Fallout Equestria: Premonition

Chapter 2:
“Wanted”

Was this really necessary?

A poor musician had been robbed as he was on a smoke break, and it was partly my fault. Used my charm to get close to him offering him some fun. He thought he was getting a kiss from an intoxicated party mare but instead ended up getting a hoof to the side of his face. All this to take his suit, cello case and maaayybe a few bits.

Crescent Moon insisted on putting on my dress and having me wear the musician’s suit. Since me wearing the dress was deemed to be too ‘Distracting…’ and we are suppose to be ‘incognito.’ He ended up tearing up my dress so that it would fit him and I nearly fainted on the spot. After bitching him out for entirety of our walk we arrived at the train station.

It was packed, there were guards everywhere. Shit. But I had a plan.

“Honey why didn't you remember to bring that?” I irritatedly remarked with a grumbling tone, while trotting to the train doors.

“Wha-?” he gave me a puzzled look. I nicely interrupt him by dropping the cello case onto his hoof.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“Play along.” I whispered to Crescent Moon.

“Oh Ahem…” He finally understood part of the plan he adopts a more womanly tone.“Honey I was too busy trying to make sure we had everything else, I thought-” He looked into his bag.

“Well, why didn't you remember that then?” I asked, while swinging my arm at him as I entered the cart and sat down on a bench.

“Why didn’t you grab it?!” he counters in a high pitch voice.

As we sat there ‘arguing’ to each other, the ticket pony passes by desperately trying to ignore us.

“I WAS busy making the arrangements, since I am the only one that does anything here!” I interjected.

“And I WAS busy trying to get everything to make it go well for you!” he raised his voice and gained a dangerous tone.

“You forgot that but still remembered to bring the tools, REALLY?!” I pretended to be angered and picked up a newspaper acting like I was reading it.

“I was just trying to make it go better.” he whimpered. Grabbing the bag he dramatically looked out the train window.

“You mean you are going to be a better whore.” I shouted midway and then lowered my voice gaining a serious tone.

Crescent Moon pulled down the newspaper and stared at me with a pitiful look.

“We needed the money.” he whimpered.

“Do you remember where I found you? On that back alley with the reputation of being the cheapest whore. It was only thanks to me that you got out of there and you better be thankful!”

“THAT'S WHY I MARRIED YOU!!” he screamed back and stood up on the table to meet my height.

I stifled a laugh.

We were now muzzle to muzzle screaming at each other. My ‘anger’ was driven by the utter aggravation I had for Crescent. He had ruined my life, my only chance to have become a royal guard but worst of all he destroyed my dress.

“AND THEN YOU WENT AND ESCORTED MY BROTHER!” I shouted back.

On that note the last pony took her filly and started rushing her out of the train cart.

“HE WAS BETTER THAN YOU!” he shouted.

The second door of the cart closed leaving us two on our own. After a brief moment of silence, both of us burst out laughing.

“Well that was fun. So what’s next?” I asked eagerly.

Smiling, Crescent looked out the window, “We’re going to my home. Before you ask no, no one knows about it.”

“You still haven't told me where we’re going.”

“The Flame Geyser Swamp.” he whispered.

“When are we getting off then?” I asked in anticipation.

Getting up, Crescent walks to the end of the cart to take a glance at the map. “Ponyville. We need to get off as soon as we can before they figure out we’re not in Canterlot anymore.” he responded. He walked back the looked again out the window.

“We will be there soon. After we get out of town we don't need to be in disguise anymore. One thing though, avoid a pink pony like she is the plague.”

“Why?”

“She will see right through our disguise. So, when we get to Ponyville move towards the Everfree as fast as you can without attracting too much attention.”

The train starts to slow down as it approaches the destination.

“Ready Silver?” he asked.

I picked up the cello case as Crescent grabbed the medical bag. The train stopped as it arrived to Ponyville as the sun started to set on the horizon.

We moved south through town and thankfully we only ran into one pony I knew but she didn't recognize me. There was something moving around a cottage on the side of the Everfree. Crescent was spooked and we immediately changed directions taking a little detour but we got out with no more trouble.

After we got out of town and we lost our disguises my pounding heart started to wind down. My poor dress was too destroyed and torn to be salvaged from what Crescent did to it. I made him promise he would buy me a new one after we get out of this mess.

We followed the edge of the everfree and keep quiet, just in case a monster happened to be nearby. As we made way into the swamp the temperature started to rise it felt like I willingly had walked into an oven. “How much longer?” I whined.

“We are nearby, stay close Silver and follow behind. I know the safest path that won't get you set on fire.” Crescent Moon led the way.

The water was on fire and the whole area had a smoky fog that felt like it was going to choke me out at any minute. The trees were warped and twisted and I had to wonder how in the hay they didn't burn? Even the dirt here felt like it wanted to burst into flames at any second and kill me. Is this really the best place for a house good sir? As we walked by the lakes of fire my hair started to stand on edge. A quick glance around told me why.

A pair of eyes could be seen glowing and watching me from behind the smoke and trees.

“Hey something's out there!” I frantically pointed at the figure.

“Don't get off the path and that's a chimera it won't attack you if you're with me. It knows better.” He glanced at it and quickened his pace.

Why does that not make me any feel better? A more concentrated mist could be seen in the distance but I could still feel those eyes watching us. As I walked through the mist a tingling sensation followed my muzzle to the end of my tail. Glancing back the air seemed to have a light shimmer. Is that a barrier? He lives in a flame swamp with chimera ready to eat us at any second. Nope still would not build a house out here, even if there is a barrier.

I could see a building distance. How in the hay did he managed that?

As we approached, I took noticed of the weirdly crafted building. The reddish brown tiled roof came up in curves and the entire thing had a foreign feel to it ‘Hmm’ zebra possibly. It’s also made of wood...in a swamp of fire.

…

Watching some fire lick the side of the building I had to ask, “How does this place not burn down?”

“My friend Ssssss-” he stopped and glanced at me “-Sssspoky made it fireproof. I can't wait to introduce you to everyone here, they are going to love you.” he said with a big stupid grin.

This is his house?! This is a bit much even for me.

Walking up to the door he slides the door open.

“Everyone I'm home!” he yelled as he walks in.

A sign ‘A Turn of Tails’ hangs above the doorway. What is this? Is this suppose to be a hotel and if it is what kind of name is that? I rubbed my head.

“Damn it!” was all that was heard from inside so I entered his 'home'.

There is a large bar with tables and chairs that seen better days. A few had been knocked over and one or two of them were broken. The floor was a complete mess and there was some broken glass on the floor.

I felt the cool air in the hotel but where it came from was a good question. Thankfully, the fire outside kept this place well lit at least and not in a totally creepy way. The back wall had rows of bottles some were alcohol others I couldn’t even pronounce. To the left, there were wanted posters all over, like a terrible wallpaper collage around the door. The right wall had a large hoof drawn portrait of nightmare moon laying on a couch with her hoof outreached becomingly.

At the bar table Crescent stood there reading a letter.

“Sorry Silver they all left.” he pouted and put the letter back down.

“What did you expect you became too hot?” a powerful, royal voice spoke from the corner of the room. Hidden under a black cloak the unicorn turned a page of his book 'Equestrian history volume III'.

Who is that and why do I have the urge to want to get to know him better.

“Hi, I'm Silver.” I walked over and reached out my hoof in a hopeful greeting.

“Spooky. Nice to meet you.” The shady unicorn reached over with a gray hoof from underneath his cloak and shook my hoof gently. Yaaa he shook my hoof! It feels so strong and powerful hehe.

Crescent coughed.

“Silver why don't you go and choose a room while I talk to Spooky about what happened.”

What he thinks I'm a kid? Grrr.

Stepping around the counter Crescent starts to make a strange drink.

“No! I don't want to. I want to stay here and talk.” I grumbled.Pulling up a chair I stubbornly sat down, no one here is going to tell me what to do.

“If I make you a drink will you pleeeease go choose a room?” Crescent asks begrudgingly. He pulled several bottles down the shelving and glared at me.

“That- and you have to pay me.” I said while sticking out my hoof.

Spooky pulls up a chair at the bar and sit down next to me.

Crescent moon just laughed at my request and now I just wanted to slam his skull in.

“Silver, even if I did pay you where would you spend it? Where would you go with it? As payment you can stay here and get free room and board as long as you like.” Crescent responded and an annoying bucking smirk appeared on his face.

I'm getting jipped so badly and he can go to tartarus.

“That includes drinks so give me one you ass.” I grumbled and slammed my hoof down on the counter. Slamming down on the table gave me a nice reminder that my bandaged hoof was still injured. Shit gotta stop doing that!

Crescent Moon made me a fruity drink that had a bit of a kick. Good he wasn't jipping me on drinks or at least it wasn’t watered down and tasted pretty decent. Geeze, I only just finished my drink and he is shooing me away. I guess I’m going to inspect this place there is nothing else to do here.

Getting up, I headed by the door of wanted posters. I walked through the door and past a hallway that had a set of bathrooms on the left and two sets of stairs to the right. One went up and the other had lead to a door to the basement. Heading upstairs and inspecting the rooms, I was not impressed. The room for what I saw only consisted of a bed, a dresser and a closet and that's about it. This reminds me of a cheap motel. And I’m suppose to live here for Celestia knows how long. Ugh. I continued heading up the second and third set of stairs. Sounds could be heard from one of the rooms on the third floor.

I thought everyone left? Who is still here?

*Knock, knock, knock*

As I knocked on the door the sound subsided immediately. After a little rummaging the door opened and a white changeling stepped out.

The white changeling had ice blue eyes that felt like they could convince me of anything he wanted. The changeling’s mane and tail was short and nicely layered down.

Also...SHIT A CHANGELING!!!

Immediately backing away I reared up for a fight.

“Um how may I help you mam?” the changeling spoke with a gloomy expression as he closed the door behind him.

He didn't want to eat me? What the hell? This is a new one.

“I’m sorry, I must have startled you.” His body was suddenly covered in snow clouds from hooves to horn and next thing I knew, I was looking at a white male unicorn.

“Is this better?” he asked indifferently.

“Sure...erm I thought everybody had left.” I spoke with an uneasy tone.

The door behind the now white unicorn opened and a velvet pegasus mare poked her head out.

“Who is it?” she asked, with a voice barely above a whisper.

“I’m Silver, nice to meet you.” Sticking out my hoof for a greeting seemed to lower the tension level.

“My name is Frost and this is my wife Shears”

They both shook my hoof.

“I’m trying to choose a room, do you guys know where ‘Spookies’ and Crescent’s room are so I don't pick them?” I asked.

Looking around it seemed that they are the only other people on this floor.

“Its nice to meet you Silver. Spooky has the top floor to himself, as Crescent has the basement.” He gestured with his hoof as he talked.

“Thanks for the info. I'm off to go choose a room it was nice to meet you.” I nervously responded and walked away.

Crescent Moon gets a whole floor to himself? I need to see this. Also, that's kind of cool to meet a non-evil changeling. Would have wanted to talk more but felt bad for barging in on them.

On the basement, there are five doors in the hall one at the end, two on each side. The walls and floor were cobblestone and it is a little darker than upstairs.

“Hmm I pick this one!”

I walked to the end of the hall and opened the door. There is a pitch black tunnel heading downwards. An 'Under construction' a sign is the only thing visible. What is down there?

A cold breeze passes by sending shivers down her spine.‘ NOPE not that curious. I shut the door close.

Let’s go to the door on the left.

Opening the door I see what looked like a study. There are plenty of books stacked high upon multiple bookshelves lining the walls and on the center there is a grand alchemy table with zebra writing on top of it. Sadly, mom taught me to speak but not write the Zebra. There are potions strewn across the table but I wasn't going to test my luck.

Leaving the room I proceeded to the next room on the left side. This metal door is locked and doesn’t seem to have a keyhole.

Guess that’s it for this side, now to check up on the other side. Opening the first door revealed a bathroom with walls and a ceiling that reminded Silver of the night’s sky. The floor is covered in green tiles which give out an earthy feeling. I've decided this needs to be my bathroom. I don’t think Crescent will mind if I test it out.

A few minutes later and a bit of trial and I am laying in a large bathtub filled with water that she deemed to be at the most perfect temperature. As I laid down in the bath, my hoof strikes something unfamiliar next to the tub. Opening my eyes I viewed a strange metal orb that is a little bigger than her hoof. Picking it up, strange glyphs appeared to light up and reveal themselves.

“Ooh what do you do?” I said to myself while inspecting the orb. Oops! The orb falls into the bathtub filled with water. When it comes in contact with the water it caused the orb to emanate steady pulses. The vibrations makes the water feel like it is alive gently massaging Silver’s body.

This is so mine.

After leaving the bathroom revitalized, I checked the last room, Crescent Moon’s bedroom. The floor is covered by bamboo and white oak walls. Besides the dresser like all the other rooms, there is a spear stand on the left wall, a map of the world covering the northern wall and a solitary mattress in the center of the room.

He has more space than any of the other bedrooms and he has only this?! What a waste of space. Guess I'll actually go look for my room now.

I left the room and heard footsteps coming down.

“Hey Silver is everything alright?” Crescent moon says as he walked down the stairs.

“Can I go in there?” I said and pointed to the locked door.

“Shuure but don’t touch anything” he responded.

Crescent walked to the door and poked the knob. The door opened with a little pop.

Looking around the room just made my head hurt. There were blueprints and strange objects all over the rows of tables with labels, and notes on those labels. The stone walls are covered in shelving with even more stranger objects on it.

Pacing around, many of objects have a red warning label.

Hay here's one that doesn't have a warning.

I pulled up a stool and sat down next to what looked like some sort of work bench. Picking up a manual I started reading about this 'bullet press'. Using the hoof operated machine requires a little strength but it makes these things called 'bullets'. After I followed the directions and found the parts I hastily got to work. Unfortunately, these things called bullets were for a rifle that had a warning label on it.

Looking at the rifle I couldn't tell what was dangerous about it. Nothing was in the tube when I looked in it and it wasn’t sharp mm oh well, let's read why.

I picked up the manual placed next to the item and started reading it.

“Hay Silver are you still alive in there?” Crescent said while peering into the room.

He entered the room swerling a orange/ purple drink in his hoof which seem to make my nose tingle with a pleasant scent.

“Can I try this out?” I ask while pointing at the rifle.

Crescent took a sip of his drink.

“Read the manual first and be careful” he responded.

Reaching over I snagged his drink and gave a sniff. Mmm this smells great.

“Hey! give it back!!” he held his hoof out.

My hoof still hurts I need this, so fuck him.

“Don’t drink that!” he demanded. Was he trying to command me?

Taking the glass in both hooves I swallowed it all in one go.

* * *

What did I do?

Waking up in his room was alarming but he wasn't in the bed with me but on the floor mat beside the bed. How did a bed get into his room and why do I only smell of booze ugh. Guess it’s time for a bath.

I walked to the grand bathroom.

What the tartarus was he drinking that knocked me off my ass?

Starting up the bath I leaned my head against the tub. I remember getting help from .. fromm .. crap, the white changeling to get the bed downstairs. Next, I think he gave me the rifle after and I shot it outside. Pretty sure I was good with it too. Why is this so damn hazy.

Turning off the water my eyes fell on the metal ball besides the tub. Grabbing the ball, I immediately dropped it when feeling some familiar residue covering it…oh.

I then examined my wounds which seemed to have healed a bit.

I remember getting into a argument with him about rightfully wanting to have the biggest and the more lucrative room in his three star hotel because I deserve it; even if it meant it was his room. I might have also kissed him but that could be us yelling in each other's faces; it's so hazy. Well at least I just fell asleep in his bed. Far from the worst time I have woken up in somepony else’s bed.

Great, the only thing I got paid was to live here. Wait there was something about a cruise. I think he promised a cruise but can't remember to where. Aren’t we supposed to be hiding? Guess it's time to wake up his sleeping ass and try to piece it all together.

I finished up my bath and took the massager with me, no one else can use it.

Heading back to the room Crescent had woken up and was brushing his mane, “Morning Silver.”

“The bathroom is mine.” I announced while entering.

“No.” he remarked without looking back.

Wait the beds gone! “Wait where did the bed go?”

“I had Frost move it back while you bathed.”

The only thing that was left was his stupid mattress on the floor.

“I don't get it, you live in the biggest room and own the entire building and yet you sleep on a matress on the floor. It probably smells and If you don’t get a proper bed I’m going to set it on fire.” Slowly I approached the mat with a menacing look.

“Don’t you dare!” he exclaimed as he placed himself between me and the mat fixing me with a glare.

“I won't, as long as that bathroom is mine.”

“Silver! Out of my room!” he pointed for me to leave.

“I don't want to use the commoner’s bathroom. I deserve the best that you can offer.” I puffed up my chest and stood a little higher to emphasise my ‘superiority’.

His jaw dropped wide, “Ooooh I’m so sorry your majesty, I wasn't aware of your arrival. I shall go tell everyone that we have a queen in our midst and we must treat you as such.” he spoke with a sarcastic tone while over exaggerating his movements.

“Fine whatever, how are the other bathrooms then.” I asked with a bitter tone. My head was pounding a bit from last night and I was in no mood to argue with him today.

He briefly explained, how they are one male and female shower stalls on each floor and three toilets?! Why so many toilets and only one shower. Whomever designed this needs to be fired.

“Thought this is suppose to be a hotel it's setup like a very shoddily constructed dorm. Even prisons have more showers than this place” pouting I sat down.

“Whats a dorm?” he had a perplex look on his face.

“That's right I forgot you’re not educated.” I smirked.

That seem to hit a nerve as he grabbed his pillow and threw it at me.

“OUT!!” he screamed.

The pillow smacked my face then fell onto my hoof.

“Dibs.” with those words I took off up the stairs, pillow in mouth. Crescent yelled in protest and chased after me. I entered the bar where the white changeling was at the bar tidying up the place. I placed the pillow on my head and leaned against the counter.

“Morning Snow.” I greeted the changeling while Crescent furiously attempts to remove the pillow of my head and failing miserably due to his short stature.

With a hint of irritation the changeling corrected, “It’s Frost and good morning.”

Spooky entered the bar and sits down. On cue, Frost makes a cup of coffee and places it on the counter.

‘Yaaah free coffee’ picking up the coffee I happily sipped it immediately receiving a glare from Spooky.

“Haven’t even been here more than a day and you're already stealing people's drinks.” Crescent Moon stated as he sipped some on some tea, giving up on taking back his pillow for now.

“I thought it was for me. Sorry.” I gave Spooky a crooked smile.

“It's fine.” Spooky grumbled as he got another cup from Frost.

“So Crescent Moon about that cruise.”

I prayed we were going somewhere nice, I need a good vacation after all this mess.

“We are going to help the wonderbolts.” he answered whilst shifting through the newspaper.

What?! no no no. I knew this was too good to be true.

“Why are we going to help the ponies who are trying to catch us?” I nearly tipped over my coffee when leaning towards Crescent.

“It will help equestria in the coming war and hopefully slow down the end of the world.” he responded then turned a page.

“If the world is going to end then why don't we try to find a way to survive it? Why don't you use your weird thing that makes your eye all bloody?”

“It’s not that easy Silver!” Slamming the paper down he marched down to the basement.

Sweet Celestia he really takes things too seriously.

“Crap wait, I need the key for my room.” I spoke to myself aloud.

Spooky leaned over and said “If you go upstairs and choose a room. Write the number and I will get the key later.”

Spooky was a nice pony unlike the others, well to me anyways. I know that I’m a bit of a snob but weirdly enough it doesn’t seem to phase him.

Shears entered the room, “Hi Silver!”

The velvet mare with brown mane dropped off grocery bags on the bar. Frost starts putting away the groceries and moves the newspaper from the counter.

Hold on how did we get that newspaper!?!

“Does the paper get delivered here Frosty?” I asked concerned.

“Frost, and no I got it this morning after going into town.” he answered while giving me a flat look.

That is a bit of a walk.

Grabbing the newspaper, I found a small column on the fifth page to watch out for the escaped crazy pony, Crescent Moon. I shift through the article to see if there is any mention of me.

A mentally unstable patient is being hunted down after escaping the confines of Canterlot Memorial Hospital’s psych ward division. The patient formally known as Crescent Moon, was being held in isolation for an attempted assassination of a royal official and is deemed to be very dangerous and should not be approached. He was last seen leaving the hospital with the aid of an associate. If anyone has any information, please report to the nearest guard.

Really that’s all?! There seems to be no mention of our daring escape or at the very least, of me.

After a while, Crescent Moon comes back up with a mountain of papers on his back with ink and a quill in his mouth.

“What?” he mumbled.

“What do we have to eat here?”

“I’ll get it.” Frost announced.

I protested a little but Frost promptly strolled off to the kitchen with Shears.

Sitting down Crescent Moon started writing letters while I waited for Frost to come back.

“Sooo why exactly are we helping the wonderbolts?”

If we were going to do something so stupid I needed to know why.

Without batting an eye, “The wonderbolts are our best defense in Equestria, if we don't get involved we will lose them before the war even starts.”

“That isn’t an answer. Why are WE helping them?” I asked.

“Silver are you really asking me this?” He put his quill down and looks up at me.

“Yes! I just had my life ruined by you and some changeling pretending to be me. Now equestria is hunting us down maybe even kill us and now you want to help them!” I couldn't help but get extremely agitated.

“Silver we are the only ones that know. No other pony can see the future as far as I can but it has reached a point where I can't do this alone. I am offering you a chance to not be trapped at my hotel while they look for you.” As he explained his reasoning to me, a little desperation slipped into his voice.

“I understand now you want me to show equestria that they have the evil Silver and that the good me is helping you save ponies.”

“No we will not hit the papers Silver that's why we are going in a disguise.”

“WHAT!?! Then why?”

“When the war comes do you want to be fucked up the ass by zebras because you didn't want to help save the wonderbolts.” He just glared at me and went back to work.

“There is not really anything I can do right now so I guess I can help.” Slowly I walked over and started helping him. After much pestering he eventually told me the vision.

“I was being held hostage in the ship’s hold, the crew were all tied up and the room smelled like crap. They were all ponies except one zebra. Zebras captured the ship and were keeping us hostage for some reason. I couldn't get out of my chains and heard some fighting above. The scene fades out and what came up next was just an image of a newspaper. Most of it was blurry, but the title was clear 'Wonderbolts Killed In Attempt To Rescue Crew That Have Been Held For Two weeks!”

We spent a week mailing letters to ponies and asking them for information regarding shipping vessels. Crescent Moon’s or ‘Mr.B’ connections now seemed to be pretty useful. In a span of a week we acquired a compendium of shipping sea charts as well as some crewmates bios. It was so boring trying to sort through all the paperwork and was about to give up until something caught my eye in the newspaper. While reading the paper I glanced over the economy section just to see coal prices went up. The zebras have increased the price for coal in trading for gems. What if it was a heist for gems. After searching through all the upcoming plans for gem shipments to the zebra lands only one vessel matched. The Celestial Destiny is going to bring a shipment of gems in three days.

Crescent Moon spent the first day making ‘preparations’.

“How we going to get on that ship when you are a wanted pony?” I pouted.

“What are you talking about? We will be in disguise.” He smiled as he started to pack up all the papers away in a folder.

“From now on you will be a silver coat mare with a sky blue mane pegassi named Salty Seas.”

He finished his breakfast and Frost took his plate.

“No .. don't you dare bleach me! My stripes gives me character and my mane has not been corrupted by any harsh chemicals my entire life.” I whimpered in protest to his idea.

“You have to do it, you are as noticeable as I am. Trust me, I'm dyeing my hair completely black and browning my coat.” he sighed and picked up the folder.

“No I won't do it! You will have to strap me down.” I won't let him make me ugly!

He paused and looked back at me.

“Fine, pack your things tonight and we will leave tomorrow. But if you do this for me I’ll let you use my bath from now on.”

That sold me. Jerk knew how much I wanted that bathroom.

Following him downstairs the dye was already in the bathroom. He trotted back to his bedroom while I tried to figure this out. Are there any instructions on this thing, nope but hay there was a filly sticker on it so guess it is ‘Filly Safe’. Really no bleaching needed to get such a light blue? Hmm I did read up once how to dye hair let's see how much I can remember.

I walked over to the bathtub.

First you have to be in a tub since the dye can stain everything. Next you pour a bit into your mane and tail. You work it into it with your hooves. Now why is it clumping up? No crap stop that. Shit my hooves are all blue. Ok Silver you got this just rinse it off with some water.

Silver turns on the faucet leaving a blue hoof print on everything she is touching and places her hoof under the running water.

This is not working that did nothing but make it worse. This is a colorful nightmare. “Crescent Moon I need help!”

He trotted in from the other room already in his disguise. How the hell did the dye his entire body already.

“What's the matter Silver?” The second he looked at me he burst out laughing. “How did you manage that?”

“I have never done this before.” I pouted as I sat in the tub with my mane and tail all bunched up, half my coat blue as were my hooves.

“It's okay Silver, I'll help.” trotting over he grabbed a comb and a third bottle I hadn't seen earlier and got to work fixing my mess. The clear stuff made the dye come right out of my coat and off my hooves. Then he started combing my mane til’ the color evened out. While he did that I found another comb and started dying my stripes away. I will miss you stripes.

“Hey um Silver I need you to do your tail.” He held the now blue comb out for me.

“How do you expect me to do that. No, you do it.”

“With a little flexibility, and please just do that part yourself.”

“I can't see that well, I need your help and maybe even getting the black stripes on my rump.” Hehe wow look how red he is getting not even the dye can hide that.

“Um, no I really shouldn't you should try your best and-”

“And do a shitty job and ruin the disguise then we get caught.”

I turned around and put my back to him while having the biggest smirk.

After a second I felt him carefully comb my tail. When he got towards the base of my tail he paused. “Silver are you sure you can't-”

“Yes I need help.” I swished my tail and hit him in the face.

He was so slow on working with the base of my tail.

“So how did you do the base of your tail?”

“Carefully and with a mirror.”

Oop he is doing the underside of my tail now.

“Hurry up you have to do my back too.”

Silver wiggled her rump at him.

“NOPE I'm done do the rest yourself, I'm out!” Slamming the comb down he ran out of the room.

Hehe It’s too much fun messing with him.

When we were done I looked like a different mare. I kept my hair out of a braid for once and it was annoying. Finding Crescent Moon in his room fixing his brown dyed coat, he seemed to have calmed down.

“See not so bad Salty. Now we can leave today.” he started to pack up.

After pestering him some more I went and packed some clothes we had gotten earlier this week. Soon we were ready to go. Now I was on another adventure to try to save the wonderbolts...yaaay me.

As we left the hotel I remembered how hot it is out here.

“Eww it’s so gross out here- wait what was my name again?”

“Salty Seas and I'm Casting Monsoon.”

“Just curious is this dye flammable cus I don’t want to burst into flames.” I cautiously kept my distance from the fire.

“No, it should be all fine. Trust me I made it.” he had smug look on his face.

That liar he said it was filly safe, it even had a picture of a filly on it jerk!

“Why do you have stickers of cartoonish fillies.”

“Reasons.” he answers.

I have a feeling he is trying to avoid my question.

“Wut where you not loved as a child?” Couldn't help but snicker at my passive aggressive bad attempt at a joke.

“Shut up Silver!”

It was fun to poke at him I couldn't help it.

“And now we're back to the shut up Silvers. All I'm doing is trying to get the truth out of you.”

“Well, no one ever likes the truth. And now we're trying to stop the truth from happening. Fuck the truth!”

“So you hate the truth and you're going to stop it? I’m soo confused.”

I had to speed up to keep up with him.

“Yes I am going to stop the truth because it hasn't happened yet. The question is, is the truth the truth or is it a lie and the lie is the truth?”

What the hay is he going on about?

“What are you saying? Are you trying to sell me something?”

“Nope, I'm just trying to distract you from the chimera.”

He hooved to our left and looking over and got a nice reminder that ponies could be food for something. All three pairs of eyes could be seen looking at me through the smoke.

How close was it for me to see all of its eyes?! ‘Shivers’

“Why does it seem to avoid us while we're on the path?”

“Most people bring things to fend it off like a chair, a charmers recorder and goat cheese. But-” He watched it as we walked.

“Hold on goat cheese how will that help?” I interrupted.

He glanced back sighed and explained “One of the heads is a goat. If you feed it cheese it will get distracted and not eat you.”

That doesn't sound right.

“Are you sure you're not being racist? I'm not sure goats like goat cheese.” He didn't even give me an exasperated sigh he just looked disturbed.

“No I'm not being racist. It's like how some mares and stallions like drinking mare milk. Not against those pony’s freedom and everything but it is a little weird. Maybe they weren't loved as a child but hey that's their way of coping it.” That was not the answer I expected .. or wanted. That abruptly ended all talks for now.

Silently, we walk out of the bog and into Ponyville. He was on edge again glancing back and forth every so often. At the train station we got tickets to Baltimare and found a bench to sit in.

“So Salty did you memorize the names of all the crew members?” he asked.

“Why would I do that?”

“So you could identify them easily. Make small talk about similar interests, you know stuff like that so we could be buddy buddy with them.”

“No matter what something is going to happen and you are going to fuck this up one way or another.”

“Shut up Silver.” he grumbled.

“Hi Silver!” a pink squeaky mare sat down besides me and waved.

Did she just call me Silver?! Who is she? Why does she know who I am? Is my disguise failing this early?

“AAAAaaaaAAAAAAAaaA shhhh!!” waving my hooves around eventually landed on her muzzle. “Who are you and how do you know who i am?” when I calmed down my hooves came off her muzzle.

Instantly she responded, “Hi I’m Pinky and I knew who you are because I am Pinky and I knooooow everypony.” Now she is shaking my hoof vigorously. “I didn't know you lived nearby.”

Crescent face-hooved, “For the love of the Goddess stop talking to Pinky please!”

I shifted so my back was to him and kept on talking to pinkie.

“So how are you Pinky?”

She stretched her head past me to him “Is that Crescent Moon?”

First: sweet Celestia she should see a doctor about that neck of hers! Second: shit she recognized him!

“Don't tell anyone he is hiding.” I warned Pinky.

Pinkie tilted her head “He wanted?”

“Pinkie, he is wanted but are on a super sneaky mission so no one can know.”

She gasped and a strange hat and a pipe appeared on her from thin-air. “A super secret mission ooOOOooo. Have fun. Don't get hurt. Be safe!- Wait didn't he just break out of a hospital?”

“I won't, I will be safe but i can't promise this., and yes but that's why it is a secret.”

Wow I’m having trouble keeping up with her to answer, she talks way too fast. Oh great she even knows about the hospital.

Without looking he demands “Pinky! Pinkie Pie promise me that you will tell no one you saw us please!”

She gets on her back hooves and dose a strange motions while she speaks.“Cross my heart hope to fly stick a cupcake in my eye; I will tell no one I saw Silver and Blgfjallsdlv .. Bjgnweufn ... Bjfnewuffeqwf ... Moon.” Every time she tried to say that word it came out as gibberish.

What the hell was she trying to say. Curiosity got the better of me.

“What's bfeuiwfj-?”

Crescent cut me off, “So Pinky did you hurt yourself trying to say it?” he asked with a hint of concern.

“My wips awe wum Blgwrglke.” she whimpered.

“Hay what is Bfuehfveqf Crecent?”

Whatever it was it seemed to have bother him greatly.

“Shut up Silver!” he growled.

Me and pinky sat there trying to say whatever Bveovheouvhqe was supposed to be and he only made it more enjoyable by complaining for us to stop. Then he started begging and finally started demanding us to stop.

“Thank the Goddess.” Crescent Moon said when the train arrived.

Wonder to who this goddess he believes in?

He rushed onto the train the second we were allowed to board. I waved bye to Pinky and walked onto the train. Deciding not to drive all the other people out of the cart we sat down and the jerk took the window seat. I wanted the window seat! Sitting down grumpily he nudged me.

“What?!” I responded with a growl.

Looking down the hall I could see the ticket collector walking down the aisle. He didn't answer but when looking over I got my answer. His eyes were bleeding and he was in one of his visions. GREAT TIME ASSHOLE! Shit! I turned his head to the window and put one of his shirts on his face. Then quickly leaned him against the window so it looked like he was resting. He was kind of like a puppet when he enters his vision it's actually quite fun putting him in different positions while he is in it. Poking his eyes too but not the time for that now. His timing is terrible!

Finally I grabbed the tickets and got ready.

The ticket stallion walked up, “Tickets please.”

Nodding, I hoofed over our tickets. He took them and then gave them back after examining them, glancing at Crescent Moon he frowned.

“Is he ok?” he gestured with a hoof.

“He is feeling a bit out of the weather but shouldn't be a problem.” Glancing at him the blood luckily wasn't visible.

“Well I hope your husband gets better mam, also if you don't mind the guard behind me will do his thing.” The stallion continued on.

A guard walked up to us and shined a strange flashlight.

“Sorry mam we had a changeling get into Canterlot so we're taking extra care so it doesn't happen again. Thank you for your time.”

“What is that?” I stopped him before he left and gestured to the flashlight.

He politely answered, “The light shows the coating magic changelings use in order to look like us. We had a changeling get into Canterlot recently but don't worry we will keep you safe.”

With a smile and a nod he left.

Now while he isn't moving might as well look at what he brought. What's in you great bag of tricks. Some clothes, juice, and some snacks my snacks now hehe. “Thanks.” Mmm good crackers and hey he forgot his spear. Great that's probably how he gets caught. After messing around in his stuff for a bit he jumped up nearly hitting my head with his hoof.

“Welcome back!”

Leaning back he breathed deeply then looked around quickly. As he relaxed a little he spotted his open bag and looked through it.

“Why are half my crackers gone?”

He looked at the crumbs following the bag to my mouth.

“Sowwy I ate it.”

He pouted at me, “But you didn’t you eat breakfast at the house?”

“Don't remember eating breakfast I just remember you rushing us out on a hurry to get to the train station.”

“But you ate?”

“It's my tax for saving you-” ha argue that “-and they are looking for a changeling.”

“They're looking for the other you probably... buck I forgot my spear, that sucks!” he grumbled and zips his bag back up.

“Can’t you just make one with a knife and stick when we get there. If we get there unprepared don't blame me when you get captured.”

Stupid stallion rushed me off this morning and still he forgot his spear. Whatever we have bigger stuff to worry about now.

“How are they going to get on the ship? Are they going to fly in, swim overboard, take another ship or they hiding among the ship.” There are too many possibilities.

“Don't worry Silver I'll search the ship when we get there.” With a smile he gave me a friendly nudge.

“Got a spell to find them?” I had to ask as he always seems to have a spell for everything.

“Nope!”

“If you not being a unicorn can cast magic does that mean I could?”

What did I have to open my mouth and ask him that? He started to go off on about magic and how each one of us has magic. Apparently, we all have magic depending on our race so my magic helps me fly and his lets him touch the magic veins in everything. At least his really long and very boring explanation of magic helped the time pass. But more of his crackers were to be mine. Hoping he was distracted with his lecturing I reached with my hoof went for his crackers.

“No, bad polly no more crackers.” He swatted at my hoof but not before I grabbed the crackers and ate another one.

“Really? you still hungry?” he asked and shook his head.

It’s midday you idiot I'll eat my meal happily.

“Silver that's going to go straight to your ass.”

“I know my ass is plenty fine isn't it-” I couldn't help myself. “-My mom told me I have healthy baby bearing hips.” I couldn't help wiggling my ass at him.

He raised a hoof, “Well my mom told me-”

“What? you had a perfect pony bearing pen-”

He pulled a filly sticker out of his bag and put it on my mouth in a flash.

“Bad Silver! there are fillies near! I censor you!” He pointed at them.

“Itchy you jerk.”

Taking the sticker off was harder than one could imagine. Everytime I tried to take it off, the sticker would stick somewhere else. Stupid sticker! Eventually, the sticker finally stopped being sticky and fell to my hoof. “Aa it's no good any more.” Taking the sticker I let it out the window. The filly sticker looked like it was waving as it flew through the air.

Crescent was waving back to it, “Bye little filly sticker.” He sat back down and looked at me.

“So Salty you having fun in your new life?”

Really that was his question. Actually not that bad yet “Too much of you and not enough of freedom.” Ha take that for the annoying sticker.

“Buck-” I happily interrupted him with a hoof to the face.

“Censored you”

He sat there rubbing his muzzle. The intercom nicely told us we had twenty more minutes till we arrived in Baltimare.

“Hay twenty more minutes yaaay” He couldn't sound more sarcastic at least I got a smile from him finally. “At least my six wives will appreciate me!”

WHAT!?! no wait he is smirking not smiling the liar he. Plus he doesn't even live in the zebra lands. “You don't even have a special mare nevermind a wife.” There is no way he could be married, I would have known about it!

“Actually engaged with a zebra which is better than you!” He stuck his tongue out at me.

“Actually I do have a boyfriend!” That wiped his smile away.

“Ah Silver I didn’t know that” he had a worried look on his face.

Why does he look worried is he jealous? Hehe.

“I didn't send him a letter to avoid the other you...He is changling food Ooooooh tchh that sucks.”

Meh I didn't really like him really, he was more of a friend with benefits.

“I sent your sister, mom and dad a letter to warn them of the other you.”

“How do you know my dad?”

He leaned back and looked out the window, “His name was on your birth certificate. I looked you up before because you were in my visions a lot.”

He didn't seem to understand. I have never ever met my dad.

“Do you know where he is, who is he?” I had strain myself not to sound desperate.

“Ppphhhhh of the top of my head, couldn't tell you but we have the stuff at home. Why you ask?” he waved his hoof nonchalantly.

“As a reward for this I want to meet my dad!”.

“Sher.” He glanced at me with a raised eyebrow.

Finally, a chance to meet my whore father.

I spent the rest of the train ride imagining about how cool my dad will be.

The train pulled up to the station and we walked off to the busy streets. It was a little in the afternoon when we got here. The sky was almost clear of clouds, the streets were full of ponies going to and from. Off we go, into the beautiful city we go the sun up and the sky clear. The smell of ocean in the breeze oh how I love Baltimare.

I walked up to the city map outside the train station.

He must have seen me gasp when I looked at the map.

“Sorry but we are not going to the filly cove Salty.”

“Why? They have pirates there, It's fun for all ages! My mom left me there once for a whole week it was tons of fun.”

We started walking towards the docks. It was only a few blocks away from the station no point in calling a cab.

“That's quite horrible and no we're still not going.”

He always ruins my fun, but we got to walk around the city for a bit. The center of Baltimare is absolutely gorgeous this season.

Now to business, “So how do I know you?”

“We worked on a job together before for the company Drifting Wood Shipping-” he kept glancing around. “-they gave us a high recommendation for this job. I have someone here who is filling out the paperwork for us because I helped him out before. We need to go pick up the papers before going to the boat.”

How many ponies has he helped?

“So what do you think of Baltimare?” Had to ask I loved this place but he seems way too twitchy.

“Don't like it, it's too crowded I prefer my small village .”

“I forgot you came from an uncivil society.”

“We are civil. Just because you don't believe in our beliefs doesn't make us uncivilized.”

“How could you say your place is civilized, they think mares are less than stallions! Your stallions have multiple wives and mares can’t do the same. They don't hold any government ranks and I bet they’re not even aloud to fight!”

“There are many tribes in the zebra lands that allow mares as leaders. There are tribes that are entirely mares but most tribes bow down to the Caesar.”

“Bet there was no Mare Caesar!”

“Nope.”

“So when did you leave the zebra lands?”

How the hell does he know this much stuff about the place I thought he was an ‘outcast’?

“Ten! The same year I was engaged and the age of maturity for the upper class.”

Thanks mom for not selling me out to a stallion at ten, that would have been Tarteris for me.

Does that mean he is engaged with a cougar?

“How old was the mare?”

“She was ten like me. I should probably go and get rid of the engagement since she can't get married or anything else as long as the paperwork says she is with me. But then I would have to go back and talk with her annndddd that's not happening.”

“Why does it matter you're never going back anyways? And it’s your and her father's fault anyways.”

Glancing up he had sad look on his face, “Sorry Silver I don't like the crowds of the inner city we don't have those things back home.”

I scooped him up in a big hug “Aaaa is the crazy pony scared of crowds, it's ok little pony I'm here with you. Just remember filly steps.” It's so much fun messing with him.

“I will bite you Silver, and it will hurt; also we are here.” he growled.

We arrived at the Drifting Wood Company three story building. The gray building entrance has an ornate stone archway with ponies entering and leaving constantly. Several boats were docked at the harbor in front of the office. Entering the office was a little challenging, pushing past ponies while also keeping an eye on his tail. Inside the building it wasn’t that much better. Gray tiled floor with sickening brown wallpaper and a freshly plastered roof just made the place feel unwelcoming. Everyone in here was a hardened sailor and they were qute loud going to and from rooms and offices. Getting past the mob of ponies we stopped at a desk with this mm 'mare' behind it, well I think it’s a mare.

She had to be one of the bulkiest ponies there covered with multiple painful looking scars. Probably didn't help her that she wasn't that very attractive.

“ Yes?” She placed the newspaper down with enough force to shake the floor. Her voice sounded like she had been eating rocks.

“I'm here to see your boss.” Crescent piped up with a serious tone.

Looks like I'm just here for looks he is talking this time.

Slowly, she reaches down and looks at the book open on her desk.

“No! You're not in the book.”

Actually I'm glad I don't need to talk to her her breath smells horrid. She leaned back and picked back up her newspaper.

“I sent your boss a letter and he said he would meet me today.” Shit, he didn't bring a backup plan and without this we’ll be done for.

“Listen I know him on a personal level and would really appreciate if you would go get your boss Brigs.”

Oooh the tiny pony is putting his hoof down.

“Hey Cr-asting Monsoon is something wrong?” He glanced back at me.

“Salty, I'm trying to get the papers but the boss is busy.”

“Excuse me but we need those papers to go to our next job.”

Slamming her paper down she glared at us and the desk made a very unhappy sound. She now spoke with promises of pain in her voice. “NO! You to have an appointment tomorrow morning at two am. Brigs is in a important meeting and I will not disturb him for two little, moronic, piece of fucking shit mates.”

Oh sweet Celestia her breath was worse at closer range.

Crescent walked forward and met her gaze, “Heavy Gloves tell your boss asap that you told Mr. B's assets to go fuck off” Spinning around he stormed past me.

“Mr. B forgets no pony!” I stand, glare at her and turn around. Everyone was watching and stared at us, we marched towards the door chests puffed out and heads held high. At least they got out of our way. I managed to get outside before starting to laugh. “You were so adorable being the smallest pony in there trying to be tough.”

Walking over to a nearby bench we sat down.

“Shut up Silver.” he couldn't help but laugh too. We sat there chuckling for a while.

Mimicking his voice, “Even though I’m tiny I’m really strong!!”

I got hooved in the chest.

“Hold on Monsoon why didn't we just sneak into his office?”

“This is faster trust me.” And almost on cue an important looking business stallion stepped outside of the Drifting Wood office.

He was about average height, wore a nice gray suit complemented by a blue tie and a silver clip and had a murky brown coat with grayish orange mane and eyes. He spots us immediately and trots over to us “Either of you two seen a Mr. B a few minutes ago?”.

“We might know a certain Mr. B,” I stood up to answer him. The older stallion looked up at me. “We also might be assets of a certain red stallion.”

That peaked his interest.

“Good follow me then please.”spinning around he marched off back into the building.

We followed after him keeping close enough that people stayed out of our way. As we passed, through the lobby I spotted that secretary getting her desk cleaned out and two security stallions were standing at her sides. You asshole Crescent, you made her lose her job just for doing it! Following him we head to his office on the top floor. Does it even matter if she looses her job the world is supposed to end anyways.

Entering his office, the brown stallion walked behind his desk and gestured us to sit down. It kinda reminded me of Shining Armor’s office. Just more rundown and with a red rug instead.

Only after we sat down did he speak, “So I am to understand you represent Mr. B.”

We both nodded.

“Good please inform Mr. B that I deeply appreciate the advice he gave me. Also, after pulling a couple of strings I managed to get both of you two onto the ship he requested.” As he says it he pulls out two papers from his desk and slides them to us.

I took the papers and stored them into Crescent Moon’s bag.

“Mr. B thanks you for your help in this matter.”

“Tell Mr. B that I look forward to doing business with him in the future and I apologize for my secretary’s behavior. I hope that this will not damage our future cooperation.”

Crescent piped up, “It won't, but I don't think she should not lose her job over a misunderstanding like this, right Salty?” he glanced up at me.

“No, she shouldn't. Next time she will know better.”

With a nod he called in another employee and informed him that the secretary was to stay.

“Well I hope you two have a nice day and enjoy your trip.” He reached over his desk and shook our hooves.

After leaving his office and on the way thru the lobby we spotted the 'mare' weeping and thanking the other employee for letting her keep her job.

“I didn't know that thing was capable of crying.”

I barely kept myself from laughing aloud.

“I didn't know either Salty, but let's get out of here before she decides to walk over and squish me for almost taking her job.”

With a quickened pace, we left the offices and started walking down the docks.

“Alright Salty, here is a hundred bits go have fun in town while I get the hotel and find the boat.” he reached into his bag and pulled out the bits.

Crap, I searched the wrong bag earlier his important stuff was in his saddlebags not his sea bag. “Why are you even thinking of splitting up, if you die I will never know.” He gave me a flat look. “I don't know what to do then. I don't know this city well, I have hide my identity and I don't know anyone.”

We stopped in front of a map of Baltimare.

“Salty, you told me I don't give you enough freedom so here is your freedom, go shu shu” He examined the map.

“More money then!”

Silver sticks out her hoof demanding more money. With a groan he reached into his bag and produced fifty more bits.

“There, happy?”

“I got my money I’m ganna buy stuff” I said excitedly while prancing around in a circle.

“We will meet up back here later ok?” He pointed to the you are here on the big map.

“Sher”

Heading out, I decided to double back after a little to see if he wasn't being lazy.

And what do I see Crescent sitting on the pier and splashing his hooves in the water and going ‘Splish Splash Splish Splash’. Well after a little nudge down the pier and a small swim he got back on track.

After this little distraction, I left and started walking down the pier. Guess I’ll be doing his job and looking around for the crew since he seems to get easily distracted.

Walking down the pier eventually saw a crew member, second in command Timber Hitch. He had a short bark brown mane and tail. His cream color coat and front legs were scared to hell. The well built stallion was moving boxes around.

“ Hi I'm looking for a ship I’m supposed to be working on tomorrow could I get some help it's called the Celestine Destiny?”

He looked over and picked up a box with his other hoof.

“Well ya I'ma suppose to work that ship to. Timber” he stretches a hoof out.

Oh he had nice tan eyes and a smooth voice.

“Salty Seas.” I shook his hoof.

“You must be one of the two extra ship hooves. The boss was surprised when your previous employer highly recommend you for the job. Guess he decided we needed more hooves, well actually we got a zebra helper to so that makes three of ya now. We'll just have to see how that works out. Also just a heads up, don't be surprised if the crew shy towards ya.” he started to trot down the dock.

“Don't worry sir I understand we will be out at sea for a bit and being the only mare I can understand if they get distracted.”

I combed my hair with my hooves.

“Actually mam, the urban legend says mares are bad luck on ships but I can see why they should get distracted.”

He keeps on trotting until we arrived at the ship.

“Here she is, the Celestine Destiny. We have almost everything loaded on just the perishables have not been loaded on yet. I just hope those zebras have paid their dues.”

He knocked on the ship then set the box down as we continued talking.

“Why? Are the zebras causing trouble?”

“Ya, them damn zebras have been increasing their prices for coal so we have to send them more gems in exchange. It's in the papers, it's the newer Caesar is trying to be an ass that's all.”

“The new one?”

I didn't hear anything about a new caesar recently?

“A few years ago the old one died and the new one is trying to prove his shit and all that hababalluba.”

Another one of the ship workers walked past us and placed a box on the pile.

“They need to know how much we need it.”

“Well they can go fuck themselves for that too!”

Timber hit the box he was leaning against and cracks could be heard from the box.

“Here is the ship and I'll take your papers to the cap if ya have them.” Silver hooved them over immediately.

“Thanks!”

“Also the boat will be leaving at six am tomorrow so be ready.”

“I will show up a half an hour before we go.”

“Unless ya got nothin with ya and ya expect to go to get to work the second you get on the ship.”

“I meant a hour early.”

With a chuckle he walked off.

Guess I don't get to sleep on the ship and enjoy a nice long relaxing cruise. I’m going to be working my ass off for these people and I hope they pay me. I wonder if I would be able to put this on my resume Hehe. Who am I kidding this is going to suck. Well, guess I get to go back and drag him shopping with me.

Walking back, I unluckily got lost in thought and bumped into a mare knocking her over.

“Oh crap! I'm so sorry here” Helping the mare back up, I quickly realized she was almost as tall as me. She had a deep blue coat complemented by topaz mane that flowed gently with the smallest of wind. She had a coral reef for a cutie mark and absolutely enchanting murky bluish green eyes.

“No I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention I'm just lost.” the blue mare said with a soothing voice.

“It's fine, do you need any help? I'm not from this town but I can try to see if I could help.” It's the least I could do for almost running her over.

“If you don't mind. I was trying to get back to my hotel but somehow I ended up on the docks.” She had a glimpse of hope in her eye.

“No I don't mind. The city is pretty big and easy to get lost in.” Don’t have really anything important to do right now anyways.

“What's the name of the hotel?”

She put on the biggest smile after I agreed to help her.

“The Lucky Clam!” The mare was nearly dancing on her hooves.

Pulling my map out, I discovered that it was in the middle of town. While giving her directions to the place she seemed to be visibly deflated. Reaching up, she pointed a few blocks from the hotel “I started here.”

HA that sucks! There must be something seriously wrong with this pony.

“We all get lost sometimes don't worry I'll walk with you and make sure you make it back.”

After memorizing the directions I put the map away.

“My name Maelstrom!” she held out her hoof.

“Nice to meet you I'm SSsSalty Seas.”

Crap almost said my real name again.

“I should check up on my associate he is supposed to be finding us a room.” If I don't he is probably going to do something stupid and get distracted.

“I hope he wouldn't mind you helping me!”

“He won't, let's go.” You know what, she is right I'm not his babysitter, he will be fine on his own.

My head got a little fuzzy after that probably from meeting so many attractive people today. We talked as we walked, she was here apparently trying to get a job at the lighthouse. No idea how the hell she would get a job there but apparently she got denied. Poor girl, I advised her that she should try to get a job at a shipping boat but she turned it down. Apparently, she can get those jobs easily, but working art a lighthouse is her dream job.

The streets were quite busy today but at least it was a nice day out. This walk was actually quite fun, we talked a bit more and apparently she doesn't have many friends because she makes them feel weird. I had to start asking myself when did I start falling for mares? I even gave her one of my terrible pep talks to try to cheer her up, along with a subtle pickup line.

Unfortunately, my lack of money came up in the conversation about halfway there. She immediately insisted on buying me some food. The place she insisted on was a beautiful restaurant called The Sapphire Lobster. I felt bad for her to treat me here of all places, but when I tried to argue with her but she was insistent and wouldn't take no for an answer.

The inside was gorgeous and had a chandelier hanging from the roof. The waiters were all suit and tied and nice looking. The cream rug was mint and the tablecloths a nice pearl white. I tried to convince her not to bring me here but she told me this was her treat for me in exchange for me helping her.

As we sat down and ate we talked about our family (I just glanced over mine not too many details.) and friends. At one point, I thought she called me Silver but it was the waitresses name. Silly me, I couldn't have slipped up that quickly. This has got to be one of the best dates I have been on, well if it was a date. We talked a bit more and then left to find the hotel.

The place wasn't that hard to find since the lights of the building illuminated the night and it was over ten feet tall. High class ponies walked in and out of the hotel passing by the carpet that came to the edge of the curb. The marble flooring was beautifully ornate and stone walls line the inside of the place.

“Well I enjoyed our time together.” Maelstrom gave me a big hug and I returned the hug and really didn't feel like I wanted to leave. She shooed me off with kind words and a reminder that someone was waiting for me. Oops he shouldn't mind me being a bit late.

Walking back I couldn't get my mind off her. She was, so nice, so beautiful, so perfect.

At the docks, Crescent Moon sat on the pier splashing his hooves in the water. Seeming to be quite entertained.

Why couldn't he be as sexy as her. she would be a lovely pony to be stuck with. “Hi there.”

“What happened to meeting up?” He gave me an annoyed face. She would never give me that face.

“I got busy helping a really nice mare.”

That mare who I really regret leaving alone in that hotel. I should have stayed a couple more minutes.

“Really?-” he walked up to me he gave me an unimpressed look. “-what was her name?”

“Maelstrom”

Why did he look like he nearly shat himself?

“Shit! Silver you just met a changeling queen.”

“Pfff. She isn’t a changeling queen, she is the most amazing pony that I have met”

Crescent Moon promptly reached over and placed his hoof on my forehead and mumbled some incantation. Suddenly, I felt a hazy veil leave my mind and it brought me back into focus and then I remembered.

“Shit she said my name! I must’ve told her when I was at the restaurant.”

We stood there and tried to asses the situation. Crescent explained that the changeling race isn't limited to Chrissy and her changelings and that there are multiple changeling queens/kings all with a area of the world that they call their home. Maelstrom is apparently the queen of the eastern seas. The equestrian government has kept it under raps and he asked me to do the same. The reason he went off to go get a hotel for us was so we didn’t accidentally go to her place The Lucky Clam.

“She was nice we should go talk to her more!”

“No, me and her don't get along.”

“She could be a great ally, she wants to be friends with me. We just need her to get to like you too, though that might be a bit hard since you are a little annoying”

“I don't think you quite understand the relationship I have with the changelings.”

“It’s ok I’ll fix it and give them a better impression we need all the help we can get. Maybe they can even help us out on the boat/”

“No, they feed on this area and they wouldn't want put that in danger to help us.”

“But she didn't feed on me.”

“Suprising.”

“She just wanted to be my friend and talk.”

“Very Surprising.”

“Maybe she knows I'm better than everybody else and therefore didn’t feed on me. She also want me to write letters to her.”

“Thank the goddess the spell is broken know or you would probably be marching back to her by now.”

“My first letter would be ‘Dear Maelstrom, HOW COULD YOU LIE TO ME!!! If you told me you were a changeling queen I would still be your friend.’ Actually Crescent, where is a paper store I want to write it now.”

“We’re a little busy trying to save the world.”

“I just found you splishy slashing on the docks, and I don’t even think you moved from last I saw you.

“If you really want to waste time why don’t you just go back and talk to her if she so nice?”

“Know what, I will.”

“Silver that's a stupid idea, no!” he had worried look on his face.

“I’m going back and that's final.”

Frowning, he watched me for a bit then sighed and reached under his shirt he pulled out a strange amulet. It was made with an onyx gem with a eye caved in the middle.

“Wear this at least, it will prevent you from being hypnotized. It lets you see the magic coating changelings use to hide themselves.”

He hoved over the strange amulet.

When I put it on a magic pulse went right through me.

He explained that he had gotten us a hotel by the dock Called the ‘Tilting Raft’. After pulling my map of Baltimore he reached over and marked it on my map with a pen. Did he steal a pen from the office earlier? Now just to retrace my steps back to the Lucky Clam.

“One More thing Silver, Don’t Die!” With those oh so comforting words he left.

As the sun started setting, I turned and headed back to the Lucky Clam. The site was quieting down and the streets were almost empty except the occasional night prowler. The city felt so calm and quiet at night with the cool ocean breeze passing by me. The street lamp along were the only illumination on the roads this light, casting shadows everywhere.

Oh goddess why did I get myself into this and decided to walking alone, towards a hotel full of pony eating changelings. SHIT!!! Why did he have to tell me not to die of all things. Now I’m officially town creeped out.

Finally, I got to the damn hotel with only a few scary experiences mostly me misjudging regular civilians and drunks as monsters and changelings. Almost shot one with the rifle in my bag. Just arrived at the hotel, not dead yet. Let's do this.

Silver Stripes level up: Level 2

Perk gained: Opened Eyes: You have been given Knowledge most don’t know and more refuse to accept. ( You now have more options when talking to any non-equine.)