Chapter 2: new task. new warnings

She just stood there. Staring at the board. Analyzing it. She looked at the pictures of a school and all the pictures surrounding it. Red strings connected every single picture on that board. Each string connected to the picture of that one school. The woman shifted her feet a little and adjusted the red shoulder-cape on her left shoulder. To the left of the board there was another. To the right of the first board there was yet another. On the left there was a graph. On the right there were two pictures of two girls. One girl per picture, one girl colored red, the other a dark violet. Both appeared to be flying. Below each picture was a set of notes, detailing everything known about the origins of such a phenomenon.

The woman’s well trained eyes poured over the three boards, taking in as much information as possible and thinking about the next best possible course of action for the Assassins.

The woman didn’t need Eagle Vision to know there was someone standing behind her. It was also a simple task to deduce that the man standing behind her was not hostile in any way.

The woman spoke to the man without turning her head. “Hello Frigid Night.” She said.

Even though he knew his superior couldn’t see him Frigid Night wouldn’t risk neglecting to show respect. He placed his hand on his chest and bowed his head slightly, as is customary in greeting The Mentor of any Brotherhood of Assassins. “Mentor Steel Shine.” He said, lifting his head up again and lowering his hand back to his side afterwards.

“You wanted to see me?” He then asked.

Mentor Steel Shine nodded her head lightly, her violet hair shifting ever so slightly from the movement. She lifted her right hand and gestured for her adviser and second in command to come beside her.

Steel Shine cleared her throat before speaking to her second in command. “I’m sure you’re aware of the recent increase of first civilization energy spikes.” She said, not looking to him.

Frigid Night wasn’t sure what this was all about, so just nodded and said “Uh...yes Mentor. I’m aware.” After a second of silence, he narrowed his eyes questioningly and asked, “Mentor, what’s this all about?”

After another second of silence, the aforementioned turned her head to look at Frigid Night, pointed a finger and said, “Look.”

Frigid looked to where Mentor was pointing. It was a picture of a school. All of the red string were connected to this one photograph, Frigid saw.

After a moment, Frigid looked at his Mentor. “They all have happened at this school.” He said.

Mentor Steel Shine returned his glance. “Yes. And if you know about the spikes then there’s little doubt in my mind that the Templars know as well.”

Frigid looked back to the board. “That’s not good.” He acknowledged.

Frigid looked to the left of the middle board. He studied the graph a little bit. After a moment, he pointed to the graph and asked, “What is that saying?”

Steel Shine looked over to where Frigid Night was pointing and answered his question. “The bar on the top indicates the energy signature for that of the Apple of Eden.” She began to explain. Frigid nodded in understanding.

Steel continued to explain. “The bar on the bottom indicates the energy signature of the recent energy spikes.” Frigid continued to listen to The Mentor. As he was doing this he noticed the to bar graphs were different.

Frigid didn’t hesitate to bring this up. “Uh Mentor? The energy spike are first civ, right?” He asked.

Steel Shine cocked her head to the side. “Uhuh? What about it?” she asked.

Frigid gestured the bottom bar. “And yet these are slightly different readings. How is it that they are both first civilization energies?” He asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.

Steel Shine shook her head. “That's just it. Both readings are slightly different yet not so much that they could be considered two different things.” She rose her hands to her front and let them drop in slight frustration.

She continued. “I mean, look closer.” Steel Shine took both readings papers off the board and held in front of her and Frigid. “Look at the energy from the Apple.”

Frigid did as he was told. On the readings paper for the Apple of Eden there were three lines that intertwined with each other somewhat in the middle, but closer to the left side.

Frigid nodded.

Steel Shine looked to him. "Now look at the recent energy spikes."

Frigid, once again did as her was told. On the readings paper for the recent energy spikes there was a fourth line in the middle with two lines top and one line on bottom. Like the Apple readings the lines come closer together near the left side, but this time, instead of meeting and intertwining, the lines curve up or down in accordance with what side of the fourth line they are on.

After Steel Shine and Frigid Night examined the readings Steel Shine closed her eyes and sighed. She took the readings papers and pinned them back onto their board.

She looked over to Frigid with worry very clear on her face. “It’s clear enough to me that the piece of Eden has been tampered with in some way for it to be giving off such an energy signature, yet still remain the same kind of energy; and whatever is happening as a result,” Steel Shine gestured over to the board on the right, “is affecting the public in some way. I don’t know how on a technical level, and you probably already know that our P.O.E researchers have found nothing.”

Frigid nodded in understanding. He had heard that the P.O.E researchers had found absolutely no information regarding the recent first civ energy spikes. What little data he just saw, was probably everything they had. He looked over to the pictures on the right board. There were two girls, if they could be called that. There were growths on their backs that strongly resembled wings. One set of wings was feathered, one was not. It was evident that the subjects of the pictures were female human beings, but that was about it; no other animal on this planet bore any resemblance to the creatures in the pictures. Frigid snapped out of his train of thought as his mentor continued to speak.

Steel Shine lowered her hand back to her side, her arm giving a little clunk as the armor collided. She turned her head to face Frigid and said, “With that in mind, I believe we need to get up close and personal with this P.O.E if we want some real data.”

Frigid rose an eyebrow. “What do you suggest we do Mentor? Pose as teachers and conduct an investigation on our free time?” He asked skeptically.

Steel didn’t like the attitude, but it was completely understandable. It was a very difficult position the Assassins are in; and it’s not just in Canterlot, the ENTIRE organization is revolving around this. The actions taken here will determine what will happen with all of the worlds Assassins.

Steel looked at Frigid Night with a frown, but it quickly disappeared. She took a breath and said, “As a matter of fact Frigid i recently made contact with the other bureau leaders. We all agreed that, while posing as teachers is possible, we would have more freedom as a student. While being a teacher gives more access to resources, there is a lot of responsibilities that a teacher has. That means a lot of people looking to you for stuff. More access to resources yes, but in exchange there would few windows to access these resources for our investigation.”

Frigid cocked his head in disbelief. “With all due respect Mentor, we are going to get noticed if we pose as students. We’re adults.” He said irritably.

Steel just shrugged nonchalantly and said, “I know.”

Frigid looked flabbergasted. “What do you mean ‘I know’? He said sarcastically.

Steel just smiled and chuckled. “I mean, who said anything about an adult posing as a student.”

Frigid’s jaw dropped. “You are not sending a thirteen year old boy or girl into a high school.” he said disbelievingly, emphasizing ‘high school’.

Steel Shine just shook her head, the attitude was just starting to get on her nerves a little. “No, I’m not sending a thirteen year old boy or girl into a high school.” She said.

Frigid was getting angry now. “Holy shit, then what ARE you going to do?” He yelled this time.

Steel looked at her second in command with a frown. “Well if you would let me finish, I was going to say that there IS someone we can send.” She said firmly.

Frigid closed his eyes and took a calming breath. After a moment, he opened his eyes, looked to Steel and asked, “Who then?”

Steel Shine smiled at that fact her second in command was able to get his composure before things got violent. She cocked her head to side slightly and asked, “Are familiar with Velvet Breeze?”

Frigid arched an eyebrow. He knew there was only one reason as to why she would asked that question, given the context. Frigid frowned and asked, “Are you sure it’s a good idea to send her on this mission? I mean, she’s still only a teenager.”

Steel Shine smiled wider. She leaned forward. “Exactly! She is eighteen years old. She will blend in perfectly with the other students!” She said excitedly.

Frigid leaned his head back slightly. “That’s my point.” he argued. “There’s a lot of responsibility to be had here. All of the Assassins in the world are riding on this. I mean, can she handle all that?”

Steel Shine nodded and said, “I know there riding on this.”

Frigid arched an eyebrow.

Steel arched an eyebrow right back. “Have you seen her fight? Train? Along with all the other stuff? To say she was ‘gifted’ would be a grave understatement.” she said in admiration.

Frigid Night closed his eyes and sighed. “Are you absolutely sure about this, Mentor Steel Shine?” He asked. "It takes much more than just being 'gifted' to be an Assassin."

The mentioned, smiled and nodded. “Yes.” She said. “She is much more clever than you think. She can handle it. And hey.” She shrugged. “If we believe she’s in extreme danger, and can’t fight it off, I’ll call her back.” Her voice went back to its professional self. “Besides, once she is sent -- provided she accepts the task -- I’m going to contact the other bureau leaders again and set up a meeting here in a few months to see what she’s learned and maybe help if she asks for it.”

Frigid opened his eyes again. “If that’s what you think Mentor.” He said softly.

Steel nodded again. “It is.” She said.

“Okay then. What do you want me to do?” He asked.

“Tell Velvet Breeze that I would like speak with her; Personally. She’ll find me in my personal quarters.” Steel Shine answered.

“And where would I find Velvet?” Frigid Night asked.

Steel shrugged. “Training grounds I would imagine. She would probably be training quite often to give her reputation ground.”

Frigid placed his right hand on his chest and lowered his head slightly. As he turned to leave for the training grounds he felt a hand on his shoulder. He flinched and fought the urge to grab the hand as it only The Mentor.

He turned to face her. “Yes?” He asked.

“Take Morning Blade with you.” She answered.

Frigid arched an eyebrow. “Why?” He asked.

Steel took her hand off his shoulder and sighed. “Look Frigid, I know it’s been hard for you since Saddle Arabia, but that doesn’t mean you should lock yourself away and stop talking to people outside of Assassin business. In order for you to recover you need to talk to people.” She said caringly.

Frigid shrugged. “I’ll get Morning Blade to accompany me, but I don’t need anyone to talk to. I’m fine.” He said, then walked away to find his fellow Assassin.

Steel Shine watched him leave. She sighed again. “No Frigid. You’re not fine.” She said softly to herself then went back to her personal quarters to wait for Velvet Breeze.

Frigid walked through the halls of the Trottingham bureau. Ever since Saddle Arabia, the Canterlot Assassins were moved to the Trottingham, for protection. Now the old Canterlot bureau was abandoned, with all of it’s weapons, money and other items just gathering dust within the armory, vaults and other places in that order. The Trottingham bureau was very different from the Canterlot one, with regards to color scheme. Instead of scarlet with hints of orange and oak wood walls, floors, etc; there was Venetian wine color scheme with entire portions of navy blue and spruce wood walls, floors, etc. Frigid didn’t like this color scheme, he thought it was a little disorienting. He made a left down to another hall and continued going straight. At the end of this hall there were two big doors. Light was shining through a window on each door, making a navy blue wall visible on the other side. The doors themselves were a smooth spruce wood, clearly sanded extensively. Frigid reached the doors and pulled them open.

Inside was a large room with tables and chairs everywhere. A little to the right of Frigid was a platform about a foot and a half wide and runs the length of that entire side of the room, the area of which was maybe one hundred and fifty feet squared. On the far left of the room in the middle were two more large doors, also made of spruce wood. In behind the platform there were a bunch of kitchen and home appliances ranging from stoves to fridges. Lots of fridges, and lots of cupboards. Lots and lots of cupboards.

Frigid looked to the giant kitchen and saw a few lights on in the sandwich section, there were a few cupboards open and clanging sounds were coming from there as well. Frigid frowned as he walked over to table second closest to the far wall, knowing that exact table will be taken in a few moments.

Sure enough, after a moment, the clanging sounds stopped. Another moment later, a woman came speed walking out of the giant kitchen. In her hand was a small plate of sandwiches. The plate was wobbling slightly. For a moment Frigid was afraid that the plate would fall and break. He frowned more as she came and sat down at the table. The woman immediately starting scarfing down the sandwiches.

For a moment it didn’t appear if she even acknowledged Frigid's presence, but after a moment she looked at him and said with a mildly surprised facial expression, “You here for a snack too Frigid? That’s rare, considering you’re so uptight recently.”

Frigid pursed his lips and huffed through his nose. “First off Morning Blade, i’m not uptight, second off, You’re not supposed to be eating at this time; it’s the rules.” He said.

Morning Blade made a disbelieving face. “Pffft! ‘Not uptight’ my ass! You’re being uptight right now.” She said gesturing Frigid, “Besides, it’s only six thirty.”

Frigid growled, then closed his eyes and took a breath. He opened them again. “As much as I would love to spar with you Morning, The Mentor has given me a task.” He said while narrowing his eyes.

Morning arched eyebrow. She took her last sandwich and stuffed the whole thing in her mouth. She almost giggled from the disgusted face Frigid gave. “Oh? What’sh dat now?” She asked with her mouth full of sandwich as she got up with her plate to put it away.

Frigid got up and headed towards the doors on the far left of the eating lounge. After Morning had swallowed the food and put the dish in the dishwasher, she followed Frigid. She pushed open one of the doors and continued to follow Frigid down the Venetian wine colored hallway. She walked next to Frigid and waited for him to answer, hoping it will also tell her where they were now walking.

Morning Blade didn’t have to waited long. After a moment of walking, Frigid looked at her and said, “I have to go find Velvet Breeze and tell her that The Mentor wants to see her.” He continued walking.

Morning arched an eyebrow. “You could do that on your own. You don’t need me to come with you.” She said. She thought for a moment then her eyes went wide. A wide smile adorned her lips. “Aww Friggy! You wanted me to come along! That’s so sweet!” She said as she wrapped her arms around Frigid Night in a hug, stopping them both.

Morning Blade intended it to be a teasing gesture. Apparently Frigid didn’t get it because in another moment he had Morning by the throat held up against the wall, a look of pure rage and hatred on his face.

Frigid narrowed his eyes at Morning and spoke with a low growl in his voice. “Never...call me...that name...again.” He said.

Morning couldn’t speak as Frigid had his hand around her throat, so she just nodded as best she could. In a moment, Frigid released his grip on Morning Blade’s throat. She fell to the ground with a thud, choking and coughing.

Once Morning had caught her breath she looked up at Frigid with a angry face. “What the fuck was that for Frigid?” she asked, angrily.

Frigid just narrowed his eyes again. “Don’t call me ‘Friggy’ again. You hear me?” He asked in a serious voice.

Morning got up and dusted her shirt off. “Alright, alright. Jesus Christ.” she said while shaking her head.

Frigid was satisfied. “Thank you. Now shall we be on our way once again?” He asked.

Morning nodded her head again. “Yes. Let’s go.”

Frigid nodded back and started walking again down the hallway before making a right.

After a few minutes, they still hadn’t gotten to Velvet Breeze yet and Morning Blade was curious, so she asked “Where is Velvet anyway?”

Frigid answered her immediately. “In the Animus Augmented Virtual Reality Training Center.”

“Oh.” Morning nodded her head.

There was silence for another little while, but it was broken by Morning Blade again. “What happened to you Frigid? You used to be so kind and gentle; but now you seem so cold and heartless. In fact you’ve been that way ever since…” She trailed off as she looked at Frigid, realization on her face.

“Saddle Arabia…” She finished.

Frigid visibly flinched after hearing that name. The door to the training grounds was close now, just at the end of this hallway.

Morning Blade’s expression changed from curiosity to concern. “Frigid, do you want to talk abo-”

“No.” Frigid cut morning off.

No more words needed to be said.

The girl stood ready, sweating, and panting lightly. Her hands steady at her side, her hair lightly drooped down her forehead. The man stood in front of her a snarl on his face. No sweat adorned his face at all, but he was panting. Which meant he was tired. The girl smiled; this was good. If he was tired then maybe his reaction time would be slowed down. He would also be easier to knock back. Both people had their eyes locked; each one waiting for the other to make a move.

When the man saw that the girl wasn’t going to move, he decided to end the fight. He charged and swung his right fist toward the girl. The girl waited until the fist was close enough to her face, and then raised her own right hand and grabbed the wrist. She spun her body around and raised her left elbow; at the same time letting go of the wrist, striking the man in the left side of his face. The man stumbled back a bit and shook his head, preparing to strike again, but the girl was already there. She swung her right fist into the man’s face knocking him to the side, but not to the ground, and did the same thing with her left hand, then brought her right fist under the man’s chin making him stumble back a few steps and lean back.

The girl saw her chance. She charged forward and stepped on the man’s stomach, raising herself in the air a little bit. She flicked her right wrist and her hidden blade came with a shling sound. The blade came out of it’s socket and the girl gripped the now-dagger in her hand. She brought the dagger down on the man’s completely exposed chest, the blade piercing the man’s heart.

The man fell with the girl on top of him. Dead.

The girl panted and yanked her dagger out of the corpse's chest. She stepped off the body and backed away, replacing the dagger back into its socket for use once again as a hidden blade. She watched as the corpse made a few electric sounds, turned into a bunch of silver-like cubes, then disappeared.

Clapping sounds filled the air around the girl as a voice call out, “Excellent job Velvet! You’re as sharp as ever!”

The girl named Velvet Breeze turned from watching where the simulated opponent once lay. She looked at the source of the praising voice and smiled as she saw who it was.

“Hi Dewdrop! Thank you!” Velvet waved to her friend as they walked towards each other.

The two met and hugged for a moment. When it broke, Velvet asked, “how are you doing today?”

Dewdrop smiled at her friend and began walking with her out of the training area doors into the rest area. The rest area was for resting after training. It was a shiny spruce wood room with gray carpet and white couches around. There was a shower with a toilet nearby, to clean up after a good training session. Neither one of the girls noticed Frigid Night and Morning Blade sitting on one of the couches, Morning smiling at their friendship and Frigid looking at them stone-faced.

“I’m doing fine Velvet.” Dewdrop replied. “I already know what you were doing. My god that was badass.” She patted Velvet on the back as a congratulating gesture.

Velvet blushed at hearing the praise. “Aww, you’re just saying that. I can’t be that good.”

Dewdrop shook her head. “No really, soon you might be as good as--oh hello Frigid; Morning.”

Velvet turned her head and saw the second-in-command and another assassin. The other assassin, who Velvet now recognized as Morning Blade, waved at Velvet and Velvet waved back. Frigid just nodded in greeting.

Frigid looked at Velvet with a somewhat impressed expression. “My my, Mentor wasn’t kidding when she said you were gifted.”

Velvet face was bright red. “W-well thank you.” She stuttered.

Dewdrop, knowing that her friend gets very embarrassed when received with praise from higher-ups, interjected. “Umm...so what brings you two here?” She asked while cocking a hip to the left.

“Uh…-” Morning started.

“Her.” Frigid cut Morning off, gesturing Velvet.

Velvet froze. “M-m-me?”

Frigid shook his head. “Don’t worry. You’re not in trouble.” He reassured.

Velvet released a breath she didn’t know she was holding. ‘Thank god. I thought I was in trouble for that sandwich I took a few days ago after hours as a midnight snack.’ She thought, relieved.

Velvet steeled herself and asked, “What do you want with me?”

Frigid was short, straight, and to the point. “It’s not what I want. It’s what The Mentor wants.”

Velvet arched eyebrow and cocked her head to the side. “What does The Mentor want with me?”

Now it was Morning’s turn to speak. “Well perhaps you can ask her yourself because from what Frigid here,” She gestured Frigid to her side, “has told me, Mentor wants to speak to you,” She then gestured Velvet, “personally.”

Velvet’s jaw dropped. “She wants to see ME!” She almost shouted.

Morning chuckled at the young assassin’s excitement. She nodded her head. “Uhuh. She’s in uh…” Morning blushed as she didn’t actually know where Mentor was at this time.

Frigid cut in. “She’s in her personal quarters. She’s waiting for you, so I think it’s best if you go now.”

Velvet was excited now. “Okay! I’ll go right now!” She said. She began to walk out of the rest area and into the hallway but stopped and turned around. “Uh...Where exactly is The Mentor’s personal quarters?” She asked with a blush on her cheeks. “It’s a large building and I haven’t had much of a chance to explore and familiarize myself.”

Frigid frowned at hearing this. “You should have Velvet instead of fooling around.” He said, while standing up and placing his hands on his hips.

Velvet was offended slightly. “Hey! I was training!”

Morning stepped up and broke this fight before it began. “Frigid, shut up. She’s still young. You can’t expect her to not want to have fun, even a little.” She said, standing up and facing Frigid with a frown on her face. She then turned to Velvet and smiled. “I’m going in a similar direction, so I can take you most of the way. When it comes time for us to part, I’ll point you to where you need to go from there, okay?”

Velvet smiled back and nodded. “Okay.”

Morning turned back to Frigid and Dewdrop. “What are you guys gonna do?”

Frigid was the first to answer. “I’m going to go to my personal quarters to sleep. It’s been a long day.”

Dewdrop was next. “I’m gonna train for a little while. Gotta keep in shape ya’know.”

Morning nodded and turned to Velvet. “Alright Velvet, let’s go.”

And with that the two assassins went to find the Mentor’s personal quarters. They went down a couple of different hallways, passing doors, turning corners and going down more hallways. Eventually the assassins came across a stairwell in the middle of the lobby. Like almost everything else, it was spruce wood with Venetian wine coloring.

They started to walk up the stairs before Morning Blade decided to break the silence. “You should consider yourself lucky Velvet. Not everyone get’s to speak with Mentor Steel Shine personally.”

“Y-yeah.” Velvet replied, shuddering slightly.

Apparently, Morning Blade noticed this, because a moment later she nudged Velvet’s side with an elbow and asked, “Ya nervous?”

Velvet looked to her side. ‘No sense in lying I guess.’ she thought to herself. She took a breath, looked at Morning and said, “yeah. I’m pretty scared.”

Morning smiled and chuckled. “Don’t sweat it Velvet. The Mentor is much more laid back than you think. Unlike Frigid.”

Velvet giggled at the comment on the second in command. “Ya. He’s a big fun pooper. It’s strange. He used to be so nice from what I’ve heard. Now he’s...he’s different.” She ended that sentence with a frown.

Now they had stopped at the top of the stairs. There was a two way hallway, with the stairs being in the middle of said hallway.

Morning frowned as well. “Well...While Saddle Arabia did a real number on us all, it affected Frigid much more than all of us. In a bad way.”

The conversation ending on a less than happy note, Morning sighed and said, “Well this is where we part ways, so as promised,” She gestured to her left, “you’ll find The Mentor’s personal quarters at the end of that hall. It’s the last door on the right.”

Velvet nodded. “Thanks Morning.”

Morning smiled and nodded back. “Anytime Velvet.” she began walking down the hall in the other direction. “Bye!”

Velvet turned to her left and began walking down the hall. While she walked a knot began to form in her stomach. ‘Calm down Velvet! There’s no need to be so nervous!’ She mentally scolded herself.

When Velvet reached the end of the hall, she turned to her right as instructed. There was a door in front of her. It was polished spruce wood, like everything else. On the door was a gold colored plaque that had the words ‘Mentor Steel Shine’s PQ’ in bold letters on it. Velvet raised a hand to knock on the door and noticed it was trembling. She narrowed her eyes at it accusingly and took a deep breath. When her hand had stopped trembling, Velvet raised it again and knocked on the door before turning the knob and walking in.

When Velvet walked in she saw that it was not unlike most of the rest of the building, polished spruce wood. There was a simple queen sized bed, perfect for an adult. On the outside of the bed there was a desk with a computer and a bunch of papers stacked somewhat neatly beside the computer.

Velvet shook her head. “Man, this building needs a makeover.” She muttered to herself.

“I completely agree. The walls are ugly.” A voice sounded.

“EK!” Velvet yelped and turned her head to find a woman with purple-pinkish hair, and purple-pinkish skin, standing in front of her. She had on a green t-shirt and navy blue jeans on that clung to her skin. On her right shoulder was a red cloth that had gold accents. It was clear that said red cloth was old as there were several holes in it. Though Velvet had never really had a good look at The Mentor before, she’s had enough glimpses to know who was standing in front of her.

Velvet jumped and rushed to place her right hand on her chest and bow slightly. “OH! m-m-Mentor! Hi! Uh s-safety and peace! I-I mean…” she stammered, trying to greet her leader, her face cherry red in embarrassment.

Steel Shine chuckled at the young assassin’s antics. “Velvet calm down! You’re okay! You don’t need to do that every time you see me.” She said.

Velvet stopped stammering and looked to Steel Shine. “But I’m supposed to greet you that way. It’s respectful.”

Steel Shine nodded her head. “Under normal circumstances, yes you would do that, but right now I’m making an exception. Now, please calm down before you break something.”

Velvet did as she was told and took a deep breath.

Steel waited a moment then asked “Are you calm now?”

When Velvet nodded, Steel nodded back.

Velvet was the first to speak. “So Mentor, you wanted to see me? I must say, I’m honored.”

Steel nodded. “Yes Velvet I did want to see you. I am sure you’re curious as to why?”

Velvet’s eyes went wide. “Oh no I would never question you Mentor.”

Steel Shine arched an eyebrow. “Why not?”

Velvet was not expecting that response at all. “Well, because you’re The Mentor, leader of the Canterlot Bureau of Assassins. You know better than me.”

Steel Shine arched an eyebrow. “Is that what you’ve been told?”

Velvet arched an eyebrow right back. “Yes?”

Steel Shine understood then. “Then Velvet, please allow me to give some friendly advice, if I may?”

Velvet nodded her head slowly, unsure as to what her Mentor was about to say. “Yes?”

“Don’t ever claim that what you are told is the absolute truth, until you have experience, that you may deem what you have been told as absolutely truthful.” Steel Shine replied while shaking her head.

Velvet looked at Steel funny. “I don’t think I understand Mentor.”

Steel Shine smiled. “Nor would I want you to.”

Velvet was dumbstruck. She shook her head. “Uh...let’s just move from that.”

Steel smiled wider. “Yes! That’s enough riddles to satisfy both of us for one day!” She said loudly as she leaned back and threw her hands in the air dramatically.

Velvet giggled at her Mentor’s dramatics.

After the moment had passed, Velvet looked around the room before taking a breath and asking “Why am I here?”

Steel Shine smiled. “I’m glad you asked Velvet. I’ll tell you.”

Velvet nodded and sat down on the bed and waited for Steel Shine, who was sitting on the desk beside the bed, to speak.

Steel took a breath and spoke. “I’m sure you’ve heard of the spikes of first civ energy in recent weeks.”

Velvet nodded. “Yes? What about it?”

Steel reached behind her and grabbed a piece of paper. She handed it to Velvet, who took it. “Look.” Steel said.

Velvet did so. After a moment she looked up again. “These have all happened at Canterlot High School.”

Steel Shine nodded. “Yes. I’ll also have you know that our top researchers have been almost completely unable to collect any data on the phenomenon.” She said, while taking the paper back from Velvet and placing it back on the desk behind her.

Steel continued. “Knowing this, I’ve spoken with the other Mentor’s from China/Japan, Russia, Scotland/Ireland/Maritimes Canada, India, Africa, and France, to name a few; we all agree that it would be best to get much closer to the energy spikes, to get data on these spikes.”

“So, you guys are going to pose as teachers and conduct investigations in you’re free time?” Velvet guessed.

Steel Shine shook her head, “No Velvet.” then She smiled, “we want you to pose as a student and conduct investigations in you’re free time.”

Velvet’s eyes went wide and her jaw dropped. “M-me? Why me?” She asked.

Steel Shine’s face went serious and she leaned in close to Velvet. “I’ll be honest with you Velvet Breeze. We need that data fast, before the Templars get their hands on it; if they don’t already have it. If one of us adults poses as a teacher, there would be too many responsibilities that will slow us down. If you pose as a student, then you have almost absolute freedom to conduct your investigations in secret. You are the perfect age to blend in with the students; with skill and a bit of luck you would be virtually unopposed. The entire organization of Assassins would be riding on this.”

Steel Shine leaned back, “But with that being said, we cannot compel you to do something you don’t want to do. It is your choice.”

Steel looked Velvet in the eye and asked, “Velvet breeze, do you except this task, given to you by The Assassins?”

Velvet didn’t even hesitate. Velvet had been waiting for this moment since she joined the Assassins, but even she could have never expected to be offered a task as big and important as this. Velvet Breeze couldn’t be happier.

Velvet stood up and nodded her head rapidly. “YES YES! I ACCEPT I ACCEPT!”

Steel Shine grinned happily. She threw her arms up in joy. “Then it’s settled! Velvet Breeze, I will have you admitted Canterlot High School ASAP!”

Steel stood up and went to the door of her quarters and beckoned Velvet to follow. Velvet got up and followed her leader out of her PQ and into the hall. They speed walked to the stairs that separated the two ends of the hall and began to descend them.

While they were walking, a grinning Velvet said, “I’m so happy right now! This is possibly one of the best days of my life!”

Steel Shine, who was also smiling happily, chuckled and nodded. “It is a great day indeed Velvet.”

After turning another corner towards their intended destination, Steel thought to herself, ‘Things might finally be looking up for the Assassins.’

They finally came to the end of the hallway. To the right was a door. Steel Shine opened the door and beckoned Velvet inside.

The room inside was fairly large. With a printer on the immediate left, space for a camera with a few lights and a place for a subject to stand, to the immediate right, and a decently sized computer straight ahead, the room could fit at least ten people with no trouble.

When Velvet had entered the room, Steel closed the door behind her. “This is where you will be admitted into Canterlot High School Velvet.” Steel informed Velvet.

Velvet nodded in understanding. She gestured over to the camera. “Is that were my school ID photo is going to be taken?”

Steel nodded as she began to prepare the computer.

Velvet arched an eyebrow. “Won’t the Templars find me if my information is on the school records? I’m pretty sure their are Templars on the schoolboard.”

Steel nodded again. “That is true Velvet, and unfortunately for us, a photograph is required for entry into Canterlot High School, I assume so as to provide a student ID.”

Steel had finished setting up the computer which now showed a page that looked like a school administration page. She gestured for Velvet to go to the camera area and sit on the stool in the middle.

Steel prepare the lights and went to prepare the camera when she realized she nearly forgot something. “Velvet I need you to lower your hood.”

“Oh! Okay.” Velvet agree and lowered her hood down to her shoulders revealing her teal hair with gray streaks. A pin in the shape of the Assassins symbol held her hair up but it was in the back of her head so it was hidden from camera view.

Steel nodded and put her face behind the camera. “Okay now smile.”

Velvet smiled and a few moments later there was a bright flash that disoriented Velvet for a second.

Steel Shine looked up from the camera and said, “Okay Velvet. You’re good.”

Velvet shook her head to get the dizziness away and stood up. She walked over to the camera and looked at the photo captured.

Steel looked at Velvet and smiled, then unhooked the camera from the stand it was on and brought it over to the computer, Velvet following her.

Steel grabbed a cord from a box beside the computer and plugged one end into the camera and the other end into the computer. She opened up another page on the computer and clicked 'print’.

Steel got up and went over to the printer parallel to the camera area. She waited until a photo of Velvet came out. She picked up the photo and showed it to Velvet.

Velvet examined the picture of herself for a moment before saying, “I like it.” While smiling.

Steel Shine smiled back and said, “Thanks Velvet. I haven't had much experience with photography in my lifetime.”

Velvet continued to look at the photo for a second before looking up at her Mentor and asking, “So, what are we going to do about my personal information and the Templars finding me?”

“Well Velvet, for one,” Steel started as she walked back over to the computer and placed the picture of Velvet to the side, “we can't fake what you look like.”

Velvet followed and pulled a chair beside Steel and sat down. Steel sat down as well.

“But,” Steel Shine continued, “we can fake your personal information. And that's exactly what we're gonna do.”

Steel Shine opened up a Microsoft word document and uploaded the photo of Velvet onto it before beginning to type up information on her. Everything on the document was fake with the exception of Velvet’s name. Steel then placed the document onto another file and went back to the school website. She clicked on a few more links before dragging the file onto folder. Then, Steel entered an email and placed the folder into the email and sent the email to somewhere.

With a sigh, Steel leaned back in the chair she was sitting in. “Well Velvet, with that sent, all I need to do is get someone to hack the school system and you’ll be in for the beginning of September next week.”

Velvet got up along with Steel Shine, and went out of the door back into the hall. As they continued walking Steel Shine spoke. “Velvet I would like you to leave first thing tomorrow morning. There’s a safe house in a location about half a kilometer from Canterlot High School, so we won’t have to drive you every morning and afternoon and risk the Templars finding us even more.”

Velvet nodded. “Okay. So what are we doing now?”

They rounded another corner before coming across a large steel door, sealed tight with bolts and nails and other things. There was a panel with some number pads on them and a screen above them. Steel pressed a couple of numbers, each one appearing on the screen above them before the screen flashed green and the all of the bars panels and other stuff keeping the door tightly closed began twisting and turning.

While this was happening, Steel looked to Velvet, who was patiently waiting for an answer to her question and said, “We need to find a some suitable arms to take with you on the mission, your current weapons won’t likely be enough to protect you by themselves; so you should pick another weapon and or firearm to go along with your hidden blades.”

Just as Steel Shine finished her explanation, the bars and panels on the big door stopped turning and twisting. Another moment later the door opened and the two girls entered the room.

The armory was a light grey colored box covered from floor to ceiling in metal weapons racks that slide down for ease of access. It was as if the room as divided into two halves. On one side of the room were at least five sliding racks laced with swords, blades and melee weapons of all kinds, from all time periods, the older ones reformed and remade to be useful, the newer ones also just as well cared for. On the other side of the room the were a few more gun racks than sword racks, to make up for the variety. There were guns ranging from AK-47’s, to Desert eagles, to Remington sniper rifles, to submachine guns and everything. There was even a gun rack for rocket launchers and bazookas. It appeared as though there was every gun in existence in this room.

Velvet’s jaw dropped for what felt like the tenth time today. “It’s like they robbed everything from an armory.” She muttered.

Steel Shine chuckled. “Ya that’s probably what they did. Besides, I think it would be more fitting to say they stole an armory itself; probably a Templar owned one.”

Velvet continued to looked around. “This is so much more than what we used to have.”

Steel nodded in agreement. “Ya it is.”

After another moment of letting Velvet look around, Steel Shine clapped her hands and sighed. “Well Velvet, let’s take a look and see what’s there for you, huh?”

Velvet snapped out of her amazement and looked at her Mentor. “Oh, right Mentor! Let's see.”

They first went over to the melee side of the room. Steel Shine went over to a circle like rack that went into the wall and spun around, only revealing up to five hidden blades at one time but letting her see them all just by spinning the rack. She gave the rack a quick spin and gestured Velvet to take a look.

After a few minutes Velvet took off her left hidden dagger and placed it on the rack. Then she grabbed a Phantom Blade bracer and looked at it. “I like this one.” She said and placed the bracer on her arm.

She flicked her wrist and the blade came out of its sheath. Velvet relaxed her wrist and the blade retracted. She then flexed her middle finger slightly and two sticks with a string connecting them unfolded out. A fairly long yet extremely thin iron pin lay in the center of the bow. Velvet relaxed her finger and the bow folded back in the center of the bracer. The retracted bow kind of looked like the wings of a large beetle when observed from a distance.

Steel smiled and said, “Sweet, now as for a sword,” she went over to another rack beside the hidden blade rack, “a long blade sticking out of your hip is bound to get you noticed.” she pulled out a short, black stick, “I think a collapsible baton is a better choice. Easier to conceal.”

Steel handed the baton to Velvet, who yanked the baton down unsheathing it and swung it a couple of time to test the weight. She then pushed the baton back into its sheath and place it in a sheath on her hip.

Velvet smiled, satisfied with what she is now armed with. She turned and looked over to the gun section across from where she was. “Umm...I won’t need a gun will I?”

Steel Shine looked at the gun rack and cocked her head to the side, thinking. After a moment she shook her head. “Na, you won’t need it. Your phantom blade should be enough.”

Velvet shrugged. “Okay.”

Steel Shine nodded her head. “Well, I think you have enough to protect yourself in times of strife. We should get going.”

Velvet returned the nod and followed her Mentor out of the large steel door and out into the corner of the hallway. They began walking with no real destination in mind.

After a minute Velvet looked up at Steel Shine. “Mentor, what time is it?”

Steel took out her phone and looked at the digital clock on it. What she saw surprised her. “Oh my god, it’s ten thirty!”

Velvet's eyes went wide. “We’ve been doing this for four hours!”

Steel nodded. “Ya, you should get to bed and get a good rest, because you’re leaving for the safe house almost first thing tomorrow.”

Velvet returned the nod. “Okay Mentor. I’ll head straight to bed.”

Steel smiled and then yawned. “So will I. I haven’t had much sleep in a while, with all that’s been going, so a good night’s sleep will do me much good.”

The sight of her Mentor yawning made Velvet yawn as well, but Velvet’s yawn was much longer. “Well, I’ll be off. Bye Mentor!” she waved farewell and made to head to her personal quarters but stopped, realized they had walked to an area Velvet wasn’t familiar with.

Velvet turned around to face her Mentor again, who was smirking. “Umm, do you know how to get back to the PQs?”

Steel smirked wider. “Yes Velvet, I will bring you to your personal quarters.”

Velvet nodded gratefully. “Thank you Mentor.”

Steel Shine’s smirk softened into a smile. “Anytime Velvet. I’m your friend.”

Velvet smiled back and with that the two assassins went to the PQs.

Along the way there, every other assassin that passed them, placed their hand on their chest and bow slightly. Some of the younger and or newer assassins looked at Velvet enviously, much to Velvet’s embarrassment. Eventually the girls finally came across a door labeled ‘personal quarters. Ages 13-18 years’. Steel Shine opened to door and Velvet followed her into a series of long hallways with doors running the length of each. After a bit of navigation and directions from Velvet, they finally arrived at Velvet’s room.

Velvet opened the door all the way and turned to face Steel Shine with a smile. “Thank you Mentor for helping me prepare.”

Steel Shine waved it off. “It’s fine Velvet. You get some rest now, you have a big day tomorrow. You’re leaving first thing after breakfast tomorrow.”

Velvet smiled again and nodded, while starting to close the door. “Okay Mentor. I will.”

Steel nodded as well. “Okay. good night.”

“Night.”

And with that, the door closed.

Steel Shine stood there for another moment thinking of what was to come tomorrow before she yawned again. “My my, I am tired. I should get to bed.”

“Yeah, you should.” A voice came out from behind the Canterlot Mentor.

Steel Shine spun around, ready to strike her assailant but stopped as she saw who it was. “Keila! My god! You’ve got to stop sneaking up on people like that while you’re here! It’s fine when on contract but not here!”

Keila stood behind the Canterlot Mentor smirking. “Sorry. Couldn’t help myself.” she said as she brushed her dull white hair to the side slightly.

The bandages that covered where her right eye once was shifted only a little as she did this. The remnants of her hooded cloak also moving a touch. A not-so-subtle reminder of what happened in Saddle Arabia.

Steel Shine rolled her eyes at the reply. She began walking away and Keila followed her.

“I’m going the same way as you so I will accompany you.” Keila said as she caught up to Mentor Steel Shine.

After a few minutes of walking, Keila decided to ask the question that’s been on her mind since they started walking. “So, you’re really sending Velvet on this mission?”

Steel Shine stopped. They were now at the top of the stairs in the lobby. The other end of the hallway stretched out in front of them.

Steel looked to the Arabian Assassin and nodded in silence.

Keila looked directly into Mentor Steel Shine’s eyes. “Are you absolutely sure, Steel Shine?”

Steel looked right back. She knew that Keila would only call a higher up by their name instead of their title if there was genuine concern. “No. Keila. I’m not sure.”

Keila frowned. “Then why did you send her? She’s just a child.”

Steel looked guilty. “I know she’s just child, but would other options do we have? The Templars are more powerful then they’ve ever been before and now that another P.O.E may have just revealed itself we can’t just sit idle and wait for the Templars the find that too.”

Keila closed her eye and sighed. “It does not sit right with me. High Noon would agree. It’s far too risky for someone as young as Velvet Breeze taking on a mission so large.”

Steel leaned forward slightly in a convincing gesture. “It is risky yes, but the rewards are far too valuable to be considered not worth it. Besides, it will be far less risky because she’s doing this alone.”

Keila was shocked at hearing this. “Wait. you mean to tell me that Velvet Breeze is doing this completely alone!” she said loudly as she banged on the railing.

Steel frowned. “It’s less risky that way.”

Keila was flabbergasted. “Less risky! It’s fucking suicide!” She shouted. “I will not stand here and let an eighteen year old Canterlot girl go into a suicide mission.” Keila said as she started walking back down the hall, in the direction of the teens PQ’s.

Keila didn’t walk five steps before she was stopped. She turned around to see Steel Shine looking at her with narrowed eyes and a frown. “Yes, you will Keila. Velvet is walking on thin ice as it is. The more people that join her, the higher the risk of the ice breaking, and killing all who stand upon it.”

The two assassins locked eyes for a moment before Keila finally relented. “Fine. We shall see what happens.”

Steel Shine continued to stare for a moment before letting go of Keila’s arm. After this, the two assassins began to walk down the hall. while they were walking, Steel Shine decided to break the tension. “So...uh...how’s your brother Tiberius?”

Keila didn’t look at Steel but answered anyway. “He’s doing well. He’s out of town for a while, so i’m acting as Trottingham Mentor until his return.”

Steel nodded her head in understanding. “And how is that working for you so far?”

“Quite well actually. The children are training as always and there have been no major injuries beyond the occasional broken bone.” Keila replied.

Steel Shine smiled. “Excellent. How goes the P.O.E research?”

Keila groaned. “Same thing as always. Two teams go out and they are either hunted down by Enigma Team or come back with nothing.”

Steel Shine looked to the acting Mentor, and spoke softly. “This is wh-”

“I know.” Keila cut her off, looking at Steel Shine directly in her face.

Both Assassins had stopped at the end of the hall in front of a door that was labeled ‘personal quarters. Ages 19+’. To their left was a door labeled ‘Tiberius Tahbi’s PQ’.

“I know Steel Shine. I’m just concerned for Velvet Breeze, that’s all. I mean, she’s but a child yet, with so much life left in her. It seems cruel to send her on a mission that could potentially see her killed within only a year.” Keila continued.

Steel Shine looked to the concerned acting Mentor and placed her arm on Keila’s shoulder. “I’d be concerned for you, if you weren’t.” She said while smiling comfortingly.

Keila opened the door to her brother’s PQ and turned to Steel Shine and said, “If anything happens to that girl, you know what Dewdrop will do.”

Steel gulped and said, “Yeah. And that’s what scares me.”

Keila looked down, “Me as well my friend.”

Keila closed the door and Steel Shine was alone once again. She looked around and realized that she was distracted again and walked right past the hall that led to her PQ.

Sighing, Steel Shine walked back to her door and went into her room.

She took off her red cloak and placed it on the desk beside her bed and sat down on her bed. Steel proceeded to take off all her clothes except for her underwear and slide under the covers.

Right before Mentor Steel Shine went to sleep, she thought, ‘I hope Velvet is truly prepared for what she’s about to go through.’

Author's Note

Hello everypony! I hope you all enjoyed chapter 2! It took a lot of work editing this. Like, a full day. No joke. Anyway, I don't want to keep you for very long so I'm gonna make this short. As always if you see any errors, or have any criticisms you would like to say, then don't hesitate to comment! It's always appreciated! I want to make this a great read for you, so if there's anything wrong with this story, tell me!

Anyway...That's all I have to say for now! See you guys in the next update! BYEEEE!