Wings Of Icarus

“So they left?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. Sweetie and Spike are on a mission, I dunno when they’ll be back.” Bulk nodded.

“So I’ll supposedly be alone?” She wondered.

“Except for Owlick of course. I’ll probably just be sleeping.” Bulk said.

“That’s great! There’s a few things I’ve been meaning to do anyway.” She said excitedly.

“You have fun.” Bulk said, slumping down into the pilot’s seat and closing his eyes.

“Oh, I will.” Twilight smiled as she stood up and walked back towards her room. When she entered, she saw a pair of legs sticking out from under her bed. She stood in her doorway and raised an eyebrow. Her horn lit up and she teleported whoever it was right out onto the floor. “And what do you suppose you were doing?” She questioned as she stared at Owlick. He blinked a few times, seeming to have spaced off from the sudden change of location. He looked over to the bed and kneeled down, motioning her over. She walked over and kneeled down beside him, still staring at him. He showed her that some of the screws in her bed were loose, and could have had an unfortunate accident had they stayed that way. “Oh. Well thank you.” Twilight smiled. Owlick smiled back and nodded, slowly walking back to the door. “Owlick.” She started. He stopped and spun around immediately. She slowly walked up to him and hugged him. He stood silently, staring wide eyed past her. She giggled and stepped back from him. “You know, I do need some help with a few things if you’d be willing to.” She continued. He smiled widely and nodded quickly.

“Great! Now just follow me.” She smiled as she lead him out of her room and down the hall. She opened up a few boxes with her magic and various things floated out. He tilted his head curiously and turned to her for further instructions. “Don’t worry. You won’t have to do much other then sit down.” She said as she motioned towards a chair that had just landed firmly on the ground. He slowly walked over and took a seat in the empty chair. “Good now just relax.” She said comfortingly. He stared silently up at her, still smiling. She smiled back down and plucked an item from the air. It appeared to be a small scanner. “Now this first part will only take a second.” She said as she ran the device slowly in front of his body. She scribbled down a few notes. “That’s good. It works!” She smiled. She looked around for a moment. “Now. I need to test a few other features on it. First, have you been sick recently?” He shook his head. “Okay.” She mumbled as she wrote a few things down. “Are you scared of needles?”

He paused for a moment before slowly shaking his head.

“Lying isn’t going to do either of us any good.” Twilight said. “Now please, just tell me the truth.”

Owlick looked down almost shamefully before nodding.

“Don’t be ashamed.” Twilight said with a caring smile as she gently grabbed his hand. He stared silently (as usual) at her hand, his mouth seeming to be open slightly. She chuckled and squeezed his hand. “How about this, I’ll skip over all the parts with needles in them.” She offered, her smile never fading. He nodded violently. “Okay, let’s see what’s next then.” She laughed as she looked at her clipboard. “Hm that we’d need a blood sample for… Can’t do that one either…” She muttered quietly. He grabbed the clipboard and threw it out of the room. “What was that about?” She snapped. He shrugged innocently. She stared at him as the clipboard reappeared in her hands. “Do that again and I’ll just restrain you and do everything I need to.” She said. Owlick stared at the clipboard and sighed quietly. Twilight once again looked down at the clipboard. “Ah. Here we go!” She smiled again.

Owlick just waited patiently for something bad to happen. “Just hold completely still.” She said as she grabbed the small device once more and then tapped a few things on it. “Hm that’s interesting…” She mumbled as she scribbled a few things onto the clipboard. He tilted his head curiously and continued to stare at her. “Ooh… That’s even better!” She said giddily. “This is amazing!” He stood up and slowly peeked at her sheet. “Sit down! I’m not finished yet!” She said as she pushed him back into the chair. Owlick sat wide eyed and glanced up at her. “Okay. I’m done.” She smiled. He sat absolutely still, slightly fearful to move. “You can get up now.” She assured. “Even if I couldn’t test some of the other features, you really, really helped me find some new ones!” She said as she pulled him up and hugged him tightly. Owlick stood as still as before, but less fear and more embarrassment. Her smile simply widened as she squeezed him a little more. He quickly wrapped his arms around her as if her life was at stake. “Really, thank you for helping.” She said quietly. He nodded quickly and tightened the hug. She giggled quietly, “You really like me don’t you.” She said. He nodded just as fast. Twilight simply smiled a little more and kissed his cheek. He slowly fell from her grip and went limp on the floor. She lifted him back up with her magic. “Come on you need to lay down for a bit.” She laughed as she hovered him back to her room. She set him down on the bed and sat down on a nearby chair before hovering a book into her hands. His eyes were wide open and he was staring at the ceiling. “Owlick?” Twilight asked. He twitched violently, as if startled from a dream as he looked at her.

She chuckled. “You look like you need some sleep.” She said. He shook his head and sat upright. “Okay then.” She shrugged. Owlick stood up and tugged on her arm, motioning to the bed. “Oh? You want me to join you?” She grinned. His arm’s tugging slowed to a stop and he stood with his mouth open again. She stood up and laid him back down before sitting down beside him. Owlick lied with his arms to his sides and motionlessly stared up at the purple unicorn. She smiled down at him before laying down beside him. He lied still, seeming as if he didn’t know what to do. She gently hugged him and let his head lay against her breasts. His arms and legs started to flail almost immediately. She chuckled and let go of him. He slipped off the bed and tumbled to the floor. “Are you alright?” Twilight asked as she peeked over the bed at him. He slowly shook his head, as if unsure. “That’s not good… You should lay down on a bed.” She smiled as he was teleported back up onto the bed and into her arms. He continued to lie absolutely still. “Hey… Owlick.” She said quietly. He looked at her quickly and waited. She giggled quietly before kissing his forehead. “Go to sleep.” He nodded and closed his eyes the next moment. She squeezed his head back into her bosom and smiled a little more.. He gave a small smile before the warm embrace of Twilight pushed him into slumber.

A few hours later:

Owlick twitched slightly and curled up against Twilight. She nuzzled closer in her own sleep and sighed peacefully at his warmth. “Nmm… Yes mommy…” He mumbled. Her eyes suddenly shot open and she glanced around the room.

“Huh? Who was that?” She questioned. She looked down at Owlick after she realized there wasn’t anyone else in the room. “Wha… y… I…” She mumbled. He mumbled something inaudibly before pressing his face into her chest. She continued to stare at him, now at a loss for words. Owlick’s eyes opened slowly and he looked up at her, a smile washing over his sleepy face as he waved slowly. “You… you can actually talk?” She questioned, her mouth still wide open in disbelief. He tilted his head curiously, but his expression that as if he was trying to hide something (but obviously not very good at it). “Owlick. I heard you talking.” She stated. He continued to stare at her for a moment before nodding. She continued to stare silently at him for a moment. “Do you know what you said?” She asked, though it was obvious she already knew the answer. He shook his head. “You called me mommy.” She said. The emotions seemed to slowly drain from his face. “I actually think that’s kind of cute.” She smiled as she hugged him tightly. He didn’t seemed embarrassed, but more sad. She was silent for a moment. “Oh… oh did… something happen to your mom?” She asked hesitantly, as if she didn’t want to press it too far. He raised a hand and pointed to himself. “You?” She said. There was a long pause.

“She died in childbirth, when I was born.” He said quietly.

“Oh…” She said quietly.

“When I was old enough to talk, that’s when my dad started to hurt me.” He said. She remained quiet as she looked at him. “He said he hated my voice, he hated me. Every time I spoke he hit me… because it just reminded me that I killed his wife.” She closed her eyes and took in a few deep breaths in an attempt to keep calm. “Eventually I just stopped talking… And he stopped hitting me. At least, for awhile. It just became constant, every day. But I knew if I talked, it would just come quicker.” She looked at him again as a few tears welled up. “I… I just…” He trailed off into a mumble as he started to sob uncontrollably, curling up onto the bed. Twilight pulled him in close and squeezed him.

“Shh… shh…” She said quietly as she quietly started to cry herself. “That won’t ever… ever happen again…” She started. He shook as more tears started to slide down his face. “Everyone that calls this ship home is going to make sure of it… you’re NEVER going to go through that again… not as long as I’m here with you.” She said a little more firmly as she hugged him a little tighter.

“I just want him to love me…” He sobbed quietly. She remained quiet. His tears slowed to a stop as he looked up at Twilight.

“Owlick…” She said quietly. He stared into her eyes silently for a moment.

“Twilight…” He started.

“I love you.” Twilight said before she slowly put her lips to his. Owlick’s eyes shut, squeezing out the last of his tears as he hugged her. She pulled back and gently nuzzled his neck. “Can you do something for me?” She asked. He nodded slowly. “Can you please never stop talking to me?” She asked, “Even if you don’t want to talk to anyone else… I love how your voice sounds, and I love talking to you.”

Owlick stared at her before an almost comically large smile grew on his face. “You know…” He started.

“What do I know?” She asked with a smile.

“You’d make an amazing mother.” He said, hugging her tightly and resting his head on her shoulder.

“Oh, really?” She grinned. He just nodded, not meaning it in any sexual way as he refused to let go of her. “Well thank you.” She said as she returned the hug. His face slowly slid down back into her breasts. “You really like it down there don’t you?”

“Ysh.” He said through her fluff bags, shaking his head rapidly as he motorboated her breasts. “Blbllblbphhblhlph.” She sighed and giggled quietly.

“Well then, you just enjoy yourself.” She smiled. Owlick pulled his head away as a thought occurred to him. He smiled and jumped off the bed, scavenging for something beneath it. “What are you looking for?”

He pulled out a medium sized box and set it on the bed. Owlick opened it and pulled out a bag full of green grass and a large pipe.

“Wh…” Twilight started. “You…” He stuffed some of the weeds into the pipe and pressed a button. Steam started to rise out from the hole and he handed it to Twilight. “Um, I don’t smoke.” She said. “You just go ahead and enjoy yourself with that…”

“It’s not smoke, it’s steam. The chemical from the grass is transferred to the water, and the water is turned into steam. Completely healthy for your lungs.” He laughed.

“That’s not really… I just don’t use drugs.” Twilight said. He shrugged and took a deep puff, holding it in for a moment before steam came out his nose. He smiled widely before setting the pipe down and turning a knob on it. It began to release steam at a higher rate, slowly filling the room. He fell back onto the bed and stared up at her. She closed her eyes and inhaled slowly. After a few moments she just stuck out her hand. He lifted the pipe into her hands and laughed. She stared at him for a good minute before slowly taking a puff, the steam just billowed out her nostrils before she handed it back to him.

“How do you feel?” He asked as it took it and set it back on the bed.

“Good. I don’t know how else to explain it.” She said. Owlick smiled and pulled her atop him into a hug. She hugged him back. “This is nice.” She sighed as she laid her head down beside his.

“You’re nice.” He retorted, kissing her forehead.

“You’re cute.” She smiled, kissing him back. He stared at her for a moment before practically headbutting her with a kiss and rolling over so he was on top. She grabbed his head and held him there for a few moments before pushing him back. “I’m tired.” She stated as she hugged him tightly. He pressed his face into her neck and held her tightly against himself. “Goodnight.” She whispered.

“Hey.” A voice whispered. Twilight groaned softly, turning away from the voice. A finger prodded her cheek.

“Whaaat!” She grumbled loudly. It wasn’t until she felt a hand groping her breast that she snapped her eyes open, now face to face with Spike.

“Morning.” He said casually.

Twilight’s horn started to glow brightly as she glared at Spike. He slowly retracted his hand, not moving from his spot. “That’s better.” She said, her magic dying down.

“How’d you sleep?” He asked.

“Great.” Twilight said. “Where’s Owlick?”

“Uh… Recalibrating some stuff, as usual. Why does that matter?” Spike asked inquisitively, seeming intrigued by the odd question.

“Why were you in my room groping my breast?” She questioned.

“Why are you on my ship complaining?” Spike raised an eyebrow, poking her boob again.

“So just because it’s your ship give you the right to touch MY body?” Twilight questioned.

“Yes.” Spike nodded, poking her again.

Twilight slapped Spike across the face. “I mean no, of course not.” He grunted, rubbing his face.

“That’s better.” Twilight said.

“So why did you want to know where Owlick is? You two sleep together while we were gone or something?” Spike questioned.

“No.” Twilight stated.

“You sure?” He asked again.

“I’m sure.” Twilight said. He paused for a moment.

“Why not?”

Twilight put her hand on his face and pushed him out of the bed with a thud before rolling over and closing her eyes. Two fingers pulled her left eye open. “Hey.” Spike whispered.

“Go away.” Twilight groaned.

“You might need to get up.” Spike added.

“Why?” Twilight questioned. There was a loud banging on the door.

“No reason.” Spike said calmly.

“Spike.” Twilight started.

“Maybe if we ignore it, it’ll go away.” He continued.

“What is it?” Twilight asked. The banging grew more ferocious and a low hissing was heard, like a large snake.

“Shhhh…” Spike whispered.

“Spike… wh… what did you bring onto the ship?” Twilight asked in a quieter voice.

“I don’t technically think the species has been identified yet.” Spike said.

Twilight paused for a solid minute. “And… you still brought it on the ship?” She questioned.

“It wasn’t my fault, it was Bulk’s.” Spike stated.

“Why was it his fault?” Twilight questioned.

“I’ll tell you when I know.” Spike assured. The noise stopped suddenly, leaving the two in utter silence.

“Did you warn everybody else?” Twilight asked.

“Oh yeah, they know.” Spike nodded. A metal clunking was heard above them. “And it’s in the vents.”

“That’s just great.” Twilight groaned.

“Okay, serious time.” Spike stated, grabbing Twilight tightly and forcing her to look at him. “If you see it, close your eyes.”

“Why?” Twilight asked slowly.

“It’s complicated, just don’t look it in the eyes and you’ll be fine.” Spike assured, patting her head and standing up.

“Do you have a plan to recapture it and send it back?” Twilight asked.

“One step at a time.” He said slowly.

“So… we’re just supposed to accept that there’s a dangerous creature on board the ship?” Twilight questioned.

“Well I don’t think we have a choice on what is real and what isn’t, so yea-” Spike stopped when he looked up at the ceiling.

“Spike?” Twilight asked quietly. Spike didn’t move, standing locked in the position. “I… It’s in here isn’t it?” She mumbled. Moments later, Spike fell to the floor. It seemed he was paralysed, the only part of him moving were his eyes, staring and following something on the ceiling. “Spike!” She said quickly. His eyes slowly shifted, now staring directly behind Twilight. She stiffened up and quickly shut her eyes. Something coiled up her arm slowly, a soft breathing on her neck as a tongue hissed out and rubbed her cheek. She remained utterly still keeping her eyes shut as tightly as possible. The tongue hissed out of the creature’s mouth once more, tickling her eyelid gently. Her eyelid twitched but she refused to open it. She felt it releasing her arm, and its’ weight being removed from the bed. It wasn’t until she heard the metallic clinging as it slithered back into the vent. She slowly peeked open her eyes. Spike was still lying on the ground, and she saw the two were alone in the room. The door slid open and Sweetie bolted in, swinging a bat around wildly, a blindfold around her eyes.

“GET OUT OF MY SHIP!” Sweetie shouted. Spike’s eyes shifted accusingly to her, thinking ‘Your ship?’

“Sweetie it’s not in here anymore!” Twilight said quickly. Sweetie tripped over Spike’s motionless body, tumbling to the floor with a grunt as the bat slid underneath the bed. Twilight’s magic lifted the blindfold from Sweetie’s eyes and their gazes met.

“Oh hey, you’re awake.” Sweetie noticed.

“Yes. I am.” Twilight sighed. Sweetie turned to Spike, her eyes wide in fear.

“Spike?!” Sweetie grabbed Spike and started shaking him.

“He’s still alive. Just paralyzed.” Twilight said.

“Okay… Let’s get him to the bridge. Bulk should be there waiting for us.” Sweetie said, standing up and lifting Spike up with her magic. Twilight was on her feet in an instant as the two (three) of them slowly made their way out and into the hall.

“We’re probably going to need help catching this thing.” Twilight said.

“Yeah… catching.” Sweetie nodded in reluctant agreement.

“Well we wouldn’t have to if someone wouldn’t have let it onboard the ship.” Twilight said.

“It was Bulk.” Sweetie stated.

“And why did he let it onboard?” Twilight questioned.

“I’ll tell you when I know.” Sweetie shrugged. The sound of banging was heard above them.

“We need to get to the cockpit right now.” Twilight said quickly. The banging seemed to be following them as they headed down the hall. As they sped up, so did it.

Twilight’s horn started to glow. “Get ready.” She whispered to Sweetie. There was a bright violet flash and they were now inside the cockpit. Bulk was sitting in the pilot’s seat, facing out the front window. “Bulk?” Twilight questioned.

“Now before you say anything Bulk, it wasn’t my fault.” Sweetie assured quickly.

Twilight stared at the back of Bulk’s head for a moment, “Damn it.” She muttered.

“What?” Sweetie questioned.

“Bulk.” Twilight said again. Sweetie walked up to Bulk and twisted him around, the two seeing his eyes were open, but he wasn’t moving (except for his eyes).

“Oh…” Sweetie mumbled.

“Damn it all…” Twilight said quietly. Twilight noticed something strange however. Bulk and Spike’s eyes were scanning the room, seeming to be looking for something. “Sweetie…” Twilight whispered motioning the other unicorn towards what she had noticed. Sweetie however, was focused on the terminal in front of her. One of the buttons was blinking. Twilight looked at the blinking button. When Sweetie pressed it, the monitor flipped on and they were met with a live camera feed of an empty chair, a figure standing in the background, seeming busy at work on something. “Hello?” Twilight said. The figure froze for a moment before turning back. It slipped its’ hood down and rushed over. It seemed to be a zebra, female. Her eyes were scanning Spike and Bulk, a look of concern in her eyes.

“You let it out?” The zebra questioned.

“We didn’t.” Twilight said. “He did.” She motioned to Bulk. “But yes it’s out. Though what exactly is it?”

“A rare breed… I believe the term would be ‘Naga’” The zebra said.

“I’ve heard of them. My sister’s best friend used to scare me when I was a kid with stories involving them… But I don’t remember them paralysing people.” Sweetie added.

“As I said, rare. This specific naga comes from a line of Basilisks.” The zebra said. “Interesting abilities, strange hunting methods.”

“How are we supposed to stop it?” Twilight asked, “And get rid of the paralysis it causes?”

“Well, one way is to get it far enough away from the victims in order to break the psychic connection.” The zebra added.

“What psychic connection?” Sweetie asked curiously.

“Whoever looks it in the eyes forms a connection with the creature so it can see.” The zebra responded.

“That’s… very interesting.” Twilight said. “It sounds like a really effective way of hunting… except they’re paralyzed…”

“Oh, dear, it’s the perfect way to hunt. The creature is blind.” The zebra added.

“It’s… blind?” Sweetie questioned. The two of them immediately grew a burning curiosity for how this thing was following them.

“Each person it forms a link with is a new pair of eyes.” The zebra nodded. Sweetie and Twilight’s hearts skipped in sync. They both turned to Spike and Bulk, their eyes glued to the ceiling. “It only has to see itself to know that it’s close.”

“It’d be in our best interests to make sure they aren’t looking up at the ceiling then.” Twilight said.

“Why not?” Sweetie cocked her head.

“Then it won’t know if it’s close as it won’t see itself.” Twilight continued. Bulk’s eyes turned to Twilight, but Spike’s stayed locked on the ceiling. “I have a feeling we might need to do it now, rather then anytime later!”

A gentle hiss rang through the room from above.

“Sweetie… close your eyes now.” Twilight said as she snapped her eyes shut tightly. Sweetie, however, noticed something interesting. Their zebra friend was staring at something above them, but didn’t seem to be affected.

“It… doesn’t work with cameras.” Sweetie’s eyes widened as the eureka moment hit her right in the face.

“Interesting. I never knew it had yellow eyes.” The zebra remarked.

“It doesn’t?” Twilight asked quickly, seeming to share the moment. Both Bulk and Spike’s eyes snapped to Sweetie almost instantly. Sweetie shot back, more from surprise than anything. It seemed as though the creature was not happy about her discovery. A loud hissing was heard, but this time from within the room. Sweetie closed her eyes tightly, her body beginning to shake slightly. Twilight held her eyes shut even tighter and tried to remain motionless. It only took a couple steps for Twilight to realize what she was leaning against was not the wall.

“Sweetie…” Twilight started slowly.

“Uh huh?” Sweetie asked uncertainly.

“Your walls don’t have scales do they.” Twilight’s question was so absurd it even made her cringe.

“N-no…” Sweetie shook her head.

“O-oh… that’s…” Twilight murmured. What coiled around Twilight was something that caught her off guard. Instead of something long or slimey… they were two arms. Twilight squeezed her eyes shut even tighter and tried desperately not to think about the arms, though she was failing miserably.

“Well hello.” The zebra’s voice startled Twilight and Sweetie. The creature’s arms tightened around Twilight, hissing directly into her ear. Bulk and Spike’s eyes drifted to the screen, giving the zebra a menacing glare. Sweetie’s eyes slowly cracked open, seeing the two pairs of eyes no longer in her direction. Sweetie’s eyes slowly turned to Twilight, keeping them as low as possible. She saw the snake’s tail, growing larger as it lead up to the actual beast above. Or, was it a beast? Her confusion grew slightly as the scaly, grey snake half ended a ways up, leading to an upper-half of another pony. The pony had pale, white skin, but that’s all the courage she had, not going any further north.

“Sweetie…” Twilight started, fear consuming her voice. All eyes locked on Twilight. Bulk’s eyes caught Sweetie, the two eyes shooting her a look of surprise. She barely had time to close her eyes as a blur shot in her direction and grabbed her. Sweetie flinched and tilted her head downwards in a further attempt to never look the creature in its eyes.

“You don’t have to harm them, this isn’t necessary.” The zebra’s voice rang out. The creature’s tail slammed onto the screen, cracking it and making her face flicker from view. Sweetie flinched even more and tightened her eyelids further. Something started coiling around her legs and up her body to mingle with the two arms as they embraced Sweetie tightly. Sweetie tried her best to remain motionless and not to show anymore fear. The only thought that was going through her head was that she was going to die here.

“Ssss… no need to ssssay anything.” A gentle, feminine hiss whispered. Sweetie refused to move her head and just kept silent. “Come now child, open your eyes and witness… beauty.” The creature cooed gently, its’ hand sliding across Sweetie’s cheek.

“No…” Sweetie said.

“Mmm you smell just divine… how do I smell?” The creature asked. A smell wafted into both Twilight and Sweetie’s nose. It smelled like something familiar, but they couldn’t quite tell what it was. It wasn’t bad though. Sweetie just remained silent refusing to answer the question. “Oh come now… you might as well humor me, you’re not leaving this ship. So let’s… passsss the time?”

“I… I don’t know… It’s… so familiar though…” Sweetie muttered.

“And there’s the magic…” The creature continued. “My pheromones mimic what it comes in contact with. Your taste buds, your nose… It makes a pleasant sense, mixed from your own memory. Something familiar, yet distant. Easy to lure animals… and unsuspecting travelers.”

“That’s…” Sweetie started for a moment.

“Fascinating.” Twilight stated.

“I like your friend, she’s nice.” The creature added.

“Why does that matter? You’re just going to kill us and remain trapped out here.” Sweetie said.

“Oh please, if I wished to kill you… why would I not just do it?” It asked with a mock laughter.

“You’re still going to die out here.” Sweetie said.

“Oh, on the contrary. You see, we’re on course for a rather densely populated planet. It only takes one message to this ship, with no response, for them to send a… ‘rescue’ party.” It snickered gently.

Sweetie grimaced at that thought. “I’ll let you live. Think of it as a thank you. You did offer me freedom, and a nice picnic to… mm, ‘Chow down on’?” It added.

“Why would you just let us live? That doesn’t seem to make much sense…” Sweetie said.

“I’m not evil… just hungry. How do you ponies say… You scratch my back, I don’t eat yours?” It laughed.

“Yet you’re going to go to a densely populated planet… and just kill the living creatures on it. It’s not even like it’s the one you’re from!” Sweetie snapped.

“Oh don’t tell me you’re a vegetarian... as if your kind has never killed before. We do what we must to survive, nothing more, nothing less.” It corrected, a light and wet object tickled Sweetie’s nose, obviously the creature’s tongue. “And what would you have me do, go vegan?” It mused.

“Nn…” Sweetie bit down on her lip.

“Ah, now you understand.” It chuckled, it’s tone that of victory. “It was your kind that stole me from my home. Studied me, prodded me…” Her tone becoming a tad annoyed as her tail tightened around Sweetie. Sweetie whimpered quietly and quivered in the tightened grasp around her body. “I watched as my kind was hunted to extinction. And why? Fear… you know nothing about fear.” It hissed, Sweetie’s muscles aching as the constriction grew tighter. Sweetie let out a small groan and began to shake a tiny bit.

“Look at me.” It ordered, squeezing the air from Sweetie’s lungs. Her magic flared to life, only to fizzle out as the vice grew twice as strong, snapping her concentration to a haze of suffocation. Sweetie in the face of death, slowly cracked open her eyes. The moment the creature came into vision, her body grew limp. Their zebra friend was right, she had yellow eyes. That’s all that they were… no iris, just a solid yellow. But the naga wasn’t the only thing she saw. There was someone behind her. The emotion slowly drained from the creature’s face as the figure raised a device to the snake’s side and clicked it on. The sound of electricity fluctuated through the room as it tensed up. Sweetie wanted to scream, but nothing escaped the paralysed grip she was in as waves of the electricity hit her as well. It was then that she saw Twilight was on the ground, seeming to have lost the battle earlier. Everyone under its’ spell was locked up in pain, as if receiving the jolt as well. When the sound died down, the snake woman went limp, dropping Sweetie from its’ grasp. After a few moments of silence, Sweetie and Twilight felt their muscles twitch, and the will to speak return.

“Oh… thank god…” Sweetie gasped. The unfamiliar figure stared down at the two through its’ welder mask.

“Thanks…?” Twilight stammered weakly. He raised his mask, revealing Owlick beneath the gettup. He smiled and waved, making Twilight practically scream with joy.

“My head…” Spike’s voice made Sweetie’s heart flutter with happiness. Bulk seemed generally confused.

“When did you all get here?” Bulk cocked his head. He looked down at the naga and practically fell from the chair he was in.

“Bulk…” Sweetie started, looking over at him.

“Is that what we were hauling?” Bulk asked.

“Well… let’s… get it into the container and make sure it stays shut.” Sweetie mumbled. Owlick was on the ground, hugging Twilight (who clearly would have returned it if she had the strength).

“Did something happen?” Spike asked, attempting to raise his arms in a futile attempt as they fell back to the floor.

“It almost killed me…” Sweetie said, refusing to look at the naga.

“Are you okay??” Spike’s tone becoming more worried than anything.

“Now… I am…” Sweetie nodded slowly. Bulk stood up and walked over to the unconscious creature. Everyone seemed shocked at how easily he was moving. “Bulk… h-how are you moving?”

“You ever work out for too long and your muscles are killing you after?” Bulk asked, turning to everyone else. Twilight just shook her head, no surprise to anyone.

“No.” Sweetie said.

Bulk just rolled his eyes. “This is nothing.” He added, dragging the snake by its tail out of the room. Spike’s brows furrowed, looking down at his own muscles. He slowly raised his shirt up and stared at his semi-flat stomach with the rare ab muscle.

Sweetie bit back a giggle. She glanced over to Twilight, seeing her and Owlick having a bit of making up on their own. “Get a room…” Spike groaned.

“That’s… a little new.” Sweetie said.

“We talked a bit earlier, got to know each other…” Twilight said, her attention not shifting from Owlick. “I… I mean uh… I talked. Yeah, that.” Twilight’s eyes grew in what could only be described as horror. “He listened, you know.”

“Uh huh…” Sweetie nodded slowly. “What’s that look about?”

Before Twilight could utter another word, she was lifted up by the feathered mechanic and carried out of the room, leaving only two people left in the bridge. Spike had a look of sadness in his eyes, staring at the floor.

“Spike?” Sweetie questioned, looking at him. He just shook his head and continued his silent routine. “Spike.” She repeated a bit more forcefully. “We’re a crew. Why should there be any secrets between any of us anymore?”

“I fucked up, okay?” Spike looked up at her. Sweetie’s heart sank as she looked at him. The first time she has ever seen something from him like this. He was… crying.

“What… happened?” Sweetie asked quietly. Her muscles started to grow stronger as the paralysis left her body.

“It’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have accepted this mission…” His voice was shaky, cracking every other word.

“Spike…” Sweetie mumbled, slowly moving over to him.

“You could have died… I don’t know what I’d…” Spike just broke down, curling up as tears began to drip onto the floor. Sweetie wrapped her arms around him and held him as tightly as she could manage. No words could escape his mouth, only whimpers and sobs. She remained silent and just pressed even closer to him. Spike grew quiet in her arms, holding on tightly to his lover as if it was the last time he’d ever see her.

“Spike… none of us died… that’s good…”

“I know.” Spike nodded slowly.

“You can’t… dwell on what could have. If you do then what’s the point of what did?” She asked. Spike stayed quiet for a few moments.

“I have you…” He smiled gently. “And I’m still trying to find the point of why I ‘did’ you.”

“Oh, be quiet.” Sweetie laughed, hugging him tightly and laying her head down against his chest. Spike nestled himself in his favorite new bed of marshmallow fluff, licking her neck and tickling it gently. Sweetie giggled and shook slightly, “Stoooop…”

Spike pushed her onto her back as he climbed on top, continuing to tickle her and touch every inch of her body he could find, just to make sure he wouldn’t forget that she was still there.

“Noooo, knooock it oooofff!” Sweetie groaned loudly. Spike’s smile returned in full force, sliding his hands between her and the floor before nuzzling Sweetie’s chest once more. “Thank you…” She smiled, hugging him again. Spike’s eyes wandered over to something else, his entire body slumping over in what appeared to be sadness. “What’s wrong? I told you I’m fine…”

“No… it broke my screen.” Spike pointed to the front monitor.

“We can fix it… it’s not too bad of a loss.” Sweetie sighed.

“That’s not the point.” Spike stated. A light started blinking from the console below the monitors. Spike’s tail swung out and clicked a button, making a familiar voice ring out from the speakers.

“Hello?” The zebra from earlier questioned.

“You’re a dick.” Spike called out.

“I probably should have talked of the dangers it posed, and the caution you should have showed…” She said in a half-regretful tone.

“I am going to hit you.” Spike stated. He turned back to Sweetie and whispered, “I’m going to hit her.”

“I know you are Spikey.” Sweetie nodded.

“A question… how did it escape?” The voice asked.

“Well, it…” Spike started, seeming to trail off as he thought of any possible reason how it could have gotten out.

“That… is a good question…” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“Well, there are cameras on the ship. Maybe we could look at the footage and see.” Spike started, turning to the broken monitor. “Oh…”

“Wait… since when were there camera’s on the ship?” Sweetie questioned. Spike’s eyes slowly turned to Sweetie as if caught doing something… naughty.

“...security.” Spike answered slowly.

“Uh huh.” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“I’ll just uh… get Owlick to fix the monitor.” Spike added in an attempt to change the subject.

“Spike.” Sweetie stated.

“Whaaaat?” Spike whined, his tone almost childlike.

“You know what.” She said, glaring at him.

“I’m the only one who has access to it… and besides, you shouldn’t be ashamed of your body.” Spike countered, attempting to turn the blame to her.

“That’s not getting you anywhere but the dog house.” Sweetie said bluntly.

“Okay, I’ll take the camera out of the bathroom. If you get attacked in there then it’s your fault!” Spike rolled his eyes.

“Perv.” Sweetie stated. Spike simply pulled her against his body.

“But you have to promise me one thing.” He added.

“And what do I have to promise you?” She questioned.

“That we’ll take more showers together.” Spike’s sharp teeth were seen as he smiled, trying to avoid laughing at his (obviously) serious demand.

“Hm… one more condition that can happen…” Sweetie started. Spike raised an eyebrow and stared down at her patiently. “I’m going to monitor your camera… habits. To cut down on you perving on me and Twilight.”

“You AND Twilight? So you’re saying the two of you…” Spike started slowly.

“No. I’m not.” Sweetie said.

“Oh, alright. Was gonna say… how’d I miss that.” Spike scratched his head.

“What am I going to do with you…” Sweetie sighed, shaking her head. Spike looked at one of the smaller screens on the front and pulled himself to his feet. He walked over and fell into the pilot’s chair, sighing extensively.

“Padded chairs feel much better than steel floor.” Spike laughed, motioning her over to the co-pilot’s seat. Sweetie slowly got up and sat down in the chair he indicated.

“Yes… yes they are.” Sweetie nodded in agreement. Spike flipped a switch and two screens clicked on, a small one in front of each seat. They were almost like portable televisions, but seemed good enough for watching footage. “Alright… let’s see the security footage.” She said, watching the screen. A picture of the bedroom the two of them had been sleeping in popped up. Spike and Sweetie were sitting on the bed, slipping on clothing. Based on the outfits they were putting on, they remembered where they were about to go. Spike instinctively flicked another switch, switching to another camera just in time to see the two leaving the ship. This footage wasn’t too long ago, when they had said goodbye to Owlick and Twilight. Sweetie’s thoughts drifted to what they could have done all alone together… “Hmm… I wonder…” Sweetie said aloud.

“What?” Spike cocked his head to her, his mindset obviously attached to finding out about the Naga. There really only needs to be one person looking for that though…

“Uh… Nothing. Don’t worry… just look for whatever let the naga out.” Sweetie said dismissively. Sweetie’s eyes turned down to the controls, flicking random buttons. As if fate had agreed with her decision, the camera flickered for a moment and showed Twilight’s room. Her and Owlick were lying in bed together. “Oh… this is good…” Sweetie muttered under her breath. “And cute…” She smiled a little. The sound of silence was broken by a voice Sweetie had not heard previously.

“Nmm… Yes mommy…”

The two simple words shocked her. Not because of what they meant, but because of who they were uttered by.

“Oh my god.” Sweetie said loudly, her eyes widening.

“What’s wrong, did you find anything?” Spike turned to her.

“Uh… nothing about the naga… but it’s… uh something.” Sweetie said slowly. Spike’s head slowly turned back to the screen, leaving her to the interesting find. “I guess… I’ll show you later then.” She muttered. Minutes passed as she watched the two chatter. Her heart slowly started to bleed at the wrenching conversation. Tears came quickly to Sweetie’s eyes and she sniffled silently to herself. “Oh… oh my… g-god…” Sweetie mumbled quietly, trying her best to suck back her tears.

“Sweetie? What’s wrong?” Spike’s voice made her cringe almost immediately. The thought that perhaps Owlick didn’t want everyone to know took hold of her mind at the footsteps of Spike made its way closer.

“Uh… n-nothing.” Sweetie said, quickly switching to another camera. Spike stared down at her tears, his expression of panic.

“I didn’t know it bothered you that much… I’ll get Owlick to remove the cameras right away.” Spike assured quickly.

“No! No! I-It’s not the camera’s!” She said quickly. “It’s just… s-something I just remembered… It’s… u-uh nothing… nothing you need to worry about… Did, you find out what happened yet?” She wiped her tears away and looked at him.

“No… but I’m almost at the scene, so… Are you sure you’re okay? Tears aren’t okay, that is the generally the opposite of okay.” He asked, reaching over and grabbing her hand.

“I’m fine.” She said, nodding a little. Spike reluctantly nodded, pulling her to the other terminal.

“Okay, so here we go.” Spike mumbled, hitting play. The two saw the crate sitting alone in the cargo bay. Nothing was happening, only the sound of silence.

“Okay.” She said, as if expecting him to have shown her something less… boring. Something started poking from one of the air holes. It was an eerily familiar pale hand. Maybe they didn’t quite measure how thin the naga’s slender upper body was. The arm moved down, sliding around the outside of the box for something. “Oh…” She muttered quietly, watching the screen intently now. The naga’s hand slid down until it hit the lock, freezing immediately as she felt it up and down. Shortly after, the hand retreated back into the cage. Sweetie waited almost patiently for the next event to occur. The next time the hand extended from the box, it was holding something. A key… “How the hell did she get ahold of a key?” Sweetie questioned, sounding genuinely surprised.

“It’s pretty resourceful. I’m just trying to understand why it didn’t kill us.” Spike questioned, scratching his chin as he watched. Sweetie knew all too well the reason, her heart practically seizing at the mention.

“Uh…” Sweetie started. “I… um know why.”

“Hold on, look.” Spike pointed. Sweetie looked back down at the screen, the naga now in full view. It seemed to be enjoying the freedom from her prison before taking the key and… swallowing it.

“Oh that’s not good.” Sweetie said.

“That means… it still has the key.” Spike’s words trailed off slowly, turning to Sweetie. They both tensed up at the sound of the bridge door opening. When they looked, it was Bulk.

“Hey, everything’s taken care o- Why are you looking at me like that?” Bulk’s brows furrowed at the two’s panicked expression.

“We need to move the naga to another cage and fast!” Sweetie stammered.

“I just locked it up, we’re fine.” Bulk chuckled, walking over to the empty co-pilot and sitting down. Spike was already on his feet and out of the room.

“It has a key!” Sweetie said as she too jumped up and quickly followed Spike. When Sweetie and Spike hit the cargo bay, they saw the crate was where it was in the video, lock still attached. Spike approached the crate and stopped, his mind blanking almost immediately.

“Uh…” Spike started.

“What’s wrong?” Sweetie asked cautiously, her eyes darting between Spike and the box.

“Well… I don’t really have a key.” Spike admitted.

“Really.” Sweetie said blandly.

“They never gave us one, just the box…” Spike continued.

“What.” Sweetie said in disbelief. “What the fuck was wrong with them?”

“Well they probably hadn’t planned on us letting it go. That’s usually what a key is for.” Spike stated.

“I know but that begs the question, how’d they let it get a hold of a key?” Sweetie said.

“Okay, all we have to do is stay here and make sure it doesn’t reach out and unlock it, right?” Spike asked in a more hopeful manner.

“Wait… couldn’t there be some way that we could… I don’t know, block the lock? So there’s no chance of it reaching it?” She asked. Spike’s eyes darted around momentarily before beaming with a smile. He ran over to the lock and took a deep breath. A shroud of green flame surrounded the lock, but only for a moment. The keyhole melted into an unorthodox shape. It certainly wasn’t opening any time soon. Spike turned back to Sweetie, giving her two thumbs up. “Great! Now… let’s get back to the cockpit.” She smiled.

“Well I can’t really do that with your clothes on.” Spike joked, practically tackling her with his lips as he drew them to several different areas of her body.

“Stoop that!” Sweetie giggled and squirmed.

“Time to appreciate what I have.” Spike hummed with a softer, and more passionate kiss on her neck.

“Ah… right here?” Sweetie asked, letting out a soft moan.

“My ship…” He added, not even hesitating to slip a hand into her pants and grope the perfect flesh contained at the bottom of her spine.

“My… ah… body…” She interjected.

“I don’t recall giving it back.” Spike teased with a laugh.

“Uh huh.” Sweetie said almost blandly, staring at him. Spike just stared at her without another word, slowly kneading her backside in a manner as if he was trying not to get caught doing it. “You know we left the camera screens on right?” Sweetie asked, biting down on her lip.

“Yeah, and? You did say they were alright…” Spike’s brows furrowed in confusion.

“Bulk’s in the cockpit right now.” She added.

“Phh… you know what? Interest lost.” Spike groaned, twisting around and throwing his hands up in defeat.

Sweetie rolled her eyes, “Hm. Let’s just go back up to the cockpit then.” She sighed as she walked back towards the entrance of the cargo bay. Spike just sighed and followed behind her. When they entered the cockpit, they saw a planet that wasn’t there before. They could only assume it was their destination. “Great we’re here!” Sweetie said.

“You know what?” Spike said as a sudden realization struck him.

“What?” Sweetie asked.

“The zebra never even gave us her name.” Spike continued.

“Zecora.” The voice of their very relevant benefactor rang through one of the speakers in the hall. Spike shot back, eyes wide and a hand on his chest.

“Well… uh… that’s a little disconcerting… but then again why would smashing the screen have ended the transmission?” Sweetie said, still slightly startled.

“Indeed, I assume you caught it. If you did then you probably wouldn’t be here.” Zecora asked.

“Yeah… it’s locked up and it won’t be getting out again for a long time.” Sweetie said.

“And like I said, I’m going to hit you.” Spike snapped.

“I look forward to it.” Zecora laughed before the speakers clicked off.

“You know what… after everything that happened today. I’m going to go to bed early.” Sweetie sighed.

“Pay Owlick a visit and thank him for both of us, I gotta go talk with Bulk.” Spike asked, heading up to the pilot’s seat next to Bulk.

“Alright. Will do.” Sweetie said, walking back out of the cockpit. She passed by Twilight’s room (which was now Owlick’s as well), and knocked on the door. “You guys in there?” She asked through the door. The only response she received was the faint murmur of electricity from the ship itself, and the hum of it’s engines. “I… just wanted to say thank you for saving us. And… I uh… and… I wanted to say, I’m… happy that you two are together.”

There was still no response. The idea that they could be asleep seems just as likely, as it was unlikely. It was certainly too quiet for what her other assumption she had in mind for what they may be doing. She sighed and stepped away from the door, not wanting to either wake them up or disturb them further. It wasn’t until a small crash emanating from Twilight’s room that she grew slightly more curious. She re-approached the door and pressed her ear to it. There were no footsteps, no activity whatsoever. She was befuddled to say the least. She furrowed her brow and was determined to find out what was going on inside the room. She stepped back once more and her horn began to glow as she prepared to just teleport herself in there. The door slid open, as if sensing her presence out of no where. She stepped back, honestly expecting the silence to stay, but was sadly mistaken at the sight of Twilight’s unkempt room. Now THAT was truly odd. Sweetie’s horn stopped glowing and she stepped back up to the door and peeked inside. She saw a familiar male figure lying on the bed, facing away. Maybe he was sleeping? She bit her lip as she felt bad for trying to wake him up, but still… the mess inside of Twilight’s room and the lack of Twilight being there was striking her as odd. She leaned further into the room in a greater attempt to see more of the room.

The dark room grew more defined. She couldn’t tell what had happened, only that Twilight wasn’t here, and Owlick was asleep. She sighed and leaned back out of the room, slowly turning around to walk away. Her legs lead her back to the cargo area, staring at the crate. “I know you’re awake in there, being tased can only knock you out for so long.” Sweetie announced to the world. She was unfortunately greeted with silence. She let out a long sigh, “Alright…” She muttered as she turned around to walk back to her room. Then again, the thought that the naga wasn’t the most well-tempered creature when caged came to mind. Especially when beaten. Sweetie closed her eyes for a moment as she thought about what she should do next. “Mm…” She mumbled to herself. There was a small rustling from within the box, surprising her. She turned around and faced the cage. “So you are awake.” She said loudly. The rustling stopped almost immediately. “Stop pretending. I heard you in there.” She stated.

“Where’s here?” Twilight’s muffled voice rang groggily from the crate.

“Oh god.” Sweetie said, her eyes widening. “But… you were with…”

Sweetie’s voice caught in her throat as the realization hit her. She spun back around and bolted to Twilight’s room. Owlick was still in the bed right where he was when she left. She slowly walked up to the bed and shook him in an attempt to wake him up. “Owlick?” Sweetie shouted. Owlick, however, didn’t respond. She continued to shake him, but this time he rolled over. His eyes were wide open, and he wasn’t sleeping. The two familiar eyes immediately locked their gaze on her. “Oh no…” Sweetie mumbled as she stumbled back from the bed. The door to the room slid shut, followed by the click of the lock, leaving her alone in the dark, black room. Sweetie pressed herself against the wall, a slight rush of fear streaking through her body. Bulk’s voice rang over the speakers as the engines seemed to die down.

“We’re approaching the planet, should be dropping that crate off when we land.” Bulk rang through the ship.

“Bulk! Don’t land!” Sweetie shouted. Her horn lit up and she tried to teleport herself out of the bedroom.

“Sssso eager to leave?” The naga’s voice filled the dark room, snapping her concentration to pieces. Sweetie went dead silent and she tried to slink back further. “Would be a shame if… Owlick didn’t wake up.”

“You… wouldn’t dare… you’d never leave this ship alive…” Sweetie growled. It was then that she noticed the glimmer of something in the dark. Before she knew what hit her, she could no longer move. Her heart raced and fear pervaded through her body. Sweetie couldn’t help but feel that maybe this time she wasn’t going to be leaving.

“Shhh… just relax.” The voice cooed gently, approaching Sweetie finally. It lied forward, crossing it’s arms and using them as a bed for which it could rest it’s head. “I assured your safety, you simply mistook my words. He wouldn’t wake up, until I left.” She said in a mused laughter.

Sweetie felt a surge of anger rush through her, using all her strength in a futile attempt to punch the creature. “Come now, you’ve just saved an endangered species! You should feel proud.”

Sweetie’s eye twitched she felt nothing but hatred towards this creature. She felt like it should be dead, that it may be a good thing if it did die. The ship shook gently as it descended towards where they were targeted to land. The naga’s hand slid up Sweetie’s arm, humming gently. “Such smooth skin. That dragon of yours is quite the lucky pet.”

Sweetie felt an even more incredible need to attack this thing. She kept uselessly struggling against the magic it had over her but she was refusing to give up. When the ship finally halted, she heard the familiar voice of Zecora. But this time, it seemed to not be uttered through a loudspeaker of any kind. The naga simply grinned a toothy grin at the tone of the voice that previously had made her enraged. Sweetie knew full well why. Sweetie tried to struggle even harder, she wasn’t going to let the naga hurt anyone. “Oh, goodness me, where are my manners? I have forgotten to introduce myself. I am Nashandra.” The snake whispered. Sweetie, even if she could have responded, didn’t want to respond. “I have many thanks to give you… but that will come in time. Do be a dear and make sure your friend here sleeps well. He struggles a lot…”

Sweetie felt a sudden wave of exhaustion slowly start to rise up her body as whatever psychic grip Nashandra had on her started to strengthen. The rage practically frothing from Sweetie’s mouth surged forward, forcing her eyes to stay open as she lunged forward, falling out of… bed?

“AH!” Sweetie squealed, clunking onto the floor in stunned silence. She wasn’t in Twilight’s room anymore, she was in Spike’s bed. “What the hell?” Sweetie questioned aloud. Her instinct told her to panic, but her higher functions calmed her down. She stood up and cautiously walked out into the hall, seeing Spike just coming out of the cockpit. “Spike…” She started, still a little cautious and unsure of what had just happened. Spike couldn’t have been happier, rushing over to hug her.

“You’re awake! That’s great.” Spike sighed. The relief was clear as it visibly washed from his body.

“What… happened?” Sweetie asked slowly.

“Well, we found you and Owlick asleep in Twilight’s room. Twilight went to go ‘talk’ to that thing before we went out to burn the lock. Guess we couldn’t have timed that shittier.”

Sweetie’s eyes widened. “Where is it right now?” She questioned quickly.

“It’s off my ship, not my problem anymore.” Spike chuckled. “I mean, our problem.”

“Did we get it back in the cage?” Sweetie questioned.

Spike grew silent at the question, scratching his head as he searched for a way to put it.

“It escaped didn’t it.” Sweetie said quietly.

“They’re still looking for it.” Spike’s reluctance was obvious.

“It’s going to be long gone…” Sweetie said quietly, turning away.

“Well, Zecora is okay. She’s still safe, and preparing for the worst.”

“That’s good.”

“And hey…” Spike started. “Maybe it did just want to be free. Could just be me, but if I were the last of my kind and I was trapped in a cage… that’d be my first wish.” Spike shrugged.

“Yeah…” Sweetie sighed. “But still… it’s out in a heavily populated planet…”

“And there are a lot of people looking for it.” Spike continued in the same bulge of dread rising through them.

“We’re just feeding it now…” Sweetie mumbled. “It… it’s a terrible creature.”

“It’s out of our hands now, anyways. What’s the worst it could do on an entire planet full of intelligent, resourceful ponies?” Spike questioned.

“Kill and eat all of them.” Sweetie said bluntly. Spike shook his head and grabbed her shoulders.

“Relax, they’ll handle it. Now go get some rest… wait, no, don’t do that you’ve been sleeping all day.” Spike corrected himself. “Now… Bulk wanted to talk to you when you woke up, so don’t keep him waiting. Or do, doesn’t really matter.” He walked past Sweetie and started heading to the kitchen. “I’m starving.”

“I’m… not really hungry right now.” Sweetie said as she started to walk towards the cockpit. Once she reached the cockpit, she saw the smashed screen was fixed, along with Bulk at the helm. The moment she walked in he perked up.

“Hey! How’d ya sleep?” He asked, standing up as the space outside shifted to its white counterpart.

“Terribly.” Sweetie sighed. Bulk just stood there, as if not expecting her response. The two remained in awkward silence for a few moments.

“Sorry…” Bulk spoke up.

“About what?” Sweetie asked.

“We all have secrets right?” Bulk started.

“Yeah.” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“Well uhh… you remember the day I found you?” Bulk added.

“Yeah?” Sweetie questioned.

“You see, I didn’t really… find you.” Bulk continued slowly.

“Uh, huh.” Sweetie nodded slowly, still staring at him.

“I was hired to watch over you.” Bulk finished, seeming to take a step back at the admittance he was giving.

“What.” Sweetie said.

“Now, before you say anything…” Bulk said in a quick and flustered manner. Sweetie just glared at him, her eyes narrowing as she expected a straight answer from him. “I just want you to know, it was for your own good.”

“Uh huh.” Sweetie said. “Just tell me, who hired you?”

“Well… I was hired by…”