Morning Meir Mysteries: Case 2: A Fright On Nightmare Night

Chapters

Chapter 2: "Potential Storms."
Chapter 3: "Nawlans Or Bust."
Chapter 5: "Old Friends. New Enemies."
Chapter 6: "A Meeting Of The Minds."
Chapter 7: "A Nest Of Snakes."
Chapter 8: "Beating Drums."
Chapter 10: "Eye For An Eye."
Chapter 12: "Enter The Circle."
Chapter 13: "The Most Generous Of Souls."
Chapter 14: "Digging Deeper."
Chapter 15: "The Curse Of Magnus."
Chapter 16: "Potion Brewing For The Soul."
Chapter 17: "This Is Nightmare Night."
Chapter 18: "Everyone Get A Fright."
Chapter 19: "Are Ya Ready?"
Chapter 20: "Epilogue."
Chapter 1: "The Nightmare."
Chapter 4: "Bad Vibes."
Chapter 9: "Seeking Answers."
Chapter 11: "A Turn For The Worst."

Chapter 2: "Potential Storms."

" A little flame that warms, is better than a large fire that burns."

- The Goddess

Canterlot (Noon)

The streets of Canterlot were abuzz with the Nightmare Night spirit, as ponies were bustling through the streets in droves buying up decorations, candy and frightful novelties of all kinds, as orange and black streamers dotted the outside of every building, and huge scary sculptures of Nightmare Moon adorned every street corner.

And if you would have happened to take a stroll to the farthest end of the corner of Straight street and Narrow avenue, you would see a quaint little shop where i now stood. It was built in a style I instantly recognized as resembling a Shinto temple, but with several strange idols and tribal ornaments decorating its entrance, from which I could clearly make out the faint scent of various incenses and...pumpkin spice? (It was Nightmare Night after all.)

A large novelty Crystal ball hung in midair above the doorway. As I looked up at it, the words "Miss Fortune's House Of Misfortune" appeared from the fog within, before vanishing a few moments later. I nodded at it. "I guess this is it then." I said to myself and opened the door and went inside.

As soon as I was inside, my senses were under assault from all directions, as I struggled to make sense of the bizarre scenery around me.

I was in a circular purple room with lush carpets, and all manner of mystic tapestries decorated the walls, along with several paintings of moons, the stars, and various maps of different constellations. Tribal masks of all shapes and sizes hung seemingly in midair as if watching at all times. Hundreds of white candles illuminated the scene in an atmospheric golden glow. Two whole corners of the room had been converted into bookshelves which held what had to be hundreds of tomes of varying shapes, sizes and origins. A lone mahogany table with a comfortable looking chair at each side sat in the middle of it all.

I yelped as a soft voice suddenly spoke in my ear. "Welcome, Ms. Meir." I spun around to see whom I had to assume was Miss Fortune.

Miss Fortune was surprisingly young, yet she had a mature feeling about her. Particularly her silk dress which was adorned in multiple veils and tassels, and seemed to mold itself over her body as if she was wearing a shadow, that showed off her right leg, and clung tightly at the sleeves. She also wore enough gold and jewels to reflect the light from the candles under her eyes, which were deep, possibly bottomless, pools of lilac that sparkled like they had diamonds in them.

In her mane she wore jeweled braids and her tail was also braided at one end. Lastly, she had a small tribal tattoo of a moon that curled around her right eye. She smiled, as if greeting an old friend. "My apologies for scaring you." She gestured toward the room. "Welcome to my temple of enlightenment and mystery. What can I do for you today?" she asked kindly.

I smiled back at her. Her voice was deep and beautiful and retained that tell-tale Zebrican accent Zebras were famous for. "Thank you for having me, Ma'am. I was wondering if I could ask you some questions about Voodoo."

Her smile never wavered. "Voodoo? Of course! I would love to tell you about Zebrica's tribal history! Please have a seat." She gestured to the table where the two comfortable armchairs sat.

As I took a seat, Miss Fortune brought out a tea set and poured me a cup of tea, then sat down herself with her own. "First off, what do you yourself know about Voodoo?" she asked me.

"Me? Not much I'm afraid. I'm sure you can tell me more."

"Indeed I can. Voodoo has been apart of my life since I was young...well, younger."

She took a sip of her tea and began. "Many ponies think of Voodoo in terms of magic spells or gris-gris. That kind of practice is actually called Hoodoo, and is only part of true Voodoo. Voodoo, the religion, has a strong following in Zebrica, and even in some parts of Equestria."

"Like Nawlans?"

"Yes, in fact, one could say that Voodoo's presence in Nawlans rival's that of Zebrica itself." She explained.

She took another sip of tea and continued. "Zebras see it as a tradition all their own. Ponies- and there are many in the religion- are attracted to it because of the supernatural and magical feelings given off by it. I'm personally more interested in the history of voodoo, although I myself also practice it."

"How exactly did Voodoo come to Equestria? If you don't mind me asking."

Miss Fortune chuckled. "Not at all. Voodoo first came to Equestria along with the first Zebras to come over from Zebrica when Princess Celestia opened the borders, many hundreds of years ago. Ponies were immediately captivated by its magical nature and sought to learn more, and the Zebras were more then happy to teach them. Soon enough, Voodoo's influence spread in certain parts of Equestria, but none more then Nawlans, where even today the lively city is said to be the heart of Voodoo in Equestria, practiced and studied by both Pony and Zebra alike."

"Have you ever been to Nawlans?"

"Not as much as I've wanted to. But me and my family of course go down every year for the yearly Carnivas Festival. And sometimes just to get in touch with my heritage. Nawlans is a truly amazing city, full of life and wonder. It's the only city I can name where both ponies and Zebras live together, enjoying, sharing and partaking in one another's cultures in harmony. The music, the food and of course...the mystery is something that cannot be missed."

"Mystery? You mean the Voodoo Murders?"

"You read the news I see. Terrible thing. And so close to Nightmare Night, as well."

"I'm sorry for asking, but do you know anything about them? I only know what I've read. But is the voodoo aspect-

"Real? I'm afraid I couldn't say. I only know about history, and traditional practice. Only an absolute expert could tell you if it is truly voodoo they are using."

"Do you...know an absolute expert?"

Miss Fortune chuckled. "When you go to Nawlans, I'm sure it won't be too hard to find one."

My eyes widened. "How did you know I-

"I heard about how you saved the world a few months ago. You are drawn to mystery and intrigue, and this latest case with the Voodoo Murders is right up your alley. Just be careful on your journey. Real voodoo or not, I can sense dark forces at work in that city."

"I will. Thank You, Miss Fortune. You've been a tremendous help."

"Of course, dear. If you have any more questions, or simply have need of me, please do not hesitate to call. I will be remaining here for Nightmare Night, so I should be available." Miss Fortune handed me a small card with her number scribbled on it. "Take care."

I waved goodbye as I left the shop, fresh thoughts buzzing in my head. So, the voodoo in the murders may actually be real after all. I was hoping that I could just dismiss the whole thing, but I suppose Nair wouldn't have sent me that article if it wasn't the real deal.

Now all I had to do was pack my things for Nawlans. I only hoped the trains weren't that crowded because of the holidays.

Chapter 3: "Nawlans Or Bust."

"As night turns to bright and wakeful day, I lose myself in each and every color. As there is no more a precious gift, then today."

- The Goddess

Canterlot Express (Midday)

"YOU WHAT?!"

Heartland's voice nearly blew up the receiver of the train's phone line. Several ponies turned in their seats and looked at me as I held the phone away from my ear like it would explode.

I tried to laugh off their gaze, as I put the receiver back to my ear (Albeit much slower then before.)

"I already told you, its just a simple case. I'm only going to Nawlans to research more into this Voodoo situation. Once, I'm convinced it's nothing, I'll be back for Nightmare Night. Promise."

"But you just got on the train, without even telling me! I never even got to say goodbye." Heartland said sadly.

"C'mon Lanny, Don't be like that. I promise I'll be back soon. Then we can go have fun like we always do."

I heard Heartland sigh from the other end of the phone. "Just be safe okay? You're parents would kill me, if you end up getting axe murdered or something down there."

I laughed. "You're concern is touching. I'll be fine. I'll see you when I get back, okay?"

"Yeah. Later, Morning."

"Later, Lanny."

I hung up the phone and returned to my compartment. It was still quite a ways to Nawlans.

Morning Meir's Compartment (3:45 pm)

For the first part of my trip I re-read many of the voodoo books Miss Fortune had lent me. Most of it was about historical facts, but a great deal seemed to have a genuine supernatural element to it.

The many spells, charms and other examples of magic used in voodoo, were separate from any form of magic ponies were capable of. For example, gris-gris was a traditional practice that utilized zebrican magic to protect the user from evil, or benefit them in some way. Although it also warned that it could be used for evil as well.

Another example was what you could do just with someone's name. In Voodoo, the name of a pony was part of that pony. And whatever happened to the name also happened to them. So if you took their name, wrote it down on a piece of paper, and whatever happened to that paper would in turn happen to the pony whose name was on it. However, there were limits to this: It would only work if a name was less than ten letters, as a full name. It wouldn't work otherwise. I certainly thought it was interesting, but it sounded a bit far fetched to me. As a doctor, I was quite certain that it was medically impossible to affect someone just by doing something to a piece of paper with their name on it.

Though it was still fascinating.

However nothing I read about, helped me confirm if the voodoo around the murders was genuine or not. I was so enraptured by reading, I almost didn't hear the steady knocking at my compartment door.

I opened the door to see a familiar face. "Lieutenant!" I exclaimed.

Goldbloom smiled warmly as we hugged one another. "It's actually Inspector, now. But I'd still prefer Goldbloom if you don't mind, Ms. Meir." she said cheerfully.

I chuckled. "Okay, then I prefer just Meir, If you don't mind, Goldbloom." I joked.

We laughed as we sat down in my compartment and got talking.

"I had no idea you were in Equestria? Why didn't you tell me?"

Goldbloom looked guilty. "Actually, I wasn't really planning to come to Equestria, but the higher ups thought I should take on an investigation they have their eyes on."

I didn't need to guess. "The Voodoo Murders."I said simply.

Her eyes widened. "Y-yeah, how did you- oh, wait...that's why you're here too, isn't it?"

"Yep. I read about it in a news article. The whole thing seems...odd to me."

"Y'mean the Voodoo part? I'm afraid I don't know much myself, but it has Nawlans spooked. And for good reason, I'd say."

I nodded. "I suppose so, but that's the thing: I don't think the voodoo in these cases is actual voodoo."

"Really? What do you mean?" she asked.

"Its simple factors that common voodoo is associated with. Certain symbols dedicated to a certain Loa, or spirit. The offerings used in the ritual, the all around subtlety of the crime itself, like they took their time. This isn't voodoo like what's known today. This is something much older. And much more...dark." I explained.

"Jeez. I didn't think I'd be dealing with something that crazy on this case. So, you think it's some kind of Dark Voodoo?"

"Perhaps. But I'll need to actually examine the victims myself, to be sure."

"We'll you'll have your chance soon enough. I'm certainly not looking forward to this voodoo thing though."

"Are you scared of it?" I asked as politely as I could.

"Nothing like that. I just...get the creeps about it. I mean, magic is magic, and we understand how to use it and how it works, and all that. But this voodoo stuff? Its more wild, untamed. We know like nothing about it, and yet...the things it can apparently do. It freaks me out, is all."

"I understand. But I wouldn't worry all too much." I reassured her.

"Why would I worry? I've got The Smartest Pony In The World helping me out from the get go!" she laughed.

I felt my cheeks redden as always, but laughed with her anyway.

Nawlans City Train Station, (5:45 pm)

As I had expected, the train station was quite crowded. But it occurred to me that more ponies seemed to be boarding the train out of Nawlans then those who were arriving. No doubt the voodoo murders scaring everypony out of their wits. I suppose under different circumstance,I would want to leave town too.

We decided to head to the police station first, so we could get caught up on the status of the case. The sooner the better in my opinion.

Downtown Nawlans, (5:50 pm)

I lost count how many times either of us opened our mouths in awe and said "Wow, look at that!"

Nawlans is an absolutely beautiful city, with so much life, bursting in everything from the food, to the atmosphere, to the numerous musicians that played on the streets. The countless Nightmare Night decorations were also a sight to see, including a large stone statue of Nightmare Moon, smiling evilly as she watched over the busy streets.

The police station was another story.

Even from outside the barred windows and numerous police carriages in front of the place, I could tell that this place had police ponies running in and out like clockwork. Several police ponies were gathered outside talking, when one police mare spotted us.

"Can I help you?" she asked with a smile. (Although it looked like a forced one.)

I smiled back. "Sorry to disturb you officer. My name is Morning Meir, I'm a doctor from Pon-

"Wait...THE Morning Meir? The one who solved that huge case in Mareiposa?!"

I nervously scratched the back of my head. I didn't want to raise a commotion. "Yes, that's me. Were here looking into the voodoo murders case."

By the mare's face you would think that I just told her she was the next princess of Equestria. The smile took up half of her face.

"Guys!! You wont believe this!" She called over to her fellow police ponies, who all looked over at us. "The case is solved! Morning Meir's here! THE Morning Meir!" she exclaimed, happy as a filly at Hearth's Warming.

Before I could say anything, I was suddenly surrounded by as many as 20 police ponies, all thanking me over and over, shaking my hooves, asking for my autograph and anything else you can name. My face was beet red at that point. I never liked getting so much attention at once.

As I struggled to fight my way out of the crowd, a loud female voice was heard over the chatter. "ALRIGHT, THAT'S ENOUGH!"

The crowd parted for me to see who had silenced the whole crowd with little effort. A tall and very intimidating looking dark red Earth Pony in a police uniform stood at top of the steps to the police station. Her white mane was shaved down to a flat top, and her eyes were obscured by her mirror sunglasses. But even then I could tell she had them narrowed quite a bit at the police ponies around us.

"THE NEXT POLICEPONY I SEE OUT HERE, INSTEAD OF AT THEIR DESKS, GETS TRIPLE PROBATION FOR THE NEXT MONTH! UNDERSTOOD!?" She shouted to them. Just like that, the police ponies scattered like roaches back into the building, leaving only me and Goldbloom out there with this mare who could give Nightmare Moon a run for her money.

As she came over to us, I saw that she had a brass scale for a cutie mark, symbolizing justice. For a minute I thought she was still angry, until she removed her sunglasses and smiled at us. "Sorry about that. But those guys would rather be doing anything else but their jobs right now, I'm afraid." she looked at us with kind, but absolutely stunning piercing green eyes, that seemed to be razor sharp, even at a glance. Like emeralds embedded in the eyes of a hawk.

When I saw she wasn't mad at us, I found my voice again."It's no trouble, really. I'm-

"Morning Meir, the famous detective/ doctor." she finished for me.

I was surprised. By what though, I wasn't totally sure. "You know who I am?"

she chuckled. "Of course. And Inspector Goldbloom, I received word from you're superiors that you would be joining us as well."

Goldbloom still seemed a little shaken, but smiled anyway. "Oh, um...thank you, Ms?"

"I'm Chief Karosta, Chief Of Police in Nawlans. I was assigned to lead the investigations surrounding these voodoo murders, that have every stallion and mare within a hundred blocks scared witless." She explained. "I won't waste time here: I'm damn glad you're here. Both of ya."

I nodded. "Of course. I'll do whatever I can to help."

She smiled at that. "Glad to hear it! C'mon, we can head over to the crime scene now, and I'll let you do your thing."

We followed Chief Karosta into her police carriage and rode off to the far side of Nawlans.

It was here where I saw the first crime scene of the case. And stumbled upon something, I would come to regret later on.

Chapter 5: "Old Friends. New Enemies."

"Real friendship, is like fluorescence. It shines brightest, when everything else is dark."

- The Goddess

The Majestic Majesty Golf and Royal Country Club, Front Entrance ( 8:00pm, Night)

The Garden District of Nawlans is famous for its elaborate old mansions and country clubs. The particular country club, that I now stood at the front doors of, was impeccably groomed. The gilded gates had been open, allowing me to make my way to the front door. judging by all the carriages and the sounds of party goers from the back as well as the inside, I figured they were having a celebration. One of those elaborate overpriced parties, that rich ponies throw for no apparent reason other then to spend money. I didn't envy them.

I could never party, for the sake of just doing it to spend money! (I'm all about fun when it comes to that. Not bank accounts.)

The overall splendor of the place was that of a luxurious palace. Tall narrow shutters, provided the windows with beauty as well as protection. The tall trees that dotted the lush lawn bore beards of Spanish moss. They had clearly been here for quite a while.

The windows were made of thick, heavy glass. The only thing I could see inside from the outside was even thicker drapery.

And that was just from the outside. Even the doorbell, sung an orchestra of bells and chimes as I rang it. Not more then a few seconds after, the door was opened, and a very well dressed, snooty looking stallion stood in the entryway.

"May I help you?" He said in quite possibly the most overly saturated snooty tone I'd ever heard. Even his nose and muzzle seemed permanently turned up as he spoke in a near painful rich guy drawl. He was polished, well-groomed and impervious. He looked at me with an uncomfortably mocking stare.

I tried my best to sound as polite as possible. (Although, in my defense, I didn't have to try too hard.) "I'm sorry, but I was wondering if it would be alright for me to come in? My name is Morning Meir and-

"This establishment is for members only. You are clearly not a member, so I would ask that you leave before I call the authorities. Consider this your only warning."

I blinked. Once.Twice. The stallion's pompous and rude attitude was, literally stunning. I figured it would be hard to get in here, but...did he have to be so mean about it?

"I'm...I'm afraid you don't understand, I'm actually here on behalf of-

"Miss Merner' (Really? He couldn't even get my name right?), 'as I said, we do not want your...lack of culture, ruining the more refined tastes of our members. You don't belong here. If you continue to be a nuisance, then I will have to-

To my surprise (And relief) The stallion was suddenly heavily shoved aside by an extremely well dressed dark pink mare. Her eyes were a vivid, haunting blue, lined with kohl and shadowed with gold, and they had a kindness behind them that I recognized immediately. Yet as I looked into them I saw greed unlike any I'd ever seen, reflect back at me from them. (Which I also recognized immediately.)

Her mane was woven of gold and layered in several elegant patterns that came down behind her head and one large swirl that hung over the front of her head, arched just slightly to the left, putting emphasis on her seemingly flawless face. Even though she was wearing an extravagant gold (Solid gold?) ball gown, encrusted with small jewels and embroidered in platinum, I still recognized her easily.

And she, by her warm and friendly smile, most definitely recognized me.

She threw her arms around me and nearly suffocated me, as she pulled me into her embrace, before releasing me and smiling brighter then the sun. "I knew I recognized that voice! Oh, its so good to see you again, Meir!" she said genuinely.

I smiled back at her just as genuinely. It felt great to see a friendly face after having to deal with that doorman. "It's good to see you too, Ms. Digger."

Gold Digger waved a hoof, shooing away my politeness. "Oh no, none of that formality here, Meir. I insist you call me either Gold Digger. Or Goldy! All my friends do!" she explained cheerfully.

I laughed happily. It was great to see another one of my friends from Mareiposa in Nawlans. "I think I'll stick with Gold Digger, then." I said simply.

She smiled again. But it vanished as she looked to her side and glared at the doorman who had insulted me. "Orville! What do you think you're doing not letting such an esteemed guest into the club!?" she yelled angrily.

I'm not gonna lie. I felt a little bit of joy seeing Orville stutter and pull his collar nervously as he tried to explain himself. "M-Miss Digger, I assure you,I was only thinking of the club's reputation. I mean, look at her. Only the best of society is permitted-

"Best of Society!?" Gold Digger yelled even angrily. Orville was positively terrified at this point. "Do you have any idea just who you are speaking to? YOU wouldn't even be alive, if it wasn't for this mare! She saved the whole world! You should be ashamed of yourself!" Gold Digger scolded, stabbing a hoof to Orville's chest.

She turned back to me, her terrifying glare, once again a cheerful smile. "Don't mind this idiot, Meir. Come with me! I'll show you around." Gold Digger said taking me by the hoof and leading me into the luxurious club.

As we walked into the lobby, Gold Digger looked back to the door. "And Orville?"

He jumped at the sound of his name in such an serious tone. "Y-yes, M-Miss Digger?"

"I wish you luck in finding another job."

His eyes shot open from his half closed glare. "Y-you're firing me?" he demanded.

"Yes. Because you are, rude, pompous, and give even the rich, snooty, nobodies at this club a bad name."

"You can't just fire me! This isn't your club, you're just a member!" He exclaimed.

"Oh yeah. You will be receiving a memo about the change of ownership tomorrow afternoon. Or at least you would...if you still worked here."

With that we left the stallion, open mouthed and stunned at the closed entryway doors. I was glad that she hadn't changed.

Club Foyer (8:05 pm)

Each room Gold Digger showed me was just as luxurious as the last, and the air in each one seemed sweetened with the scent of roses and gardenias. We had visited the pool house, the diner, the bowling alley ("Bowling Alley?" I asked. "Rich ponies bowl too, y'know. I'm also club champion!" Gold Digger had explained with enthusiasm.)

It was all very impressive (And no doubt expensive), but I had a case to look into, and Gold Digger, being as rich and influential as she was, had to know something about this Dr. Pensipony. As such I was very happy to retire to the foyer with her, where we both sat by the fire in large leather chairs, and finally got to talk for a bit.

Gold Digger sipped her cider with elegance as she looked over at me slyly. "So...what brings you to the joyful city of Nawlans, this close to Nightmare Night?" she asked.

"Another case. One I was hoping you could help me solve, if possible." I answered.

Her eyes lit up. "You mean I get to help you save the world again?" She asked gleefully.

I wasn't sure about the world but, I knew we would be saving Nawlans at least. I mean...it was voodoo. Local stuff...right?

Gold Digger looked at me proudly. "I'll help you in any way I can, Meir. Were besties, remember?" she said with a smile, and I returned the gesture.

"Thanks Goldy."

"No thanks necessary." she said as she took another sip of her cider. "So....what do you want to know?"

Questioning (Gold Digger,Eccentric Multi-Trillionairess, Has possible information on Dr. Pensipony, Bestie, 8:06pm)

Dr. Pensipony was clearly very rich, very influential, and very smart. She was also connected to these voodoo murders. I didnt know how yet, but If Gold Digger didn't know about her, nopony did.

I began by simply asking her if she knew Dr. Pensipony.

Gold Digger didn't need to think for a second before answering. "Of course I know about that mare. A real piece of work, and that's saying something. She's smart. Very smart. Likes to make everypony else feel stupid to make herself seem smarter. She's also got a thing for seriously difficult puzzles."

"And shes also quite wealthy from what I hear." I elaborated.

Gold Digger suddenly looked quite proud of herself. "Not nearly in the realms of my standards, but she is certainly wealthy. Her family is very old, been in Nawlans for centuries. They actually built most of the town themselves. She's sort of the town darling from what I hear. But there are those who don't like her. They say that she's....uh-

"Creepy?"

"Yeah...creepy." Gold Digger said with a slight shiver. It seemed that Dr. Pensipony had a knack for freaking ponies out. I wondered why she didn't have that impression on me...

I decided to make a mental note of it before asking my next question.

"What do you know about her family?"

"They're a very private bunch. Keep to themselves almost all the time, and have all kinds of business affairs around Equestria. The most prominent in Nawlans are The Nawlans Finest Department Stores, which there are about 20 of in the entire city. As far as I know, Dr. Pensipony is the only member of her family in town, but they can be found all over Equestria. She handles the family's affairs in Nawlans."

So she has a very large family. A very wealthy, powerful family that is extended all across Equestria. Why did I get the feeling that Dr. Pensipony was very different from the rest of her family?

"Is there anything else you can tell me?" I asked politely. I wanted to get as much information as I could.

Gold Digger put a hoof to her chin in thought. "Well....she has a lecture tomorrow at the Nawlans State University. She's a teacher there. You could go and ask her anything else you wanna know yourself."

"Perfect. In that case, I'm going to head back to town. See if I can find a hotel to stay-

Gold Digger suddenly looked as if I'd offended her. She uttered a loud fake gasp, putting a hoof to her chest in dramatic fashion. "Don't be ridiculous, my dear Meir! I wouldn't dream of having you stay in some drab, everyday hotel on the street! No, no, you are staying with me in my private suite at the Nawlans Galleria. And I won't take no for an answer!" she said with that same air of drama.

I wasn't sure what to say. And to be honest I was getting tired. I figured I would just let Gold Digger do me this favor, and I could repay her once I had had some sleep.

I agreed and before you know it, I was in her private town car, bound for downtown, which even in the dead of night, was still just as alive as it had been all day. Because Nawlans never sleeps. (But I do.)

Nawlans Galleria (Downtown Nawlans, 9:27pm)

I would like to say I slept like a foal that evening. But even with my mind as worn out as it was, and in a bed as soft and luxurious as the guest's bedroom Gold Digger had in her mansion sized suite, I could barely sleep at all. Because that would the eighth time I would have the nightmare. But this time it felt...different.

It felt stronger. More Real. Too Real.

More Fire.

The same scene as before: A stallion being attacked by a monstrous mare.

A medallion falls to the ground.

And a snake.

But there's that feeling again. That feeling that something is different. But what....what is it that's different.

I woke up the next morning before I had an answer.

Chapter 6: "A Meeting Of The Minds."

"The mind is not the most precious thing. The most precious thing, is using it."

- The Goddess

Gold Digger's Private Suite (The Next Morning)

I awoke to the heavenly smell of fresh brewed coffee and donuts. It took all my energy to pull myself from the silk covers of the bed I slept in. That makes eight nights in a row. I wouldn't be lying if I said I was getting scared now.

And as I read my horoscope from today's paper it didn't make me feel any better about it: "Aquarius: An Evil Eye is upon you. Change course before its too late." I read aloud, not even trying to hide the fear in my voice.

But Gold Digger brushed it off. "Oh, now really! That's just those editors trying to give you a scare because of the holidays!" She argued. And she did have a point. Maybe I was just letting this case get to me. And the nightmares didn't help either.

"You're right, I guess I'm just....letting all this voodoo stuff get to me."

Gold Digger smiled at me as she pushed the plate full of fresh donuts my way. I helped myself to one and it did actually make me feel better. Pastries always did.

"You've got nothing to worry about, Meir. You've gone up against things like this before, and come out on top! You'll do it again!" Gold Digger beamed.

I smiled back at her. "Yeah. Thanks Gold Digger."

"And I'll help of course! Anything you need, I can get."

"I believe it." I chuckled.

I read through the rest of the paper. Most of it was just more news on the town being gripped with fear due to the murders. Another, much more noticeable article read: "Morning Meir, The Smartest Pony In The World, In Nawlans to solve The Voodoo Murders! Case already solved?"

"Ugh, great. Now I'll have even more ponies clamoring all over me." I said voicing my displeasure.

"I know how that feels." Gold Digger called from the table.

I chuckled to myself before I finally read the main article in the Cultural Events section: "Dr. Pensipony to conduct lecture on Zebrican Voodoo Culture at Nawlans State University. Hundreds already in attendance."

My eyes lit up instantly. This was it! My opportunity to finally get some one on one time with Pensipony. I'd actually be able to talk to her, find out what she knows. Why she just happened to be driving past the crime scene yesterday. I had to let Chief Karosta and Goldbloom know. They were probably worried about me.

Goldbloom's Foyer (7:35 am)

"No. We weren't worried." Goldbloom said from the other line of the receiver.

"You weren't? You didn't hear back from me all night!" I argued.

"You're the smartest pony in the world! You can handle yourself."

My cheeks reddened as they always did. I didn't know if I was happy or mad. Maybe both? I decided to let it slide for now. I had to tell Goldbloom what I knew now.

"Gold Digger's here!? Wow...I wish I had gotten to stay in a posh hotel last night. I slept on the couch in the police station." Goldbloom said solemnly.

"Goldbloom, can we please focus here?"

"Right, sorry. That Pensipony mare is a tough nut to crack. This lecture of hers is probably your best chance to actually get some real facts from her." Goldbloom elaborated.

"I know. Plus she'll be talking about Voodoo. The more I learn the better."

"Okay. Just be careful around her, Meir. I don't like the feeling she gives off. She's a bad one. I know it."

I assured her I would be fine. She wished me luck before hanging up. As I hung up the receiver, Gold Digger trotted into the room. "Any ideas what you'll actually say to Pensipony? She's known for really getting into ponies heads." she warned.

"Somehow, I don't think she'll be the one getting into heads this time around. She likes puzzles, right?"

"Right?"

"Well then...I'll use puzzles to get her to talk."

Gold Digger looked confused. "How?" she asked scratching her head. "No, wait! don't tell me. Just see what you can get out of her. It'll be something to see that pony get a taste of her own medicine."

My eyes widened. "I'm just talking to her, Goldy." I explained, a little alarmed.

But Gold Digger only smiled. "Yes. YOU will be talking to her. As I said: A taste of her own medicine."

Nawlans State University (12:00 pm, Noon)

The crowd in the amphitheater was huge. I was a simple little swirly maned teal dot in a sea of college students and various professors, each more esteemed then the last. I hoped that in all these ponies, no one would recognize me. I didn't need that kind of attention. Not here.

Suddenly the lights all dimmed as the chatter in the place came to a halt almost instantly. A projector screen came down from above, as a single light shone from the ceiling on Dr. Pensipony, looking just as proud and intelligent as ever. As the screen flashed to life, she began. Instantly, every ear and eye in the amphitheater was locked on her.

"Voodoo, or Voudoun is the tribal religion of Zebrica. But the name "Voodoun" is actually a banner heading, under which resides an entire body of distinct tribal belief systems."

The way she spoke. The elegance in her speech and the manner as to which her eyes glittered with insight. She really was smart. But in those eyes I saw something else: Arrogance. She thought that she was smarter then everypony else, in not just this room. But everywhere period. Arrogance like that shouldn't have been present in such an intelligent mare. But it was. And I didn't like it.

An image flashed on screen. An old fashioned photo of tribal zebras in Zebrica, happily talking with other ponies in a circle.

"The word Voudoun may sound familiar to you. What is known in Equestria as Voodoo is actually an amalgamation of Zebrican religious systems, Voudoun and Equestrian religious belief systems, primarily Celestialism."

"Celestialism? But....Celestialism isn't a religion. It's just the primary principle of acknowledgement of Princess Celestia as our benevolent overseer. A symbol of inspiration for ponies, not worship."

By the time I had realized I had said those words out loud, it was already too late.

Every single eye that was now staring holes through me, was nothing compared to the soul shattering gaze Dr. Pensipony was giving me. I thought my heart was going to stop. They were like two diamond tipped knives digging into me.

Sweat beaded on my forehead as I sat there, unable to speak, move or possibly even breathe. There was no sound in the room say for my fast-beating heart, and a few muffled whispers. I wanted somepony to say something. Anything.

To my horror, It was Dr. Pensipony who broke the silence. She looked...pleased. A smile on her face was melded with her soft half closed, judging eyes. "Ah...so the Famous Morning Meir, finally speaks." she said slyly.

The excited whispers suddenly exploded all around the room.

"Morning Meir? THE Morning Meir!?" one mare whispered.

"The Smartest Pony In The World?"

"She's here! Just like the paper said!"

"How does she make her mane so swirly?"

My face turned beet red as I struggled to think under pressure. I had to calm down and think this through. All this attention would mean I would lose my chance to talk with-

"That will be enough, thank you." Pensipony's intelligent voice sounded from the podium. And just like that, every voice went quiet. She had this room under her hoof the whole time.

Her smile never wavered as her gaze fell on me. "Dr. Morning Meir?"

I found my voice at last. Although it was more of a squeak, barely above that of a mouse. But she somehow heard me say "Y-Yes?"

"Perhaps you would like to join me for this lecture. I'm sure that a genius such as you has plenty to share on the history of voodoo." she said simply, her eyes flashing behind her glasses.

I knew what she was doing. This was a challenge: Which one of us was smarter. This whole thing had been a trap. She had purposefully said false information, because she knew that only I would catch it. The rest of these ponies would believe her if she had said Celestia was actually a dragon in disguise. She had them all in her grasp. All but me. And she knew it. She had called me out, and I had taken it.

I calmed my nerves. Regaining my composure, I simply stood up from my seat and said "Certainly." As I made my way to the podium, the excited whispers grew almost to fill the room. I ignored them as I kept my focus. This was a challenge. She was testing me to see if I was worth speaking to at all. This proved she knew something. And If I wanted to know it: I had to beat her at her own game. And I was NOT going to lose.

Amphitheater Podium (Morning Meir Vs Dr. Amalia Pensipony, 12:13 pm)

I should've been nervous. But all the anxiety had vanished once I knew what was going on here. There was no crowd of excited ponies watching me. No Amphitheater, and no lights bearing down on me. There was just me and Pensipony. Without warning, she continued her lecture as if nothing else had transpired.

"All of the sub-cults of Zebrican Voudoun have certain things in common." She turned to me, standing behind the podium across from hers. That smile returned. "Do you know these things I speak of, Dr. Meir?" she asked, with a bite of sarcasm, that flew over all other heads but my own. She was trying to get me already. I panicked only for a second....but wait.

I did know that. I had read through all of Miss Fortune's voodoo books. Was she testing me? "The pantheon of spirits known as the Loa."I answered without really needing to think at all.

She gave barely a nod. "Hmm. Very good. And of course-

"Of which there are several main Loa." I interrupted without thinking. "The Rada Loa, which are the original Loa spirits that came from Zebrica, and the Petro Loa, which are new, and considered by many to be evil, in countenance to the benevolent Rada loa."

The crowd looked impressed. Pensipony did not. "Yes, thank you, Dr.Meir. Now then, Voudoun is anything but easy to adapt to. In fact it takes years to-

"Actually, Voodoo is very easy to adapt to. The worship of spirits makes it easy to add more to those who wish to expand their own personal belief systems without issue. In fact, Princess Celestia and Luna are considered to represent the Loa of the Sun and Moon."

Again the crowd looked impressed. Some even clapped. Others nodded in agreement. Pensipony was glaring at me. but I didn't care. She was losing. And she knew it.

"Again, thank you....Dr. Meir. But I'm afraid you are wrong about the Rada Loa, you see, one such Loa, Damballah, is regarded in the Holtsman Encyclopedia of Zebrican Culture, to be a malevolent Loa, therefore-

"That copy is wrong." I said simply.

Pensipony blinked."Excuse me?"

"That volume of Holtsman Ecyclopedia was republished around 3 years ago to feature the correct information. Damballah was not only a benevolent loa, but one of the main Loa worshiped in almost all Voudoun sects. I'm afraid you need to update your information."

I wasn't trying to usurp her. Or sound arrogant. I was simply correcting her when she was wrong, and saying what I knew. But the crowd was now in full support of me. And Pensipony hated it. She adjusted her tie and was gripping the podium tightly by the corners. Nevertheless, she continued.

"Yes, well...I'm sure you know what Voodoo sects are called, Dr. Meir?"

"Hounfours. Of which the main figures are the Bokors, and the priestesses, Mamaloa."

Pensipony nodded begrudgingly. "And the Mamaloa are of course the most powerful figures in the voodoo Houn Four, as they are the direct line between-

"Nope. That's wrong."

I could practically hear the podium crack as Pensipony gripped it harder. "Pardon?" she asked through clenched teeth and a forced smile.

"The most powerful figures in the Hounfour are the Loa themselves of course. It is they that dictate the Mamaloa, and therefore the ones who control the destiny of the Hounfour itself. And you misspoke, earlier when you said Houn Four. The word is said as one word, not two." I corrected.

The crowd was completely on my side now. Everypony clapped and smiled in appreciation, while Pensipony was silently strangling her podium with her bare hooves. She had lost the battle between us. But of course she had one more trick up her sleeve.

She smiled once more, and I had already guessed what she was going to ask. "Well, Dr. Meir' she said with faked enthusiasm. "With a mind such as yours...surely you've figured out the culprit to these heinous Voodoo murders!" she announced.

The crowd was out of their seats now. "Yeah! Who did it, Ms. Meir?" One colt asked.

"Tell Us! We have to know!" a young mare called out.

"Is it really voodoo killing these ponies?" an elderly professor asked.

"Seriously...how do you get it so swirly? It's like a teal hurricane up there."

I looked out over the crowd. So this was her last trick, huh. To get me with information she KNEW I didn't have. To put me in a situation where I had to admit I didn't know something. And of course I didn't know. That had been the whole point of me coming here.

But this didn't prove anything. In fact it had proved that Pensipony, was just an egotistical know it all. Not a genius. And again, I had gotten her.

I looked over at her with the same disinterested look she always wore. "That's actually why I'm even here, Dr. Pensipony. Because YOU, are now a suspect in the case." I said simply.

"I'm What!?" Pensipony shouted, losing all trace of her usual mannerism in a second. Her eyes were now fully open and filled with shock and outrage. "Is this- Is this a joke?!"

I smiled at her. "You tell me. I thought this was YOU'RE game we were playing."

With that she had finally run out of tricks. She had no choice but to talk to me now, if for nothing else then to defend her reputation. She took a breather, then announced a recess so she and I could speak privately. As the amphitheater emptied, I had the sudden feeling that even though I had won Pensipony's little game...the real game had yet to begin.

Dr. Pensipony's Office (12:46 pm)

As we sat in her lavish office, I took note that Dr. Pensipony's entire manner had done a back-flip once more. She was once again, prim, proper and....arrogant. Something was definitely up with this mare. If she did have anything to do with the murders, I would need to be more then just smart about this. I would have to be aggressive. (Just, y'know....not TOO aggressive.)

Pensipony was sharp eyed, and even sharper tongued. When she condescended to look at me at all, it was with a dismissive glare. After a moment she finally decided to talk to me. "Well?"

I was confused. "Well??"

"Ms. Meir (What happened to doctor?) You have already interrupted my lecture, and made a mockery of my doctorate in front of my own students as well as several esteemed college professors. I hope you have something worthwhile to discuss here, otherwise, I will be returning to my students. And YOU will be returning to your case."

"This is part of my case, Doctor. I just wanted to ask you some questions. I promise It wont take up much of your time. It's all so we can find out whose behind these voodoo murders." I explained politely.

Pensipony sighed. "Fine. Let's get this over with."

Questioning (Dr. Amalia Pensipony, Esteemed and wealthy professor and voodoo expert, Was seen at the crime scene)

I started off simple. "I feel as if we have gotten off on the wrong hoof. Why don't you tell me more about yourself so-

"I'm 35 years old, a fully tenured professor at this university as well as a chairwoman at Cambridge. My doctorate was obtained in Syracuse- yes, Syracuse- in Religious Studies. I'm a skeptic, but I believe Equestrian belief systems to be fascinating. I specialize in Zebrican religions because I grew up there- My father was an Equestrian Missionary."

"I also enjoy little else besides my work and teaching my students. Although I also play tennis on weekends. When I'm not here, I am at my family's estate in the French Quarter, or handling my family's many business affairs in the city. I also have a cutie mark of a tribal totem floating above an open book."

I was...stunned for a bit. I of course heard all of that, but I wasn't expecting such an outpouring of information so quickly. So much for questioning.

"Is that enough for you, Ms. Meir?" She asked in a bored tone.

No. It wasn't. She had yet to explain why she had been driving past the crime scene yesterday. She thought that I would just accept all this information and decide she was innocent. Nope. Not by a long shot.

It was time to get aggressive. She obviously didn't care about manners, just facts. So that's what I was going to use.

I narrowed my eyes at her. "Are you done with these games, Doctor?"

"Excuse me?"

"The way I see it, YOU are the one who has been wasting time. Both your time and mine. You aren't stupid. You know why I'm here. You know I saw you yesterday at the crime scene. And you know I won't leave you alone until you tell me why you were there." I explained in a serious tone. "So just tell me what I need to know so I can back to my case, and you can get back to your students."

That got her attention. For a minute she just looked at me. Studying me. I didn't care, at this point she could write a book on me if she wanted. I just wanted what I came for.

Apparently satisfied with whatever she was studying for, Pensipony gave her explanation.

"I was just getting back from a tennis match at one of the local country clubs out by Lake Ponchipony, as I told you I play tennis on free time. When I spotted the scene, It was only curiosity to see if the roads would be closed for next weeks tennis match that had me asking Chief Karosta about what had happened. Naturally, she didn't tell me a thing."

She was telling the truth about why she was there. But I still sensed there was more to it. She was still hiding something. And very well, I might add. Her face showed no sign of her lying, but her eyes betrayed her. The tiny erratic movement of her pupils meant she was trying to hide something in her mind, and was hoping I wouldn't see. But I did. Just barely. But I did.

I decided that whatever it was, she wasn't going to be telling me, no matter how aggressive I seemed. I had gotten what I came here for. It was time to go over things with Chief Karosta and Goldbloom. Maybe they had more to go on.

"Thank you for your time, Doctor. I'll see myself out." I said politely, at which Pensipony seemed just fine with. But then as I reached for the door, she suddenly spoke up again.

"It's real you know."

I turned around without letting go of the door handle. "I'm sorry?"

"The voodoo aspect of these murders isn't faked. In fact it's all too real. Beyond that of any parlor tricks you'll find in this city. It's beyond the scope of normal voodoo." Pensipony explained without an expression.

"If you truly wish to continue this case...then I would prepare yourself for far worse things ahead." she said with a sinister tone.

I looked at her for a minute. "Good day, doctor." I said simply, then I left without another word.

Chapter 7: "A Nest Of Snakes."

"Fear only has as much power as you let it. But courage is always strong."

- The Goddess

Nawlans Police Station (Front entrance, 1:35 pm)

The first thing I noticed as I walked into the bustling police station was the strange stallion standing on the sidewalk outside looking directly into the station from the window. He never blinked. He never moved. And he never looked anywhere else.

The second thing I noticed was Lieut-sorry-Inspector Goldbloom, peeking up from the couch that was just underneath the window the odd stallion was looking in at. She kept ducking back down, only to quickly peek back up, like she was a foal playing peek a-boo.

It was funny to see, but as I neared the window to meet the stallion's gaze, I felt a great chill surge down my spine.

He was looking in but his eyes were like foggy glass. Half closed as if he wasn't even aware of anything. Like he just...was there.

It was unsettling to say the least. "Are you alright Goldbloom?" I asked, taking my attention away from the odd stallion.

Goldbloom peeked back up with a nervous smile, clearly relieved to see anypony else but the window stalker outside. "Oh! Meir, man am I glad to see you!" she exclaimed nervously.

"I can tell. What's with that weird guy outside?"

"I don't know! He gives me the creeps! I wish he'd go away."

"Have you asked him to leave?" I suggested.

Goldbloom looked at me as if I had just suggested we dress up as clowns and join the rodeo. "Are you nuts?! I'm not going anywhere near that nutjob!" Goldbloom protested.

I sighed to myself. "Fine, I'll do it."

I turned and locked eyes with the odd stallion. "Excuse me, but would you mind leaving? Or at least tell us why you're here?" I asked politely through the window.

But the figure outside never responded. Another chill went down my spine.

Goldbloom shivered. "What's wrong with his eyes?" she asked with fear in her voice.

"I'm...not sure."

This didn't help us calm down. Unsurprisingly.

"Is Chief Karosta in? I need to talk to her about updating the case." I asked, changing the subject.

Goldbloom suddenly looked very nervous. She scratched the back of her head as she looked away from me.

I raised an eyebrow. "What happened?"I asked.

"Nothing! Except, well....the case is closed."

My eyes shot open. "What??" I exclaimed with alarm. "How is the case closed?! It just opened!"

"Chief Karosta didn't have a choice! She can tell you everything, just go talk to her. She's in her office over that way." Goldbloom said defensively, pointing to the door to Karosta's office, near the back of the station.

"Thanks. Let me see what this is about."

Karosta's Office (Nawlans Police Station, 1:37 pm)

Karosta's commanding but gentle sounding voice greeted me as I entered her office. "Ms. Meir...I had a feeling you would want to talk about this."

"What's going on, Chief Karosta? Why is the Voodoo Murders case closed?" I asked as politely as possible while still getting my point across. (The point being that I was upset about it.)

Karosta sighed as she closed her eyes. "Believe me, I'm just as mad as you are. Heck, I think I'm madder! This case is causing this whole town to lose its mind with fear, and It's my job to put a stop to it! But now....' she trailed off there.

"Please Chief Karosta. Just tell me what happened."

She sighed again. "The mayor happened."

"The mayor??"

Karosta leaned back in her chair, and crossed her hooves in front of her. "Yep. Apparently, the honorable mayor Fairmont, has said that this case is causing too much fear in the public. That its best that we just close it now, seeing as how there haven't been any new victims of late, He says everything's safe again. Made a speech to the public and everything." She nodded to the papers on her filing cabinet. "The orders came through this morning." she explained.

She turned in her chair and gestured to the wall, which had a massive hole in the paneling. Clearly from where a large desk had been thrown. Because the desk was still there, hanging out of the wall like an oversized decoration. "I didn't take the news all that well." Karosta admitted, barely batting an eye at the new location of her desk.

Putting aside, Karosta's unsurprising reaction, I was outraged! How in the world can a mayor just declare the streets safe again, when only just days ago, another murder had taken place!

"This is insane! The killer is still out there! Nopony is safe on the streets, if they just close the case without reason! If anything they're in even more danger!" I protested.

"I know! But what can I do here? I've got seven bodies and no leads. The voodoo angle's a bust and-

"The voodoo angle is NOT a bust! Pensipony confirmed it herself!"

Karosta sat up in her chair. "Wait, seriously?" she asked with anticipation.

"She said it was beyond any other kind of voodoo out there. It's the key to this whole thing! Whoever is using it is dangerous! We need to stop them!" I exclaimed.

Karosta thought for a minute. Then she gave me a determined smile. "You're right, Meir! Orders or not, I'm not just going to let this go. I swore to protect this city, and by Celestia I will, regardless of what some idiotic politician has to say about it."

I breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm glad to hear you say that....I think." I said, hoping she didn't have anything crazy planned. I watched as Karosta got up from her chair and went over to her desk (Again, still in the wall) and got a large file from one of the drawers. She sat back down as we went over its contents.

"If were going to solve this thing for real, then we need to get down and dirty in the details."

"Uh...how dirty?" I asked in spite of myself.

Karosta smiled at me. "Relax, Meir. If the voodoo cult using this advanced voodoo stuff is in Nawlans, then all we need to do is find them, and prove that they are still a threat. That'll give our mayor something to make a speech about."

It wasn't a terribly detailed plan. But it was a plan nonetheless. "Alright. Where do we start?"

Karosta shuffled through the many papers and notes in the folder, until she found a small leaflet and handed it to me.

I looked at it in surprise. The heading read McClophlin's in cursive green lettering. "Is this...a leaflet for a bar?"

"Yep."

"Um...thanks but, I don't drink."

"You're not going to drink." Karosta explained slyly. "You're going there to ask about our only other lead besides Pensipony."

"Another lead? Who is it?"

"His name is Herring. But he calls himself 'Crash.' He's a bit of a...well no-he IS a weirdo. But a few days before this case was even official, he just burst in here and started carrying on about how the whole the city is doomed. And about voodoo. Really bad voodoo. This bar is one of his favorite hang outs."

Sounded like a lead to me. Whoever this Crash was, he must've known something about what was going on. And I guess McClophlin's was my only way of locating him. Whatever it takes, I guess.

"Alright. I'll see if I can find this Crash guy."

"Awesome. Just send him here when you find him. I won't let him out of my sight till he tells us what he knows." Karosta assured me.

"Right. I'll be back soon, then. Hopefully with Crash in tow." I assured her, although I wasn't all that excited about going to a bar even for the sake of a case. But again: It actually was for the sake of the case.

Goldbloom had to stay here and help Chief Karosta go through her files for anything else on the voodoo murders case. But I didn't feel comfortable going out there alone.

I'll be honest: I was getting severely freaked out now. First my nightmares, the cryptic horoscopes, and now that weird stallion at the window. It felt like this whole city was a nest of snakes, and I was just another mouse that wandered in, unawares. I needed to keep my friends close out here. And luckily I had another friend I knew I could trust, even in this city.

Nawlans Police Station Lobby

The phone rang for but a second before Gold Digger's elegant voice was heard on the other line. "Nawlans Galleria, Empress Suite. Gold Digger speaking."

"Goldy, It's Meir, I-

"Meir! It's so great to hear from you again. What can I do for you today?" she asked enthusiastically.

"I need you to meet me at McClophlin's. Do you know it?"

"McClophlin's? I...didn't have you pegged as a drinker, Meir. But I'll go if-

"I don't drink. It's about the case. We need to find a guy who calls himself Crash. That bar is one of his hangouts."

"Ah, I see."

"So...can you meet me?"

"Do you really need to ask? Of course I will! That's what friends are for, Meir. I'll meet you there in a bit, okay?"

"Thanks, Goldy. See you then."

I hung up the phone and checked the leaflet for directions to the bar. It was only a short walk from here, so It wouldn't take us long to get Crash back to the station if we found him there. Hopefully, we would find him there.

I went over to Goldbloom who was still cowering on the couch from the window-staring stallion (Who had not moved an inch since I last saw him. Or blinked.)

"He's...still here." Goldbloom whispered as if the stallion was listening.

"I can see that."

"What does he want? He's been here for hours now."

"I don't know. But I don't like it." And I really didn't.

"I'm telling ya Meir: This city has got some seriously bad vibes to it, these days. It's like the whole place is alive, watching your every move."

"I know. But we'll figure out whats going on in this city. And we WILL stop it. I promise you that."

"Thanks, Meir." Goldbloom said, feeling immensely relieved. "Are you heading out?"

"Yeah. To McClophlin's."

Goldbloom's eyes widened. "I didn't think you were-

"I. DO NOT. drink." I said, hopefully for the last time. "Its a lead on the case. Were not done here just yet."

"That's great! The sooner we crack this thing the better!"

I nodded in agreement. "I'm having Gold Digger meet me there. If we do we run into Crash, she might be able to 'coerce' him into coming back to the station with us."

"Good plan. I'll be here."

"To help out on the case, or because you don't want to go outside where that stallion is."

Goldbloom curled into a ball on the couch. "Both." She said shamefully.

"Don't worry, Goldbloom. We'll be fine. This city hasn't gotten us yet." I assured her, as I walked out the door.

As I made my way down the street, I took in the joyful laughter, the jubilant music and the amazing smelling food of Nawlans. This city, even in these dark times, still had so much life to it. I suppose that no matter what, Nawlans will never lose its spirit.

McClophlin's Tavern (Downtown Nawlans, 2:15 pm)

Gold Digger came over to greet me as we entered McClophlin's. As we headed inside I spotted a street drummer on the corner, just drumming away with his eyes closed. I payed him no mind as we walked into the bar.

McClophlin's is one of Nawlans landmarks (at least to some.) It's one of the city's oldest and most classic bars and restaurants. As Gold Digger went to take a seat at a table, I studied the room. The bar was full of lively and joyful patrons, both ponies and zebras, laughing and talking while they enjoyed their drinks.

The bar was of course being tended to by Ol' Stonewall McClophlin, himself. He apparently knew everypony around here. He was a portly but jolly looking orange stallion with a huge mustache, tiny glasses, and adorned in classic suspenders. His attitude was just as jolly as the rest of him.

The bar itself was a century-old antique in lovingly polished walnut. McClophlin's face was clearly visible in its surface. It was very clearly well cared for. Looking up, I saw the oil lantern chandelier was bathing the place in a warm glow.

I looked over and, seeing as how Gold Digger was now being chatted up by one (Okay, like fifteen) young stallions, I decided to ask Ol' Stonewall if he knew anything about Crash.

I took a seat at the bar, and was greeted by Stonewall's cheerful grin under his mustache. "What can I get ya, m'dear?" he asked in a jubilant tone.

"A glass of water, please?"

He chuckled. "I knew you weren't a drinker Miss Morning Meir."

I panicked for a second but he raised a hoof to calm me. "It's alright, I won't go telling any media you're here. A customer is a customer, and they get they're privacy in my bar."

He fetched me a glass of water, and took the single bit I handed him with a flourish. After putting it in the cash register he returned to me. "Now then, you obviously ain't here for drinks. So what can I do for ya Miss Meir?"

"I was wondering If I could ask you some questions."

He nodded with a smile. "Go right ahead. I'm none too busy at the moment."

Questioning (Ol' Stonewall McClophlin, Owner and Bartender at McClophlin's, May know about Crash)

I took a sip of water before asking him my first question.

"Do you know of somepony named Crash?"

"That I do. Are you lookin for him?"

"Yes, sir. He may know something about the case I'm looking into."

Stonewall's tiny eyes widened. "We'll I'll be. Never thought Crash would be getting into something like that. But he didn't do any of it. I can assure you of that. He's an odd one sure, but not a killer."

"I don't think he did anything either, Mr.McClophlin. I just wanted to talk to him to see what he does know." I explained politely.

Stonewall nodded. "Well....Crash comes in here every now and again. But he don't talk to nopony else, cept for Carlsen."

"Carlsen?"

Stonewall pointed to a young, intelligent looking blue colt in a school blazer and black rimmed glasses, sitting by himself playing chess...against himself. Carlsen seemed far too enraptured by his game to pay attention to anything else.

Stonewall continued. "Kid's an absolute genius. He's been coming here to play chess since he was but a wee one. Not once has anypony ever beaten him in that game of his. Not even come close."

"Does Crash play with him?"

"Nah. Just sits with him, they talk for a few minutes, then he leaves. And Carlsen just keeps playing his game."

"And...he's never been beaten."

"Not once. Not even close."

"So...If I beat him, he'll tell me what Crash is up to?" I asked inquisitively.

Stonewall let out a whoop of laughter. "M'dear, you beat Carlsen, and I'll give you free drinks for life!" he exclaimed cheerfully.

Putting aside the oh so stated fact that I do not drink (yet again!), this Carlsen pony seemed like a very intellectual fellow. If I did beat him, then he would no doubt be able to tell me all he could about Crash. But to have been playing for so long, and not once have lost? Impressive to say the least.

Then again: I've never been to Nawlans before. So he's never played me. Maybe I'll get lucky.

I decided to give it a shot. I thanked stonewall for the water, then went over and joined Carlsen at his table. "Hello." I said with a smile.

Carlsen never even looked up at me. His eyes seemed glued to his chess game.

"Um...sorry to interrupt, but-

Carlsen suddenly closed his eyes and let out a loud sigh. He then looked up at me begrudgingly. "What, do you want?" he asked, his English accent only confirming his annoyance at my presence. Charming.

Fine. He wanted to know what I want? "I'm looking for Crash. And you can tell me where he is, right?" I asked, putting aside manners for a second.

Carlsen put his eyes back to his game. "Depends on whose asking." He said, having lost all interest in anything but his game.

I smirked a bit as I answered. "My name is Morning Meir. I'm in Nawlans investigating the Voodoo Murders case."

He looked up at me suddenly, and apparently having finally noticed who I was, gave the very slightest smile. "Ah, the famous Morning Meir: The Smartest Pony In The World. I am honored to finally meet an intellectual equal." he stated smartly.

Intellectual equal? I never thought anypony was anypony's intellectual equal. Were all smart in our own ways. But from his smug outlook, I could see he definitely thought he was smarter then anypony else in here. No wonder he always sat alone. He preferred it.

Carlsen moved a piece on his board before talking to me again. "As much as I appreciate you wanting to join me (Wanting to?) I'm afraid I am rather busy at the moment. Perhaps I can make time for you later. Good day."

I narrowed my eyes at him. This was not a game! Ponies lives were at risk, and he had the only clue to finding our last lead, to get this case reopened. His city was in danger. HE was in danger! Didn't he care?

Then I thought of what I had come over here to do. If I beat him in chess, he would have to tell me what he knew. "I'd like you to tell me about Crash."

"Not interested."

I put on as polite a manner as I could. "What if I beat you at chess?" I asked.

Carlsen looked up at me like he had misheard me. "Pardon?"

"If I beat you at chess, then you tell me where Crash is. Deal?"

Carlsen just looked at me for a minute. Then he laughed. "Ms. Meir, I have been playing chess since before I could so much as talk. Surely, even you realize you can't beat me in my own element?" he explained curtly.

I simply smiled at him. "I guess we'll see. I'm willing to give it a shot."

He thought for a moment. Then smiled back. "Very well. Then let us match wits, Ms. Meir."

"Lets."

Bullet Chess (Morning Meir vs Carlsen Magnum)

It was all too often when I would play chess with my patients at the hospital. The game was relaxing, challenging and took their minds off whatever ailed them. It never failed to make even the fillies in my care feel better. Over the years I had developed a very keen almost programmed deduction for chess. I would lose on purpose to my patients, but I could play for real when I wanted to.

Ponies had gathered around us as we set up the board, including Stonewall. Gold Digger stood behind me, eager to see the game start. ("I didn't know you played chess, Meir!" she exclaimed. "I'm no champion. But I do play for fun at the hospital with my patients." I explained.)

Our game was this: Bullet Chess. We each had two minutes to put the other in Checkmate. Carlsen used white. I used black. With two minutes on the clock, the game started, and the bar fell completely silent, save for the ticking of the timer.

Carlsen moved a pawn to D4, then hit the timer. He then smugly gestured for me to take my turn.

So I did. I moved my knight to C6. Timer.

Carlsen moved his knight to F3. Timer. His forehead creased as he stared at the board waiting for me to make my move. He was focused now.

I moved a pawn to D5, challenging the center. Timer.

Carlsen hesitated before moving his bishop to D3. This was slightly awkward. A better move would've been to move his knight to C3, where he wasn't obstructing his pawn. But his choice, I suppose. He hit the timer, triggering my next turn.

I moved another knight to F6. Timer.

A smile crossed Carlsen's face as he moved his pawn to take mine. Timer. But as he set my captured piece aside, his smile vanished.

I smiled back as I moved my queen. Queen takes pawn. Timer. Several of the bar patrons clapped, including Gold Digger. But it wasn't over yet.

Carlsen furrowed his brow as he moved another knight to C3. Timer. Clever. But I knew what he was doing before he did.

I moved my queen out of the way to the far right side of the board before he could attack it. Queen to H5. Timer.

Carlsen Castled, moving his king to G1. My turn again.

I moved my bishop to G4. Timer. Our queens are now locked in a pin. Carlsen's best move is to break it by moving his bishop to E2.

But he's getting nervous now. Sweat beads on his forehead as he moves another pawn to H3. Timer.

I move my knight on C6 to E5. Timer. This was a trick of mine. This is actually a losing move. In its current standings, Carlsen appeared to be winning. But he failed to see that.

Carlsen takes my bishop on G4 with his pawn.Timer.

I take his pawn with my knight on F6. Timer. Again, it looks like Carlsen is winning. But as the trick goes, this only makes him paranoid. Why would I be letting him win? He's wondering.

Carlsen was sweating bullets now, as he made a fatal move, by capturing my knight on E5 with his knight on F3. Timer. Having apparently failed to see through my trick after all, Carlsen now looked relieved, as he leaned back to admire his handiwork, he hit the timer and smirked at me.

I said nothing as I moved my queen to H2, capturing his king. "Checkmate." I said cheerfully and with a smile.

The blood drained from Carlsen's face as his jaw dropped halfway to the floor. The bar erupted in applause, as Gold Digger hugged me around my neck. The game lasted only 45 seconds. In only 9 moves, I had beaten him.

Stonewall cupped his hooves around his mouth. "Drinks on the house tonight!" He announced to another roar of cheering and applause as everypony returned to their seats.

I looked over at Carlsen as Gold Digger took a seat next to me. "So...about Crash." I inquired.

Carlsen just looked up, pale as a sheet, mouth still hung open and nodded.

Chapter 8: "Beating Drums."

"To truly fail, is to have never tried."

- The Goddess

"Follow The Drums."

Me and Gold Digger both blinked. "Come again?"

Carlsen straightened his tie as he repeated that odd phrase: "Follow, The Drums." he repeated, like it was an answer.

Gold Digger tilted her head. "Drums? Is he in a band?" she asked.

Carlsen rolled his eyes, making Gold Digger scoff in her defense. "It's a code. Its how the cult communicates with other members. Follow the sound of them to one of their drummers, and you'll find Crash."

My eyes widened. "So there is a voodoo cult!"

"Yes."

Gold Digger rounded on him. "And you're part of it!?" she asked in outrage.

"Good Celestia, No! I just keep an eye out for Crash's sake."

"Why?" Gold Digger asked.

"He's my brother."

We both looked surprised at that. "Oh." We said in unison.

So...that was it. There really was a voodoo cult at work in Nawlans. And drumming was how they talked to one another. We find a drummer. We find Crash. Somehow I didn't think it was going to be that easy.

"So, where can we find our drummer?" I asked simply.

"Try Jackson Square. I know of at least one drummer there that my brother talks to. Herry is a messenger for the cult. But...I fear he's gotten himself too deep. He wants out, but he thinks nopony can help him."

I narrowed my eyes. "I can."

At that Carlsen smiled. "I know. Good Luck to you Ms.Meir. It was an honor losing against you."

We thanked Carlsen and left McClophlin's with our newest lead under our belt. A short look at the tourism board on the street and we were heading for Jackson Square. Even though I knew I wouldn't be able to hear, I noticed my ears twitch at every sound. Listening for that steady, droning beat. Listening for the drums.

Jackson Square (Downtown Nawlans, 2:45 pm)

The joyful sound of a nearby band greeted our senses as we arrived in Jackson Square. It was a quaint and lovely park with ponies and zebras enjoying their day, and helping themselves to the many food stands that dotted the place.

At first we looked to the band, but as we watched and listened for the drums, we never heard a thing. It was a strange feeling, being in such a fun and happy place, and needing to keep an ear out for the beat of drums which signaled the presence of the voodoo cult. I would've loved to have just come here, taken a seat in the grass, and let the music take me. Maybe try the food while I was at It.

Gold Digger shared my sentiment. "What kind of drums are we looking for anyway? If it's just like any other kind of drumming, how will we know the difference?" She asked keeping her ears up.

"Because it wouldn't really be drumming: It's a code, remember?" I reminded her politely, while looking over at some more park goers.

"Oh, right. But....how would we know it's a code?"

I turned to her and smiled. "Trust me. I'll know."

She smiled back. "Fair enough."

We split up, each taking an area of the park to look for the drummer, all while keeping our ears up for its beat. After several minutes, I thought it would be best to look elsewhere. Maybe he wasn't here today. Or maybe he set up somewhere else....wait.

Somewhere else. McClophlin's! There had been a drummer standing outside McClophlin's bar! I payed it no mind till now, but if he was still there...

"Gold Digger!" I called over to her. She quickly ended her conversation with a young colt (Who looked quite disheartened afterwards) and trotted over to me. "Did you find him?" she asked quickly.

"Yes, but he's not here in Jackson Square. Follow me!"

With that we took off back to McClophlin's hoping that the drummer from before was indeed still there. It crossed my mind that it may have just been a normal drummer. But it made no sense. Why would he set up to play music for an empty street? Why not go into the actual bar and offer to play for the many cheery bar patrons? And now thinking of it, I had noticed there was indeed something...off about the music he played. And now I knew it was because it wasn't music at all.

As we rounded the corner to McClophlin's we both stopped dead in our tracks. Over on the far side of that sidewalk, right outside McClophlin's stood the same lone drummer, as he beat out a haunting rhythm on a large Zebrican drum. I heard it all so clearly.

One. Two. Two. Three. One. Two.

It was a slow, steady droning sound. Each beat matching a sequence. It was indeed a code. But what did it mean?

Gold Digger then had an idea. "Let me go talk to him. Maybe he can just tell us where Crash is."

"I'm not so sure that's a good idea. Remember who this guy works for." I warned her.

But she only chuckled. "I know, but c'mon Meir, he's just a drummer! Plus, NO stallion can resist my charms." She said tossing her mane back with a flourish.

Then before I could stop her, she went over and struck up a conversation with the drummer. "Hello! so sorry for interrupting, but I just couldn't help but notice what a talented musician you are!" Gold Digger cooed, fluttering her eyes seductively.

Unfortunately this conversation was completely one sided, as the drummer completely ignored her and kept on drumming. Gold Digger looked both offended and outraged, as she narrowed her eyes at the drummer. "Excuse me? didn't you hear what I said? Aren't you going to say something?" she asked, getting more upset.

The drummer's everlasting silence was his only answer.

Before Gold Digger could say anything more, I spotted a very disheveled looking grey colt in the bar through the window, looking over his shoulder at the drummer, shaking and with a nervous twitch. He wore a beat up green coat and his mane was a tangle of thick black, same as his tail. He sat in the seat across from Carlsen, who was strangely absent from his chess game.

I knew instantly who he was. His nervous and scared expression, the rapid tapping of his hoof on the floor, the way he couldn't seem to stop looking behind him. This, was Crash. And he was very clearly scared of the drummer out front.

I said nothing as I pulled Gold Digger away from the drummer, and we entered McClophlin's once more.

"Miss Meir! Welcome back, what can I do for ya?" Ol' stonewall called cheerfully from behind the bar.

At the sound of my name, Crash sprang from his seat and looked right at me with wide, horrified eyes.

I raised my hooves to calm him down. "Easy now, Crash. Were not going to hurt you. I know what your going through and I think I can-

Then, without warning, Crash suddenly picked up a chair and chucked it at my head. As Gold Digger yelled out in shock, my instincts went off like a bolt of lightning, and I managed to push Gold Digger out of the way, as I rolled under the chair as it sailed through the air, and smashed against the wall.

At that, the bar was now full of the sound of patrons yelling out, getting out their seats, and mostly Stonewall, yelling at Crash. "Crash! What in the name of Celestia, do you think you're doing!?" He yelled out. But Crash ignored him as he suddenly charged at me.

Crash took a swing at me, but I caught him by his arm and swung him around me, causing him to run into the front edge of the bar.
I wasn't going to fight him, obviously. He was clearly lashing out because of fear. All we had to do was calm him down enough for us to take him back to the station.

Crash grabbed a bottle from the bar and smashed it's end off against the bar, then held it at me by its neck, his eyes wild. "Keep. Away." He warned, his voice shaking.

"I swear, we are not here to hurt you, Crash. I can help you. I know about the-

"DON'T SAY IT!" Crash screamed. "You can't say anything about them! They'll know! THEY HEAR EVERYTHING!"

The poor colt was at the end of his rope. He was nearly on the verge of mania at this point. I wanted to help him. But I had to work out a way to calm him down.

"I know about them, Crash. And I know things seem scary now. I know you think nopony can help you. But we can. All you have to do, is come with us back to the station. You'll be safe there." I said in a gentle soothing voice.

Crash laughed like I had told a joke. "SAFE!? Nowhere in this damned city is safe! It's all theirs! This city has always been theirs! They know everything, have spies everywhere. I can't...I CAN'T TRUST ANYONE ANYMORE!" he screamed, as he raised his arm to throw the bottle at me.

I prepared myself to dodge it, but stopped short, as Crash was suddenly smashed in the back of the head with a chair, and fell to the floor, out cold.

I looked over at his attacker in shock. "GOLDY! Why did you do that!?"

Gold Digger looked up at me with an innocent look. "What? You saw how he was reacting, he wasn't going to come with us, without a fight!" she explained simply.

"But I could've talked him down! Plus, I would've found a way to subdue him if I had to!" I protested, as bar patrons went over to look at Crash, still knocked out.

Gold Digger looked at me skeptically. "Would you have knocked him out?"

"No!"

"Then you're welcome." she said with a smile.

Unorthodox, yes. But we still managed to find Crash, and thanks to Gold Digger's um...quick thinking? We had no problems taking Crash back to the station, where he was interrogated by Chief Karosta. But...we did have some problems after that. I took quick note of the drummer that had set up outside of the station, as we went inside.

Karosta's Office

"So...Crash, right?"

Crash payed no attention to Karosta as he sat there in the chair, not saying a word.

Karosta closed her eyes as she sighed. "Let's not do this, Crash. We know you're working with this 'Voodoo cult', and we need to put a stop to them. And you're the only one who can tell us where to find them. So just tell us what we-

"You can't stop them! Ya gotta to let me go!" Crash exclaimed suddenly.

"Relax, Crash. Nopony knows your here. Its just you, me and Meir here."

"I'm here too!" Gold Digger said raising her hoof.

"Yes, but not officially." Karosta said looking back at Gold Digger, sitting in a comfy chair on the other side of the office. Gold Digger simply shrugged and continued to read her issue of Pony Vogue.

Turning her attention back to Crash, Karosta was surprised to see Crash laughing to himself. "Like you could get anything past them! They know everything that happens in this city. You can't hide me from them. They know I'm here!"

"Who is 'They'? Just tell us where they are, and you don't have to worry anymore!" Karosta explained.

Again Crash laughed. "It doesn't matter what you do. You can't stop them. They've been in control since the beginning. Things won't change. If I talk, I'm dead."

Karosta was losing her patience, so I offered to step in (Before she turned crash into her newest wall decoration, beside her desk.)

I sat across from Crash with a calm demeanor. Legs crossed, hooves folded in front of me, and a smile. "Listen, Herring-

Crash's eyes went wide. "How do you know my real name?" he asked, clearly even more suspicious.

"You're brother told us."

"You...you actually talked to Carlsen?"

"Yes, after I beat him at chess."

"You did what!? Nopony beats him at that game! It's impossible."

I shrugged. "Maybe the impossible isn't as impossible as you think."

For a moment, Crash was silent, as if thinking it over. Finally he said "I'm not saying anything else....here."

We all just looked at him. "Pardon?" I asked curiously.

Crash looked up at me. "You really think you can stop them?"

I didn't have to think of an answer. "Yes." I said with determination.

"Then we can't stay here. We need to go somewhere safe. Where that drummer can't hear us."

So my hunch had been right. The drummer outside had been listening in, seeing what he could report back to the cult.

"As long as he's out there, I can't say anything."

Karosta shrugged. "Fine, then I'll get rid of him. He's loitering anyway."

Crash looked scared again. "What?! NO!" He begged, but Karosta had already left to go get rid of the drummer.

We all watched from her office window to the outside, as she approached the drummer. I couldn't hear what she was saying, but she appeared to be asking him to leave. But the drummer ignored her and kept on drumming. a full minute went by as she waited for him to respond, but he just kept drumming. Like she wasn't even there.

Karosta narrowed her eyes at him as she was now ordering the drummer to leave, clearly losing her patience. But again the drummer paid her no mind, and continued to drum, but much louder, just to spite Karosta.

This was his mistake though. As Karosta, who had finally had enough of this, grabbed the drum from the drummers hooves, punched a hole clean through it's top, then chucked it clear across the street, where it landed in a dumpster.

The drummer just stood there for a moment, eyes wide. Then, like a child who had been scolded by their mother, went off solemnly to retrieve his drum. Karosta smirked as she watched him saunter off.

When Karosta returned nopony said a word. She just sat back down (at her makeshift desk of a tipped over filing cabinet) then looked up at Crash.

"So...feel like talking now?" she asked with a smile.

Crash only looked at her with a surprised and fearful expression as he nodded. "Y-yes ma'am."

Questioning (Herring aka Crash, Carlsen's brother, Works as a messenger for the Voodoo Cult)

I wasted no time asking my first question. "Who is this Voodoo Cult? What are they doing in Nawlans?"

Crash shook his head. "They've always been here, since the town was founded. They're an underground cartel of some kind. They control everything that happens on the street- everything that's bought or sold! They have their hooves in other stuff too: banks, foreign stuff, you name it."

Crash suddenly shuddered, as the blood drained from his face. He looked down at his feet as he spoke.

"They...they can do things. Things that magic can't. They have power, REAL power. T-They can write your name on a piece of paper, then burn it, and you suddenly burst into flames! Or get inside your head, make you forget your own name, or even how to breathe. They know when you lie- they can smell it!

Karosta looked skeptical. "That's impossible."

I wasn't so sure, having seen myself what dark power like that was capable of. But could voodoo really do all of that? I didn't think so. Not normal voodoo anyway.

I asked my next question. "Is this cult really behind the voodoo murders?"

"Yeah. It's them. But that's not the only way they kill, no...they can get you from miles away just by saying your name!"

Just by saying your name? If Crash was telling the truth....did we even have a chance here? It sounded ridiculous, but I made a mental note of it anyway, before asking my next question.

"Who's in charge of this cult? Who's behind all of this?"

Crash suddenly lurched in his seat. Once. Then twice, this time more violently. I went to his side and caught him by his shoulder. "She...She...eyes...the eyes!" he chocked out.

He wasn't looking good. I tried to calm him down. "Crash? Crash are you alright?" I asked in a worried voice, seeing his face turn pale as a sheet.

Crash lurched again, and I saw blood drip down from his nose. "The eyes...eyes of a snake..." Crash began coughing without stop, each time, more blood spewed from his mouth.

"Shit!" Karosta swore loudly, rushing to Crash's opposite side. "What the hell's happening to him!?" she asked me frantically.

"This isn't normal, he was perfectly fine only minutes ago!" I exclaimed. Crash began shuddering uncontrollably, as he fell from the seat completely.

"We have to do something!" I yelled. "He's going into cardiac arrest!"

Karosta and Gold Digger rushed to help me with Crash, but no matter what we did, he just got worse by the second. It was as if his heart itself had turned against him. It looked like we had no chance of saving him.

But as a doctor, I'll be damned if I was going to let a patient die on my watch. I calmed my nerves, and allowed my instinct to take over. At once the whole room faded away, leaving only me and crash there on the floor. Taking a breath, I began my analysis.

Doctor's Analysis

Patient: Herring aka Crash. 24 years old, male, lanky build, blood type B-, Earth Pony.

Affliction: Unexplained Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Pupils dilated, severe chest convulsions, muscle spasms, spitting up blood, extremely pale complexion, loss of ability to speak.

Treatment: Modern medicine and medical practice is useless here. Whatever happened to Crash was done deliberately and without use of any known magic or science. His heart has literally turned against him, spiking blood pressure throughout the body and causing sudden cardiac arrest. If his heart is the problem here...then I have to stop it. But in a way that won't endanger the patient's life.

Conclusion: I have to stop Crash's heart, before it literally kills him. And in a way that won't endanger the patient himself.

Now knowing what to do, I ripped open Crash's shirt and hit him with several pressure points around his solar plexus, abdomen and neck, that would relax his heart gradually until it temporarily stopped. After doing this, we watched as Crash stopped his convulsions, gradually getting less and less noticeable until finally they, along with his heart finally stopped completely.

After 10 seconds exactly, I hit the exact same points, restarting Crash's heart, who awoke with a sudden loud gasp, before collapsing back on the floor. Barely awake, but alive.

Analysis Complete

I sat back against the wall and took in several breaths to calm myself. Karosta and Gold Digger simply stared at me in awe, unable to find the words. I had none either.

Chapter 10: "Eye For An Eye."

"One who does wrong to others, can never be right."

- The Goddess

Nawlans Police Station (5:00 pm)

Karosta read the document, as I, Goldbloom, Gold Digger and Pensipony all sat near the far wall, anticipating the moment when Karosta would go off. But after she had read through it, she merely set it down on her makeshift desk and sighed. She reached over and took a sip of her coffee, then set the mug back down.

Then without warning, Karosta yelled out as she kicked her makeshift desk so hard, that it smashed into the far wall to join her actual desk as a wall decoration. Afterwards she stood there, huffing and puffing as her eyes flared.

Our eyes moved from the desk to Karosta. "Better?" I asked.

"Better." Karosta confirmed.

Karosta went over and got another filing cabinet to use as a desk, then set her coffee on it as she took a seat. "Okay...so, to recap: The stallion that has run this city for the better half of 25 years, the guy who signs my Celestia-damned paychecks, the one whose supposed to stand for this city's safety, has been in the pocket of the worst threat Nawlans has ever seen, for basically his entire political career....is that right?"

Pensipony nodded, apparently unphased by anything that had happened. "That about sums it up, yes."

"Perfect. Thank you."

As Karosta sat down rubbing her temples, I decided to give our options. "The mayor of this city is working with the cartel. We need to confront him. He'll know more about them then anyone." I explained.

Goldbloom nodded. "I agree. But as corrupt as he is, he's still the mayor. It won't be easy getting an interview with him, let alone-

"Done!"

We all turned to see Gold Digger come back into the room (When did she leave?) and take a seat on the couch. For a minute, we just looked at her. Then I asked. "Um...what's done?"

"You're interview with the mayor, of course! It's been arranged. You're meeting him in his office in an hour." Gold Digger said cheerfully.

I looked at her in awe. "How did you arrange something like that, in less then a few seconds?" I asked, genuinely curious of how this was possible, even with her level of wealth.

"Gold Group is one of Nawlans highest level benefactors, so naturally it only takes a second for me to reach any of their major political figures. Including the mayor's office. Arranging the interview was just a matter of using the right words." Gold Digger explained.

"Oh. Well...thanks, Miss Digger." Karosta said, sounding as though she was still confused, but thankful anyway. Gold Digger smiled warmly in return.

Pensipony even gave the very slightest of smiles at the situation. "That's all well and good, but there's still the matter of confronting the man. Once were in his office, we'll be on his grounds now. If we ask for or say the wrong thing, he could have us arrested."

"But we have evidence!" Goldbloom exclaimed.

"No, we have a document that shows our Mayor knows something about voodoo, and that's it. We may know what it means, but to everypony else he's just another fan of Nawlans oldest trend." Pensipony explained, crossing her legs and arms as she leaned back in her chair, collecting her thought process.

I nodded in agreement. "She's right. Without solid proof, all we'll be doing is making insane claims on the most powerful figure in the city. We need to catch him in the act. Get him to say something he shouldn't have."

Gold Digger gave a short chuckle. "We'll then it's settled: You and Pensipony will get him to talk!"

Me and Pensipony exchanged surprised looks. "Why just us?" I asked Gold Digger.

"Because you're both the brains, here! Working together, you can really mess with his head, make him talk without him even knowing!" Goldbloom called out. "And then we get him to tell us everything he knows. Simple." she finished with a smile.

It was very clear that me and Dr. Pensipony were both gifted orators. And it wouldn't be too much of a challenge to get one stallion to slip up. Especially if he didn't know what we knew about him. "Alright, I'll give it a shot." I agreed.

The room turned to look at Pensipony who still held onto the same uninterested yet intelligent look she almost always wore. She closed her eyes and gave a short sigh. "Very well. Let's see what we can do then." she agreed, as her scowl once again, very nearly turned into a smile.

City Hall (Mayor's Lobby, 6:00pm)

We had spent the remaining hour, coming up with a plan of action in case we had to leave in a hurry. As the police chief, Karosta could hang out outside City Hall, and keep an eye out for us. If we had to leave quickly (For whatever reason) she could load us into the back of her police carriage and we'd be gone in an instant. I just hoped we wouldn't have to worry about that.

Me and Dr. Pensipony sat beside one another in the lobby outside the mayor's office, while Goldbloom had gone to the bathroom (By which of course she had gone to the main lobby to keep an eye out for us on the inside. She had wished us luck before leaving, which I had appreciated.)

Apparently Gold Digger had told the mayor's aide that me and Dr. Pensipony were working together on a project that would greatly improve the standards of Nawlans medical community, that would need government funding. Naturally the mayor was more then happy to hear us out. (Even though no such project existed....well, not in Nawlans anyway, but I would work on that later.)

The mayor's secretary was a short and smart looking mare with her red mane in a bun and horn-rimmed glasses. She smiled at us as she spoke in a perky voice. "The mayor will see you ladies now! Good Luck!" she said cheerfully.

"We'll need it." I thought to myself as we thanked her then allowed ourselves through the double doors into the mayor's office.

Fairmont's Office (6:02 pm)

"Ah! Welcome ladies! Truly an honor to meet such beautiful and intelligent ponies as yourselves! Truly an honor!" Fairmont said joyously, hooves outstretched in front of him in warm greetings. He was a tall, mint green earth pony stallion, with a well groomed slicked back black mane, sharp looking spectacles, and an intelligent steely face with stubble. He wore a black business suit and green tie with great posture and athletic build. His cutie mark (appropriately) was that of a snake. I compared him to a cheating game show host or a sleazy used carriage salesman.

We put on as cheerful a fake smile as we could muster. "Thank you for seeing us, Mayor Fairmont. We won't take up too much of your time." I said politely.

Fairmont smiled in response, and led us over to his desk were we seated ourselves in the two fold out chairs in front, and him behind his desk in his throne-like leather chair. We might as well have sat on the floor. (At least it would be carpeted)

But we ignored the uncomfortable state of our chairs, as Pensipony began our "Interview", setting things up for me to jump in with questioning in between. "Mayor Fairmont, as you know the safety and health of our city's citizens is both our highest priority."

"Of course!" Fairmont exclaimed, lying clean through his white teeth. I could read him like a book. He didn't give two bits about this city's citizens. But I said nothing as Pensipony continued.

"With all the, shall we say 'incidents' as of late, Nawlans is facing a major crisis. Ponies are scared, and rightfully so, with all this talk of these so called 'voodoo murders' popping up in the paper." Pensipony said, doing a great job of sounding like a trustworthy reporter.

I saw a flash go off behind Fairmont's blue eyes. A brief streak of worry, that he covered up with another smile, and a 'don't worry' sort of voice. "Oh, now, all that voodoo talk is just the papers trying to give everypony a good scare for Nightmare Night. It's only a few days away, after all!" Fairmont lied.

Pensipony caught this and retorted with lighting speed and unparalleled professionalism. "I see, so you don't believe in voodoo at all?" Pensipony said, burrowing her razor tipped eyes clean through Fairmont.

Fairmont gave a slight pull at his tie, but kept up his charade. "Oh dear Celestia, no! I would never disrespect the traditions and cultural background of this beautiful city, but I don't believe in any of that voodoo nonsense." He said with a laugh.

"Then how do you know about Hounfours?"

Fairmont turned in his seat to look at me. Apparently he didn't think I would be saying anything here. He was very wrong.

"I...I beg your pardon?" Fairmont asked.

I didn't smile as I explained. "On a mayoral statement to the city, that you issued just today, you said that there were no 'secret voodoo Hounfours in the city.' So if you don't know anything about voodoo....how did you know what Hounfours were?"

I saw it in his eyes. He knew who I was. What I was here for...What I knew about him. He couldn't possibly fool this pony, he thought. Morning Meir was too smart for him. But this Pensipony gal, was clearly here for other reasons! As long as he kept her talking, he wouldn't have to deal with me, and he'd get out of this one, Scott free.

He just smiled as always. "Oh, I just knew from a book I read once. But this whole voodoo scare is nonsense I assure you!" he lied, yet again.

At this, Pensipony spoke up. "Ah, so the voodoo is fake, then?" she asked in a fake surprised tone.

Fairmont nodded. "Of course! Just a clever prank by our friends at Nawlans Times!"

I saw Pensipony narrow her eyes slightly. "Interesting claim, Mayor Fairmont."

"I'm sorry?"

"Because I have a doctorate in Zebrican Religious cultures, as well as having mastered and studied the practices of voodoo for the better half of my adult life. I am, without exaggeration, Nawlans foremost and most respected authority on voodoo culture."

"Oh? Congratulations! I've held quite a few doctorates in my time as well!" Fairmont said, trying in earnest to change the subject.

But Pensipony was done playing games. She ignored him as she continued. "Mayor Fairmont...I have taken time from my busy schedule to study the as you say "fake-voodoo' in these murder cases, myself. Curiosity, I suppose. And do you know what I've found?"

"Um...I'm not sure what this has to do with-

"I've found that not only is the voodoo in these murders real, but to call it in any way fake, would be like saying the Mona Lisa is a simple scribble on the Louve's wall." Pensipony never took her eyes of Fairmont, as her tone grew more and more serious. "In other words: A complete and total lie."

I spoke up, as we stared down Fairmont. "You know about voodoo, because you've been working with the cartel for decades. You've let them have there way with this city the entire time you've been in office., and until now, nopony has stood up to you. But that's changed now."

Fairmont's smile slowly faded from his face, as he and Pensipony locked eyes. "So," Pensipony began, as she tipped her glasses back on the bridge of her muzzle, "Why would the honest and trusting mayor of our city, lie about knowing anything about voodoo? Or perhaps you know more about these murders then you let on." Pensipony sat back in her chair as her eyes never wavered in their ability to pierce through Fairmont like two knives.

I heard a chuckle from Fairmont. "Now....I think you two should listen up for a second: You're playing a dangerous game here. One you have no chance of winning." he said menacingly. The smile never left his face.

But Pensipony and me only smiled back. "We like dangerous games, mayor Fairmont." I said just as menacingly.

Fairmont leaned back in his chair and looked at us, as he rested his hooves behind his head. A smug smile still on his face. "Fine. Ask your questions. But it won't matter what I tell you...nopony will ever believe you." he said smugly.

So that was his game. The facade was gone. He wasn't pretending to not know anything because he actually thought that him being with the cartel made him invincible. Why would it matter what he said, if no one would believe us anyway? He could do whatever he wanted in this city, and nopony could stop him. But we were going to change that.

I chuckled to myself as I got up out of that awful chair. "You really think you're untouchable don't you?"

Fairmont laughed. "Well, I AM the mayor, little lady! I can do whatever I please, and no one can do anything about it. Not even you, The Smartest Pony In The World. Not so smart now, huh?"

I narrowed my eyes at him. "We'll see about that."

Questioning (Mayor Fairmont, Corrupt Mayor of Nawlans, Working with The Cartel)

"Alright, lets get right to the point here: You're going to tell us EVERYTHING you know about the cartel. If you lie, we'll know. And we won't be so nice anymore." Pensipony threatened, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"Oh, of course. Won't matter what you find out anyway." Fairmont said smugly.

I ignored my urge to slug him in the muzzle, and asked my first question. "Who are the cartel? What are they planning?"

"Ponies with power. REAL power. They made my career, and unmade all my opponent's in every election. They run this city, while all I have to do is look the part. Easiest job there is."

"So, you're willing to let innocent ponies get killed, just because you would rather be the cartel's lap dog, then an actual mayor?" Pensipony asked, with anger in her voice.

"I'm my own man, Amalia. As long as I'm left alone, I can still run the city."

"Sure. Right into the damn ground." she spat at him.

He shrugged. "At least it's running."

I stopped Pensipony before she could make a grab for Fairmont. "Easy. He'll get his soon enough." I whispered to her. She said nothing as she backed off.

I asked my next question: "Where can we find them?"

"You don't. THEY find you. But if you're so eager to get killed, then try the graveyard. They have agents there day and night. Maybe they have a temple or something there."

The graveyard? The most notable graveyard in Nawlans was St. John's cemetery in the French Quarter. There had always been rumors of voodoo rituals happening there at night, but was that really were we could find the cartel? It was a start if anything.

A strange smile suddenly crossed Fairmont's face. His eyes glared at us as he reached for a drawer in his desk. "Now then..." He withdrew a notepad and an ink quill. As well as a small knife. "I have so enjoyed our chat, but....I'm afraid this is where you lovely ladies make your exit."

Pensipony raised an eyebrow. "So you learned some of their tricks? Impressive."

Fairmont smiled "Just another perk of working with them! All I have to do is write your names, a drop of blood, and you two end up convulsing on the floor! Very convenient. Very easy. Not so easy to go through."

Neither me nor Pensipony batted an eye. "You're more then welcome to try." I said politely and with a smile.

Fairmont nodded. "Polite as ever, even in the face of mortal danger. I really do admire you Miss Meir. It's a shame you got involved." He scribbled my name down on the notepad with the quill. His eyes went over to Pensipony. "Not you though. You were always a bitch."

Pensipony only smiled. "Thank you. I try."

Fairmont shook his head as he wrote down Pensipony's name under mine. Then he pricked his hoof with the knife and allowed a drop of blood to fall onto the paper. "I'll be sure to call the ambulance. Not that it'll save you, but It'll save me face. So that's a plus!" Fairmont laughed. He finished the spell by whispering a short incantation I couldn't hear.

Then he sat down and waited. He just sat there smiling at us. And we smiled at him.

Then as the minutes went by, his smile wavered. His eyes started darting back and forth between us, looking for some sign that his spell was working. But we just stood there, still smiling. Rightfully smugly, I might add.

Finally I saw fear overtake him as his eyes suddenly looked panicked. "I...I-I don't understand-did I do it wrong?" he asked himself. He opened another drawer and pulled out a tattered looking leather bound book and started flipping through its pages in a hurry, trying to find the proper spell.

"You're wasting your time, Fairmont. Cast all the hexes you want, but none of them will work." Pensipony elaborated.

"What??" Fairmont said, utterly bewildered.

Pensipony revealed the Loa Legba on her chest, as I simply stood there, knowing full well that this particular voodoo trick wouldn't work on me: Because I have more then ten letters in my name. This particular hex was known as The Nòt lanmò Death Curse. (After teaming up with Pensipony she had shared some of her voodoo expertise with me, including the curse that the cartel used to kill ponies from miles away, just by writing their name. I had also read of this curse on the train ride to Nawlans.

The curse caused the heart to basically pump blood at an out of control pace, before a sudden stop in flow, causing the victim to go into sudden cardiac arrest, in which their heart can no longer pump effectively. Death is supposed to follow shortly after, as the curse prevents the heart from being able to restart contraction, no matter what medical technique is applied. The only thing you can do is stop the heart entirely, which is how I saved Crash. A powerful and very effective curse to be sure, but it had it's limits. The curse couldn't work on anyone with more then 10 letters in their name. This was supposedly because the Loa behind the curse, Bogun Legba, could not read more then 10 letters on a piece of paper. Any more then 10 letters, and the curse can never effect you.

My name has 11 letters. (Voodoo is very rule-based isn't it?)

Fairmont let the book fall from his hooves as he just looked at us, fear was his only expression. A nervous smile crossed his face, as he tried desperately to plead for himself. "Ladies, I-I think we may have gotten off on the wrong hoof. Let's just talk this-

"Were done talking." Pensipony said menacingly."But you, are going to start listening."

Fairmont looked at both of us, his smile gone, his eyes wide. ".....Okay. I'm listening." He said in a dull defeated tone. Which was appropriate.

I'm not an...how should I say this, aggressive, sort of pony. I can't ever really be mean, or unpleasant to somepony. It's just not how I was made. I can pretend, and I can defend myself when I need to. But I'll always be nice, in most situations. You'd have to be pretty bad to get me not to be.

Pensipony on the other hoof, was made differently then I was. She did not care about being nice, or being pleasant. Right now, what she cared about was the fact that her city, her home, the place where she grew up in, was being threatened and that the mayor of said city had been sitting by and letting it happen for decades. I was very glad to not be that mayor right now.

Pensipony's eyes drilled deep into Fairmont with white hot intensity, as she spoke very clearly, and very seriously. "I'm going to tell you to do three things. And you are going to do them. Do you understand?"

"Y-Yes." Fairmont said in a defeated, scared tone.

Pensipony gave another almost smile. "Good."

"First: Get out of that chair."

Fairmont gave her a look, like he had misheard her. "I...what?"

Pensipony leaned forward over the desk at Fairmont, as she put both hooves down at the corners, and glared down at him menacingly. "Get out of that chair." She repeated. "That chair is for the mayor of this city." Pensipony narrowed her eyes at Fairmont, making him shrink in his chair like a student being scolded at school. "And you are NOT a mayor. Of this, or any city. Get. Out. Now."

Fairmont leapt from his chair and moved so that he was standing to the side of the desk. Sweat beaded on his forehead, as he was shaking all over. Pensipony went behind the desk and pushed the chair in gently, as she looked down at it fondly. I gave a little jump in my seat as her eyes darted from looking down at the chair, to directly at Fairmont again in a split second. He himself jumped much more then I did.

"Second" Pensipony stated, as she came back from behind the desk. "You are going to make a speech to the whole city announcing you are stepping down as mayor of Nawlans. Effective immediately."

Fairmont's eyes flared."You can't do that! I've run this city-

"Into the ground for over 20 years" Pensipony interrupted. "You are not fit to call yourself a mayor. You are a liar, a coward and a low life criminal who is going to pay for what he has done to the innocent ponies of this city and my home. As of now, your 'career' is over."

Fairmont was furious at this. He was going to say something when Pensipony interrupted him again.

"And finally: After you have resigned from this office, you are going to go to turn yourself in, for corruption, gross dereliction of your mayoral duties and consorting with an underground group of murders and criminals. And Nawlans will be better off for it."

Fairmont looked enraged, as his once perfect hair was now looking disheveled and wild, as sweat dripped down his face which was contorted into a furious snarl. He clenched his teeth as he spoke. "Now you listen here-

"If you refuse to do anything I have told you to do, then I will let my ENTIRE family know of your transgressions. And then let's see how long your career lasts after that. Not just as a mayor...but ANY career. Anywhere in Equestria. For the rest, of your miserable life." Pensipony said in the most threatening voice I'd ever heard her speak in, with her eyes narrowed to slits.

With that Fairmont was now a sweaty, disheveled, worried husk who, knowing there was nothing he could do now, simply collapsed to the floor in a heap, his hooves covering his head, as he muttered to himself.

Pensipony looked satisfied with the result. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Mayor. Enjoy using that title while you still have it."

With that we left Fairmont's office, and rejoined our friends in the lobby.

We filled them in on what we had gotten out of Fairmont. "The graveyard? Appropriate, but why something so...obviously, voodoo-ey?" Goldbloom asked us on the way out of City Hall.

I shrugged. "Not sure. It may just be coincidence, but there are a number of old family crypts in St. Johns. Maybe one of them is tied to the cartel." I said speaking my thoughts.

"You think, this is a family operation?" Goldbloom asked.

"Could be."

As we approached the corner where Karosta had parked, we were surprised to see that she wasn't there and her carriage was nowhere to be seen. "Huh. Where'd Karosta go? Wasn't she supposed to meet us here?" Goldbloom asked, looking up and down the street.

I thought for a moment. "She is the police chief. She might have gotten called back to the station for something. We should head back tomorrow morning. See if she's there."

"Fair enough."Goldbloom shrugged.

With Karosta gone, Gold Digger picked us up in her limousine, and let me and Goldbloom spend the night over in her suite. Pensipony wished us good night and went back to her penthouse, to see what she could dig up on St. Johns Cemetery. And as me and Goldbloom shared the guest room, she seemed to sleep rather soundly.

Me. Not so much.

I was in the nightmare as always. But once again, something was different.

This time I see that there are faces. Dancing around the fire.

They laugh as the mare attacks the stallion again.

Blood splatters a medallion.

Then I see myself, sleeping. But I'm being watched.

But not in the dream.

Chapter 12: "Enter The Circle."

"Of The Circle, I shall speak not. For their bravery and heroics speak for themselves."

The Goddess

Nawlans Galleria, Gold Digger's Suite (9:25 am)

We had come back in a rush, and after explaining what had happened at City Hall, we all just sat there, lost in thought. Nopony said anything.

I mean what was there to be said in a situation like this? We couldn't beat them now. The whole city had seen their mayor's heart explode right outside City Hall. The cartel had decided he had outlived his usefulness. They needed him to stay as mayor. And now that he was stepping down, he was no longer useful to them.

I had never seen anything so sickening. Just the thought of it made my stomach lurch. There was no way I would've been able to investigate anything. I didn't need to anyway.

So what now? Just sit here and give up?

Let the Cartel have they're way with this city, and just leave? Get out while I could, right? I mean, the city was in a panic now. Now everypony knew the cartel was real. And that THEY ran this city now.

But no. I couldn't leave. I had come too far to give up now. But I didn't know what I could do. I had to think of something.

As I sat there trying to figure out some way out of this, refusing to give up even now...the phone rang.

Everyone in the room turned to look out to the entryway, where the phone was ringing, despite being lost in their own thoughts. It seemed to be that I was meant to answer it. Which I did.

"Um...hello?"

"Miss Meir. I'm glad to hear you're alright." a familiar voice on the other end said, sounding quite sincere.

My eyes widened as I brought the receiver close to my ear. "Nair? Is that you?"

I could somehow feel her smile on the other end, but her tone remained the same. "We've heard about whats been happening in Nawlans. Killing the mayor in front of so many innocent eyes. I can't imagine how you must be feeling. I'm sorry."

I didn't know what to say. I wasn't even sure how I was feeling myself. I just sighed and said "Thank you."

"You don't have to thank me. This madness has gone on long enough. It's time for you to learn the ways of The Circle. To join us and our fight against evil."

"I-I...what do you mean?"

"I'll explain everything soon. For now I would like you to come to the Tailor Shop on 35th Street. I'll walk you there."

"Huh?"

As I said that, I suddenly heard a knock at the door beside me. I just turned and stared at it in disbelief. There's....there's no way.

I answered it in a manner where I thought it would explode. Sure enough standing in the doorway was Nair. Still clad in her beige striped suit with a red pocket square, and she wore the same mysterious smile as always. She seemed unphased by my utter disbelief at her standing there, and simply asked "Shall we be going?"

I was stunned to say the least. But I still managed to ask her "How did you do that?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Do what, Miss Meir?"

"You know, the thing with the door!"

"Oh, well it's really quite simple Miss Meir...

"I knocked." Nair said with a clever grin.

I gave her a look, but decided to just leave it at that. "Where are we going?" I asked.

"As I said before, The Tailor Shop on 35th street."

'Yes, bus specifically, WHERE?"

"You will see when we get there."

"Can my friends come with me?"

"I'm afraid this is for you and you alone. Only I am permitted to join you."

Nair then turned around and gestured for me to follow her. "Now, come along! We mustn't dally while the cartel makes its move."

I stopped. "Wait, so that means you'll help us?" I asked, hoping to get a straight answer.

Nair turned her head to look back at me and smiled. "Yes." she said giving a perfectly straightforward answer.

That was a good enough answer to me. I told my friends I was going to get some help, they wished me good luck, and I headed out with Nair. Having no idea where I was going or what I was doing. But I still somehow felt perfectly safe. Especially alongside Nair.

I followed her through the streets of Nawlans at a steady pace. She seemed to know exactly where she was going, and never even stopped to look at any signs. As if she could just somehow sense the way to this Tailor Shop. It was fascinating to watch.

(The Golden Circle Tailor Shop, 35th Street, Downtown Nawlans, 9:46 am)

As we turned the corner, I noticed that every other storefront on 35th street, looked dull and downtrodden as opposed to the warm glow I saw in the window of a lone tailor shop in the middle of the row of stores. Looking in I saw a line of extravagant well pressed pleated suits of several different rich colors. They stood proudly beneath the line of bright gold letters, which read "The Golden Circle Tailor Shop." Behind those letters was a large gold ring that centered over the window like a rising sun. It all looked amazing.

But then it occurred to me."Why am I here? This is just a tailor shop."

A sharp ringing of a small bell made me jump. I turned to see Nair holding the door to the shop open for me. "Looks can be deceiving, Miss Meir." she said cleverly, as she motioned for me to follow her in. More then very curious about all this, I decided to play along for now. At the very least I would get to learn something about Nair and The Circle.

The Golden Circle Shop lobby

The inside of the shop resembled a luxurious cafe in Paris. The walls were a deep forest green, and the whole floor was a lush red carpet. The walls were lined with displays of mare and stallion's accessories, and the most decadent dresses and suits adorned every maniquin that stood proudly around the room. A roaring fireplace and lounge welcomed me with it's soft, impossibly comfortable armchairs. It was absolutely amazing.

Nair brought me out of my stupor by lightly tapping me on the shoulder. "Would you mind going and talking to Gertrude for me? Let her know that were here for an appointment." Nair asked politely. She pointed to a cheerful young earth pony mare with a elegant green mane and an light orange coat who stood behind the counter, smiling at us.

"Uh...okay, sure." I said, not wanting to seem rude.

I smiled as I went up to Gertrude, who smiled and greeted me happily. "Guten Tag! was kann ich heute für Sie tun?" (Good day! What can I do for you?)

My German was a little rusty, but I had studied abroad in Berlin for two years, so I knew a little to get me by. I smiled and greeted her back. "Mein namen ist Morgen Meir. Wir haben einen Termin?" (My name is Morning Meir. We have an appointment?) I asked politely.

Her eyes lit up as she nodded. "Ja fraulein, Meir! Bitte setzen sie sich." (Yes, Miss Meir! Please have a seat.)

She motioned for me to take a seat by the fireplace, which I did happily. As I almost melted into the chair, I noticed Nair had taken the seat in front of me. She looked at me with a gleam in her crimson eyes as she sat there comfortably aware.
"Now before we begin, I'll assume you have some questions for me?" she asked slyly.

"Of course I do! I have no idea what's going on here!" I exclaimed.

Nair chuckled to herself. "Then lets get those out of the way before we proceed. Okay?"

I raised an eyebrow. "So you'll just tell me whatever I want to know? Seems unlikely." I scoffed, knowing of Nair's dislike of speaking straightforward.

Nair smiled. "I will answer whatever I can."

Questioning (Nair, Mysterious Unicorn, Associated with The Circle, 9:57 am)

I asked my first question, eager to finally get some answers. "Who are you really? What is The Circle?"

"I am what is known as a Sentinel in The Circle. Sort of like a knight, I am sworn to upholding The Goddess's virtues and protecting the world from the forces of evil, alongside my fellow Sentinels, whom you will meet someday. Today though, its all about you. As for your next question, it requires I share a little history. May I?"

"Um, yes. That's fine." I agreed.

Nair sat back in her chair as she began. "The Circle was founded thousands of years before Celestia and Luna were even born, built upon The Goddess's desire to uphold peace and protect all life. She knew that there was evil in the world, and ponies, being the colorful whimsical creatures we are, were no match for such malevolent forces. Thus, a holy order of knights was created to teach and train us in the ways of Dark Magic, Alchemy, Lymricancy, Theology and more to protect our fellow equines from forces too dark and horrible to imagine. Today, we are all over the world, ensuring that not just Equestrians, but all life on this planet can sleep soundly at night, and awaken to a brighter tomorrow."

I sat there a minute, thinking. "So...you guys fight demons and stuff?"

Nair chuckled. "Oh, there are far worse things out there then mere demons. But yes, demons are on our roster of evil to be fought." she explained.

This was a lot to process, so I moved on to my next question while let the new information sink in. "So what do you know about The Cartel? Do you know how we can stop them?"

Nair's smile wavered a bit. "The Cartel is a secretive collaboration of ponies who use what is known as Nadu Voodoo. Completely separate from traditional Zebrican voodoo, it is an unholy practice that provides power over death in exchange for the souls of innocents. It is the darkest of all Voudoun practices. Luckily, it is a very scarce and rare thing in the world, as almost all of their cults have been wiped out by us over the centuries. But it seems we missed one. As for how to stop them, you are already on your way to accomplishing that."

I looked at her in surprise. "I am? But I don't know how to defeat them! There voodoo is too dangerous, how can I possibly defeat a group that can make a heart explode from miles away?"

Nair chuckled. "Because...they can't."

"Huh??"

"Appearances are everything to them. They believe if they look powerful and dangerous, then ponies will be too scared to act against them. But this is not the case. They are not nearly as powerful as they want you to think, Meir."

"But...I've seen what they can do!"

"Every single time that they used that hex to kill or try to kill someone, they have NOT been miles away, but rather much, much closer. They have been right there with you the whole time."

"What!? That's ridiculous, how can it work like that?"

"That hex can only work if you are directly in the vicinity of someone. It cannot work from a distance. And as you also know, it won't work against someone with more then 10 letters in their name."

My mind flashed back to Fairmont's office. I had indeed known that that curse wouldn't work on me. And....wait.

That was the first time we had actually seen the curse be performed! Fairmont was right there, right in front of us when he tried casting it. Could that mean that what Nair said about needing to be close to the subject was right?

I sighed as I finally asked my last question. "Just who is The Goddess? I keep hearing about her, but I still don't know who she is!"

Nair smiled warmly. "Very well. I'll tell you what you most need to know."

She leaned forward, her crimson eyes piercing into mine. "The Goddess is Princess Celestia and Luna's mother."

I nearly fell out of my seat, as my jaw nearly dropped to the floor. I stared at Nair in disbelief. "T-There mother?? I...I didn't know they ever had a mother!"

"Everypony has a mother, Meir!" Nair laughed.

At once, I suddenly needed to know everything I could ask about The Goddess, my curiosity reaching its apex. But Nair only said. "If you want to know more...I would suggest asking her yourself."

".....come again?"

Nair gave me another mysterious look as she reached down and pressed a button on her armchair. I gasped as the room suddenly folded away, and the lounge was pulled into the wall like a revolving door, fireplace and all.

When the lounge reached the other side of the wall, I saw we were now in an absolutely stunning small chapel.

Cathedral Of The Goddess

Perhaps it was an illusion caused by the colored light from the window, but as I stood there in that chapel, I felt a sense of something truly mystical. Something beyond magic. The first thing I noticed was the magnificent stain glass window which depicted an image of an splendidly white alicorn that was clearly not Celestia or Luna. She was tall, breathtaking in visage, and her deep red mane mixed with the light of the sun to create the illusion that she had a mane of fire. As the light shined through it, it illuminated the entire chapel in a warm colorful glow.

The small altar beneath the window was flanked by Candelabra, all lit in a almost divine fashion. The altar itself was fairly plain. A cushioned kneeler at the bottom indicated that this was a place of prayer. Pews lined both sides of the center aisle.

I turned to Nair....except she was no longer with me. I looked around, but I saw I was now alone in this chapel....except strangely, I didn't feel like I was alone. Almost as if somepony-or something else was in the chapel with me. But as I looked around I saw nothing. "Hello? Nair? Anypony? Is there anyone here?" I called out, my voice echoing on the walls of the chapel. But I heard no reply.

I saw a series of tapestries along the wall, each depicting something different. One showed a pair of hooves underneath water. Another showed what looked like a lock of mane, being cut with a blade. Another showed a goblet resting upon a body of water. The second to last one showed a pony kneeling, and the last one depicted an open scroll.

"What could this all mean?" I asked myself. I walked towards the altar and saw a small dish filled with sparkling water rested atop it. I looked in and my reflection looked back at me. It looked just as confused as I was. I looked over at the first tapestry on the wall, and thinking it was telling me what I needed to do, I washed my hooves in the water. I half expected something to happen. Nothing happened. but now my hooves were wet. Fabulous.

"Hmmm..." I looked at the next tapestry. The one that depicted a mane being cut with a blade. I looked back to the altar and I saw a pair of scissors behind the dish. I picked them up, and they gleamed in my hoof. The thought of having to cut my mane terrified me, mostly because I was sure it was too swirly to be cut, but as I closed my eyes, I managed to clip off a single small lock from my mane. It fell onto the altar, were it simply laid there. It resembled a small teal colored sweet roll, as even cut it swirled around itself.

I laid the scissors down, and looked over at the next tapestry. "A goblet on a body of water? What could that mean?" I looked back and saw a small gold goblet rested next to the altar. Setting it on top of the altar, I saw there was also a small stone bowl of what appeared to be salt. "Salt?" I looked over at the tapestry again. "The ocean must be the body of water, and salt....usually translates as 'to purify.'

"So....ah!"

I took the salt and poured it into the goblet, watching as it spread throughout the bottom. I set the bowl down and waited. But again nothing happened.

"Hmm...I think were getting somewhere though."

I went back to the next tapestry. The pony it depicted was kneeling, as if before Celestia and Luna. I nodded, and took a spot at the altar and kneeled to the window depicting The Goddess. As I raised my eyes to the window, my eyes grew wide with amazement. "Whoa."

The window had changed, as glowing purple letters now revealed some kind of mantra hidden in the glass. I read them aloud.

"The Holy Goddess of The Light, whom the shadows flee from in the night.

Upon my oath, I call thee now. Purify me, for I avow.

O set my hooves upon thy road, thy sword I take up for mine own."

I waited. But again, nothing happened. "Huh." I got up from the altar. "Maybe I missed something?"

"Nope. You did it right."

I jumped as I heard Nair's voice behind me. Sure enough as I spun around, I saw Nair standing there smiling happily. "Sorry, did I scare you?"

"A little yeah." I gestured to the window. "So...was this my initiation?"

"Part of it."

"Part of it?? What's the next part?"

"For now, why don't you go with Dr. Pensipony. She's waiting for you in the shop."

"Really!? She's a Sentinel too?"

Heh, not as far as I know. She shops here for her suits."

"Oh. Right. Tailor shop."

Back in the shop, I was greeted by Dr. Pensipony. "Hello again, Miss Meir. Forgive me but, I...didn't take you as somepony with a taste in haberdashery." She said curiously.

"Oh, I'm not...I was just um, visiting a friend." I wasn't really lying.

"Fair enough. Are you...feeling okay? I mean...at City Hall-

"Yeah. I'm fine. Thanks."

Pensipony smiled warmly. "Well then...would you care to join me for lunch? I know a great cafe nearby, and...I thought it would be good to take your mind off all this madness, for once."

I smiled back. "That sounds perfect. Thank you."

As Pensipony and I left The Golden Circle, I saw Nair in the window, brushing the dust from a suit, as her eyes met mine. A single wink was all I got as an explanation.

Chapter 13: "The Most Generous Of Souls."

"To my subjects, I am a Queen. To my faithful, I am there Goddess. To my children, I am there mother. But it is who I am to you, that truly matters to me. For I wish to be all these things to everyone. And so much more."

- The Goddess

(Main Street Cafe 10:15 am)

We sat together at the small table in the cafe, sipping tea, enjoying cucumber sandwiches and generally just enjoying ourselves. It was a great relief to actually not have to worry about anything for once. After we were done, Dr. Pensipony withdrew a folder from her bag, with details on St. John's Cemetery. It was the oldest cemetery in Nawlans, as old as the town itself. And of course all the graves were above ground, as the soil was too loose for burials.

One particular detail though, caught my eye. A photo of one of the family crypts in the cemetery. Magnus was seen clearly carved into the stone above the entrance.

"Magnus.....!" My eyes grew wide. "That's Carlsen's last name!" I exclaimed. I had not forgotten the young chess playing colt who I had beaten at his own game in McClophlins.

"Do you think he knows anything about The Cartel?" Pensipony asked.

"His brother does. Crash was a runner for them." I explained."Maybe he was visiting his family's crypt, and the Cartel found him that way." I suggested. "We should head over there and see what we can find. If we run into the cartel we can hide behind the crypts."

"Or kick their flanks." Pensipony suggested casually.

"Um...or that. That works too, I guess."

St. John's Cemetery (10:32 am, Northern Quarter)

As we walked through the great iron gates of St. John's Cemetery, I saw that it was surprisingly foggy, and unsurprisingly creepy. The place gave me chills as we walked along the crypts, looking for any sign of the cartel. Pensipony stayed close to my side as we didn't dare get lost in here.

Fog rolled over the ground and swirled around our hooves as we walked. To my chagrin, my mind wandered back to all those stories I would hear about cemeteries. About how ponies would feel like they were being watched, or see ghosts among the crypts. Hearing strange noises, and sometimes...they would never leave the place at all.

I shook the thoughts from my head as we finally found something of interest. A large statue of the legendary figure, Mage Meadowbrook, the famous sorceress and healer from Hayseed Swap, which was also in Nawlans, stood proudly amongst the fog.
Her friendly smile and gentle demeanor brought a sense of relief to me as we continued past her. She must've been put here to protect the crypts and deliver a sense of peace to mourners. It worked for me, so I figured it worked for anypony. Upon getting a better look at her, I saw there were strange symbols written with chalk, that had been drawn onto the base of Mage's statue, lined up into several columns. But as I tried looking at them, I heard Pensipony's voice beside me.

"Meir?" Pensipony asked, tapping me on the shoulder.

"Huh?"

"Over there."

She pointed to a large stone crypt which bore the name Magnus, above its doors. Doors which were mysteriously open. "Well...that can only mean trouble."

Pensipony nodded. "Yep. Let's get going then." And she walked down into the crypt, with a casual stroll.

"H-hey! Wait up!" I called, trotting after her.

Magnus Family Crypt (10:57 am)

As we closed the door behind us, we suddenly found ourselves in complete darkness. "Damn it!" Pensipony exclaimed. "You'd think there'd be a light in here."

I called out into the darkness. "Hello? Is anyone here?" But from the blackness there was no reply.

"I didn't hear anything."

"That doesn't mean there's nopony there." I explained.

"That's....a very creepy thought, Meir."

"Sorry."

I heard Pensipony feel around the right wall. "There's got to be light down here somewhere."

"Hang on." I felt around on the left wall, and found a small switch. Pushing it down, a skylight opened up on the ceiling with the sound of stone against stone. Light poured into the room, as we looked around. There was no one else here, to our relief.

A row of mausoleums was in front of us, each one built into the wall. We went over and began reading the names on the wall, looking for some connection to The Cartel. It wasn't till we saw the one right in the middle, that we stopped and stared at it. The name had been hastily scratched off and a strange symbol was drawn on it in red chalk: A series of four crosses dotting the corners of a large square. I remembered seeing it in one of Miss Fortune's books. It meant "Union." Seemed like the perfect thing for The Cartel.

I gripped the handle, praying to Celestia that I wasn't about to see a dead guy in here. Pensipony nodded for me to go ahead, as I pulled it open.

What we saw inside made my heart stop.

Karosta. She laid there in the drawer, her eyes closed. I was too shaken to process if she was dead or not. "No...." I whimpered. Pensipony came up and looked in at her. "Chief?...can you...can you hear me?" she asked, her voice a little unsteady. She reached in and tapped Karosta on the shoulder.

The next thing I knew, was Karosta's hoof clocking Pensipony right in her muzzle as she fell back clutching her nose.
Karosta sat up in the drawer. "Pensipony? That you?" she asked, looking over at Pensipony surprised.

Pensipony was outraged. "Of course it's me you psychopath! What the hell's the matter with you!?" she yelled, still clutching her muzzle.

"Jeez, sorry. I thought you were that nutjob who put me in here!" Karosta explained, climbing out of the drawer

I looked at her. "Wait...what nutjob?" I asked.

Before Karosta could answer, all the light in the room suddenly vanished as the skylight shut with a loud bang. From the darkness I saw a torch be lit and I instantly recognized the face it illuminated.

My eyes grew wide. "Carlsen?"

Carlsen Magnus's shocked face stared back at me from the light. "Meir? What-What the hell are you ponies doing in my family tomb!?" He yelled, his eyes flaring.

I was about to apologize, when Karosta suddenly shouted out. "Hey! That's him! He's the one that trapped me in here!!" she yelled, pointing her hoof directly at Carlsen.

We froze in place, as I turned to look at Carlsen, I saw surprise in his face. "W-What!? I never did anything to you! You broke into my family's tomb, you idiot!" He yelled back at her. But I saw it in his eyes. He was lying.

"It...It's you..."

Carlsen gave me a look like he hadn't heard me. "What? What are you talking about?"

"It's you. You're the one! The one behind those murders! IT WAS YOU!" I accused him, shouting angrily.

"ARE YOU INSANE?! WHY WOULD I BE BEHIND ALL THIS?!" He shouted back, trying to talk his way out of it, but No. He wasn't getting away this time.

"At the bar, YOU told us where to find Crash! But when we got there, we never found anypony!" I accused him. "And then when we got back, you were nowhere to be seen! You left Crash there to take the fall and...dear Celestia...Y-you tried to kill your own brother to keep him from telling us the truth..."

Carlsen looked at me angrily, as he looked towards Pensipony for support. But her eyes were full of nothing but hatred, as well as Karosta's. He began sweating. "Y-you...you can't prove any of that!"

Karosta stepped forward, looking like she was about to tackle Carlsen into the wall. "Oh yeah? Well, I'm pretty sure a testimony from the Celestia-damned Chief of Police will suffice!!" she shouted at him, making him back up towards the entrance.

Carlsen backed up towards the wall as we moved towards him. I stepped forward. "I want to know why....why do all this?"

"I didn't-

"Stop. Lying to me." I warned him. "The truth. NOW!"

Carlsen looked worried for but another minute, then he looked down at his feet. For a minute he said nothing. Then I heard him say. "You want the truth?...fine."

He looked up at us, dark rings under his eyes as he smiled evilly at us. "Because this city, this stupid ,happy, worthless cesspool, took everything from me. My family, Our manor...Heheheh, EVERYTHING!!" He screamed suddenly.

We backed away from him as he started walking forward, his hooves swinging at his sides. "Our business? Heh, bought up by that bitch and her ilk!!" He yelled pointing at Pensipony, who looked unphased, even now.

"Our family? All moved away, when my parents died in a fire. The police? Didn't do anything." he muttered to himself.

"But what about your brother? What about Crash? "I asked.

"Crash? He's worthless. Could never do anything right. You really should have just let him die...."

I stared at him in a mix of terror and shock. My heart was beating out of my chest as he just looked down at the floor, and began giggling to himself. "You....you're completely insane." I said softly.

"AND YOU!!" He screamed pointing at me, making me fall backwards onto the floor. "I had ONE thing left in this world. One thing I cared about....my record." He narrowed his eyes at me. "No one....not ever, has ever beaten me at chess....no one. Not. A. Single. One. But then....you had to come along. You just had to be the smartest pony in the world! YOU JUST HAD TO BEAT ME DIDN'T YOU?!" He yelled, his glasses sliding down the bridge of his nose at an angle.

Pensipony was enraged. "You sick minded little insect....this is about your pathetic chess record? You really are a sore loser aren't you?" she mocked angrily.

"SHUT UP!!" Carlsen yelled withdrawing a large needle from his jacket. We watched as he giggled to himself, as he rolled up his sleeve, revealing an elaborate Voodoo tattoo on his arm, and stabbed the needle directly into one of the designs of the tattoo, spraying blood onto the floor.

As we reeled back, we watched as the tattoo began to glow red, and the sound of moving stone could be heard all around us. Looking around I felt pure terror pierce my brain as we watched in horror as the drawers of the mausoleums began falling open and the dead, rotting corpses of their occupants spilled out onto the floor and began shuffling towards us.

My eyes darted around the room as I saw more and more of them, groaning and shuffling towards us on barely workable legs. My breath caught in my throat as I kept looking around, trying to find a way out. But we were trapped. I couldn't think, I couldn't speak.

Dead hooves closed in on us, as Karosta and Pensipony were pinned down by the zombies. I watched from the ground as they swarmed around me, reaching for my throat.

This was it. I'm going to die. I closed my eyes and waited for it to end....but it didn't.

And then I felt...nothing. All the fear and terror was gone.

My mind was blank as I suddenly realized I was....somewhere else.

(Somewhere Else)

"Open your eyes."

"I can't! They're going to kill me!"

"It's okay. Just open your eyes."

I opened them. I wasn't in a tomb. I wasn't in Equestria. I wasn't anywhere I recognized. I stood in a large garden on a balcony, overlooking an endless expanse of green fields and trees. A breeze blew gently on my face, as I looked around.

Then I saw her. Sitting right beside me, looking out at the fields, a calm smile on her face. She was white as snow, and her Vibrant, deep red mane flowed in place behind her, along with her tail. A cutie mark of an ink well and quill adorned her flank. I couldn't stop staring at her. She was breathtaking in every sense.

She looked over at me and chuckled. "Hello, Morning Meir." she greeted me warmly. Her voice was light, beautiful, and put Celestia's to shame with how much power and kindness it exhumed with every word she spoke.

What could I even say? I had no words for this. I don't think anypony did. I struggled to work up a "hello' at least. "I-I....Um, I'm sorry, I...I don't know what to say." I stammered.

"It's okay. You're here now. So now...." She kneeled down and looked into my eyes. Her eyes sparkled like the night sky, despite being as brilliantly blue as an ocean. "we can finally talk face to face."

She wrapped one of her wings around me, as she brought me close to her chest, and hugged me. "And I'm happy to see you're safe."

I felt like a newly born foal, seeing their mother for the first time. "Am...am I dead?" I asked, generally unsure of what had happened or what was happening.

She laughed at that. Even her laugh was beautiful. "No, you are very much still alive, I assure you." she laughed.

"Then how am I....how are you?? Just.....HOW??"

Again she chuckled. "You are here, because you wanted to be." she explained. softly.

"Because I wanted to be?...."

Then I remembered. The dead was closing in around us. I wanted to escape, had to escape, and then....I was here. I looked up at her and smiled. "Um...would you mind if I ask you something?"

She giggled."By all means, ask me anything."

I took a breath and calmed myself. "I was told I was going to learn something. Some way of fighting off evil....but, I'm not sure where to start, and I have no magic or anything so-

"You already know the answer to that."

"Huh??"

"There is still much you don't know. And I'm afraid our time is too short for me to teach you everything. But if you wish to defeat the evil you face now, you only have to remember one thing."

I looked up at her eagerly. "What's that?"

She smiled at me as she said with a great power in her words. "Friendship IS Magic." She said, meeting my eyes again. The smile never left her face. "If you believe in yourself, If you believe in your friends...then there is nothing in this or any world, you cannot accomplish."

My eyes widened as I realized she was completely right. I had done quite a bit, yes, but...I had also had friends to stick by me through it all. And even now, as the living dead was gathering around us, I still had friends there with me. The Goddess was right, I had always figured a way out of these things! And with Karosta and Pensipony's help, I know we could now too.

"I...I know what to do! We can get out of this, I know we can." I looked up at her again and smiled. "Thank you."

"You don't have to thank me. I've got a feeling you've always known that. After all, you ARE The Smartest Pony In The World!" she said happily.

I felt my face redden as it always did. I simply laughed it off, nervously.

"But...

I looked up her again and saw she had a hoof to her chin in thought. "There IS something I can give you. It'll give you a significant edge over your enemies, as well as allow you to protect your friends." she explained.

A brilliant white glow emanated from her horn and a large ink well and pen appeared out of thin air in front of her. I watched as she wrote something down on the parchment. As she finished she suddenly looked slightly guilty. "I know some may consider this cheating, but, I'm a Goddess! And I can do whatever I want." she laughed.

I felt a strange soft warmth on my cutie mark. As I turned to look at it, I was amazed to see my cutie mark had changed. I still had the same cross of pink hearts but I now saw small glowing pink and purple stars were now gathered around it. They never stopped having that soft purple and pink glow to them as they adorned my cutie mark.

I looked at it, absolutely speechless.

Luckily The Goddess explained. "There. Now you can use magic same as any unicorn." she said simply, and with a mischievous smile.

"I CAN WHAT??"

"All you have to do is think of the spell, then picture it in your mind. It's actually a lot easier for you, as you don't need a horn to focus the magic into." she explained.

"......I CAN WHAT???"

The Goddess laughed merrily. "I'm sure you'll figure it out. For now though, I'm afraid it's time for you to go back to your friends. They need you now. So don't let them down." She swept me in for one final hug with her wings. "But don't worry....we will see each other again." she assured me.

I struggled to say words. "Thank you!" I exclaimed suddenly, as I hugged her back.

I felt her hoof pat me lovingly on my back. "You're welcome."

And just like that...I was gone. And in a split second I was back. Back in the crypt, back with my friends, but the dead still lurched closer. And yet, I no longer had any fear. What did have to be afraid of anymore? I knew how we could get out of this.

Chapter 14: "Digging Deeper."

"The greatest lie a person can tell, is that there is nothing left to learn from."

- The Goddess

Magnus Family Crypt (10:35 am)

I was back in the crypt, and for a moment, time was standing still. The zombies were still here, shuffling towards us. Karosta had picked up a large stone pole that had broken off from one of the mausoleums, and was having the time of her life beating the hell out of zombies left and right. Pensipony had strange voodoo marks all over her face and body, and her irises glowed red, as she moved from zombie to zombie, turning them to ash with a single touch. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she had to be using a lot of her energy to do so. But she was determined to protect her friends.

I sat up and got back to my feet, as I looked for Carlsen. But he was nowhere to be seen, probably having used the moment to escape. But there was no time for that now. I knew how we could get out of this place.

I raced over to the nearby wall, and got to work, tapping each and every stone that made up the wall, till I found one that was loose.

Karosta looked over at me."Meir? Hey, what are you doing!? We need to-

Pensipony shushed her. "Let her work." she said, her irises still glowing like fire, as yet another zombie turned to ash at her hoof. Karosta shrugged and laughed as she sent a zombie's head flying from its neck. It hit the wall with a sickening crunch.

As I poked at the wall, I found more and more loose stones. As I pushed them in, the wall began to shake and buckle. Finally as I pushed the last one in, the entire wall descended into the ground, flooding the room with sunlight, as we all ran out of there as fast as we could.

As I looked back, I saw the wall suddenly slam back into place trapping the zombies (All, I think....3 of them? Karosta and Pensipony had pretty much killed all the others) in the crypt. We took a minute to catch our breath as Karosta slammed me hard on the back with her hoof. "Good eye, there Meir!" she acknowledged.

"Heh, thanks....and also, Ow!" I said rubbing my now sore back.

Pensipony's eyes returned to normal, as the strange voodoo markings slithered and slid over her body, till they were gone from view. She wiped sweat from her brow, as she collapsed to the ground, much more winded than either of us. She looked up at me and smiled as I gave her a concerned look. "Don't worry about me, Meir. I've gone up against worse." she assured me.

"How much worse is worse then zombie ponies?" I asked, genuinely curious.

She got off the ground and dusted herself off, before straightening out her suit and tie. "Story for another day, perhaps."

Karosta scratched the back of her head as she looked back at the crypt. "But how did you know about that secret exit, Meir?" she asked.

"Huh? Oh that wasn't a secret exit. It was the front entrance."

Karosta blinked. "Come again?"

I had remembered seeing Carlsen's eyes shifting around, trying to make it look like he was insane. But in reality he was scanning the wall for the right bricks to push, which would open the real front entrance to the crypt. The crypt had been purposely built backwards, as I could tell from the direction Mage Meadowbrook's statue faced. From her front, you could see the names on the front of every crypt, and the gates leading in. But when I saw her statue, I saw the name of the Magnus Crypt, despite the fact I was facing the back of her statue. This meant that the Magnus Family Crypt had been built, facing the wrong direction. Instead of forward, it faced backwards. We entered from the back thinking it was the front, making it easy for Carlsen to trap us in there, while he escaped out the real entrance. The entrance that had been concealed with an elaborate false wall, that only Carlsen would know about.

Karosta looked bewildered as she stared at me. "Geez, Meir. You really are The Smartest Pony In The World." she said, utterly lost for words.

Pensipony nodded in agreement, before turning to Karosta. "I believe we have our man now, Chief." she elaborated, pushing her glasses up on her muzzle.

Karosta smiled at her. "Damn right we do!" She exclaimed. "Once we get back to the station, we'll-

"Um....about the station. We can't go back there, cause everyone there has basically been turned into zombies...uh, the non-dead kind." I explained quickly.

Karosta closed her eyes. "Really?" she asked, sounding annoyed.

"Really." Me and Pensipony both said in unison.

Karosta sighed, before yelling out in anger, then calming down, after bucking a tombstone in half. "Great." she said finally. "So now where can we go."

I thought of one place that guaranteed all of us protection and shelter while we formulated how to take down Carlsen for good.

"Well..." Everyone turned to look at me as I smiled. "I know this tailor shop..."

(The Golden Circle Tailor Shop, 10:46 am)

We were all welcomed into The Golden Circle with open arms by Gertrude, as Gold Digger, Goldbloom, Karosta, Pensipony and me, were all led to the lounge where various refreshments awaited us. Nair stood proudly behind the counter, waiting only for me.

She smiled as I went up to her. "So...how was she?" she asked, with a clever grin.

"She was...incredible. I wish I could've talked to her more."

Nair nodded. "We all do." she got out from behind the counter and put a hoof to my shoulder. "But now, I'd say it's time." she said mysteriously.

"Um...time for what?"

Nair pointed to my cutie mark, specifically the various pink and purple stars that still glowed with a faint aura. "First off, you learn how to use that gift you've been given. And then..." she smiled broadly as she locked eyes with mine, determination in her gaze. "We're going to save this city!"

Golden Circle Training Room (11:00 am)

In the Golden Circle Training Room, the walls were taller then tall, and made of fine wood, polished to a shine, as well was the floor, which gleamed as my reflection looked back at me from it. A massive circle of gold was emblazoned onto it's wooden surface.
Nair watched me intently from a balcony high above me.

For a minute I stood there wondering if this was part of the training. Then I heard the sound of machinery and wood on wood, as a mirror rose up from a door on the floor and stood in front of me. "Begin." Nair's voice called. "Use your newfound magic to change your appearance in some way. It doesn't matter how, so feel free to try whatever you wish. And nothing drastic either."

I had seen magic countless times, but I was NOT a unicorn, and knew nothing of how to actually call to it. To make it manifest and create from my will alone. But that's what I was here to learn. And it couldn't be too hard, right?

It would be amazing to use magic, so I decided to give it a shot. I sat down in front of the mirror, and squeezed my eyes shut, trying to come up with a medium to focus the magic on. I thought of The Goddess. I concentrated hard on her kind, motherly spirit. I pictured her smiling, impossibly beautiful face.

Something was happening. I could feel my cutie mark trying as hard as I was. It pulsed and grew warmer, till it burned with energy. A few times, I even felt like I was getting somewhere; I could feel electricity in the air as magic gathered around the room.

I could feel the magic inside myself. I could practically see it sparking from a non-existent horn on my head. I needed to channel it.

I kept my eyes closed as I reached up and touched my swirly, teal colored mane, and imagined the magic working on it. I imagined it changing colors, flipping through all the different possibilities the rainbow had to offer until I landed on the most beautiful color I could: The fiery radiance of The Goddess's deep red mane.

And when I saw myself staring back from the mirror, a swirl of my mane, stood out beneath my left ear, and it was even redder then I had hoped.

I had done it. I had performed real magic, despite not being a unicorn! If I could change the color of my mane, I could learn to do other things too....with practice of course. Looking back at my mane I decided that I liked it the way it was before, and changed it back to normal with a thought.

Nair's voice was heard above me, higher and more cheerful then I had ever heard her. "Well done, Miss Meir! Well done indeed!"

She came down from her balcony and wrapped me in a tight hug, as she beamed proudly at me. "It'll take practice, but I know you will be able to do amazing things with this gift. I'm proud of you."

"Thank you. I'm...actually proud of myself, too!" I laughed. "So what now?"

Nair grinned as she led the way back to the shop lobby. "Oh, I think you know."

And I did.

Golden Circle Conference Room

As we sat in the wide and incredibly regal looking trophy/ Conference room on the top floor of The Golden Circle, Karosta led our efforts to come up with a plan to beat The Cartel."Okay...so, how are we gonna beat these bastards?" she asked the room. "We know whose behind all of it, so all we gotta do is find him and the rest of them and take em down for good. And we can't count on my police department for any help."

Pensipony adjusted her glasses as she spoke up with her opinion. "I would say our solution on how we beat them is simple: Fight fire with fire."

"You mean voodoo? Do you know anything that can beat him?" I asked, looking over at her from my own seat at the table.

"Maybe. But I would need a few days to gather the necessary ingredients." Pensipony explained.

Karosta slammed her hoof on the table. "We don't have a few days, Damn it! We have to take these guys down, and soon. I don't know why, but I got a bad feeling they got something horrible planned for Nightmare Night."

"It would make sense for them to have something planned." Goldbloom elaborated. "But what can we fight them with if not voodoo?"

Then I thought of something. "Maybe we don't."

Everypony looked at me. "What do you mean?" Karosta asked.

"I think I know something better. And we wouldn't even need to fight Carlsen at all.....The Loa." I said with seriousness in my voice. "The Loa are what grants a voodoo practitioner their powers. And we know what Loa is giving Carlsen all this power: Bogun Legba."

Pensipony quickly caught on. "If we can make it so Carlsen can't repay his debt to Legba, then Legba will come and claim him as collateral! Brilliant!" she exclaimed.

Gold Digger scratched her head. "But how do we make it so he can't pay Legba back?" she asked.

Pensipony and me exchanged glances. "The Tattoo." we said in unison. In the crypt, that elaborate tattoo on Carlsen's arm seemed to be his medium for casting his voodoo. And whatever it was, it was powerful enough to reanimate the dead. If we could get rid of the tattoo on Carlsen's arm, then he wouldn't be able to use voodoo to collect souls for Legba, and Legba would take his power and Carlsen back with him.

Karosta sat down with a grin. "Okay, so that's our plan. We find out were they are. Kick their asses. Then find Carlsen and give him some forced tattoo removal, then watch as Legba comes and eats him....or whatever. Sounds good to me!"

Nair stood up from her seat as a map of Nawlans descended from the ceiling on a screen. We all sat and listened. "The Circle's Arcane Detectors have been tracking several powerful signals in the Nawlans area for several days now." A series of bright blue dots pulsated at random around the map. "But with things narrowed down to a Loa imbued Voodoo tattoo, we can pinpoint the source, and therefore the headquarters of the Voodoo cartel....here." a large blue dot, larger than all the others appeared on the map, right near the center of town. In the Nawlans City Stadium.

Karosta looked shocked. "No way....the stadium. I would've never guessed. The city throws a massive party there every year for Nightmare Night."

And then it all came to me. "He's going to announce the cartel's existence to the entire city. Declare himself it's new mayor. The Cartel won't have to hide anymore. Nopony will be able to stop him."

Gold Bloom looked extremely on edge. "This is insane! He can't just do all this and get away with it!" she exclaimed.

"It makes sense when you think about it. They could have all their rituals right beneath the place, and no one would ever hear anything cause of the noise from Buck-ball games and the like. And all those ponies, in one place? Perfect for getting fresh targets." Pensipony elaborated, although she looked sickened by the whole thing. I shared her feelings.

I stood up from my chair and took a breath. "Okay, so we know where to go, and what to do-

Pensipony spoke up. "And I know how we can do it." she said getting out of her own seat. "If voodoo gave him the tattoo, then we can use voodoo to burn it off. But we would need to get close. Very close."

"You mean...all of us disguise ourselves as members of the Cartel, sneak into the stadium during Carlsen's announcement and get close enough to him to burn the tattoo off his arm, and then escape with our lives?" I asked, already knowing the answer.

Pensipony nodded. "Yep" she said simply.

For a moment the room went completely silent. Then Gold Digger raised her hoof and smiled brightly as she said. "I'm in!" she exclaimed.

Then Goldbloom, raised her hoof. "I'm in too!"

Karosta raised hers as well. "You already know I'm in."

Nair looked over at me and gave the slightest of nods, but the warmest of smiles.

With all my friends on board we spent the rest of the day coming up with a plan to beat Carlsen and take down the cartel for good. It was finally time to save Nawlans, and make the cartel pay for everything it's done. I only hoped we could do it in time.

With Nightmare Night closer then ever, I suddenly had a terrible feeling in the pit of my stomach. But I had no idea why. And that was scarier then anything.

Chapter 15: "The Curse Of Magnus."

"Reasoning is the mask, all wicked people wear."

- The Goddess

(The Next Day, Gold Digger's Suite, Early Morning)

I was very tired the next morning. But something was very clear to me as I sat there with my friends enjoying our donuts and coffee: I did NOT have the nightmare last night. I had actually slept perfectly, for the first time in days.

Was it because of my magic? Was it because Carlsen had been found out? Or was it The Goddess, acting a helping hoof because I had finally gotten to meet with her. Honestly, I had no idea. But I was too relieved to care. I could actually sleep without fear of that nightmare creeping into my mind again.

I picked up today's newspaper. The headline announced in large, creepy letters: "Nightmare Night: Tomorrow Night! Nawlans Gripped With Real Fear As The Scariest Day Of The Year Arrives."

I thought of all the excited foals and fillies that would be going out today to get last minute costumes, and all the treats and candy that would be being bought up all over, in preparation for tomorrow night. We had to beat Carlsen, not just for the good of Nawlans and possibly the rest of Equestria, but so everypony could actually enjoy Nightmare Night.

And then I thought of Heartland back in Ponyville. I had promised her I would be back in time for Nightmare Night, but it looked like that wouldn't be happening. I would need to call her and let her know I had to stay in Nawlans to stop Carlsen.

And then probably explain the whole voodoo, cartel, evil plans thing. So that would go over well.

I turned the paper over and spotting the horoscopes, I decided to just get it over with."Aquarius: Gird thyself with mercy. Arm thyself with righteousness. The final hour awaits." I read aloud.

I rolled my eyes. "You know, I'm pretty sure there are other ponies born from January to February. They must be so confused right now." I said casually as I tossed the paper aside.

As I sipped my morning coffee, I was joined by Goldbloom. "How are you holding up?" she asked sympathetically.

"I'm alright. Just tired."

"Oh yeah, you told me about the nightmares."

"Actually...I slept fine last night."

Gold Bloom's eyes widened. "No nightmares?" she asked.

"No nightmares." I confirmed.

"Huh. So that pretty much proves it was Carlsen doing it, right?"

"I wouldn't say prove, but it certainly looks like he was behind it. Maybe as a scare tactic."

"Did it work?"

"Heh. Not anymore."

Gold bloom smiled, as she looked behind her shoulder to see if anyone was listening, before she leaned in close. "So I've been doing some digging, myself. And I found Carlsen's old home."

"You did?" I asked, surprised.

"Yeah, an old Gothic manor in the french quarter. And guess what it is now."

"Um...a mansion?" I said being too tired to come up with a more clever answer.

"A voodoo museum."

"Well....that explains a lot."

"I think we should check it out. Maybe we can find something about Carlsen we can use against him. Maybe we won't have to even confront him! We find evidence or something, and take it straight to the Celestial Princesses. If not evidence, then maybe a weakness he has. Whaddaya say? Should we try it?"

I thought for a moment. It would certainly be useful to find out a few more things about Carlsen. Especially if we actually did discover a weakness of his. But, I wasn't sure if we would find evidence of such value, that we could take it to the Celestial Princesses. Still, it was definitely a good idea. As long as we weren't caught.

"Sounds good to me!" I exclaimed.

Gold Bloom nodded. "Great! We can head over after breakfast. It's a museum that's open to the public, so we shouldn't have much trouble."

Except when we arrived, an hour later, we most certainly DID run into trouble.

(Nawlans Historical Voodoo Museum, Formerly Magnus Manor, 9:00 am)

A group of guards eyed us suspiciously as we approached the museum. Before we could get through the doors, a guard put his hoof out in front of me. "Stop. Where do you think you're going?" He asked gruffly.

"Um...inside the museum?"

He shook his head. "Not without a ticket you're not."

"Ticket? I thought this was free to the public!" Gold Bloom questioned.

"Yes. Free, if you have a ticket."

I noticed the tone in his voice from the get go. He was lying. Out of the corner of my eye I saw two mares enter the museum. Neither of them had tickets, and there was nopony at the door to take tickets. It was clear that these guys just didn't want us in. Why, I had no idea.

I didn't think they worked for the cartel, but better safe then sorry. I feigned innocence, as I smiled at them. "Sorry, Our mistake. We'll come back some other time."

"Yeah. You do that."

I led Gold Bloom away before she could argue, and we took a minute to talk out of earshot of the guards. "Those guys have to be working for the cartel, right? Nopony else had tickets!" Gold Bloom complained, and I agreed with her.

"I'm not sure if they work for the cartel, but they don't want us going in there for a reason. They might've been hired by Carlsen personally. To keep us away from his old home."

"And will it work?" Goldbloom asked, with a smile.

"Nope." I answered slyly. "We'll just find another way in."

We walked around the musuem's front yard till we found a large 1st floor window around the back. A janitor could be seen mopping the floor inside.

"There's a window, but that janitor'l see us!" Goldbloom whispered, as we crouched behind a large garden ornament.

I had an idea. "Let's just wait a minute." I whispered to her, and she nodded.

We waited behind the garden ornament till he opened the window and ringed out the mop onto the flowers below. We watched him walk away from it till he disappeared from view, then we quickly climbed in through the window, and ran down the hall before he could come back.

Lavish halls lined with hundreds of Zebrican voodoo masks, totems and other artifacts stretched out in all directions as we began exploring the place, along with several tourists. Being surrounded by so much history, it was hard not to try and study a few exhibits.

We actually had fun looking at all the authentic voodoo stuff, but as we went up to the second floor, we were reminded of why we were here.

"Whoa."

"That is....really creepy."

We were staring at a massive family portrait on the wall in front of us. A young but still smug looking Carlsen sat in the middle of his parents, beside his brother. The whole family looked...unnatural. As if they were all hiding something from the other.

No one was smiling.

"Not much of a family." I thought. A small plaque on the bottom of the portrait read. "Special thanks to The Magnus Family for donating their home to the city of Nawlans, for the creation of this wonderful museum."

We both rolled our eyes. "I don't know about his parents, but I wouldn't thank Carlsen for anything." Gold Bloom commented. And I agreed.

Our plan was simple: Investigate this floor for anything on Carlsen and his history with voodoo. And any weakness he might have.

Investigation (Magnus Manor Top Floor, 9:30 am)

This floor seemed to be separate from the museum. Sheet covered furniture was seen at random, stacked on tables, in rooms clustered around closed curtains and darkened windows. I looked through filing cabinets, old desks and even along the floor, but I only managed to find a few photos of Crash and Carlsen as kids, and one of Carlsen's mother, who smiled warmly as she stood with her husband in the background. She looked happy.

As I looked around more, I saw signs of fire damage along the walls and ceilings. Clear evidence of Carlsen's claim that there had been a fire in his mansion. The fire where his parents were killed.

He was an evil, sadistic, monster. But my heart still went out to his parents. They didn't deserve to go like that. But Carlsen was not honoring their memory with what he was doing. He didn't care about anything anymore. He blamed Nawlans for all these horrible things, and he was determined to make it burn for it. But I was determined to stop him. We all were.

Finally I found it: Carlsen's room.

I expected, well a massive ritual room with a bed. But instead....there was just a bed. Gold Bloom and I walked into the room and began looking around for anything. But the room was completely bare. We only knew it was Carlsen's room by the name engraved on the door. "Huh. Well that's a let down." Gold Bloom said sounding annoyed.

But I wasn't so sure. I had a feeling there was something in here. "Let's just take a look around. We might get lucky."

"If you say so."

We started looking, and I quickly found a floorboard was loose in the corner of the room. "Bingo." Golf Bloom commented with a grin.

Inside the hidden compartment we found a Voodoo treasure trove. Voodoo dolls of several different ponies, Gris-Gris Bags, A massive dog eared book of hexes and some sort of strange grimoire that was about the Loa. The name Bogun Legba was circled in red marker.

"Hey, look at this!" Gold Bloom exclaimed, holding up a leather journal. "Carlsen's Journal" could be seen written on the front of it. she handed it to me and I leafed through it, till I came upon a rather tell all page. It was an entry that he had written after his parent's death, and he and his brother were put into foster care. I read it aloud.

"I hate it. All of it.

This world. This city. This society, made my life a hell. My parents were the only ones who understood me. The only ones who kept my...impulsion, in check. And now...they're gone. And I have no one, but my stupid, worthless brother. He'll never get it. They'll never understand.

But I'll show them. I've been performing the ritual as planned. The foster parents don't know a thing, and I have yet to be caught. if everything goes well, then I will finally have the power to make this wretched city pay for what it did to me.

They'll all pay, They'll all pay, They'll all pay, They'll all pay, They'll all pay,...."

That word was scrawled in hideous, aggressive scrawl on every page after it, the writing getting more and more erratic, until I couldn't even read it anymore. I closed the journal, and me and Gold Bloom exchanged worried, unsettled looks.

"I....I'm scared Meir." Goldbloom said softly.

"Yeah. Me too...."

"I mean, he just kept writing it, over and over....he was obsessed with destroying this city, even as a child." Gold Bloom said with a shudder, as her voice cracked slightly.

Investigation Complete (10:04 am)

Result: So that was it. Carlsen's parents were the only ones who understood his voodoo habits. With them gone, he felt he had no one else. And he blamed Nawlans for destroying his life. To be thinking that way as a child....It was too disturbing for words.

We were unsettled by the whole thing, and we just wanted to leave this place. We took his journal and put everything back under the floorboards then left the manor (through the door this time) thinking about it all as we returned to Gold Digger's suite. But somepony else was waiting for us there.

(Gold Digger's Suite, 10:13 am)

"Hello, Miss Meir." our visitor said with a smile.

I smiled at her warmly. "Miss Fortune!" I went to hug her, as she laughed happily. "It's good to see you too. I'm glad you and you're friends are safe." she said softly, patting my back.

I unwrapped my arms from her and smiled at her cheerfully. "I had no idea you were in Nawlans."

Miss Fortune bowed respectfully, still dressed in the same beautiful exotic fabrics as she ever was. "After I had discovered what it was you would be facing, I decided to come to Nawlans personally, to aide you in vanquishing this evil that plagues it."

She leaned in and smiled. "Plus, it's nice to get away from that stuffy shop, every now and again." she joked.

We sat at the table as we explained to Miss Fortune our plan, and what we knew about Carlsen and how we could destroy his tattoo. She put a hoof to her chin as she thought for a moment. "This tattoo sounds very tricky. Such power could only come by making a blood pact with a powerful Loa. There are few practitioners mad enough to create such a pact, as they can severely mentally weaken the user's willpower." She explained. "It's like offering oneself to the Loa as a host for them to collect souls. With each soul, the tattoo grows more elaborate, and the user gains new voodoo abilities.

"But, If we destroy this tattoo, then Carlsen will indeed be unable to pay his life debt to Bogun Legba. He would then be claimed by the Loa personally."

"So, do you know how we can destroy it?" I asked politely.

Miss Fortune nodded. "I do. Such a thing cannot be destroyed by magic or other alternatives: We will need something stronger then Voodoo if we want to defeat Voodoo." She reached into her satchel and pulled out what looked like a very old, worn recipe. "There is a Sacred Potion, brewed of gold, that will burn away any evil, no matter how mighty. Including this tattoo. But it must be prepared very carefully, and it cannot be made twice."

She handed the recipe to me. "If we make this, we will only have one chance."

I looked at her and smiled. "One chance is all we need." Miss Fortune smiled back as I quickly read through the recipe.

It was very complicated, and required a great many valuable, if not priceless sounding ingredients. Plus it needed to stew for a day after making it for it to be fully ready to use. So we had to make it, today. No question.

"Okay. "I said. "Let's do it then."

Miss Fortune looked at me concerned. "Are you sure, Miss Meir? I am not exaggerating when I say this is possibly the most difficult and powerful potion in the world. It spells instant death if we get even a fraction of one thing wrong." Miss Fortune warned in a grave tone.

I shuddered a bit, but I had already made up my mind. "I'm sure. We have no other choice. It's the only way we can save this city, and possibly even Equestria itself. We have to try."

Miss fortune seemed to admire my bravery as she agreed. "Very well. We will go out and get the ingredients ourselves. Hopefully the potion will be- No, it HAS to be ready by tomorrow night."

"I understand." I said confidently.

"Then lets be off then!" Miss Fortune exclaimed with a smile.

With that we went off into town to begin gathering what we needed for The Sacred Potion. Time was against us now, as we only had one day left before Nightmare Night. We needed to have this potion ready by tomorrow night.

And we were going to.

I would make sure of it...

Chapter 16: "Potion Brewing For The Soul."

"One can always hope for the unexpected. But can never expect it to happen."

- The Goddess

Hahn Jadgeman's Unique Wares, Downtown Nawlans

According to Miss Fortune, everything we needed for the potion could be found at a very odd little shop at the farthest end of Nawlans, just barely into the Hayseed Swamp. I read the name "Hahn Jadgeman's Unique Wares" on a crude, hastily drawn sign, that actually looked like it had simply been duct taped to the top of the door. We payed no mind to it as we went inside.

The musty smell of old leather and dust hit me in the face as we found ourselves in the lobby of the shop. It was cramped with countless, bizarre knickknacks, ancient looking armor sets, scrolls and displayed weapons that were centuries old. Strange memorabilia of planes and hot air balloons hung from the ceiling, along with a full sized canoe and crates wrapped with rope. I stepped hastily under it as I approached the lone counter top that divided the store from the front to the back room.

I gently rang the service bell on the counter, which rang out throughout the store. "Hello?" I called. "Is anypony here?"

I got my answer when a loud, ruffled stallion's voice suddenly yelled out from above us. "Whuh? H-hold on, I'll be down in...just a minute!"

Looking up, we saw an odd, slightly portly, old stallion with wild Einstein-esque hair and a turban climb out from the canoe above us and climb clumsily down the nearby ladder. He stepped behind the counter and adjusted his turban before spreading his arms out to his sides and smiled broadly. "Welcome!" he announced. "To HAHN JADGEMAN's Unique Wares!" He spoke like the ringmaster at a circus, putting dramatic emphasis on his name that was very noticeable.

He was a wild looking orange earth pony, with thick bottle glasses, obscuring his eyes (Yet I assumed he could see out of them) and a thicker white mustache that was just as wild as his mane. He wore an unbuttoned Hawaiian shirt, and I could see his cutie mark of a pyramid adorned quite clearly on his side.

He kept his arms outstretched. "I am HAHN JADGEMAN!" He said, again putting emphasis on his name. "What can I do for-WAIT!"

Without warning he was suddenly inches from my face, his nose firmly pressed against mine, as his bottle glasses nearly poked my eyes out. "Hmmm..." He said.

"Ummm!" I said very nervously, my face turning red.

Then he took a step back (to my immense relief) and smiled. "Ah! So you are Morning Meir then!"

"Y-yes, but how did you know?"

"You're coming was foretold in the great prophecies of the Thebian tabernacle!"

".....what?"

"I read it in the paper."

"Ah."

Miss Fortune told Hahn what we needed for the potion. After he nearly passed out from the dramatic gasp he let out afterwards, he then went to his backroom and returned with a large golden cat statue. I could see hieroglyphics etched into its side.

"What is this?" I asked, pointing to the statue.

"That is a statue of blessed gold, recovered from the sands of Egypt. It is the central ingredient in the potion." Miss Fortune explained. "In order to use it, we will need to have it melted down."She explained as she took the statue, along with some other ingredients and put them in her satchel.

"Melted down? How are we going to make this potion anyway?"

Miss Fortune only smiled. "With help."

McClophlin's Bar (12:00pm)

It was happy hour at McClophlin's, but I was still unsure of why we had come here. Miss Fortune had only said that she had a friend at the bar who could help us. As we entered the bar, I was greeted warmly by Stonewall, who offered me a drink on the house.

"Oh, thank you, Stonewall, but again-

"Relax, Miss Meir. It's water." he chuckled.

"Oh, in that case, I would like one please."

"Comin right up!"

Miss Fortune led me back to a lone table where a mysteriously robed pony mare sat alone, drinking some impossibly sugary looking milkshake.

"You got the stuff?" She asked in a surprisingly cheery sounding voice, that she was trying to sound gruff, and deep. (And failed miserably)

Miss Fortune nodded, as she set the gold statue and other ingredients on the table. "How long will it take?"

The robed pony pulled back her hood, to reveal she was a green earth pony with a fluffy mane and an extremely cheerful disposition. She smiled widely as she picked up the statue and examined it. "Hmm, well if I hurry back to my stand, I could have it ready for you by, say....tomorrow night?" she said as she put the statue and other ingredients Miss Fortune had given her in her own satchel.

I stepped forward. "Is there any way you can-

"HEY!"

"What!?" I exclaimed jumping half a foot in the air from the odd earth pony's sudden outburst.

"You're Morning Meir! Oh wow! I read all about you and how you saved the world in Mareiposa!" the earth pony exclaimed, with a seemingly permanent smile. "Thanks for that by the way." She added whimsically.

I was confused. "Um...you mean in the paper?" I asked.

"Huh? Oh, no. I don't read the paper, silly!" she laughed. She suddenly leaned forward towards me with her hoof outstretched. "My name's Coco by the way!"

I shook the odd earth pony's hoof and smiled nervously. I couldn't get a reading on her at all. All I managed was a deep gut feeling that Coco knew far, far more then she appeared. Perhaps, even more then me.

"Anyway!" Coco said turning back to Miss Fortune, who was just as confused as I was. "Since you guys are saving the world in all, I guess I can manage to get you're potion to you by tomorrow morning!"

I was relieved to hear that, yet still I couldn't shake this strange feeling this mare exhumed. Though it was probably just my imagination. After all, It had been quite a week for me. I was just letting my self get spooked is all.

I smiled as I thanked Coco for helping us. "Thank you, Ms. Coco."

"Oh please! Just call me Coco! And don't worry about it, just be sure to tell Goldbloom I said Hi, for me!" she said gleefully.

My eyes widened. "Um...you know Goldbloom? Have you met?" I asked, confused.

"Hm? Oh! Nope. Never met her. Or Gold Digger for that matter, but say Hi to her too for me if you don't mind!"

I wasn't able to process any of this. I was sure I had never met this pony in my life. How did she know all this stuff? "I....I will. Thanks." I said, eyeing her suspiciously, before shaking it off. I couldn't be imagining things...could I? "Well, um, I hope to see you again!" I said quickly.

"Eh...maybe. Depends on what the next story will be about." Coco responded nonchalantly.

I was now very confused. Hopelessly actually. I was about to question her, but Miss Fortune advised that we should just go. I agreed with her, and we departed McClophlin's, as Coco waved merrily at us as we left. "Good luck tomorrow, Morning! I can't wait to read about it! Should be a real epic showdown!" she called.

As we walked away from the bar, Miss Fortune and I exchanged bewildered looks. We both agreed with our eyes: That was the strangest pony we'd ever met.

Chapter 17: "This Is Nightmare Night."

"Fear can be frightening. But it can be fun if celebrated with friends."

- The Goddess

(Gold Digger's Suite, Early Morning, 12 Hours till NIGHTMARE NIGHT)

"Good morning, Morning! Happy Nightmare Night."

I rubbed my eyes as I smiled at Coco. "Good morning, Coco. And Happy Nightmare Night to you too." I said sleepily. I had been up all night, going over our plan. And though I was very clearly tired, that didn't stop Coco from smiling as cheerfully as I had seen her before. She took out a large bottle of a bright shining golden syrupy liquid and held it up to me, the light from it was nearly blinding as I saw spots dance all around me. "Here you go!" she said cheerfully. "Just spray it on Carlsen's arm and Poof! No more bad voodoo tattoo! HEY that rhymed!" she exclaimed.

I took the bottle from her and thanked her as I held it away from my face. "Um...is it supposed to be this bright?" I asked, squinting my eyes.

"Oh, that'll wear off in an hour or so. That's just the reaction from the gold and Sacrenum Sulphanate!" Coco said simply.

"Oh. Okay. Thanks." I said, knowing it was easier to just say okay.

Coco hugged me goodbye, and wished me luck once more before taking her leave. I closed the door then went into the dining room where everyone was waiting for me to show them the potion.

"It's so bright!" Goldbloom commented, shielding her eyes from the potion's intense light.

I set it down as everyone gathered around it, only to back up from the harsh intensity of the light. But then after a few seconds,the light dimmed immensely, and in the potion a potion like liquid gold glowed and gave off a steady low toned hum.

Karosta turned to Miss Fortune, who was now removing her sunglasses. "So, we just throw this at him or, what?" She asked.

Miss Fortune chuckled and shook her head. "All we have to do is spray a small amount of the potion onto Carlsen's arm. The potion will do the rest." She explained with a clever smile.

Karosta nodded and smiled back. "Okay." She turned to the group at the table. "So, let's go over the plan!" She looked at me respectfully. "Meir. If you would." she said with a flourish as if she was addressing Princess Celestia. I rolled my eyes and smiled as she took a seat. At once all attention was on me.

I cleared my throat as I began. "Tonight is Nightmare Night. Which means the town will be holding their annual Night Of Nightmares Festival at the stadium."

"First, we go to the festival, and once inside, we'll sneak away to find the entrance to Carlsen's secret voodoo hounfour underneath the stadium." I looked over to Miss Fortune and Karosta. "Miss Fortune and Karosta will stay up top to keep an eye on things for us at the festival, in case Carlsen tries anything we hadn't planned. After we've found the entrance, me, Goldbloom, Pensipony and Gold Digger will locate a few members of the cartel, knock them out, and then "borrow' their voodoo robes and masks, so nopony recognizes us."

"Once were disguised, we find Carlsen, as he's addressing the cartel. Blending in with the crowd, we wait till he and his followers make their move, then Gold Digger works her magic to distract him, and while she does that, we get on stage, and spray his arm with the potion. If all goes well, Carlsen will be defeated and taken away by Legba, the cartel will disband, and Nawlans will finally be safe for the first time in decades." I finished, taking a breath afterwards.

"Any questions?" I asked. Nopony said anything, but looked around to see if anyone else had anything to say. When it looked like no one was going to ask anything, they all smiled at me. "Alright." I said. "Let's do this for Nawlans!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NIGHTMARE NIGHT, Nawlans Stadium, The Night Of Nightmares Festival

The painted purple-and-pink skies melted into a cool starlit night as large orange and black balloons hovered about in the air, and thousands of happy, costumed ponies of all shapes and sizes, made their way around the many large colorful tents, with street vendors, scary games, giant candy sculptures and goodie baskets. Fun but spooky music floated up from every corner of the festival. Unfortunately, we couldn't afford to enjoy ourselves along with everypony else. We had to stop Carlsen. Here and now.

It had been my suggestion that we should dress up to attend the festival, so we didn't look suspicious. (Plus, I have NEVER gone out on Nightmare Night without a costume. And saving the world or not, I wasn't about to start.)

I had used my newfound magic to create some costumes for all of us, and I had really liked how they turned out.

Goldbloom was dressed as a zombie pony (She seemed very confused when not me, Karosta or Pensipony would look her in the eye after she put it on.)

Gold Digger was dressed in an extravagant scarlet masquerade, complete with fancy updo pearl necklace and opera mask.

Pensipony was dressed as a Victorian era vampire complete with real fangs (I had used my magic to give them to her. She didn't seem to mind, but I could tell she was annoyed that I went with making her a vampire.)

And I had decided to dress up as Daring Do, the famous adventurer. (For some reason, I felt very self aware putting it on. But it was probably just nerves getting to me again.)

Karosta had wanted to stay in "Police Chief Mode" so she didn't wear anything. And Miss Fortune already looked like she wore a costume, so she didn't bother dressing up either.

With all of us in costume, we made our way through the festival, trying to seem inconspicuous as we searched for any sign of the voodoo hounfour. Or Carlsen.

Chapter 18: "Everyone Get A Fright."

"Oh, wow! Great costume!" A mare in a bumblebee costume complimented me.

"Thank you. Yours is great as well." I replied with a smile.

Vampire Pensipony simply rolled her eyes. "I get that this is a festival for fun and games, Meir, but let's not let ourselves get too carried away with this, okay?" she said in a serious tone. And she was right. (Of course, nopony had complimented her costume, so...)

We stayed as a group as we searched for any sign of the voodoo hounfour secret entrance. I searched around the tents, the fun displays, the candy sculptures and...wait.

I went back to the giant candy sculpture I had given a look at, and examined it closer. Etched into the bottom was a series of small borderline invisible voodoo markings, as well as the cartel's tell-tale symbol. I motioned for Pensipony to come take a look, and upon seeing it her eyes went wide. "Hidden in plain sight...of course."

As a group, me, Gold Digger and Pensipony pushed and moved the sculpture from it's spot, revealing a hidden hatch door underneath. We had found it. Pensipony tried the hatch door and it lifted up easily. I suppose they would leave it unlocked for cartel members to come and go from the festival to the hounfour.

Taking precautions so that we wouldn't be seen, we each climbed down the ladder into the voodoo hounfour. I waved to Karosta and Miss Fortune who stood not far from us. Karosta gave the slightest nod to show she had seen me, and Miss Fortune smiled warmly, saying with her eyes she wished us all luck.

Taking one final moment, I mentally prepared myself as I began my descent to the hounfour, closing the hatch on my way down.

Secret Voodoo Hounfour, Underneath Nawlans Stadium

Once at the bottom of the ladder, I looked as we now found ourselves in the tunnels beneath the stadium. Strange voodoo markings painted the walls in different colors, as the smell of incense wafted through the air all around us. The slow but steady beating of drums could be heard through the walls. Fluorescent lights lined the ceiling of the hall, buzzing above our heads.

We followed the hall to a large dimly lit room. Maroon Robes and tribal masks hung on hooks on the walls amidst several pieces of Zebrican art. The center of the hounfour was a large circular room-apparently used for rituals. Despite the metal and concrete foundation of the stadium, everything down here seemed to be made of stone.

We put on the robes over our costumes, and used the masks to hide our faces. Hopefully we wouldn't have to be down here for long enough to worry about being seen, but we had to disguise ourselves to get close to Carlsen. Wherever he was down here.

"Agh!" Gold Digger cried looking at a boar's mask in disgust."Aren't there any other masks besides this one? It's hideous!"

Pensipony (Who was now robed and wearing a tribal leopard's mask) sighed. "Just wear it, Digger. You won't have to have it on for long." she said simply.

Gold Digger pouted but nevertheless put on the mask. I myself chose a toucan mask, as it fit easy over my muzzle without suffocating me.

With all of us disguised, we decided to stay together and search for Carlsen. It was too dangerous down here for us to split up, and we had no idea how outnumbered we really were down here. It was best to play it safe.

Investigation Begins

We explored this part of the hounfour, keeping an eye out for any cartel members. We found several small bedroom suites, probably for members to stay overnight. (Although I can't imagine anypony wanting to stay here for any reason)

Finally we came to a larger bedroom. The largest one we had seen so far. We entered quietly, taking in the luxurious comforts that the room had been outfitted with. It became quite apparent that this was where Carlsen was staying. A small voodoo idol and altar had been set up in the corner, surrounded by a row of candles.

We searched around, but there was no sign of Carlsen. The stench of freshly burning sage and incense permeated the air.

The sound of the door opening, stopped us all in our tracks. "Damn it!" Pensipony whispered. "He's here!"

"Quick, everypony into the bathroom!" I whispered to my friends.

"But...I went before we left!" Gold Digger commented, as we pushed her into the suite's bathroom, and closed the door, leaving only a small crack for us to look into the room through.

We heard hooves trot steadily on the floor, and Carlsen came into view. He looked sick, as his eyes seemed more sunken in and his ears drooped along with his normally combed mane. He went over to the voodoo altar and lit a fresh incense, before pricking his hoof and letting a drop of blood fall into a small bowl the idol was holding aloft. He closed his eyes as he knelt to the altar.

"Bogun Legba! I call to you! Reveal yourself to me, so that I may serve you." He called out.

At once the lights in the room dimmed and flickered, as a strange whispering cut through the air. The lights flickered before finally going off completely. When they came back on a strange shadowy masked figure could be seen in the mirror above the altar. Definitely not a pony, it's slender face was obscured by a tribal mask in the shape of a skull, it's red eyes glowed like hot coals through the mask's eye holes. A large black top hat adorned the being's head, covered in feathers and small bones. Tribal voodoo tattoos and lines were drawn over its visible face, and they glowed in several different colors, like a black light over neon paint. A large toothy grin was seen below the eyes as it smiled wickedly at Carlsen.

"Ah, yes...the pony. What is it you seek, child?" it spoke in a deep cruel voice. The way it said pony, made it sound like it was telling a joke, or that it thought that was humorous. Were we really so simple to the Loa? I couldn't say, but I still thought he was being a jerk.

Carlsen dropped his face to the floor. "Lord Legba, I am so close to taking this city. But...that mare...Morning Meir-"

The voice chuckled mockingly. "Heh heh, right. You're so scared of her aren't you?"

My eyes widened, as my brain struggled to comprehend what I had just heard. Carlsen was....scared of me? I could understand aware, or maybe even intimidated...but...scared? What was it about me that he was scared of?

Carlsen said nothing as he continued to look down. "I....I just need a little more power. So I can get rid of her for good."

I felt a lump in my throat as I kept listening.

Legba seemed to find this funny, as he chuckled once more. "I have already given you all you have earned, child. Besides...no amount of power in this or any world will allow you to get rid of Morning Meir."

Carlsen looked up at Legba, fear in his eyes. "What is she? Please, I have to know!" he begged.

Legba laughed, a cruel deep voiced rasp. "You already know the answer, little pony!"

Suddenly he leaned in through the mirror and stared down at Carlsen, a sickening glee on his face. "She is....The Smartest Pony In The World." he whispered, like a breath of wind. "Do you really think you can beat that?"

The lights went out again. When they came back on, Legba was gone.

Chapter 19: "Are Ya Ready?"

"One usually meets their destiny, when they try their hardest to avoid it."

- The Goddess

Time stood still for a moment. Nopony moved. Not me, not Carlsen, not anyone.

Finally after a long moment, Carlsen got up off the floor, and shuffled out of the room, looking even worse then before. The door closed behind him as we heard his hoof steps grow softer as he went down the hallway. When we could no longer hear him, we slowly came out from the bathroom.

I looked at Pensipony. "Why would Carlsen be scared of me?" I asked. "And how did that...thing, know who I am!?"

Gold Digger gave me a surprised look. "You already saved the world from evil once, Meir. I guess evil itself knows about you now."

I didn't think I liked that possibility. But we had no time to think about it now.

"We have to find where Carlsen was going!" I exclaimed softly.

Pensipony agreed. "He had to be heading to the main ritual room, to announce the beginning of their plan to his followers. We just have to blend in."

"I hope this works, guys." Gold Digger said hopefully.

"It will. I'm not giving up here. Not now." I said firmly.

Back in our disguises (It was surprisingly hot in that bathroom) we followed the soft sound of Carlsen's hoof steps, through the elaborate series of halls that would lead to the main ritual room.

Main Ritual Room (Midnight)

The sound of drums echoed throughout the hall, as we entered the main ritual room via a large stone archway. Inside the darkened domed room, a gathering of some hundred or more various ponies, all wearing voodoo makeup and tribal masks, gathered in front of a massive stage. Carlsen, now dressed in a strange voodoo shaman's outfit addressed the crowd. "Pitta muri pase m'kuri!" he chanted loudly. He pulled out a large ceremonial dagger, and held it blade first to his arm. "Pei lame nu deja, met agwe-woyo kote u ye nu!" He stabbed the blade into the tattoo which glowed red as the ground around us began to shake and rumble. The roof of the room, seemed to melt away, as the whole area moved upwards into the stadium grounds, like an ascending elevator lift.

The voodoo cultisits cheered as we reached the stadium, thousands of ponies scattering and running away as the ground opned up and we ascended into view. I looked around at the hundreds of frightened ponies. Many tried to escape through the stadium gates, but a huge metal gate came down trapping everypony inside the stadium. Including us.

Carlsen laughed as ponies grouped around one another, the cultists laughing along with Carlsen. "Mares and Gentlecolts!" Carlsen announced, his voice booming throughout the stadium. "Do not be afraid. We are The Cartel. And we are you're salvation from the lives you lead."

Pensipony looked over at me, pulling her mask up to speak to me. "Now, Meir! We have to take him now!" she whispered to me, taking out the bottle of sacred potion. "On the count of three...."

"One" I prepared to run, my heart starting beating too fast to mention.

"Two." We can do this. I know we can.

"THREE!!"

We tore off our disguises and pushed through the crowd of cultists, until we reached Carlsen. Pensipony opened the bottle, and prepared to splash Carlsen when all of a sudden....

I couldn't move. I had stopped, mid sprint, just as I reached the stage. Pensipony as well, the bottle hovering in front of her, just out of reach.

"Heh. I thought you would try something, Ms. Meir."

Carlsen laughed as his tattoo glowed brighter then it ever had, and yet he wasn't even touching it. He removed his shaman mask and looked at me, his eyes wild and his skin nearly grey. "It was a good try though. Well, nothing I would expect from the supposed smartest pony in the world, but- "He raised his arm, and we were raised off the ground with it. I struggled to move, but all I could do was watch as Carlsen took the bottle in his hooves, and broke it on the stage, the potion dissolving into nothing as it hit the floor.

I wanted to scream. To fight. But as hard as me and Pensipony struggle, we were completely helpless. Carlsen's manic laughter only served to enrage me more. He brought Pensipony down with a wave of his hoof, and grabbed her face, staring hate into her eyes. "I think I'll start with you...it's been awhile since Lord Legba has had a sacrifice. He must be hungry after such a long wait." Carlsen said insanely, his eyes flaring. Then he turned away from her to look at me. To gloat. "You've lost Meir. The smartest pony in the world, and you were beaten by me. Now whose the smartest?"

I wanted to swear at him. To show him I was still willing to fight. I concentrated all my energy on getting my mouth to move.

Then I felt it. My cutie mark starting to warm up, I could feel the magic begin to surge out of me, a wild mess of anger and determination. "I-I...."

"Hmm?" Carlsen put a hoof up to his ear. "Oh I'm sorry, are you trying to beg for mercy?" Carlsen mocked.

I focused more, the magic radiating from me like wildfire. I felt the hold Carlsen had over me start to break. "h-ha"

"One more time now, with feeling!" He laughed.

Oh. I gave him feeling alright. With one final push I channeled my magic into breaking Carlsen's grip on me. I glared down at him, my pupils nearly pinpricks as I gave into my rage. "I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU!!" I screamed angrily, and I dropped onto the stage, free of Carlsen's voodoo for good.

Both Carlsen and Pensipony looked at me in complete shock, but I didn't give him the time to process it as I charged into Carlsen and tackled him off the stage. We both hit the ground hard, as the air left my lungs, only to instantly come back.

Carlsen recovered from the fall and screamed as he dove at me, but I easily rolled out of the way, as Carlsen connected with a hard kick in the stomach from Karosta. He was sent tumbling across the ground, as both cultists and ponies ran to get out of the way of the two on one fight between us and Carlsen.

Carlsen may have been a powerful voodoo shaman but he also couldn't even try to defend himself. Every time we attacked him, he tried to use his tattoo. We ended up beating him nearly to a pulp, before he actually managed to use his voodoo again.

"ENOUGH!!" With another stab at his arm, both me and Karosta were sent flying by a massive blast of green energy, that burned the ground, charring the grass of the field to cinders.

Before he could cast another spell, Carlsen was hit by another one, that was cast by Miss Fortune. As the two voodoo masters fought, it looked like she would actually beat him.

"Legba, bogun badagris pito na!"

Before we could comprehend what Carlsen had just screamed out, we looked around in horror as every single cultist in the stadium suddenly dropped dead to the floor. Hundreds of dead bodies now littered the grass.

Carlsen's tattoo suddenly glowed, as black and green energy swirled around him. He looked up and sent Miss Fortune flying with a single glance. The more his tattoo glowed, the less equestrian and more monstrous in appearance Carlsen became, till he towered over us, a hulking abomination, no longer a pony, but a disgusting nightmarish flesh creature with bones protruding through his skin.

He laughed with a guttural demonic growl, as he looked over at me, his rows of razor sharp teeth meshing together in a sick smile. "I may not be able to kill you Meir-

Suddenly Karosta fell to the ground clutching her chest. Then Miss Fortune, then Gold Bloom, and even Pensipony had fallen to her knees in agony as she clutched her chest, her face contorted in pain. "But I can kill your precious friends!" Carlsen laughed insanely.

"NO!!" I screamed.

I had to do something. NOW! The tattoo, I had to destroy it....but the potion! He destroyed the.....wait.

I looked up. A massive stadium monitor hung from the rafters, supported by several steel cables. I looked back down, and If I was right, then Carlsen was....!

I closed my eyes and thought of every unicorn I had ever seen use this spell. Every step they took, every word they spoke. I brought everything to my mind and raced through it, focusing all my energy into one thing. If I could use my magic to change my appearance, then maybe....I could

My cutie mark burned like fire, but I kept concentrating. I heard Carlsen laugh at me. Sense him point his tattooed arm at me. "Giving up? eh? At least try to make this hard for me! Otherwise the game's not any fun!" he laughed.

I felt a sharp pain on my forehead, but I kept going, forced my thoughts to manifest, felt it spring from my skull, to my head. Then...

I opened my eyes, and felt my forehead. But my hoof bumped into something. Something horn shaped. Without even stopping to take it in, I cast a massive magical blast from the horn. It sailed like a missile up to the rafters were it exploded on impact with the steel cables, purple magic scattering like fireworks from the impact.

The ear piercing sound of screeching metal resounded through the stadium. I fell to my knees as sweat dripped down my face, and I looked over at Carlsen, as I struggled to keep my eyes open. "Hey Carlsen!" I yelled out.

He looked over at me, a smug grin on his monstrous face. He held his tattoo arm behind him, pointed like a weapon over at Pensipony, a good 15 feet away. "Oh, you're still here?" He said with a smile. This time, I smiled back. "Heads up."

With a final snap of the last cable, the massive stadium monitor fell like a rock, 20 feet above us, before it smashed into the ground, right on top of Carlsen's tattoo arm.

Carlsen's agonized screams mixed with the stomach churning sound of crushed bone and flesh, as Carlsen returned to normal, screaming himself into hysterics as he tried to pull his destroyed arm from underneath the stadium monitor. But to no avail.

It was a miserable thing seeing a pony scream and struggle like that. Even if it was Carlsen.

A loud crash of thunder was heard above us, as strange eerily green clouds began to swirl around the stadium. The feeling of dread was felt by all, as drums from nowhere began to play an orchestra of deep, rapid beats. The blood drained from Carlsen's face in an instant, as he stopped struggling and stared in total horror at the series of colorful smoke that descended from the sky, along with a massive black shape that whipped through the air like a snake, curling and twisting till it stood next to Carlsen.

The familiar face of Legba appeared on the shadowy black figure. It towered over everypony in the stadium, eyes glowing red, as a massive gnarled limb reached down and grabbed Carlsen, by his waist. The drums were now louder then ever, all beating and pulsing in unison, getting faster and faster, as Legba dragged Carlsen from the wreckage, his arm now completely gone as blood followed the stump.

Legba laughed hysterically as he descended into the ground, pulling a kicking and screaming Carlsen into the ground after him, both vanishing into a pool of shadows. Another flash of thunder and the drums stopped. All was quiet.

And then I passed out.

Chapter 20: "Epilogue."

"......Hmm? Oh! Sorry. No Goddess quote today, I'm afraid. But thank you for reading them!"

- The Goddess

The Next Morning, Gold Digger's Suite, 8:13 am

My head pounded like I could still hear those drums rattling my skull. I was laying down in a soft bed, I heard soft voices all around me.

"Is she waking up?"

"Course! Just give her a minute."

"Will you two back up! Give the mare some space. She's been through a lot."

I opened my eyes gingerly, as their blurred faces came into focus. Goldbloom, Gold Digger, Pensipony, Karosta, Miss Fortune, Nair and...!

I sat up bolt upright in the bed."Heartland?"

The yellow Pegasus had tears in her eyes as she swooped in and wrapped me in a tight hug "Morning! Thank Celestia you're all right!" she sobbed. "Do you have any idea how worried I was? When you didn't call, or come home or....or"

I hugged her back, and she went silent. "Sorry to have worried you." I said. We were suddenly joined by Gold Digger who wrapped her hooves around me as well, then Goldbloom and Karosta. Even Pensipony was dragged over by Karosta and awkwardly brought her hoof up around me. Miss Fortune was last, and Nair stood by and smiled warmly at me.

"What happened? Did Carlsen...

Nair took a step froward. "Carlsen Magnus has been claimed by The Loa. The voodoo cartel is no more, and Nawlans is finally free from decades of terror and manipulation." she said kindly. "Thanks to you."

I smiled back, as my friends finally let go of me. "So...what now?"

Karosta laughed. "What do you mean, what now?? The whole city knows what you did, Meir! You're a hero! Were all going to go celebrate!" she cheered.

I blinked. "So...I'm even more famous now?" I asked nervously.

Gold Digger laughed. "Of course, silly!"

I let my body fall back into the bed, letting out a frustrated sigh. "Great. More publicity." I said flatly.

I brought my hoof up to massage my temple, when It occurred to me that my horn was gone.

Later

There was a loud knocking at my front door. "Coming!" I heard Heartland call, from the entry way.

I was now safely back home in Ponyville, and had taken refuge in my home, to escape the massive crowds of cheering ponies and reporters who had seemed to come out of the woodwork the entire trip home.

I was very happy to just be able to sit in my kitchen and enjoy my lunch, while reading a good book. I heard Heartland from the front door, as she opened it. "Hello, what can I do for.....I-I, oh? Yes, of course, right away, ma'am!" My ear perked up a bit as I took a bite of my sandwich. What's going on? Why does Heartland sound so flustered? "Morning!" I heard her call. "Um...can you come here for a second? Somepony wants to talk to you!"

I shrugged and got up from my seat, and made my way to the front door. "What is it Heartland? Is everything....all....right..."

Words suddenly failed me as I saw who had come to my front door.

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna bowed respectfully to me. "We are so sorry for the intrusion, Miss Meir" Celestia said apologetically. Her soft voice quickly reminded me of the Goddess (Which made sense, considering.) "But I'm afraid we need to speak with you! It's urgent!"

"Urgent?" I repeated, finding my voice again. "What's happened?"

The two sisters looked at one another, worry and sadness on their faces. Celestia looked away as Luna answered "We're sorry to have to tell you this, Morning....but-

She paused a moment before finally telling me. "You're parents have gone missing."

Chapter 1: "The Nightmare."

"To those who love me, I am the most generous of souls. There is no pain I would not take unto myself for their sake, nor burden I would not gladly carry. To those who do not love me, my kindness remains all the same. Now and forever."

- The Goddess

Fire.

Burning brightly in spite of the storm, as masked ponies danced around it.

A stallion stands with a mare. His face contorts in horror as she turns into a monster and attacks him.

A medallion falls to the ground as blood spatters it.

A snake coils around the stallion's neck.

Now I see outside my house. Something is watching me sleep. Then it suddenly lunges towards my window.

I yelled out as I woke up, nearly tumbling out of bed. Cold sweat sticking to my forehead, as I was still panting heavily. Another nightmare. Just another nightmare.

I yelped as my curtains were suddenly thrown open. A warm face greeted me from beside them. "Another Nightmare, Morning?" she said smiling at me as always.

It was the face of Heartland, my maid. She had always taken care of the estate when I was away, Which I was most of the time. She was actually the same age as me, and though she had worked for the family for a while, I had always thought of her as my sister. She was a beautiful sunshine colored Pegasus with a neat and tidy golden mane and a smiling sun for a cutie mark. As always she was adorned in her maid's uniform, which she kept spotless, like the rest of the manor.

Oh. Yes. I live in a mansion. But I'm far from rich, trust me.

You see I come from a wealthy family. My parents are a team of scientists working at The Equestrian Institute Of Arcane Sciences. The number of inventions and breakthroughs they've made would take a week to go through. Lets just say that you can thank them for a lot of stuff you use daily. I've always looked up to them. Maybe they are the reason why I so heavily deny everypony's favorite thing to say about me: That I'm "The Smartest Pony In The World." But my parents are true geniuses. Obviously, money has never been a problem for them. And I visit from time to time, usually when I just want to get away from the hospital for a bit. They're almost never home though, so its usually just me and Heartland.

As I got out of bed and stretched, I heard her sigh aloud. "So...how many nights does that make it now?"

I yawned as I answered. "Seventh night in a row. Always the same one."

Heartland shook her head as she hovered in the air and began making my bed. "I told you its those voodoo books you're researching. That stuff can seriously screw with your head." She said matter of factly.

I rolled my eyes. "Oh yes. I'm sure it's got nothing to do with the fact that Nightmare Night is only a few days away." I retorted smartly.

"Heh. That too."

Since my encounter with The Dark Ones in my last case, I had been studying and researching all the supernatural phenomena I could get my hooves on. This week's topic was Voodoo. Voodoo wasn't a terribly talked about subject In Equestria, namely because it came from Tribal Zebrican Culture, which Zebras brought over when the borders between Equestria and Zebrica was taken down, many centuries ago.

It alone made for a fascinating read, and the supernatural element about it, made it perfect for my research.

As Heartland made my bed, I got dressed in my favorite blouse and butterfly bow tie, tried in vain to smooth out my eternally swirly mane, then headed downstairs to breakfast.

Heartland had prepared my favorite breakfast (Chocolate Chip Pancakes with mango iced tea and a grapefruit) and as I sat down to eat, I noticed that once again, my parents were nowhere to be seen. Heartland came down a few minutes later with the morning paper.

I looked over at her as she sat it in front of me. "What was it today?" I asked.

"Discovered a new element. Apparently it'll revolutionize arcane technology as we know it. Y'know the usual."

"Fair enough"

We both laughed, before I started reading the paper. More talk of what everypony's gonna be doing for Nightmare Night. Me, I'll probably be at the hospital till noon before coming home and watching scary movies with heartland, before we go out and join the rest of the ponies out getting candy and other treats. I had always adored Nightmare NIght, and Heartland and me had had fun every year with it.

I smiled to myself as I read my Horoscope. "Aquarius: Potential storms ahead. Proceed with caution and do not get involved with anything new at this time." I read aloud.

Heartland chuckled. "So that means you don't want to hear any of your messages, then?"

I smiled at her as I sipped my iced tea. "What is it today?"

Heartland took out a notepad and read off the messages left for me by "a few" ponies who wanted to speak with me. As always, there was a great many of them. (This was the price to pay for being the most famous doctor in Equestria.)

"First off, we have another message of thanks from Princess Celestia, for your numerous contributions and advancements in pioneering the medical industry of Equestria."

"Great. Be sure to send her back a letter of thanks, and my assurance that I will continue my efforts to expand the medical community."

Heartland made a note on her list, then read the next message. "Next we have several more fan letters from a one "T. S" telling you how amazing your theories on Magically Augmented Cellular Synthesis are, and that you are one of her greatest heroes."

"How sweet!" I exclaimed cheerfully. "Message her back, with my thanks and let her know I have another theory referring to the science of augmenting personal magic through cutie marks, if she is interested."

Heartland made another note, before reading off another message. "Next, you have a card from a ms. Pinkamena Diane Pie, wishing you a Happy Nightmare Night. I'm told that everypony in Ponyville also received one in the mail."

"Oh yes, Pinkie! Send her a card back, wishing her the same. And as always, put as much glitter on it as possible."

"This last one comes with a letter." And Heartland handed me a carefully sealed envelope with a wax seal. It had only one word on the front: Ms. Meir.

I opened it and found that it was not a letter but a clipping from a news article. The top read "Nawlans Times" and the main article was quite obvious: "Voodoo Murders Terrify Citizens."

"Voodoo Murders?" Heartland repeated aloud. "What could that be?"

"I have a feeling I should find out." I said, knowing full well who had sent this, and what I was entitled to do.

I summarized the article: "Six murders over a course of two months. Always displaying some form of ritual trappings at the crime scene. And always a tourist, visiting Nawlans."

Heartland gave a shiver. "I don't like stuff like that. That voodoo stuff is just creepy."

I set the article down and took another sip of my tea. "Only if you don't understand it. There is actually quite a bit of history surrounding it, and many parts of it borrow heavily from some other major beliefs we know. Even Celestialism."

Heartland raised an eyebrow. "So, how is somepony using it to kill people?" she asked.

"That's just it. They aren't. I'm not entirely sure , but I don't think the Voodoo element in these murders is genuine." I explained.

Heartland looked at me, impressed. "You can tell that from just reading that article? You never cease to amaze me, Morning."

I felt my cheeks redden as I smiled at her. "It's just a theory for now. I would need an expert's opinion before I make any conclusions. Any ideas?"

"In Ponyville? Not many places have so much as heard of Voodoo, let alone specialize in it in Equestria. But I know there is that one fortune teller in Canterlot, Miss Fortune."

"Miss Fortune? Creative." I chuckled.

Heartland rolled her eyes at me. "She's a zebra, but she grew up in Equestria. Her family brought over a lot of their stuff from Zebrica, and she's said to be very learned in the history and practices of Voodoo."

"Perfect! I'll head up to Canterlot and see if I can find her."

Heartland gave me a look. "Whoa! You're not seriously thinking of taking a case, a few days before Nightmare Night are you?"

"Relax. I promise I'll be back in time for us to enjoy it." I promised her.

"It's not that! Nightmare Night is when all sorts of crazy, scary stuff happens! You could get yourself into real danger out there!" She exclaimed, clearly worried.

I put my hoof on her shoulder. "Relax, okay? I've dealt with stuff like that before. Y'know, dark gods and evil starlets. I'm sure this whole thing is just some nutjob trying to scare ponies before Nightmare Night with this fake Voodoo nonsense."

"Fine. But if you aren't back by Nightmare Night, I'm going out, without you. Deal?"

"Deal."

With that I gathered my things and left for Canterlot, taking the noon train up through Ponyville.

As I sat in my seat, I began to ponder how best to quickly wrap up this fake Voodoo case I was now on.

I had no idea at the time, just how wrong I was.

Chapter 4: "Bad Vibes."

"Happiness, true happiness, is inside your heart. Not in circumstance."

- The Goddess

Crime Scene, Lake Ponchipony, (6:35 pm)

We arrived at the crime scene after a short drive. The sun was starting to set, shining off the surface of the lake, and cutting through the fog that was building up over it. We didn't have much light left, so we got started right away. While Chief Karosta and Goldbloom questioned the coroner, I went to examine the body.

Investigation (Lake Ponchipony, 6:36 pm, Near-Dark)

The victim was laid out on the ground, an elderly stallion, clearly from out of town, if the scent of Navy Colt cologne was a clue. The brand could only be bought at various boutiques in Canterlot. He seemed to have been dressed to go to a formal party. Unfortunately he never got the chance. Poor guy.

I knelt down and began my analysis.

Time Of Death: By the pale, discoloration of the stallions normal blue coat, coupled with the obvious stiffness of joints, I placed the time of death over 24 hours ago. The crime had only recently been found by police.

The thought struck a cord with me. Found NOT reported. Had nopony seen this poor guy laying here, and reported it? If the police had never found him, how long would he have stayed here? weeks? Months? I didn't like it. Not at all.

I examined the various wounds on the body. The cuts had been made with a long, narrow knife with a wavy edge. A ritual dagger of some sort. The cuts were clean and precise. Nearly like the work of a surgeon. The thought of a surgeon's skill being used for this, turned my stomach.

I shook the thought from my head, said a few words for the poor stallion, then moved on to the rest of the crime scene.

The ground was covered in hoofprints. There were others here. More suspects? Or maybe there were witnesses after all. "No."I thought. "The hoofprints are all smudged, trodden over and deeper then if they had been a few witnesses." I narrowed my eyes. "They were attending the murder. May have even been part of it."

I scanned the ground closer and saw that there were traces of wax from red and black candles. Red candles are traditionally used in ritualistic voodoo....but black? I wasn't sure what they were used for...but I knew it couldn't be good.

I was about to report my findings to Chief Karosta, when a luxurious carriage suddenly pulled up at the crime scene. The vehicle gave off the essence of culture and sophistication, much like its owner, as I would see. The window rolled down and I saw sitting there was an incredibly intelligent looking bright yellow Earth Pony mare in business attire and a very no nonsense attitude. Her eyes were like daggers that seemed to stab straight through her thin glasses into me. She gave me a look of complete disinterest as Chief Karosta went over to speak to her.

"Good day, Dr. Pensipony." said Karosta, looking like she would rather skip this conversation.

"What seems to be the problem, Chief Karosta?" asked Pensipony, in a tone that made me feel like all of us were in trouble, without knowing why.

But Karosta was not wavering. "We've got a little problem here, but nothing for you to be concerned about." she answered simply.

Pensipony never batted an eye. "I see...thank you, Chief Karosta." I nearly jumped as her gaze swept over to me and Goldbloom. "And good day, ladies."

With that she rolled up the window and drove off down the street, disappearing from view shortly after. I turned to Karosta. "Who was that?" I asked calmly.

"She reminded me of my insanely strict history teacher from school." Goldbloom added.

Karosta chuckled to herself. "Well she is a teacher, so that's normal. That was Dr. Amalia Pensipony. She's one of Nawlan's darlings, so they say. Has her hooves in all manner of successful businesses around town. Practically owns it. Very smart and knows a lot about the city and its voodoo heritage." she said with a slight smile. But it quickly faded."Now if only she didn't have such an attitude problem." she added in an annoyed tone.

"Chief Karosta clearly has no higher opinions of Dr. Pensipony. I wonder why." I thought to myself. I decided to ask her more on the subject. Perhaps there was something more to the good doctor's visit then it seemed.

"Does she come around the lake often?"

Karosta thought for a minute. "Nope. But the lake is a popular place for country clubs. it's possible she is a member at one of them nearby."

"I see. Any idea why she was here today?" I asked politely.

"Can't imagine, except that she heard about the crime scene. But I don't know...I've never really like that mare."

Now we were getting somewhere. "Why's that Chief Karosta?"

Karosta scratched the back of her head in thought."I don't really know. For one its her attitude. She truly thinks shes the smartest mare that ever walked-

"Pffft! No she isn't! Meir is!"

"Goldbloom! Sorry about that. Please continue Chief Karosta." I said, with my cheeks having already reddened slightly.

"She just acts like she knows more than she says. Like when you have a conversation with her, she makes you feel dumber then you did before. I don't know how. But I don't like it." Karosta explained, shuffling her hooves with unease.

A teacher that makes ponies feel...dumber? I clearly saw the contradiction here. I decided it would be best if we looked into Dr. Pensipony at the local country clubs. Maybe if she was member, we would able to find out the real reason why she had just so happened to pull up her carriage next to a crime scene. She was up to something. And I was going to find out what.

The forensics mopped up the place and the body was taken away. It didn't bother me though. I had already seen all I needed to see. As Karosta and Goldbloom talked to the coroner, I went over to speak with them. "I think I'll check out the local country clubs for anything about this Dr. Pensipony. She's hiding something."

Goldbloom nodded."I'll say. Lady gave me the creeps."

"You and me both." Karosta agreed. "Me and Goldbloom are heading back to the station to go over the details we got so far. The fanciest country club around, happens to also be the closest: The Majestic Majesty. It's just down the street, due north of here, overlooking the lake." Karosta explained gesturing north.

"I hear you need to be a multi-billionaire just to use the restrooms there!" Karosta joked. "Best of luck, and Let us know if you find anything, kay?"

"Of course. I'll see you guys soon." I assured them with a smile, then set off towards The Majestic Majesty.

Investigation Complete (7:15 pm) Result: I once read that Nawlans is a place for everypony. Where life breathes in everything from the music to the food, to the ponies and zebras living there. But so far I had only seen death, and a mystery that perplexes me. Is voodoo truly behind these crimes? Or is there something more going on here. I was warned by Miss Fortune of dark forces being at play in this city. And with Nightmare Night around the corner, I had no doubts of that being the case. But the case had only just started. And my next lead, starts with Dr.Pensipony.

Chapter 9: "Seeking Answers."

"Truth is only a word. But to know in your heart, what is true, is to never be wrong."

- The Goddess

Nawlans Police Station (4:00 pm)

I sat there, lost in thought as Crash was wheeled out on a gurney to the ambulance. I had been asked to go with him to the hospital, but I knew there was nothing I could do for him there. What had happened only one hour ago, was unlike anything I had ever seen.

I had watched as a young colt suddenly went into cardiac arrest, despite not showing any signs of heart problems or health issues. As if somepony else had caused it to happen. And that was the fact I couldn't ignore here.

Somehow, this individual had caused Crash's heart to basically turn against him, without any warnings, and seemingly without even being in the vicinity of him.

Crash's words echoed in my brain: "They can get you from miles away just by saying your name!"

"From miles away...merely by saying your name." I thought to myself.

Whoever was behind all this had power. Real, terrifying power. Despite my accomplishments of late, I was still only a doctor and I knew I was out of my league here. We all were. On our own, we didn't stand a chance against this Cartel.

No...we needed help. and I knew just who to ask.

Station Lobby (4:02pm)

Miss Fortune's deep but beautiful voice answered from the other line. "Hello, Miss Meir." she said pleasantly. "What can I do for you today?" she asked, equally as pleasantly.

I didn't know where to start. With everything that had been happening, I struggled to find words to explain it all. Luckily, I didn't need to, as Miss Fortune had already known what I was calling her for.

She spoke calmly, like a therapist to a patient. "I know how things must seem right now, Miss Meir. But you must not lose hope. You have overcome great odds like this before, after all."

"Maybe. But never anything like this. I'm worried about all this, these murders, this cult...what if I can't stop it?" I asked.

"Of course you can. You just need help. And I am more then willing." Miss Fortune said with determination."Now, what is it you need me to do, Miss Meir?" she asked.

I thought for a moment. "Miss Fortune, what kind of voodoo allows somepony to make another pony's heart turn against them, without even being near them?" I asked calmly.

I heard Miss Fortune gasp on the other end. "Dear Celestia..."

"Miss Fortune...do you know what it is?"

"...Indeed I do....I will look into this personally. If it is what I think it is, then we may need much greater help then I can provide. I will call you again once I have found something."

"Thank you, Miss Fortune."

"Do not doubt yourself, Miss Meir. You will solve this. You will stop them. I know it."

With that I thanked her once more before hanging up the phone. Miss Fortune knew what this was, and even she was afraid of it. But at least she was willing to look into it for me. I knew I should do some digging myself. Maybe I've been looking in the wrong places.

I turned to head back to Karosta's office, but froze in mid-step, as the phone in the lobby rang again. Had Miss Fortune already found something? No, it was too soon. Maybe it was meant for one of the officers? I looked around, but all the officers were clearly too busy with that fact that somepony almost died in their station to bother with a ringing phone. So I went over and gingerly picked the receiver. "Hello?"

"Ms. Meir? Good, I was hoping to reach you there."

I recognized the voice on the other line instantly. "Dr. Pensipony?"

"Yes. We need to talk, Ms. Meir."

I laughed at that expectation. "You already had your chance to talk, and it seemed you'd rather belittle me and waste time. Time that I could be using to solve this case." I said angrily. "Give me one good reason, why I should listen to you now."

Dr. Pensipony hesitated before answering. "Because I have something on the cult. It could lead us to whose behind all this."

I was surprised and curious, but kept calm as I questioned her. "Do you really? And how did you find out?"

"My family has many connections all over Equestria. I did some digging and...I need to share with you what I found. It's important."

"I thought you didn't care about the case. That this city meant little to you besides as a source to build up your already massive ego." I said bitterly. I won't lie. I didn't have the highest opinion of Pensipony, after our "chat" in her office. Besides, she had a chance to help before, and didn't. So what changed?

"I know what you think of me, Ms.Meir....and you're right. I know I'm not the nicest or friendliest of ponies but...I truly do care for this city. It's my home. I was born here, raised here. I'd do anything to protect it. I am sorry for how I acted before. Please, just come to my office, and I'll explain everything." Dr. Pensipony said in a surprisingly considerate tone. I could tell she was telling the truth. Despite how she was, it seemed she did truly care about Nawlans.

I decided to give her a chance. I had nothing to lose by this point and anything was better then nothing. "Alright. I'll come to your office and hear you out. But, please don't let this be a waste of our time."

"Thank you. And I assure you it will not be a waste of time. For either of us."

She hung up without another word. Pensipony was clearly very no-nonsense. And again, my opinion of her had been entirely based around our not-so-friendly chat from earlier. But if she did really want to help...then I couldn't say no to her. We definitely needed more allies in this. And Nawlans foremost authority on voodoo was a good start for an ally.

Dr. Pensipony's Office (Nawlans State University, 4:35 pm)

"Dr. Pensipony? It's Morning Meir! You said you wanted to talk?" I exclaimed knocking on her office door. But there was no answer.

Gold Digger stood to the side, trying to look in through her office windows, but it was too dark to see anything. She had insisted she come with me, so I had some "backup" if Pensipony was trying to trick me. I accepted, not really having a valid reason to say no to any "backup" at this point.

Gold Digger peered through the glass windows, but still saw nothing. "Why would she call you down here, if she wasn't even going to be here."

"I don't know, I...this doesn't feel right. I think something's wrong." I said, getting a bad feeling. "We have to get in there."

I pushed open the office door rather easily (It hadn't been locked) and we carefully stepped inside. There at her desk, Dr. Pensipony sat, looking down at a book. At once Gold Digger was on her for ignoring us. "Oh, so you have time to read a book, but not enough to answer the door?" she scolded. "Hey! I'm talking to you! Quit ignoring us!"

But Dr. Pensipony didn't respond. She wasn't moving. I suddenly felt dread in the pit of my stomach. "Dr. Pensipony.....?"

I went over to her, and gently nudged her shoulder. I jumped back as she slumped back in her chair, dead. Gold Digger screamed, but I put a hoof over her mouth to stifle her. We didn't need the guards in here. We didn't want the school to panic. "Goldy! Just...calm down. Okay?" I whispered soothingly, still holding her from screaming. "It'll be alright...just don't scream. Okay?"

She nodded, but I knew she was still scared. I let go of her and she uttered a terrified sounding whimper. "I-Is...Is she-

"Unfortunately, whatever Dr.Pensipony wanted to tell us...the cartel got to her first." I said sadly. I felt horrible that she had died for this. For helping me.

"You think it was them?" she asked, in a still clearly terrified whisper. "What am I saying, of course it was them!"

I went over to the body and bowed my head. "I'm so sorry, Amalia. You were trying to help me. I shouldv'e been here sooner." If had just come over as soon as she called...I could've saved her.

Gold Digger put a hoof on my shoulder. "Meir, you can't be upset with yourself about this." she said in a heartfelt tone. "There was nothing anypony could've done for her." she said, further consoling me.

I looked up and nodded. "You're right. There's only one thing we can do for her now."

There was nothing we could do for her. Except investigate the crime scene. Maybe we could find out what she wanted to tell us, before...this happened. I truly felt sorry for her. She may not have been nice, but...in the end she wanted to save her home. And whatever she found out, the cartel clearly saw it as a reason to kill her for it. I wasn't about to let her have died in vain.

Investigation (Nawlans State University, Dr. Pensipony's Office, 4:37 pm)

I approached Dr. Pensipony's corpse and examined her. The bulge in her veins and drool in her mouth, along with the clearly bloodshot eyes, were obvious signs of cardiac arrest. The cartel was behind this for sure.

Time Of Death: By the lack of any discoloration, save for the pale shade of her coat, Dr. Pensipony was killed very suddenly, and very quickly, without warning, by a sudden and severe heart attack. She didn't even have time to call for help. Poor thing.

Then without any warning, As I turned back around, Dr. Pensipony suddenly bolted up straight in her chair, and took in a loud, long gasp of air, as her eyes were as wide as I'd ever seen eyes go.

To say we were terrified is to be a comedian. Gold Digger straight up leapt into my arms, and wrapped her hooves around my neck, as we both screamed bloody murder. I had just seen a pony, who was dead not mere moments before, literally spring back to life before my eyes. I had no words. (But plenty of screams.)

We were both shut up by Dr. Pensipony clamping a rough hoof over both our mouths. She looked around the room, as her razor tipped eyes darted all around her, and stopped at the office door. She took a breath and closed her eyes. "Listen to me...listen to me, very carefully." she spoke very softly, and very calmly.

We nodded.

"Are you listening?"

We nodded again.

"Carefully?"

We nodded yet again.

"Okay. I'm going to put my hooves down. And when I do, I won't hear any more screaming. No yelling. No voicing of disbelief. Just calm down, and I will explain, everything. Okay?"

Once more, we nodded.

Pensipony put her hooves down. I had no way of thinking at this point, I was still in shock. But, good Celestia, did I have questions.

Investigation Complete (4:39 pm)

Result: What the hell just happened!?

Questioning (Dr. Amalia Pensipony, Undead?, Zombie Pony?, ???)

We just sat there staring at Pensipony, like she was an alien. Even in my state of shock, I managed to ask the only question I needed to.

"Dr. Pensipony?"

"Yes?"

"How are you not.....?

"Dead?"

"No, you were already dead. So how are you....no longer dead?"

"Ah...yes, of course."

Dr. Pensipony unbuttoned her shirt and jacket to reveal a very small brown cloth bag with a strange symbol on it, that hung around her neck. But taking a closer look, I saw that it was not hanging around her neck but it was in fact surgically stitched onto her chest with professional expertise. Pensipony looked down at it, then back at us. "This is called a Loa Legba." she explained. "Not only does it protect me from other voodoo, but in the case were I am killed by a hex, it will resurrect me in a few moments, and turn the hex back on my killer."

We both looked down at it in disbelief. "They are very,very, very hard to make, and require the heartfelt blessing of a Loa to even function properly. It took me seven years to make it, and another year to make it so it can't be removed from my body. Magic or otherwise."

My eyes were still wide as dinner plates. "So...the cartel really did get you?"

Pensipony nodded with a smile. "Yes...but I got them back. When it comes to voodoo, Ms. Meir, I am NOT to be underestimated."

That was very clear. Naturally.

"Now" Pensipony said closing up her shirt and readjusting her jacket and tie. "About what I called you for....I need to show you something. Over here." she gestured for us to follow her, which we did, to her desk where she took out what appeared to be a very new looking document of some sort.

She laid it down on her desk for us to see. Seeing it clearly, It was a copy of a city issued address, disregarding any and all claims of a "secret hounfour" in Nawlans. And for citizens to go about there normal lives. At the bottom it had been signed by Mayor Fairmont, and was dated from earlier today.

"How in the world did you get this? This is an official city document!" I exclaimed.

"As I said before, I have connections. But read it again...carefully."

I did so, and then it hit me: How did the mayor know what voodoo hounfours were? Anypony else would have just said voodoo cult or sect, but he KNEW they were called Hounfours. Which meant...

"He knows something about them. About voodoo, obviously, but more then that."

Pensipony nodded. "Exactly. If the mayor's apart of it...who's going to question him? Nopony would ever know."

Gold Digger put a hoof to her mouth in shock. "The-The Mayor!? He's behind all this?" she gasped.

I shook my head."No. I think he's only apart of it. He couldn't be the one leading the cartel. He has an image to maintain."

"Right. He just does their dirty work, and keeps ponies from getting too close." Pensipony said, disgusted. I shared the emotion. "No wonder this cartel has been in power for so long...the damned mayor is working for them!" Pensipony exclaimed.

Gold Digger looked down at the document with us. "So...what do we do now?"

I turned to leave. "We take this back to Karosta. She NEEDS to hear this." Pensipony gathered her things, including the document and joined me by the door.

But Gold Digger looked hesitant."Um...are you sure that's a good idea? I mean, we've seen how much of a temper she's got. If she sees this-

"Then at least she'll have somepony to direct it at." I said with a smile. With that we all left the university, bound for the Nawlans Police Station, with our strongest lead yet, finally in our grasp. I just hoped Karosta would take it well.

(Or at least leave a building standing, after she was done.)

Chapter 11: "A Turn For The Worst."

"The thing about the worst, is that it can only get better, afterwards."

The Goddess

The Next Day

After waking up we were treated to breakfast via room service. As i helped myself to the homemade waffles and hashbrowns, I decided to check today's paper. The main headline read: "Mayor Fairmont To Make Speech To The City! All Ponies welcome."

It seemed as if our "chat" with Fairmont had gotten to him. Hopefully, he would be announcing that he's stepping down as Mayor. If he came out and blabbed that he was working with the cartel, it would set the whole populace into a panic. Ponies were worried enough as it is. They didn't need to find out there own mayor was working with the killers behind the voodoo murders.

With great hesitation, I checked my horoscope: "Aquarius. The shadow upon you is no longer reversible. Walk in the light, or you will be lost to the dark." I grimaced at the paper, like it had insulted me. "Yep. Thought so." I said, then tossed the paper onto the counter.

After breakfast I decided to head back to the station to see if Karosta was there, when as I was about to open the door, I saw an envelope slip under it from the entryway.

Given our current situation, I was hesitant to open it, but as I held it in my hooves I saw it had my name written in Karosta's neat scrawl. I opened the letter and read what it had to say:

Meir,

I have to go underground with this thing. It runs wide and deep throughout the department and the city board. I'm already being watched. It was "suggested" that I take a vacation so I am-at least, as far as they know. Get hold of Pensipony. Stubborn as the mare is, she's the only weapon we have against the cartel right now. I'm also sending you my office key . You might find something in there to help.

Good Luck and stay strong!

- Karosta

P.S. Be careful around the station. There's a bad aura around the place anymore. Trust nopony in there!

I was relieved to hear that Karosta was alright. But she had gone in to hiding so suddenly. Was the cartel coming after her directly? That would be pretty bold, considering she was the chief of police, but I suppose nothing was off limits to the cartel.

After she had finished her breakfast I told Goldbloom about the letter she had sent to me."She must have really gotten spooked." Goldbloom commented, reading the letter after me.

"I can't really see Karosta getting spooked by anything. I think it was so she could do some digging without the city board spying on her." I elaborated, trying to put the pieces together. "I need to head down to the station. Maybe she'll have something in her office she wanted to keep hidden for us."

"If Karosta comes over here, we'll call you and let you know. Be careful Meir. I have a feeling things are going to get a lot worse soon."

I nodded as I slipped the letter into my pocket, taking care to fold it so it fit neatly in my blouse. "I'll head over and see what's going on."
I put a hoof on the door, and was about to leave. But I turned back to Goldbloom. "She mentioned the station had a bad feeling around it. That we can't trust anyone." I said in a serious tone.

"Do you think she's right?" Goldbloom asked.

"I'm not sure. I'll just have to see for myself."

As I walked down the street from The Nawlans Galleria, I saw that despite the fear of the voodoo murders case, the city was still alive with the Nightmare Night Spirit. It wouldn't be long now till the big night was finally here. I only hoped that this case was solved by then, so I could actually enjoy it. But most of all, I just wanted this city to stay as it was: Joyful, happy and full of music and life. I wasn't going to let the cartel do any more harm to the ponies of Nawlans. Not if I could stop them.

Nawlans Police Station (8:00 am)

The station looked as it always had. I'm not sure what I was expecting to see, but Karosta's letter had warned me about a bad aura to the place. I looked around, and saw that everything looked the same for the most part. Except I spotted a familiar bright yellow earth pony waiting for me on the steps of the station.

"Good Morning, Dr. Pensipony!" I greeted her with a smile.

Pensipony gave another almost-smile and nodded. "It's good to see you again, Ms. Meir. I was hoping to run into you here." She greeted me back. She reached into her satchel and withdrew a small red book. The words "The Drumming Codex" was visible on the front. "I found this while researching the cartel. Those drummers are a big player in their operations; it's how they know everything that's going on. If we can decode what their drum patterns mean..."

"Then we'll know everything they do! That's brilliant Dr. Pensipony!" I exclaimed.

"I'm glad you think so." Pensipony said handing me the book, which I tucked away in my own satchel. "And Meir?"

"Yes?"

"I just wanted to say....I'm sorry." Pensipony said, looking away, as if she was ashamed.

"Sorry? For what?"

She looked back at me, looking guilty. "For being so....unfriendly to you the first time we met. I've never had many friends, at least none that could tolerate my attitude for very long. I trust so few ponies anymore, in this city especially. But I know I can trust you, now. I'm very happy to be working with you on this."

And then she smiled at me. An actual smile, this time. "And... I'm glad we're friends." she said softly.

I smiled back. "I am too. And don't worry about before. Water under the bridge, and all that."

"Thank you." Pensipony said sincerely.

"Do you need a hug?"

"No." she said sternly.

After that awkwardness, we headed inside the station. Hopefully we would be able to find Karosta and share with her what we've found out.

Station Lobby (8:06 am)

I approached the desk were a portly officer was writing something down on a piece of paper. He never looked up to acknowledge me. "Excuse me, but were here to see Chief Karosta." I said politely.

He looked up at me with tired eyes. "Um....we...We don't have a Chief Karosta here." he said in a dull tone.

I must have misheard him. "What are talking about? I've been talking to her this entire case!" I exclaimed.

He never batted an eye. "Listen to what I'm saying. We don't have a Chief Karosta in this station." He then went back to writing on the paper. Except now that I was looking, he wasn't actually writing anything on the paper. The quill just scratched and scratched as he wrote, but no words ever appeared. Apparently he hadn't noticed he had no ink on the quill.

I was getting suspicious now. I was about to raise my complaint, when Pensipony interrupted. "So sorry to bother you officer! We'll just be on our way." Then she quickly pulled me by my hoof out of the station, before I could protest.

Back outside, I had all sorts of questions. "What's going on here? They're acting like they have no idea who Karosta is!" I exclaimed.

Pensipony gestured for me to calm down. "I'm not sure, but whatever's going on it's probably the cartel's doing. We can come back here later." And she turned to leave.

"No. I'm not going anywhere." I said defiantly.

Pensipony turned back to me and sighed. "Meir, I admire you're tenacity, but we can't get to Karosta's office by using the front door."

I looked around, and down an alley, I spotted a window that had no bars on it from the outside. And by my calculations, it lead directly to Karosta's office. "Then we'll use another door."

I lead her down the alleyway to the window, which to our surprise, was already opened. Maybe, this is how Karosta got in and out of her office to send that letter?

As I climbed in through the window, I knew I was technically breaking into a police station. But I had no choice in the matter. Plus, I was sure Karosta wouldn't mind given the circumstances.

I heard Pensipony scold me from outside, as I set hoof in the office. "You do realize you just broke into a police station right?"

"Yep. And yesterday we threatened the mayor to his face. There are all kinds of uneasy, terrible feelings in my stomach right now, but I'm ignoring them so we can find out what's going on in this place."

I peeked out the window. "So, you coming or not?"

Pensipony gave another sigh as she lifted herself up the window sill and into Karosta's office. She closed the window afterwards to be sure nopony saw us.

Karosta's Office (8:12 am)

Karosta was nowhere to be seen, but it looked just as we had seen it before. (Her desk still had yet to be removed from the wall.)

We searched around through bookcases, filing cabinets and boxes of old files. But we finally found something when I spotted a small floor safe underneath where Karosta's desk once was.

And I had the key.

Opening the safe, I found what appeared to be a note Karosta had written for herself, along with two transparent crystals. One was clearly bigger then the other, and had a faint reddish glow to it. As I removed them from the drawer, Pensipony eyed them curiously. "What do you suppose those are?" she asked.

"I don't know. But she left a note too."

I read through it quickly.

Meir,

These crystals are Magical Tracking Devices. The biggest one will glow red as it gets closer to the other. I was going to use them to track Fairmont. He might be able to lead us to the cartel,if he's been working with them for so long. Don't worry about me.

I'll see you soon.

-Karosta

"Magical tracking devices? These might come in handy." I thought to myself as I pocketed them. I turned to Pensipony, but I saw she was staring directly behind me.

"Dr. Pensipony? Whats wro-

She raised but a single hoof to point behind me, as her eyes were suddenly alert and worried.

Suddenly, I felt eyes at my back. Too many to count.

I turned slowly and as I was now looking behind me, I let out a whimper of fear. It was all I could muster.

What seemed like a thousand dead, lifeless eyes were now staring at us from the window. Every officer in the station now had their face plastered against the glass, eyes like dead fish, just staring at us with a cold dead stare, that had no end. A mob of zombies all clustered around the window.

I tried to scream, but no sound came out. All I could do is stand there.

"Meir! We need to leave, NOW!" Pensipony yelled out to me as she opened the window. I snapped out of it, and ran over to the window, where Pensipony pulled me out through, as we both tumbled into the alley.

We said nothing as we tore down the alley and ran as far away from the police station as we could. We didn't stop running for several blocks, and by the time I thought we were safe, we were both too tired to run anymore.

"What...what was that?!" I asked, panting heavily.

"I guess they...didn't like us being there." Pensipony said, taking a breath.

"They're eyes....they were-

"I know. At least we got what Karosta-

Pensipony stopped mid sentence as a new voice was being heard all around us. I recognized that showboating game show like voice instantly. Fairmont was making his speech to the city today. Looking around I saw we had ran so far, that we were now close to city hall, which explained why we could hear it.

Pensipony narrowed her eyes at the voice. "Fairmont."

Outside City Hall (8:25 am)

We arrived to see a massive crowd of ponies, zebras and city officials in attendance to Fairmont's speech. The stallion himself stood behind the podium as he addressed the crowd. Me and Pensipony decided to take two seats in the back, and see how this turned out.

"Ladies and Gentlecolts. I am...here to announce to you all, that I have....lied to you. To all of you, for decades." Fairmont said in a saddened and defeated tone. His eyes wide with worry.

At once the crowd started to talk and chatter amongst itself, as news reporters flashed cameras and asked questions from all sides. But Fairmont ignored them and continued. "I....am not fit to be your mayor. I am not even fit to call myself a stallion. For years I have led this city down a path that benefited me and...my employers. But, due to well, new circumstances (I heard Pensipony chuckle beside me) I am hereby resigning as mayor of Nawl-ACK!"

My eyes were now set on Fairmont as he lurched suddenly, grabbing his chest. A spike of dread went down my spine. No...not here.

Me and Pensipony leapt from our seat and tried to make our way through the crowd. But it was useless, as the crowd was now in nearly a riot, as angry citizens started shouting questions, yelling out at Fairmont and started pushing there way to the stage. We couldn't get through.

On stage, several of The mayor's aides tried to help him, but it was hopeless, as Fairmont's eyes suddenly rolled up into his head, as he began violently coughing up blood. He knocked the podium over as he fell back onto the stage, and started convulsing and spasming.

Fairmont's secretary started screaming in hysterics, as I started pushing and shoving (and apologizing for shoving) ponies out of my way. I had to reach the stage!

I had to reach it before-

I reached the stage. But I wished I hadn't. I felt the blood drain from my face as my heart sank in my chest. I fell to my knees as my eyes refused to believe what they were seeing.

Lying there, sprawled out on the stage was Fairmont, his eyes dead and lifeless, and his rib-cage exposed. Blown apart like a small bomb had gone off in his chest. His heart had actually exploded in his own body. The Cartel had killed the mayor, right in front of the whole city, and in the most brutal way possible. They had done this, knowing I would be watching. Because they knew I couldn't save anypony if they just made their hearts explode.

This was to show me, that I couldn't save this city. I coudn't save these ponies. I couldn't do anything.

I felt my stomach lurch, as Pensipony came on stage and pulled me away. I saw her face as we ran back through the crowd, the whole world was in slow motion. She was scared. She was angry. She had no words.

No one did.