see you laugh to this!"

The angry Assassin started to beat Rainbow's face back and forth. The other Assassins stood by why the pirate was brutally pummeled. Rainbow felt her cheeks cracking under the beating. She was losing sight and feeling in her face. A tooth flew out of her mouth and blood replaced it. The Assassin held her there and she could not do anything about it.

"June! What are you doing?!" Rainbow could faintly hear Rarity's voice through the ringing in her ear.

"Teaching this scum a lesson."

"Stop! Just stop!"

"Rarity, stop being pathetic. You're too young to see when a beating's necessary." June spat.

Rarity stood frozen by the appalling scene. June held her fist in the air and stared at the young Assassin. She then cursed under her breath and released Rainbow, who slid to the floor, half-conscience of what was happening.

"Heal her. Now." Rarity said with more confidence.

"You can't be serious." June complained. "I will only heal those who deserve it."

"Please."

"Fine. You owe me after this."

June squatted over Rainbow. She then took off her glove, revealing horrid and jagged scars on her hand. June carefully placed her scared hand on Rainbow's face. The young pirate began to fill a sudden tingling throughout her body. It was a similar sensation to the dizziness she had felt earlier that night. Then the pain came. She screamed in agony as her bones moved about to their original positions. The missing tooth grew out of her gum almost instantly. When the healing was completed, June removed her hand, which was bloodied by the now open wounds on her hands.

"What? How...How did you do that?" Rainbow felt her smooth and healed face.

"I'm what you call a Bearer." June answered. "The Bearer of Kindness to be exact."

"Kindness?" Rainbow spat. "Kindness?! What did being Kind have to do with that?"

"Shut up!" June yelled back. "You should be grateful that I healed you at all." She lifted her injured hand. "I have to pay the price for healing your wounds by receiving my own."

"June..." Rarity placed a delicate hand on the Bearer.

"Don't give me that." June shrugged off the hand. "You are naive in this war, Rarity. The Bearer you replace was not as soft as you. You'll learn that people like the pirates and Templars do not deserve our sympathy. The buccaneers only create Chaos and the Templars rule with fear. Pay Kindness with Kindness. Pay destruction with destruction. Never mix those two."

The Bearer of Kindness stomped out of the room with the other Assassin tailing her. Rarity watched them leave before sitting down next to Rainbow who was still numb by the magical healing.

"You're a Bearer?" Rainbow asked.

"Yes. I am the Bearer of Generosity. I was....chosen by my Element less than a year ago."

"Caramel says they take your heart out. Is that true?"

Rarity sighed and said nothing. Her hands started to unbutton and take off her intricate robes, revealing her upper chest. In the middle of her chest was a jagged purple Element, pulsing like a heart. The Element was too large for the space it occupied and came out of her ribs at an angle. Rainbow took a peek at it before Rarity closed up her robes again.

"Was it painful?" Rainbow asked meekly.

"Indeed."

Rainbow leaned back on the wall in silence. She felt a pang of pity for Rarity. From how she talked about it, it seemed that Rarity did not have a choice in being a Bearer of not. She glanced at the Bearer who was looking at her shoes absently. The young pirate rubbed her chin and thought how she could liven up the depressing mood of the dim room.

"Uhh..." She began. "Do...Do you have a power like that jerk? Do you all have powers?"

Rarity chuckled. "Yes, darl...I mean Rainbow. The Elements grant us powers at their price. I cannot heal like June can, as it is not Generosity's way. My power is more...involved."

She stretched out her hand, her palm facing the ceiling. Slowly but surely, a rose formed in her hand. It had the color of dark blue as it was forming. When it was completely finished, there was a rose stem and flower in her hand rich with its natural color. Rarity smiled and brought the flower to her nose to sniff. Rainbow, however, frowned in disappointment.

"You can summon flowers? That's so lame."

Rarity rolled her eyes. "It was merely a demonstration, dear. I can create other objects too. I can do this because of my Element. Generosity is all about helping another, about giving up yourself. I can summon things to help me and others; I cannot create things that will only aid myself, such as money. That's what Generosity is: aiding another for their sake and not yours. Many times we only help others to feel good, a sense of satisfaction. That's not..."

"Alright, I get it! Ya'll a bunch of pussies that preach Harmony. I get it!" Rainbow threw her arms up in exasperation.

"I beg your pardon!"

"Ya ain't gettin' it."

A sudden slam startled both of them. Applejack had entered the room and slammed on the wall to get their attention. The tall woman glared at them with her dark green eyes that seemed to glow in the dim lighting.

"I jus' wanted to tell ya two that it's time. The pirates are ready for the Deal."

"Marvelous." Rarity grinned. "Now I can do this to you."

She stood up and forced Rainbow to do the same. The Bearer of Generosity created a pair of irons and clamped them on Rainbow's wrists behind her back. The pirate squirmed.

"What gives?"

Rarity grabbed her arm and forced her toward the door. "Would you like me to make smaller ones? I'm not sure if I can."

"Oh...you..."

Rainbow Dash was led blindfolded through what she could only guess was the streets of Baltimare. She did not even have time to look out of the Den's windows before Rarity conjured a white napkin to go over her eyes. The napkin was made out of some fine material as it was rather soft. The irons, on the other hand, were tight and heavy. She wished that she had not made Rarity indignant before she created the irons.

"Applejack, can we go a different way? The road turns into mud here." Rainbow heard Rarity say next to her.

"Ya gotta be kiddin' me." Applejack moaned. "Ya want me to carry you?"

"If we are indeed going this way...yes. My apologizes, but I simply cannot wear my boots through this. They are Canterlotian leather."

"Ya should of thought that before we left Ponyville."

"I've never been to Baltimare! How could I know that they neglected their streets?"

"Why don't you conjure ugly boots for walking?" Rainbow asked the blackness.

"It would be a waste of good cow..."

"Whaa...?"

"Shut up, pirate!" June yelled from behind.

"She's with us too?" Rainbow moaned.

"Of course she is, darling." Rarity said from a different location. "She is a Bearer and a representative of the Brotherhood."

"Ya sure you want her to "represent" you?" Rainbow cocked her head. She tried to face the direction that Rarity's voice came from.

"Quiet! We're 'ere." Applejack said quietly.

The blindfold was removed from Rainbow's head. They were at the pirate's hut. Caramel, Zecora, and Neon were standing in front of them. Zecora held the Element's chest and Neon held the still-tied Silverspeed. Other members of the crew stood behind their captain. Rainbow could spy a worried Berry among the pirates.

Rainbow glanced to the Assassin around her. Rarity was sitting on Applejack's shoulder, obviously not wanting to ruin her special boots in the mud. June stood next to Rainbow with a hand on the pirate's arm. She did not look at Rainbow, but remained focused on Caramel. An escort of about six Assassins were behind the leaders.

Caramel laughed, breaking the silence. "I know ya got more Assassins than that. They are all around us. I see some in the trees, on the hut's roof and in the bushes over there. Call them off and we'll start."

June growled. "To me!"

From exactly where Caramel said they were, Assassins swarmed out of their hiding places and to the Bearer's side. Rainbow counted over 20 Assassins before they all went behind her. She was glad Caramel knew what he was doing.

"Thanks a bunch." The captain smiled. "Now, I see you got my lass. Do you really think that's gonna make a difference in the Deal?"

The crew began to laugh, except Berry who chewed on her teeth. Rainbow's heart fell upon this. She did not matter? That...That can't be right.

"It will make a difference." Applejack said sternly. Rainbow could not take her seriously with Rarity still sitting on her armored shoulder. "This pirate for Den Master Silverspeed."

"We aren't dealing with Silverspeed lass. This about your precious Element, Loyalty."

A chorus of curses sprung from the Assassins. Most were condemning the pirates of desecrating the Element. Applejack turned and waved a hand to silence them. This action almost knocked Rarity from her perch. Some pirates laughed at the scene.

"If you do not trade Silverspeed, we will kill this girl." June extended her wrist blade in front of Rainbow.

"You think that matters to me? To lose a sod of a crew member?" Caramel laughed. "Besides, we could kill your Den Master if you don't give us what we want."

Neon pulled out a dagger and held it to Silverspeed's neck. The Den Master rolled her eyes in obvious frustration.

"Just get on with it, Bearers!" She shouted across the no man's land. "I'm tired of being with these pirates!"

"Rogue privateers." Caramel corrected. "We demand 15,000 bits for Element and your Den Master."

"What about me?!" Rainbow panicked.

"What about you?" Caramel asked back.

Rainbow's jaw dropped. This was her captain? She fought alongside this man! How, how could he be so....inconsiderate? She started to feel like fainting.

"Ha, ya think you can fool me?" Applejack chuckled. "We have only 10,000 bits with us. Ya can have that and the 'Miss Dash' for giving up the Element and Silverspeed. That's our only offer."

"I suggest accepting it, captain." Rarity giggled. "Otherwise this could become absolutely dreadful."

Caramel huffed. "Fine, it's a deal."

The crew began to whisper among themselves at this. Berry sighed in relief so loudly that Rainbow could hear her. Neon sliced the robes and gave the Den Master a shove towards the Assassins. June did nothing with Rainbow's irons and shoved her into the muddy ground.

"June! I made those!" Rarity complained at the sight of Rainbow's muddied robes.

Applejack, with Rarity still on her shoulder, walked over to Caramel with large bag of money in one hand. Caramel took the Element from Zecora and met Applejack in the middle of the no man's land. They both shook hands.

"Of course you can see me through like anyone. Just like Silverspeed said you would." Caramel complimented the armored Assassin.

"It's wha' I do captain. Here."

They handed each other their respected dealings. Caramel took the bag of bits with one hand and his arm fell to the ground due to its weight. He tried to pick it up with both hands but couldn't. Applejack chuckled and took the chest like it was nothing more than a small pillow.

"I hope we don't meet again." Applejack said before turning away.

Rainbow watched Rarity depart on Applejack's shoulder. "Hey! Aren't ya gonna help me with these?" She shook her wrists.

"Oh those? Sorry, I can't make them disappear." She smiled.

"Then make a key!" Rainbow yelled.

"I forgot to make a keyhole for them. You are on your own dear." She smile widened.

"That...snobby Canterlotian bit.."

"Rainbow!" Caramel leaned over her.

The young pirate snarled. "Yeah, what ya want cap'n? Gonna tell me how useless I am to you? Huh? That my life is worthless?"

Caramel grabbed her and lifted her off the ground. His eyes were filled with an anger Rainbow had never seen from him before. He lifted his fist up like he was about to punch her, but then brought it back down. Before Rainbow knew it, Caramel was hugging her tightly.

"Never, never say that again, Miss Dash. I would never give you up for money. Not you or any of my crew. The best part of this deal was knowing that you are safe. Never think less of me again."

Rainbow faltered. "I...I'm sorry captain. I...I didn't mean to..."

He hushed her. "Shush, I know you didn't. Now let's go those irons off you and finally put an end to this long night."

Author's Note

Got another update. This was originally shorter....it kinda just became long...

So, what's your opinion thus far?

-Cheers for That!

Chapter 9: Royal Convoy (Part 1)

"I told you this was a great place, didn't I lass?"

"Yeah...But it could use more cider."

"Cider? Is that all you drink? Ya need to try new things. Rum is much better."

Rainbow peered down at her mug. It was empty. So empty. She had refilled it three times now, her mind becoming more wobbly with every sip. However, she was not drunk yet. Her body was too tired to party after the long, tedious, strenuous, agonizing, and boring day of repairing the Ragnarok with the profit they made off of the Assassins. Her back ached, her arms felt numb, her legs creaked with movement, and her shoulders itched with severe sunburn. Well, I'm still better than Berry and her sunburn, she thought. No, she did not feel like partying at all.

Caramel glanced over at her with worry. He brought his crew to the Black Dragon Inn in hopes to cheer them up after all the work. But the crew soon found out he was using it as an excuse to meet up with his sweetheart, Sea Swirl. The woman was fine and lovely like he said, but she seemed to consider his moves on her to be only effects of the drink. Most of the time she would simply nod at him and do nothing more. This annoyed the captain greatly, but he tried to remain positive. Then she stopped serving him and her younger sister, Sassaflash, took her spot. The girl was all smiles but Caramel had enough. He stopped asking for drinks and simply sat with his crew.

"What's with ya kid? This is time to enjoy yourself. We'll be headin' to the Labyrinth Isles in the morning.

"What?" She poked her head up. "Oh, yeah. Wait, why are we heading to the Isles? This place is nice."

"Miss Dash, it's suicide for us to stay in one spot. Both the Templar and Assassins hate our guts. Places where they both reside like here are dangerous. It's best to keep moving and let them keep chasing. We got a base in the Isles. My pap founded the place. It's like a sanctuary for rogue privateers like us. Besides that, the Isles are a fun place. Equestrians, Gryphons, Republicans, hell even Zebricans are always tryin' to make their own colonies there. Land is rich with gold, sugar, and the like. That also means business for us. Nothing as good as lootin' a Royal Sisters' Convoy."

"But they aren't Assassins or Templar." Rainbow remarked.

"But they hurt people. They take that gold and riches from the poor who mine it. Why should the Empresses get well earned money in their treasures when they don't work a bit for it? We can put that gold to better use than they."

"Uhh alright?" Rainbow was not convinced.

"Ya gettin' soft or somthin'?" He eyed her. "Ya don't seem like yourself."

"Just tired. And kinda bored."

He guffawed. "Aye! Being bored ain't a great thing. We'll get action in the next couple of days. Convoys are usually guarded by a squad of schooners or even brigantines."

"Ugh, we can't on that many..." Rainbow moaned.

"I have, many times. The Ragnarok is far tougher than most Equestrian ships. Gryphons know how to build stuff. She'll be fine as long as the crew do their jobs."

"And you too." Rainbow reminded him.

"I'm part of the crew, Miss Dash. I'm part of the crew."

He stood up slowly and stretched out his legs. He then popped his ragged knuckles by simply shaking his hands. Rainbow watched him depart in both sadness and annoyance. With him leaving it meant that their drinking was done for the night. She tried to rise, but her head began to swirl as she did so. The other pirates laughed at her with words like "light-weight" and the such.

"Shut it!" She yelled at them.

She took a last sip of her cider, only to realize one again it was in fact empty. With her cheeks reddening, she threw the mug across the room, smacking a half-drunk patron on the head. Rainbow did not even notice what she had just done and waddled awkwardly through the bar. A string of curses alarmed her of the now angry patron.

"Bloody bitch! Hitting me with this shite! I'mma beat her sorry little ass!"

It was not the "bitch," not the "beat" or even the "ass" that made her turn around. No, it was the word "little." Rainbow glared back at the sluggard with a fire in her eyes. The man went unfocused in her eyes as she took a heavy step to him.

"What ya say to meh?" She called to him.

The patron stood up with his head sagging to one side. He took a sip of his rum before slamming it down and missing the table, letting the mug fall onto the floor.

"I called ye a bitch." He said.

"Ya called me somethin' else." Rainbow growled. "Ya called me little."

"So?"

"I don't like being called that."

The patron laughed. "Oh yeah? Well how'a bout "small," "tiny," and maybe "puny?" Huh? Ya like that?"

"I'm not.....I'm not small..."

"Ya don't even reach me waist!"

"I'm not tiny..."

"Haha!"

"I'm not...I'm not PUNY!"

Rainbow jumped on the nearest table and then pounced at the insulting man. The man was taken completely by surprise as the short pirate tackled him to the ground. The Ragnarok's crew shrugged as they had expected the reaction from Rainbow. Several of them already had bruises or cuts from calling her a synonym of the word "small."

"Take it back you bastard!" Rainbow yelled as she punched the man into the hard wooden floor.

"Never! Ya little piece of sh..."

"Ah!"

The excitement aroused the other patrons in the bar. Sea Swirl sighed in mild frustration as her bar turned into a fight club. Sassaflash shouted in enthusiasm while the patrons started throwing empty bottles about.

"Every bloody time that man comes here..." Sea Swirl moaned.

Rainbow was thrown off of the man and across a table, ruining two patrons' game of checkers. The young pirate recovered and flipped herself up acrobatically. She however, did not stick the landing as her body could not keep its balance. She found herself on the floor alongside several knocked patrons.

"Are ya fightin' in there?" Caramel shouted from outside.

"No!" Rainbow replied. "I'm just teaching this guy a lesson."

"Well make it quick, lass."

Rainbow huffed and got up. It was an all out brawl now while the innkeeper and her sister simply watched with rather contradicting emotions. Sea Swirl rested her head on her hand while absently spinning an empty glass around. Her sister encouraged the men by cheering them on like they were her special form of entertainment.

"Get 'em! Get 'em! Woohoo!" She cheered.

The patron who insulted Rainbow was throwing a Ragnarok member through a window. With a scream, Rainbow charged at him and drop kicked him right in the back, making him fall over a stool. It was an outstanding riposte on her part, but the man grumbled and stood up again, seemingly taller than ever.

"Oh, you...I'mma kill you!" He growled.

Rainbow instantly felt some of the liquid courage wear off. The brawler, with his thin whiskers, unkempt hair, and burly arms seemed like the most menacing thing in the world at the moment. He reached back his massive fist and swung it at her. With a yelp, she ducked underneath it and watched as the fist literally ripped through the table behind her.

"Why ya..."

Suddenly, Caramel came screaming through the inn, rushing straight for the sluggard. In one fluid motion, he grabbed the man and threw him out the window. Rainbow was taken aback about the speed of the captain. The other rowdy patrons turned and ganged up on him. Without any assistance, he faced them. He slammed one into a table face first, another he roundhouse kicked straight to the floor, and the last two fled from the inn after he snarled at them.

The crew cheered their captain. He was not smiling at all and so the cheering soon died out. His strong jaw was set in an irritated expression. Caramel walked over to Rainbow and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Ya took too long, lass." He told her rather harshly. "And worse, ya broke her stuff!"

He then slowly walked over to Sea Swirl, who was still twirling the glass. With a subtle nod of the head, he took out a pouch of bits and placed it in front of her. She raised a brow at this action.

"Sorry for the trouble." Caramel apologized. "Uh...No hard feelings?"

She took the bits without looking at him. "Guess not. Running an inn like this is expensive."

"Of course." He reached and took another bag out and gave it to her.

"That's better. Now ya can see yourselves out."

Caramel sighed and gestured for the crew to leave. The captain led the group out. Rainbow was one of the last to leave. As she was following the others, she heard Sea Swirl speak to her sister.

"I know you like that man, but he ain't worth it. No pirates are worth it. I never wanna see you with that man, alright?"

Sassaflash hesitated. "Uh...alright?"

"Good, now get some sleep."

Rainbow did not glance back and exited the inn. None spoke and thus one could clearly hear the angry grumbling of their captain. His mutterings included words like "embarrassed" and "useless brawling" and many, many curses. Rainbow felt like a child that disappointed her father. That was certainly not a feeling she had expected to feel when she joined the Ragnarok, but she was feeling it now. And it was not pleasant.

"I need to kill something..."

"Did you sleep poorly or did the sun rise too early?"

"I need to kill something..."

"That's not what I asked, my captain. It would be better if you did not speak like a mumbling dragon."

"I need to kill something."

"Then shall we set a course, or will you repeat yourself until you're hoarse?"

"Fine..."

The Ragnarok flew gently over a wave as they sailed southward. The long morning had been quiet among the crew. There were no shanties to sing as Caramel had directly told them to "shut the hell up." It was clear he was still upset about the previous night. Only Zecora could speak to him and she seemed just as aggravated, but only with him. However, he was now listening to her and setting a course.

"The Labyrinth Isles and down a ways from here." He told the crew. "And we never enter the Isles with nothing. So we're gonna take a Royal Convoy that should be due south by southeast. We find it, take the gold, and sink the ship. And we'll sink anything else that guards it."

Instead of the usual "hooray" that would emit from the crew at such times, they merely nodded at their captain and went back to their usual occupations. Rainbow spat over the side and finished cleaning the cannons. They did some practice with the cannons to knock off the rust before engaging a convoy. Rainbow was still proud that she knocked a coconut off a lone palm tree with one of her shots. Though most told her it was plain luck.

Caramel made a rather tight turn with the ship, sending them towards the rising sun. The Equestrian shore could be seen in the far distance, only the tallest hills were visible over the horizon. Rainbow leaned on the railing, thinking softly to herself. The green water reflected her fair face. Her thoughts wandered on what she would be doing at that very moment if she never entered that bar with Berry.

"Probably still doing the same thing: dance, get bits, spend it all by the morning." She sighed.

That decision had already paid off so much for both her and Berry. It was as if fate guided her to Caramel that night. She had learned so much about Equestria and beyond. The Elements of Harmony, the Assassins, Templar, and the benefits of pirating.....er, privateering. Most importantly, she had reacquired a good company. Berry was a great friend, but having only one was not much for Rainbow, especially after she used to be around plenty of friends in her journey across the Equestria's major cities.

The Ragnarok sailed on with her smooth demeanor. She was certainly a fine vessel, despite Caramel's unpredictable steering. The Gryphonian ship was firm below her feet. The crew treated her well, like an old fair lady. She was their home and life and thus she deserved their care and affection. It was a symbiotic relationship Rainbow had to learn on her own. She had relied on people in the past, but most turned their backs on her. This hip could not do such a thing. The crew knew this as well. It was a loyalty to a non-living vessel, but quite a beneficial loyalty.

Caramel let go of the wheel, taking out his small telescope. There were several masts on the horizon, being but silhouettes against the bright orange sun. Zecora took hold of the wheel, still giving the rowdy captain a skeptical look. Caramel stared through the glass for several seconds before putting it down from his scowling face.

"That's them....but there's someone else as well." He muttered.

"Like who?"

"I cannot tell yet. Was the ELS Artemis docked when we left?"

"Yes, my captain, she was docked on the main."

"Then that's the ECS Solaire." He huffed. "What bloody luck is that? We cannot take them like with that monster around them!"

"Then what's ya plan?" Neon asked.

"We have to find a window of opportunity." He told him. "The morning fog is still about over there. We have to take this Convoy silently..."

Rainbow gulped and she watched the masts of the Equestrian ships. She could count seven masts, one much larger and taller than the rest. Caramel took the wheel again and he steered them forward at a good speed. Some of the crew looked apprehension about the captain's moves. Zecora, however, looked not a bit worried. Rainbow made one last glance at those intimidating masts before looking for work on her own ship.

"This is gonna be rough..."

Author's Note

I apologize for the wait. Whenever I get to this story, everything goes blank! Gah! :raritydespair:

Chapter 10: Sepulcher

"Wow, what a day, huh?"

Rainbow leaned back against the railing with satisfaction. It had been one day since they raided the Royal Convoy. They still relished in the memories of yesterday, some times even reenacting the scenes. Berry leaned next to her more athletic friend. She did not participate in the raid as much as Rainbow, but that did not mean she did nothing.

"Do you think Caramel doesn't like me?" Berry asked suddenly.

"What?" Rainbow raised her brow. "Why'd you think that?"

Berry shifted on the rail uncomfortably. "It's just that whenever he needs a task done, he calls ya up. Never does that with me."

"Sure he does." Rainbow rebuked.

"Oh yeah? When?"

"That....uh....well....I guess he hasn't." Rainbow rubbed her chin.

"I don't understand why..."

"Well, not to brag or anything, but I am more athletic, drink less, and most likely more skilled than you at....most things. I think he just rather have someone like me out there doing something dangerous because I am more likely to come out of it alive."

Berry looked down and did not respond. Rainbow bit her tongue in regret. Her words came from her deep honesty but they certainly did not feel clean to say. She then sighed knowing that it was too late to take the words back.

"Sorry, Berry. Sometimes my bluntness can be aggravating, I know."

"It's fine." Berry waved it off. "It's pretty damn true. Ever since we met, I've been livin' off you like a parasite. Drinking away whatever you brought to our little alleyway. Yet ya kept coming back with more. I started to think you weren't getting bits for yourself anymore but for me since you's smart enough to know what I would do with them. I guess it was some kind of Loyalty to me."

"Heck yeah." Rainbow said proudly. "Did you ever think I would just abandon ya on those streets?"

"Nope."

Rainbow had to stretch her arm out to pat her friend on the shoulder. Berry smiled down in her usual lazy way. As the ocean rolled around them, as the pirate waved quickly in the breeze, and as the fresh salty air filled they noses, they shared a quiet moment together on the brig.

"But ya know," Berry began, "I think I'm tired of being the parasite."

"Land ahoy!"

"Ah, there she is!"

Caramel gave a hearty cheer as he spied the lone island that the observer before him spotted. Through the evening light, Rainbow could see an island with one large hill and a few huts and abodes that lined the crooked shore. There were only a few ships that were anchored in the cove-like entrance.

"That be Sepulcher, a place my father discovered for men and women like us." Caramel explained. "Quite the place to meet some interesting people. Miss Punch, Miss Dash, welcome to the Ragnarok's home!"

The crew gave a loud cheer and the brig slowed down. The royal sails were hoisted up and the men began to relax a bit as Caramel guided the ship the rest of the way.

Tall palm trees on white sands were some of the more breathtaking parts of the island. There was not much to it, but it was a pleasant sight to behold. As they drew closer, the figures of sailors on the pier that jutted out of the beach could be seen. The village that called the place home was small, but there was no lack of people walking back and forth from their jobs and chores.

"Bring her in lads n' lasses! Nice and easy." Caramel ordered.

The main sails were pulled up and the Ragnarok coasted to nice stop by the beach. The brig was one of the larger vessels along the wide beach as most of the others were no bigger than schooners or fishing boats. The anchor was dropped and the crew began to become chatty once more.

"Can't wait to see me gal again!"

"It's felt like forever since we've been here last."

"I hope my son is getting his legs."

"Gonna eat good tonight!"

Caramel walked down from the forecastle with Zecora right behind him. They separated at the bottom of the stairs as he entered his quarters and she marched on towards the bow of the ship. The crew lowered a rowboat in the shallow waters. Most of them laughing all the while.

"Keep control of your body." Zecora reminded them. "Lest we have to restrain them regularly."

"C'mon Miss Dash!" Neon gestured to her. "We should get going. I'll give ya two a tour."

Rainbow ran over to him with Berry behind her. In the corner of her eye, she could see Caramel come out of his quarters with the mysterious box he acquired from the Royal Convoy. She did not take much heed of this and hopped in the rowboat with some fellow crew members.

"We should make Rainbow row." A pirate guffawed.

"Oh please, you guys." Rainbow rolled her eyes.

"Can she even reach the oars?" Another mocked playfully.

Rainbow frowned at the size insult. This only made the men laugh harder.

"Look at her face!"

"Haha! Only my daughter can match a face that adorable."

"Guys!" Rainbow steamed.

"It's all good fun, Rainbow." Neon assured her. "You'll have much more fun tonight, I bet." He paused. "Though you should remove your hood."

"Why?"

"This island has seen its share of Assassins. Last thing we want is you to be mistaken for one of them."

"But Caramel..."

"Caramel's Caramel. Everyone here knows him, lass. He can get away with his Assassin robes."

"Fine."

Rainbow removed her hood and they rowed to shore. It was not much of a trip as Caramel anchored the ship very close to the shore, almost to the point of crashing it on the rocks that pointed out of the clear water. It was the sort of precision that only experience could perfect.

"First thing's first." Neon began. "The pier over there is new. Just installed it less than a few months ago. Sepulcher has been on the rise in popularity lately, so we've expanded."

"It doesn't look like much trade goes through here." Rainbow observed." Where does the money come in?"

"Good question, lass." A pirate laughed. "It comes from us!"

"Us?"

"Yes." Neon nodded. "We take gold and goods and deliver them here in bulk. We're not the only ones who do this, but by Luna we are the best! That's why Caramel will never let us return to this place empty handed."

"That means that all the sailors here are often away." A pirate added. "Man, I wonder what my wife does when I'm gone..."

"Wishes everyday that you'll never return?" Another playfully suggested.

A roar of laughter rang through the members on the rowboat. Even Rainbow couldn't help but giggle. Neon grumbled in frustration as he lost order on the small vessel.

"C'mon guys, I'm trying to give Berry and Dash the info on this place." Neon complained.

"Lighten up, Neo." A sailor waved a dismissing hand. "We've got all night to show them this place. And the day after that! Caramel won't leave here 'til the business is done. And you know how he likes to take his time."

"What is the business?" Rainbow inquired curiously.

"The shard of course." Neon said quickly. "But don't mention that to anyone! We're not like other privateers. Our business is far more risky and involved with these artifacts. There are no doubt Brotherhood spies and Templar goons here. They always sneak by us during our absences."

They departed from the rowboat and walked to the grassy lands right before the buildings began. Women and children started to appear from random abodes and scurry to them. The pirates responded by running to their respected families and giving them loving hugs. The only pirate other than Berry and Rainbow who did not have family to greet them was Neon, who watched his comrades with a smile.

"This is their favorite part about being back." Neon grinned. "Sometimes they don't see them for a year. I never know how they handle being away from their wives and kids for so long. That's why I'll never get a family going 'til I retire."

"What's up on that hill?" Berry changed the subject by squinting at the large single hill.

"That's where the fallen of the Ragnarok are remembered." Neon explained. "Pretty sobering place. Those who died serving this nation of ours is buried up there. If we don't retrieve their bodies, they still get a tombstone with their name and position."

Rainbow mouthed the word "oh" and stayed silent after this rather frightening bit of information. Neon noticed their sudden change of mood and his widened. With an awkward chuckle he placed a hand on their shoulders.

"But let us not think of such heavy topics. I'll show you guys the most popular place in town."

"Of course it would be the tavern..." Rainbow chuckled.

"What?" Neon shrugged. "Did you expect a library?"

"Nope. This is exactly what I was expecting."

"Me too." Berry nodded happily.

The sun was going down as the three drank the rum and cider at their table. The tavern was an open one with the bar being the only part with a roof. A violinist soloed in a corner of the boarded floor and was accompanied by merry revelers that tapped and danced to the music. Women and men laughed and banged their drinks together in joy.

"I know that gal." Neon pointed at the violinist.

"Yeah, uh huh." Rainbow played with him.

"Naw, really. But don't think that way. Even if I wanted her, she's out of my league."

The violinist finished her song and was received with an applause. She returned the applause with a great bow and a warm smile. She then took a swing of water from a nearby mug and breathed tiredly.

"Hey, Fiddlesticks! Guess who's back?" Neon called to her.

"Neon Lights." She huffed confidently. "When did you arrive?"

"Just an hour ago. Come sit with us!"

The violinist brushed her bluish hair back with a quick hand before walking over to them with a proud stride. Her red lips were in a devious smirk and her eyes focused on the pirate with a playful glare. She then twirled her bow gracefully before sitting in the empty chair at their table.

"These your girls?" Fiddlesticks pointed at Rainbow and Berry. "You can do better mate."

"New recruits from Manehatten." Neon chuckled. "They're novice sailors, but they learn quick. Muck quicker than I."

"Rainbow Dash." Rainbow offered the woman a hand.

"And I'm Berry Punch."

"Fiddlesticks. Welcome to Sepulcher." The violinist returned before looking back at Neon. "So what was the haul this time?"

"Some biscuits and some pork." Neon said with a wink.

"Ah. Seems you guys get more of that these days."

"More than I liked to." Neon huffed. "But the pay is good. Who knew pigs were that expensive."

"Not me." She giggled.

"Sooo...." He took a long breath. "Anything peculiar lately?"

"Not much, honey. Except for a girl that arrived some days ago. Canterlotian by her accent and her pompous nature. She had the nerve to challenge me at playing the violin. Can you believe it?"

"Was she good?"

"Yes, but I still beat her. Haven't seen much of her since. She's searching for some girl she'll never give the name of. All she does is act mysterious."

Neon rubbed his chin thoughtfully and lowered his voice. "You think she's a spy?"

"No. I've been around spies, she's not one. The ship she came on left without her yesterday. I think that pissed her off. She's prolly stuck here."

"Where is she?" Rainbow jumped in.

"Right there, gal."

Fiddlesticks pointed at a lone table that was farthest from the bar. Only one person sat there and it was a gal with a black cloak and hood. Red and yellow hair escaped the hood and her pointed chin was all Rainbow could see. A lone mug was in front of her and she seemed pretty disinterested with it.

"I'll go speak with her." Neon said and stood up.

"Don't!" Fiddlesticks hissed. "I don't trust her. Ya should leave her be for now."

"I'll talk with her." Rainbow said.

"You crazy lass?" Fiddlesticks turned to her in shock.

"Yeah. She doesn't look like trouble to me. I've had my share of Assassin gals already. I'll know if she's one of them."

"Nothing's stopping you." Neon shrugged.

"Show time."

Rainbow got up and took one last gulp of cider before slamming the mug on the wooden table. Fiddlesticks blinked in confusion as she watched the young pirate walk by. Rainbow suddenly stopped in her tracks and turned around.

"I think I'll need this."

She took her cider mug with her and then returned to her task. The woman at the lone table was still there, seemingly staring at her hand absentmindedly. This made Rainbow feel a little awkward as she stood at the table with the woman not even noticing her. She cleared her throat and then gave a weak smile.

"So....What's up with you, miss?"

The woman jumped a little and looked up at her. Turquoise eyes peered at her suspiciously. She then weakened her glare and gestured at the seat in front of her.

"You can sit if you wish." She said softly.

Rainbow did just that. With a more direct view at the hooded woman, she could see that she had plenty of curls in her hair and her face was much fairer than most present. It was a face untouched by labor and a hard life. Not a speck of dirt was on her or her cloak. A single light green gown was hidden underneath the cloak. Finally, a necklace that bore Celestia's Sun was on her exposed neck, showing that she knew wealth as well.

"What brings a girl like you here? I can tell you ain't from these parts." Rainbow started.

"Was it because I don't smell of merda?" She questioned back with attitude.

"Yeah."

"Funny, you didn't ask me what merda was. I guess you were raised in Cloudsdale?" She crossed her arms curiously.

"Huh? Yeah, I was. Not all my years though." Rainbow said hesitantly.

"But enough to understand some Cloudsdalian latin hm? From Cloudsdale to here. Such is the way of being recruited into piracy."

"Rogue privateers." Rainbow corrected.

"Pirates." The woman hissed decisively.

"Alright. Alright. Now, what's ya name and why are you here?"

"I'm looking for a girl. My friend to be exact. She was kidnapped almost a month ago. I've been searching for her since."

"Alright. how 'bout ya name?"

"That does not concern you, pirate." Was the quick and harsh answer.

"Fine. Now, who is this girl?"

"She has dark purple hair with a magenta highlight. Loves books and falls for any deal from a shadowy figure." She added with a frustrated sigh.

"And so you think she's here?"

"Thought that, but she's not. Checked every corner on this bloody island. I believe the guys who took her were pirates and pirates go to the Labyrinth Isles. Guess that was a stupid assumption. Should have looked in Baltimare."

"What's stopping ya?"

"The ship that brought me here left yesterday. I have no ride now."

"Well, we are on the Ragnarok. Maybe we can help you."

The woman paused. "Ragnarok? Hmm..." She smiled, showing off pearly whites. "You can call me Sunny."

Author's Note

Who is this mysterious woman?!?1?!?!!/1?1

Chapter 11: Always Sunny in...

"So you know about the Ragnarok?"

"Of course I do. It's the first thing you hear about when you land on this island. It seems like not knowing about the Ragnarok here is like not knowing who Empress Celestia is!"

Rainbow huffed in annoyance by Sunny's rudeness. She could see why the tavern avoided her. It was like speaking to Rarity, only worse somehow.

"So...." Rainbow swirled around the remaining amount of cider in her mug. "What'll you pay if we help you look for this egghead?"

"Egghead?" Sunny chuckled. "I'll have to remember that one for her. I hail from Canterlot. I have more than enough money to satisfy you rogues."

"But I must go back to Baltimare." She continued. "The Labyrinth Isles can't be where she's at."

"Well, let me talk with my captain about it."

"No! For Tartarus' sake no!"

"Why not?"

"Miss Dash! Look at her. I don't see an ounce of sanity in her." Caramel whispered through his teeth.

"Look who's talking!" Rainbow shot back.

"Good point." Caramel smiled, but then frowned again. "But look into her eyes. There's an ambition there that I only saw in one man before. And that was me father."

"That still doesn't mean we should hide in the bushes."

Caramel folded his arms stubbornly, making some of the leafs that surrounded them rattle. Rainbow and him returned their inspection on the red and yellow haired girl. Sunny was sitting on a barrel, absently swinging her hanging legs back and forth. Her hood was down, showing all of her intricate curls and highlights. A innocent grin was on her face, indicating that she knew very well that there were pirates watching her from a bush nearby.

"She's knows we're here." Rainbow grumbled.

"That also frightens me." Caramel commented. "I can sneak by even the most observant people.....Or you gave our position away."

"How?"

"Ya wearing that circus robe remember? Rainbow sashes? My ass..." He shook his head.

Rainbow rolled her eyes. "These are the best robes I've ever worn. I'll give that to Rarity, she can make some fine stuff."

"Pfft." He mumbled in return. "Ya don't know good robes from bad ones."

"I do too!"

"Nah..."

"Are you two married?" Sunny called to them with a cocked head. "Cause you sound like an old couple."

"Bitch seen us..." Caramel griped.

"I heard that too." Sunny said loudly. "You have the subtlety of a drunk walrus. No. I'll take that back. You have the subtlety of pirates, which means none at all. If you know....You couldn't figure it out." She trailed off awkwardly.

Rainbow stood up and jumped out of the bush. The captain kicked the dirt before following. Sunny just swung her legs some more as if she listening to a delightful tune in her head. Her greenish eyes slowly traveled from one face to the other.

"What's got ya here, Canterlotian?" Caramel grunted.

"Quite complicated." Sunny nodded. "Are you sure your brain can handle it?"

"C'mon Sunny. Do you have to be like that?" Rainbow asked.

"What? It's a legit question." She sighed when she saw their annoyed expressions. "Alright, alright. I'm surprised rainbow girl here didn't inform you. I'm looking for my friend and I believe she's in Baltimare. She was kidnapped you know. Since you guys have probably kidnapped many girls....and probably done worse to them, I would like you to take me there. I'll pay of course."

"My ship ain't some ferry." Caramel hissed. "And we're aren't like the pirates ya daddy and mommy told you about. No one gets 'napped by me or my lads unless she deserved it. The Ragnarok is a sovereign nation and she doesn't like taking orders from some teenager."

Sunny frowned. "I....I have to leave this place." She started to sorry anxiety in her voice. "I've here too long and no one wants to take me off of here. I get creepy looks and everyone smells of shit. I'll pay you anything, just get me off of here."

"Not much of a dealer, are ya lass?" Cararmel shook his head in disappointment. "And I was thinking you was special."

"I am!" She stood up. "More than you can believe! I am no doubt worth more than this entire island of filth. I don't care if you just take me and ransom me on the mainland! Alright? I need to get back to searching for my friend. If you aren't some lowly pirate that only cares for bosoms and rum, then please understand my plight!"

Caramel only replied with a deep stare. His eyes squinted at hers. Rainbow was feeling the tension between them and back up a couple of steps. Sunny returned the stare with one just as powerful. It lasted far too long for Rainbow's comfort, but to her relief, Caramel ended it with a sinister chuckle.

"Haha. So that's what's up with you. I guess I can take another on my sweet brig, but ya gotta help around as well. You're not royalty here, Canterlotian."

"Understood." A devilish grin appeared on her lips.

The two then had a rather firm handshake between them, grabbing more of their forearms than their hands. Once they were done, they both turned expectantly to Rainbow.

"So....It's a deal?" Rainbow croaked.

"Yes." Sunny answered slyly. "I can't wait to leave this place."

"Not so fast Miss Sun Beams." Caramel stopped her. "I still have important business here. I don't come here to enjoy the sunsets if you will."

With that, he stuffed his rugged hands into the pockets of his trousers and walked away. Rainbow blinked a couple of times in confusion. Sunny noticed this and rolled her eyes playfully.

"That....that was unlike him..." Rainbow observed.

"I already can tell he is one fascinating man." Sunny grinned. "Something is special about him, I can tell you that."

"Well, yeah. But he'll throw you for a wicked loop every once in a while."

"I hope so."

Then Rainbow watched her leave as well, going in the same direction as the captain. The young pirate wanted to follow, but was so bewildered by the past moment that she simply stood there almost in a daze. While she was trying to put two and two together, she wandered away from the barrel and went deeper into the village.

"Wait, Caramel actually agreed to this?"

"Yes, Neon."

Rainbow frowned in frustration at the veteran pirate that walked through the sandy paths with her. They passed a couple of gossiping women that were too occupied to step out of the "road" that they traversed. The village had no proper streets on even trails as it was more of just spaces between the huts.

"I don't believe it."

"You've said that already."

Neon spat in disgust. He had quite the bias towards Sunny, despite not even speaking a word to the girl. Rainbow could see this easily in him and did her best to digest his sayings without slapping him in return. Yes, Sunny was an intimidating specimen, all things considered, but Rainbow was content with Caramel's decision. He was their captain, they might as well trust him.

"You don't see anything wrong with this?" Neon asked quickly.

"Alright, it's weird, I'll give it that, but no need to react like this." Rainbow replied.

"Something's up. He's never done this before. Anyone who doesn't give him a first good impression is hated in his eyes ever since! It sounds like he's actually changed his views about someone. That's not like him at all..." He trailed off thoughtfully.

"Well, she ain't Assassin or Templar." Rainbow shrugged. "She's probably just some snobby Canterlotian that's feisty. He likes feisty girls right?"

"Of course he does. However, that doesn't play here. It doesn't seem right. No, he saw something in here that made him unusually happy. And keep it down about Assassins and whatnot!" He added with a whisper.

"Alright! You guys are more cautious here than in Baltimare..."

"That because we have no place to hide here." Neon explained. "Once either of those demonic factions find us here, we'll dead. No dealing, no running."

"Aw, what are ya saying?" Rainbow mocked. "We could take them all on! I mean, what do they have on us? We've whooped them how many times?"

"Not enough. And you haven't seen what they can do. Those Bearers? Just the tip, lass. Just the damn tip. Templars can change whole nations in a matter of decades. They're dangerous. That's why we try to stop them." He paused. "Even though our attacks hardly affect them at all."

"So what can they do?"

"Be watching us at this very moment. When you deal with such folks, don't expect to die peacefully. They'll stab you in the back...eventually."

This made Rainbow look to the roofs of the huts and shops. It was some desperate attempt to catch some stalker in their midst. She searched about, but did not even see a figure racing to hide away from her. Her heart started to ache terribly as she thought about it. Like a tugging at her chest and her eyes unfocused. The pain made her bend over and clutch her stomach.

"Gah..."

"Rainbow?" Neon gasped. "Are you hurt?"

"Nah....Guess I drank too much cider." She took a deep breath. "Just felt a little dizzy..."

"Maybe you should get something to eat. That usually helps me." Neon suggested.

"That'd be great."

Rainbow took another deep breath and stood upright again. Her head throbbed a little and her eyes burned. It's only stress, she thought. One more anxious look over her shoulder and she had concluded she was safe at the moment. She then stopped in her tracks. In her quick glance she spotted something she had not noticed before. Without lifting her feet, she turned around and stared at the astonishing sight before her. Her eyes followed the boot prints that her and Neon made in the sand, but there was a third set that was behind theirs. A print only slightly bigger than hers. And the person who made them walked with his or her feet in a straight line. The prints than ran off into the brush beside the path and it did not leave 15 feet away from where they were currently standing.

"Neon..." Rainbow gulped. "Someone was right behind us..."

Author's Note

If you wondered about Rainbow and Rarity's designs. Uhh....I did my best?

Chapter 12: Precaution

"You think the Assassins are here?"

"Well yeah! Captain, I think one was right behind me!"

Rainbow squeaked unintentionally as she tried to recount the tale of finding the mysterious footprints that followed her to the ship. Caramel did not seem skeptical of her story but instead nodded as if he knew it already. With a shrug, he tapped his desk and stood up from his chair before making his way across the captain's quarters.

"Bout time they got here." He mumbled.

"You knew they were coming?" Rainbow gasped.

"Naw, just expected it. It ain't the first time."

Caramel nudged passed her and picked up his sword that was leaning on the only mirror in the room. He gave it a valiant swing in the air before looking at Rainbow with utter seriousness.

"Lass, keep ya wits about you. We ain't leaving until we're ready. Also, I would rather curse my father than leave my home with Assassins crawling over it. The Brotherhood is here, but we can't see nor find them. They got a habit of getting sloppy though, so we'll wait. Then we'll smoke 'em out."

"Uhh...how exactly?"

He shrugged again. "I'll find out when the time comes."

Rainbow was oddly satisfied with the answer. She gave him a short nod of understanding. He was the experienced captain and she wasn't. Even though it was clear he had no plan, she knew it was better than whatever she could come up with.

"Hey, Captain, may I ask about Sunny?"

"What about her? I've seen better." He answered casually.

"No, not her looks, just...her. Do ya know anything about her? She's so...odd."

He stretched his back slowly in way to display his reluctance to answer. However, with a stroke of his beard, he began to speak. "She's gifted, I'll say that. The lass knows how to deal and when to deal. Have ya ever played a game o' cards?"

"Yeah."

"Well, she's like the person in the corner that never smiles or anything. Subtle, yet ya know she's the best at the table. She's kinda like that."

Rainbow nodded in understanding or, at least, she thought she understood. Caramel was obviously being secretive, which was unusual for him. She felt like pushing the questions, but she knew it would be hopeless.

Caramel cleared his throat nervously. "The lass is by the bow, last time I saw 'er. Ya can go ask her yaself. Be careful though, she may be a cunning one, but I feel she ain't got all her mind together."

Rainbow bowed curtly and walked out of the Captain's Quarters. The sun struck her unadjusted eyes, making her squint at the opposite end of the ship. Even from there she could see Sunny casually sitting on the bow's railing, her black cloak flowing under her. She was reading from a small book. The young pirate silently encouraged herself to walk on.

"So, what did ol' Caramel say?" Neo asked when Rainbow barely made it passed the main mast.

"He thinks we should smoke 'em out." Rainbow answered. "He doesn't have a plan, ya know how he is."

"Of course. Well, we should be safe on the Ragnarok for now. Assassins wouldn't just sneak in on us when we are expecting them."

"I hope ya right, Neo." Rainbow said. "I've had enough of those guys for awhile now."

"What makes you keep looking at her?" Neon noticed Rainbow's constant attention changes.

"Sunny? Well, why wouldn't I? That girl ain't right. Something's different 'bout her."

"I know, but that doesn't mean staring at a lady is polite."

Rainbow pushed the second mate away and started to march over to the cloaked woman. Sunny smiled back at her with a devious grin. She was writing in a journal with a quill, but once she saw the young pirate's approach, she closed it and placed the quill gently on the leather cover.

"Hello, Dash, what brings you over here?" She asked.

"Ummm..." Rainbow awkwardly began. "I...Uhh...I wanted to ask you some questions. Cap'n's orders, ya know."

She raised a brow. "Really? Well, the man is across the ship, why did he not ask me them himself?"

"Cause he doesn't work like that." Rainbow lied. "He's a hard one to understand, ya know?"

"Perhaps. First, I would like to ask you a question before we start this interview. Is that alright?"

Rainbow nodded quickly. "Yup, why not? So, uh, what's ya question?"

"Why you are trying to hide your own intentions as the intentions of your captain? Him and I have already spoken together."

Rainbow sighed and dropped the terrible act. "Well, that's the thing, it's how ya two spoke. Captain Caramel ain't never like that with someone. He jus' suddenly thought you were a'ight and all. Why?"

"I guess even a pirate can see reason once in a while." Sunny mused. "I'm sure he finally understood my reasons for finding my lost friend. I haven't seen her in so long and I went as far as out here to find her. I now know she's not in these Isles, so I must return to the mainland and continue my search there. Your captain saw this and that is why I am now on your little ship."

"It's jus' unlike him..."

"Well, you told me he can 'do you for a loop' or something along those lines. I assume that is what happened here. Hopefully he does not go back on his offer because of it. Every day in this squalor is a day of torture."

"Well, then I guess I should get back to work. Still don't really understand it all, but I'm starting to lose care."

"Until next time, Rainbow Dash." Sunny casually waved goodbye.

With a grumble, Rainbow turned around and picked up some rope to appear like she was working. She looked back over her shoulder. Sunny had returned to reading whatever it was that she was reading. Rainbow was not happy that there was some secret going on between the Canterlotian and Caramel.

"Guess I'll have to wait 'til it comes out." She sighed.

"Well ain't this a surprise?" Caramel huffed sarcastically.

Rainbow was snoring on a pair of barrels on the docks. The late afternoon sun glistened off the drool that hung from her open mouth. Caramel tapped his foot on the wooden planks impatiently, his arms cross and his brows tight. He never liked finding his crew sleeping on the job. Never.

"Now what will I do with ya?" He asked her. "What will I need to do ya lazy arse to make it unlazy?"

The only reply from the sleeping pirate was another loud snore.

"Well, you asked for it."

Caramel grabbed Rainbow by the shoulders and picked her small body right up from the barrels. Rainbow was startled awake by the attack and squirmed.

"What are ya doing, Cap'n?" She panicked.

"Giving ya a warnin' lass!"

He forcefully chucked her off the docks and into the water. After the pitiful splash she made, she surfaced, blowing salt water out of her mouth. He loomed over her with his arms cross while she grumbled a curse.

"C'mon! I need my sleep!" She yelled.

"Yeah, but not when ya suppose to be working!" He shot back. "Now get out of there! This isn't time to be swimming, Miss Dash. I want this ship's cargo fully moved onto land. It's time we start getting our business here done."

"Why haven't we done that already?"

"It pays not to rush into things, Miss Dash. While you napped like a milk drinker, I decided to delay the transaction because of the Assassins. We can't start moving out 'til we make sure we can handle any ambush they throw at us."

Rainbow nodded in understanding and swam back to shore. Upon arriving on the sand beach, she shook herself dry like a dog. It was not as effective as she hoped and disappointingly walked back to the ship soaking wet. Caramel gave a chuckle at her before gesturing her to follow.

"Don't be like that lass. I only mean to improve ya. I like to find weaknesses in my crew and exploit them until they get rid of said weakness."

"What's my weakness?" Rainbow asked.

"Easy, ya like to sleep, lass. Ya and Berry both. If it wasn't for ya pure talent, I would say you'd be dead by now. Ya feel like you've already reached ya potential and thus don't strive to improve. So ya sleep instead of work. Kid, I know full well you ain't even scratched the surface of your abilities."

"Huh?"

He turned around and was about to put a hand on her shoulder but retracted it when he remembered how wet she was. "I don't like to give out compliments like this, but ya got talent and skill that I've never seen. Ya a bloody natural at everything I throw at you. As Captain, I'm tryin' to make all you guys captains for the future. I have no doubt you'd be the best captain outta all of them."

"Wow! Than-"

"But not a damn word to anyone else 'bout this, alright?" He lowered his voice. "These words are for ya, not for the others."

"Yes, Cap'n!"

He chuckled. "Good. Now, Miss Dash, the real reason I woke ya so urgently is because I have a mission for ya. Come to my quarters."

Rainbow shrugged. "We're gonna smoke them out, right?"

Caramel looked out the window of his quarters and gave an affirmative grunt. "Aye lass. They's here for our loot from the Royal Convey. We need to make a transaction with my partner on this island. It's most likely the Assassins will come out of hiding when we do that."

"It's time for a trick of the eye, so that we have a chance to survive." Zecora added.

"Indeed." Caramel nodded. "Ya gonna act like we're makin' the transaction tonight, but we'll have an empty box. They will spring a useless trap on us and once they reveal themselves, we give them our own ambush. Ya see, Assassins ain't too bright when the tables turn. They are so used to being the ones with smoke and shadows that they don't expect others to do it to them. Miss Dash, that's why I have you here. You are by far the most athletic sailor here and will be the best at giving death from above."

"You want me to spring the ambush?"

"Precisely. You will have a squad with you, led by Mr. Lights, whom I've already informed. Since the Assassins would grow suspicious if I or Zecora were not the ones with the shard box, we are forced to be the bait. My partner is being told of this plan right now as I sent a deckhand to go tell him. He has good men, ready to fight anything. Since it's rare for Assassins to outnumber their prey, we expect to be able to overrun them."

"I understand, sir." Rainbow said. "But how will my squad get close to the Assassins?"

"Well, there are quite a lot of trees around the area. Ya gonna have to use those running and climbing skills of yours. Neon will guide ya guys. Also, the Assassins will use any dirty method to gain an advantage, so take this."

He took a thick cloth and a pair of ugly goggles out and handed them to the young pirate. "They will use smoke bombs. These odd things are what some use to block out the smoke. I don't have many of them, this pair being the last one. So make sure when they throw down the smoke that ya are ready."

"Take care, young sailor, for we will see you much later." Zecora said before departing.

"Like she said, take care. Miss Dash, you are a vital part in this mission, I hope ya do well for our sake. Once the Assassins are taken care of, then we get back to business."

"Ya can count on me!" Rainbow saluted. "I won't leave ya guys hanging!"

"Oh, I hope it never comes to hanging..." Caramel grumbled.

She ignored his odd comment. "Don't ya worry! Neon and I will show the Assassins how the Ragnarok gets it done."

"That's the spirit, lass. Go give them hell."

Author's Note

It's back.

-Cheers for That!

Chapter 13: A Rare Opportunity

"Ya sure this is gonna work?"

"Of course, Rainbow."

Neon, Rainbow, and the rest of their attack squad rested high up in a tree. The faded pink sky had no sun as it had dipped under the horizon an hour or so ago. They all waited in the tall tree. Some of them sharpening their daggers and swords, others testing their wrist blades, and some just staring out in the distance.

"Cap'n Caramel's plans usually work," one mate said. "This is gonna go fine. The Assassins won't know what hit 'em."

Rainbow took the encouraging words with a grain of salt. She knew not to be scared, but her heart pounded anyway. Her fingers would not stay still and she kept shifting her eyes about, expecting a man in white robes to come stab them. However, no such man came.

"Caramel's not gonna take long to get out there," Neon explained. "We'll gonna have to time this right. Assassins may not expect us, but they'll look up and see us coming. We gotta get there when they think they're the ones springing a trap, otherwise, we'll fight them in the shadows where they have the advantage."

"So not too early, not too late," One female pirate chuckled. "Lot counts on us, huh?"

Neon nodded. "Yes. Once the tides change in our favor, the Assassins won't last long. Caramel's even got some crew members waitin' through the village and island for when the Assassins try to flee."

"Thinks of everything," Rainbow said.

"Experience teaches you stuff like that."

All their eyes went to the procession of pirates on the ground. Caramel and Zecora were leading a small band away from the Ragnarok. A young pirate behind them was holding the decorated chest they stole from the Royal Convoy. Caramel glanced up at them and then silently pulled his hood over his brown hair. Rainbow also spied Berry Punch among the group.

"We need them to get a head start," Neon told them quietly. "We won't go until they reach the spot where the deal will be made."

"Wait," one pirate spoke. "Isn't there a risk that they could be ambushed on the way there?"

"Not really. The Assassins think themselves smart. Since they know we are dealing with another, they would want to stay their blades until Caramel's partner reveals himself."

The group accepted this reasoning with quiet nods and grunts. Rainbow did this also, but then furrowed her brows at the next obvious question.

"Uhh, who is Caramel's partner?" she asked.

"A man named Ferris," Neon whispered. "I don't know much about him, but Caramel trusts him. We give him shards we find and he...well...hides them. We try to keep these magical items out of the Templar and the Assassins. So far Ferris has done that wonderfully, and he also pays us too, but not always. He is a generous man."

"I get ya," Rainbow nodded. "How many does he have?"

"A good amount, lass. A good amount."

"Neon," a pirate interrupted. "We should get going."

"Follow me then."

Neon started running from branch to branch. The agile pirates followed his example. Caramel and Zecora were long out of sight and so the only one who knew where to go was Neon himself.

Rainbow did not have trouble keeping up. Even the darkness, she could easily pick out the good branches from the bad. It was a little different using trees over the buildings she was used to, but her skills allowed her to traverse them well. She swung on vines, jumped from branches, swerved around trunks, and did so with expertise.

Like monkeys, they ran along the treetops. They grew closer to Caramel's spot and farther away from the village. Sepulcher was not a large island by any means, but Rainbow was finding it much deeper than she thought. The cleared out hills were being replaced by brush and weeds. Soon they had entered a thin jungle.

This also made the area darker as the sky's final light had disappeared and the trees became taller and thicker. Piercing the darkness was a couple of torches by the ground. No doubt this was Caramel and the meeting. Neon stopped on a tree and held up the rest of his squad.

He glanced back at them. "We wait a little longer. The Assassins are in this jungle."

Rainbow silently slid her blue hood over her. It was show time. They all seemed to hold their breaths. The thin light from the torches barely illuminated the pirates and dealers. She could see Caramel's hooded figure and Zecora's tilted frame. The man on the other side was thick and perhaps a bit fat. At the distance, she could not tell for sure where his body ended.

They could also not here their voices. Slight inaudible whispers came from their way, but nothing understandable. The time was coming close. It was so silent in the trees that they could hear each other's breaths and, of course, their heartbeats.

As they sat in the branches, they could slightly hear the rumbling of leaves in the trees closer to Caramel. In the darkness, one could barely make out the shapes of people crawling effortlessly through the trees. Rainbow thought she saw the white robes that the Brotherhood wore. She could have just been imagining it. Neon gestured at the squad.

"Steady," he whispered

The number of Assassins could not be counted. It could be three to a hundred and none would have a better guess. The Assassins crept to the edge of the trees and looked down upon the dealing. The pirates had to wait for them to be on the ground, as any fight in the trees against such trained fighters would be futile.

That moment soon arrived when the Assassin sprung from the trees and attacked the allies below. There were early casualties on the pirate's side as Assassins landed on some, stabbing them while doing so. With no hesitation, Neon ran forward, leading the squad to the battle. Rainbow pulled out her sword and skillfully navigated the branches until she was close to the fight. From there, she leaped out with her swords and fell upon an unsuspecting Assassin in white robes. Her swords buried deep into him and her feet pressed his body against the jungle floor.

"Bout time ya lads joined us!" Caramel laughed as he fought two Assassins at once.

"I always love a good fight!" Ferris laughed.

Rainbow was caught in the action immediately. The jungle had erupted into a large chaotic fight. Swords against swords, pistols against pistols, and wrist blades against wrist blades. The only light was coming from the torches were now on the floor, lighting any dead plants on fire.

A Sister in beige robes swung at Rainbow. She parried the attacked swiftly and knocked the Assassin sword away before finishing her with two swords through the gut. Another Assassin came by and tried to avenge his comrade. This next Assassin was much more skilled.

Sparks flew from their blades, letting them get quick visions of each other's faces. From his complexion, he seemed of Zebrican descent. Rainbow did not care how he looked as he continued his attacks. She parried him and then planted one of her swords into the soft soil. With a twist of her body, she used the sword as an anchor to swing her body. Before the Assassin could react, she had swung around and kicked him squarely in the chest, knocking him over.

"Forget the pirates! We must locate the chest!" a familiar voice commanded the Assassins.

"Rarity?" Rainbow looked around.

The Zebrican Assassin launched himself up to fight on. Rainbow pulled out her only pistol and fired at him, but to her own disappointment, she missed. With only a split-second to react, she chucked the pistol at him, hitting him in the head.

When he was stunned by the pistol lob, she swung her blades across him, slicing him open. With him done, she started to look around through the battle.

Caramel had already taken out five Assassins and counting. His maniacal laughter was heard among the violent commotion. Zecora was fighting with an Assassin of gold robes one on one, but she was only fighting with one arm as the other clutched her side as if she had a wound. With pirate bodies on the ground with the Assassin corpses, Rainbow could tell it was not going to be an easy fight.

She ran past some battles. Her eyes searched for the Bearer of Generosity. Rainbow started running around at high speed. An Assassin stood in her way, but he was fighting Neon. The young pirate put her swords in front of her and ran right through the distracted Assassin.

"Thanks, lass!" Neon yelled as she ran by him.

Rainbow said nothing to him and continued. She slid to a stop when she finally saw Rarity. The elegant Assassin was fighting a pirate and one of Ferris's men. The fight was not long as Rarity stabbed one in the chest with her Crystal sword and shot the other in the head with a pistol. With a smoothness only she could capture, she withdrew her blade from the pirate and then sliced open a pirate's throat as he stupidly rushed at her.

Rainbow then ran at the Bearer. Rarity had her back to the young pirate. When Rainbow was about to reach Rarity, the Bearer turned around and pounced on her. Her bright and carved hidden blade was touching Rainbow's throat before the latter even knew what had happened. Rarity's violent glare soon eased to a shocked expression.

"Rainbow Dash!" she gasped.

She withdrew the hidden blade and stood up. Rainbow was confused by the action, but would not let the advantage slip by. She planted her swords into the ground and acrobatically used them to spring her upwards and to force her single kick right into Rarity. The Bearer flew backwards and landed in the dirt.

"How dare you!" she screamed. "I showed you mercy!"

Rarity then looked at her superficial robes and gasped in complete shock. Rainbow's boots were muddy and now the mud caked her previously perfect robes. . Rarity's expression turned into a snarl like no other. The Canterlotian Bearer would not stand for this.

"Oh. It. Is. On!"

"Bring it!" Rainbow taunted.

Rarity jumped up and swung her Crystal sword at Rainbow. The pirate deflected the oncoming attack, but could not retaliate as Rarity summoned another Crystal sword. Duel wield versus duel wield. It was apparent that Rarity knew this style well as they both in a full clash and neither could get an advantage.

"You have improved since we last met, Rainbow," Rarity said.

"And you haven't at all!" Rainbow shot back.

"Is that your best comeback?"

"...No."

"You should work on it, darling."

As the battle raged on around them, they fought on. Rainbow's fancy tricks and agile moves could not get by Rarity. The Bearer's expert attacks and timing seemed useless against Rainbow's peculiar fighting style. So, like dancers, they bounced around each other and often met with hateful stares before separating their swords once more.

Rarity swung her blades, making Rainbow duck under them. Seeing an opportunity, Rainbow thrust her blades upward at Rarity's unprotected torso. It was about to work, but Rarity reacted quickly and kicked Rainbow's face squarely in the jaw, knocking her over. The pirate probably would have recovered quicker if it wasn't for Rarity's heeled boots.

"You can do better than that, my dear," Rarity chuckled.

A pirate tried to interupt them and charged at Rarity. Without any effort, Rarity sidestepped the attack and sliced open the pirate's chest. With a deathly grunt, he fell over into a large fern. The Bearer did not even glance his way once.

This made Rainbow pause. Why doesn't she do that to me? However, she did not stay on the ground long and sprung back to her feet. With a roar, she charged at Rarity and their blades met. Rainbow disengaged and swung her leg out and tripped Rarity over. The Bearer let out a grunt when she landed on the ground. Rainbow now had a clear shot at Rarity.

"Protect the Bearer!"

An Assassin came out of the battle and attacked the young pirate, giving time for Rarity to stand up. The Assassin was mad in his attacks, leaving himself open several times. Rainbow took advantage of this and parried his attack. She followed through with a sword through his neck. The blade was stuck in his backbone and she could not pull it out. She placed a foot on his head and used that to push the sword free out of the Assassin's body.

Rarity was not there when Rainbow turned around. Instead, she seemed to have found the chest that contained the shard. The young pirate knew there that the chest was empty and so grinned to see Rarity's reaction. The Bearer slowly opened it to see nothing was inside. With a loud, un-lady-like curse, she slammed the lid down and threw the chest away.

"We've been tricked! Assassins, to the woods!" she shouted at the top of her lungs.

The Assassins immediately broke off from their fights and fled. Rarity stood up and was about to flee with them. Rainbow was going to make sure that she did not. With a quickstep, Rainbow dove at Rarity's legs, grabbing them. The Bearer was taken by surprise and she fell over.

"Oh please, let me go, you uncouth hooligan!" Rarity kicked at Rainbow.

The Bearer escaped from Rainbow's grip and stood up. With a indignant huff, she turned around almost walked right into Caramel's pointed sword. The captain started to chuckle as more pirates surrounded the Bearer of Generosity. Rarity lowered her head and sighed.

"Looks like we got ourselves a lady, lads," Caramel chuckled coldly. "A nice, pretty little diamond, I say."

Rarity lifted her hands in surrender. Caramel continued to laugh and pointed at one pirate. "You'll be the luck y lad to search her. Make sure she ain't have anything up her sleeves, or shirt for that matter. She's a Bearer, she's very valuable to us."

He then sheathed his swords and walked over to Rainbow, giving her a hand up. "Ya did good, lass. Glad ya and Neon helped us like that."

"Thanks, Cap'n," Rainbow panted. "Uh, where's Ferris?"

"Oh, he lost a hand. His men are already takin' him back to the village," Caramel answered casually and then spoke to the crew. "Loot the bodies. Take any of our fallen fellows back. We'll bury them on the hill. Oh, and take the Assassin robes, it's about time we make some warnin' signs out of them."

The pirates obeyed and started messing with the corpses. The lucky pirate had taken all of Rarity's weapons and was now tying her hands together. Rainbow could not hold a chuckle back and leaned on the Bearer mockingly.

"Looks like we're gonna spend even more time together," she laughed.

"I can't believe it..." Rarity shook her head. "I am a lady, a woman of elegance and dignity, now a prisoner to pirates! Oh this makes me mad. Your ship is probably infested with rats and most unclean. Dirt everywhere! You probably don't even cook the fish you catch! Such savages!" The pirate tightened the ropes. "Ow! Young man! Please be delicate! If you make my restraints too tight, my hands will turn an awful shade of blue. Ow! You do know who you are messing with, don't you? Ow! Do you even understand me? Are you that uneducated, you lowly, pitiful, uncouth, uncivilized, and unfashionable brute?"

The pirate merely responded with an affirmative grunt.

"I think you're be fine, Rares," Rainbow giggled. "Besides, it's not the rats you should be afraid of. There are worse things."

"Good heavens!" Rarity bought the lie. "What could be worse than rats?"

"You'll see," Rainbow nodded.

Rarity held a scared expression as the pirate led her away. Rainbow watched with a smile and wiped from sweat off her forehead. Her eyes were becoming heavy and she yawned. All the fighting took plenty of stamina and she was now tired. She picked up a torch that was on the ground and started whistling a tune as she walked back with the pirates to the Ragnarok.

Author's Note

:rainbowlaugh:

:raritydespair:

Chapter 14: Caramel's Lesson

Four days went by since they captured Rarity. Caramel finished his transaction with Ferris (who now refers to himself as Ferris Hook-Hand), and they finished their preparations for departure. It was a brief and exciting visit to Sepulcher, but they had to leave once more. Their destination was back to Baltimare. From there, none knew. Like always, Caramel let the future plan for him.

It was one day out of Sepulcher as the Ragnarok headed north by northwest. The warm breezes gently pushed the brig onward and they went at a steady pace. Some of the crew were sad to leave their home, most were already back into their seafaring habits. With a cloudy sky above them, they sang their song with the constant waves.