Treasure of the Sunken Queen
Act I: Part II "The Hearing"
"Look at what you two have done to Trixie's stage! It's ruined!" Trixie exclaims in anguish.
Somberly, she investigates the severe amount of damage that was done to her carriage. Wood is scratched, scrapped and snapped; the gears will no longer turn properly, and she cannot get anything to reform back its original shape. Observing the damage is like looking over a crushed dream, and unable to put the pieces back together. Her heart sinks, but it appears that Maple and Maverick have priorities of their own that have nothing to do with Trixie's livelihood.
"Maverick, are we being followed?" Maple asks as they both scan the skies for any signs of the royal guards.
"I'm not seein' anything, you?" Maverick asks.
"Nothing. We need to seize this window of opportunity before they find us. Who knows how many more they'll send after us?"
"Can we focus on the damage you two have caused?!" Trixie fumes. "It'll take Trixie weeks to fix all this!"
"Why fix it when you can buy yourself a bigger and better carriage? Or better yet, hire the best craftspony around to repair it! With the treasure we're sure to find, you'll be able to do that and so much more!"
"Trixie demands to see proof this treasure exists!" Trixie's horn glows as her anger intensifies.
"Oh, it exists," Maverick assures. "Show her the map."
Maple reaches into her shirt, and bites her bottom lip as her eyes widen from shock. She looks to Maverick, unsure of how to phrase her response in a way he'll be understanding of. Then as Maverick looks back at her, he prays that she isn't going to tell him what he thinks she's planning on saying.
"Maple . . . where's the map?" He asks.
"I think that one guard still has it," she mutters reluctantly.
"Ha! Good one."
"No, I'm serious."
"Please, don't be."
"I wish I wasn't."
"Oh, how convenient," says Trixie. "Now this mystical map of yours is gone the moment Trixie inquires to see proof of this treasure."
"Trixie, this is not as it seems!"
"Maple, we need to get that map back!" Maverick urges. "If Vermouth gets it back there's no way we'll be able to steal it a second time. He'll be keeping a closer eye on it than ever before!"
"We can't just turn around and face them--we'll be outnumbered! Vermouth's ship has probably already reached Equestria, and those guards might be wanting to. . ." Maple's face beams as an idea hatches in her mind. "Wait. They might do as they said and take them in for questioning like they were going to do with us, you think?"
"Well, I don't see why not. If they do, it won't be for long. Vermouth's a sly talker, and once he finds out that guard has the map, he'll find a way to get it from him."
"Then we haven't much time to waste. Trixie, where is your princess' castle?"
Trixie points passed them, and they turn to see the castle that's nestled into the mountainside. An altitude so high that the clouds caress the pointed rooftops. Looking up at the ornate structure makes the blood flow to their heads, and are also overtaken by the sheer beauty of the castle. Coupled with the waterfall pouring down the mountain, it truly is a sight to behold. However, from where they're standing, the castle is miles away. A hike and climb that could take several hours to complete on hoof; time that they simply do not have to spend.
"Well . . . you're a unicorn," says Maple. "Don't you know any spells that could get us there quickly?"
"Trixie's knowledge of spells doesn't go that deep unfortunately," says Trixie.
"What kind of unicorn are you then?" Maverick scoffs.
"The Great and Powerful Trixie is the kind of unicorn that will silence you for good if you continue to patronize her!" she yells.
"Shh! We need to keep a low profile! We don't need any of those guards to find out where we are."
"Stop right there!" The sergeant orders as she breaks through a bundle of tree branches, landing a safe distance away.
"Spoke too soon, Maple," Maverick comments.
"I'm not here to fight; I'm here to talk."
The guard removes her golden helmet, and places it on the ground. Her blonde mane is freed up and droops passed her shoulders. Her eyes are pink, and her fur is sky-blue. Without her helmet, she appears much more innocent and trustworthy, instilling an uncertain feeling in the three of them.
"My name is Blue Jay," she continues. "Sergeant of the Royal Guard. May I have your names?"
"Yeah right. What makes you any different than the other tin cans, huh?"
"They aren't even silver, they're gold. Tin cans aren't gold you fool," Trixie corrects.
"You got something better?!"
"Trixie is certain she could come up with something much better than that!"
"Settle down!" Blue Jay orders, silencing the two of them as they glare at one another. "Your names and your business, now." Realizing the guard is losing her patience, Maple stands between Trixie and Maverick.
"Let me handle this," Maple whispers.
"By all means, go ahead," says Maverick.
"Trixie, we need to set sail as quickly as possible after we get back our map. Can you find us a ship?"
"The Great and Powerful Trixie won't be finding you two anything until she sees this map."
"Oh, but you were willing to help us escape those guards without seeing the map?" Maverick questions in an accusing tone.
"Trixie didn't do it for 'you'. No pony laughs at The Great and Powerful Trixie, no pony!"
"Either way, the Royal Guard will be after you just as much as us!" Maple informs Trixie.
"Not unless Trixie turns the two of you in, and clears her name."
Trixie's horn glows, and she positions herself ready to attack at any moment. Maverick and Maple step back, fearful and surprised.
"Well, this was unexpected," Maverick comments.
"Trixie, wait, please--!" Maple pleads.
"What's going on over there? If I don't start hearing some names and explanations then I'll have no choice but to take you in by force," says Blue Jay.
"Umm . . . okay, okay. Trixie, you want proof? Then we'll get you the proof, but you need to let us know if you're able to secure us a ship, or not."
"Of course Trixie can get herself a boat; there's no doubts about that."
"Perfect. Then when Maverick and I retrieve the map, where can we find you?"
"If you're serious, you'll meet Trixie on the beaten path near the outskirts of this forest, about a mile or so from this spot in that direction," Trixie points her hoof down the road ahead. "There'll be a great maple tree, the tallest in the forest. Meet me there, show me the map, and Trixie will take you to a boat."
"Deal."
"Okay, but how are we going to get to the castle and back in time?" Maverick asks.
"Easy. Trixie's going to turn us in."
"She is?"
"I am?" Trixie asks bafflingly.
"That's right. There doesn't seem to be any other way to get there in a timely manner, and no matter what, we're not setting sail without that map. Just make it look real, alright?"
"Alright, that's enough chatter!" Blue Jay shouts over their whispering. "I've given you enough warnings. Now, the three of you are coming with--"
A flash of light momentarily blinds Blue Jay. She hurriedly rubs her eyes to clear her vision, and as the blurriness of the world subsides, she finds Maple and Maverick on their backs with Trixie standing triumphantly over them.
"Sergeant," Trixie begins. "You must take these two away. They're criminals who've been using Trixie as a way to escape!"
"Why you--!" Maple growls. "When we get our hooves on you, you'll wish you'd never done this!"
"Well, her hooves, my paws," Maverick politely corrects, to which Maple looks to him with displeasure. "What? Just saying."
"Umm, I'm afraid neither of you will be doing anything of the sort!"
Blue Jay jumps in, chaining the both of them in iron cuffs that had been hanging from Blue Jay's side. She forces them to stand up as they fight against her, tugging and thrashing angrily.
"Don't either of you make any attempts to escape, because I will catch you, and you'll just end up making this harder on yourselves, got it?"
Blue Jay pulls a horn out from a satchel tied around her waist. She raises it up and blows into the smaller end, filling the forest with a loud and deep tune that even disturbs a flock of birds hiding amongst the trees. Rabbits, squirrels and other forest wildlife run and scurry into bushes and other such hiding places. Even Maverick, Maple and Trixie cover their ears due to the intensity of the sound, but Blue Jay simply stashes the horn back into her satchel without showing any reaction.
"Trixie, is it?"
"Well, The Great and Powerful Trixie to be precise," says Trixie with a grin.
"Oh, I've heard about you."
"Trixie isn't surprised. Word travels fast once her presence is known."
"Everypony in Canterlot's talking about the incident down at Ponyville. I'm happy nopony was hurt. Thank goodness Twilight was there to sort things out; who knows how things could've ended had she not been there?"
"Yes, of course. Thank goodness for that," Trixie says in a condescending tone. "Just out of curiosity, what else are they saying?"
"Well, probably nothing you'd like to hear."
"I'll have you know, whatever it is they're saying about me, it isn't true!"
"I believe you. It wouldn't surprise me if the truth has been stretched, if not just a little."
"Then please, indulge Trixie with what is being said."
"They say that you were afraid, and hid when the creature arrived--which I don't blame you for if you did. I feel most of us would have too given the circumstances."
Trixie had primed herself, ready to deny whatever Blue Jay had to say, but somehow cannot bring herself to do it. As the words leave Blue Jay's lips, Trixie can almost see the exact memory of that day play out in her head. She can even feel her stomach twisting as she recounts the feelings she had during that time. She's unable to stand up for herself, as she can't help but acknowledge the possibility that these rumors just may have some truth to them.
"What else do they say?" Trixie asks.
"Are you certain you'd like to know?"
"Just go on."
"Very well. Everypony is calling you a fraud and a liar. That you weaved nothing more than a fantastical fable, and you don't deserve the title you've given yourself."
Trixie, indefinitely furious over this news, is still having difficulty denying any of it. Her words are caught in her throat, and attempts to shrug it off by fixing her mane and adjusting her hat. She regrets her previous thoughts of giving such rumors any consideration that they might be true, reassuring herself that it's lies; all of it. Swallowing her anger, she manages to keep her head cool as she holds her chin up. Just then, gusts of wind slowly start to creep in, blowing their manes about wildly. Two royal guards pulling a golden carriage descend from the sky, landing just a few meters away. The two pegasus guards release themselves from their harnesses, and approach Blue Jay.
"What's the word?" one of them inquires.
"These two are the ones that were aboard the ship that washed up on shore. They and a few of our own got into a scuffle, and would've gotten away if it weren't for Trixie here."
"Is that right?"
"She says they were using her to escape, and I guess this was her only opportunity to turn these two in."
"Well, it's a good thing you were here." Each guard grabs hold of both Maple and Maverick, shoving them toward the carriage. "Alright you two, we're going to have a meeting with the princess."
"Oh good, will there be tea?" Maverick asks before he is violently pushed by the guard leading him.
"Can you just shut your mouth?" Maple asks. "We don't need to make this situation any worse."
"If I were you I'd take her advice, cat," the guard mocks.
"You know, I'm really starting to hate that," says Maverick.
"Well, you better start liking it, cat, because at the end of the day, that's all you really are. A little, lost cat who thinks he's tough. I've dealt with plenty like you, and you'll crack just like the rest of them do when put under pressure."
The guard opens the door to the carriage, and shoves Maverick inside. With his paws cuffed and chained, he's unable to catch himself as he embarrassingly trips and lands awkwardly on the cushioning inside. He angrily whips around hisses at the guard, showing off his teeth as his slit pupils constrict much like an agitated animal in the wild. The guards laugh as they also toss Maple into the carriage, and lock them both inside.
"Will you be joining us, Sergeant?"
"You go on ahead," Blue Jay instructs. "I'll follow behind."
"As you wish." The guards hook themselves back into their tuggers, and take off with the carriage back into the sky.
"Thank you for your help today, Trixie."
"Well, what's an upstanding Equestrian to do other than the right thing?" says Trixie.
"Normally, I'd be taking you in as well for questioning given that you're a witness and participant in this whole mess, but I'm going to let you go on your way since we've got our hooves on the real troublemakers here."
"How generous of you. Trixie certainly will not take your kindness for granted."
"I would hope not."
Blue Jay looks to Trixie in an almost accusing manner, observing her body language and facial expression for any signs of suspicious mannerisms. Instead of finding anything of the sort, Trixie only stands up straight without a hint of restlessness, and a cheery smile on her face. Blue Jay grabs her helmet she placed on the ground, and affixes it back over her head.
"Maybe today is the start of a new beginning for you. Who knows where it can lead from here?"
"You're right. There's no telling what Trixie can accomplish after what's happened today."
"Precisely. Keep it up, because you know what they say about those who do good things?"
"No, what do they say?"
"That eventually, a good thing is bound to cross their path sooner or later."
"Huh . . . that sounds like a good philosophy. Thank you."
Blue Jay then nods to Trixie in understanding, "Take care, Trixie."
Blue Jay spreads her wings, and takes off following the carriage carrying Maple and Maverick that is now a far distance away. Trixie watches her soar into the sky, then turns her gaze to the leaves falling down from the trees that Blue Jay disturbed during her takeoff.
"If those two retrieve that map of theirs, this 'good thing' might come sooner than expected." Trixie grins as she returns to her broken down carriage, strapping herself to the harness and lugging it down the forest path.
Inside the golden carriage being pulled by the royal guards, Maverick has made himself comfortable on the velvet seating inside. Whereas Maple cannot seem to be still as she restlessly taps her hooves together.
"I don't know about you, but I like her," says Maverick as he crosses his legs and leans back. "Can we keep her?"
"I agree she may prove to be a valuable asset on our journey, but I am a bit worried," says Maple.
"What's got your mane in a bunch?"
"The legend is too vague. It says that only a unicorn can reveal the path, but it doesn't say how."
"So, what's your point? We'll cross that bridge when we get there."
"Trixie said she's not too well-versed in spells. What if we need somepony who is?"
"Well, it's not like it says the unicorn 'must' be a master of the craft. It just says we need one, so we got one." Maverick sighs and closes his eyes for a quick rest. "Just keep calm. We need to get a hold of that map first."
"Right. We just need a plan."
"Are you saying you don't have one?"
"No, not really."
Maverick chuckles, "Great, this'll be fun. By the way, I've got no shots left. So, whatever plan you come up with, it had better be a quiet one."
Once their carriage lands, the door is violently yanked open by the guards, and the sunlight beams directly into Maple and Maverick's eyes. Forcibly they are pulled out from the carriage, and the guards shove them forward toward the dreadful, yet elegant sight before them. They follow a clean and flawless concrete path, guards posted at nearly every corner. The aroma of fresh, crystal clear water permeates the air as they are surrounded by ponds and spurting water fountains on either side of the path. The fountains are concrete sculptures of angelic ponies frozen in majestic poses, spewing the water from their mouths. Blue Jay catches up to them, walking alongside Maple.
"A few words of advice," Blue Jay begins. "Don't give any smack-talk, tell the truth, don't try to trot away, and the princesses might show you some generosity with your sentence."
"Listen, Blue Jay?" says Maple.
"Yes?"
"I'm begging you. Please, try and understand what I say."
"I'm listening."
"If you care at all about the fate of your kingdom, you'll help us."
"Believe me, I've put my life on the line for Equestria's safety. Whether or not I care about its fate should go without saying, and if I were you, I'd save this speech for the princess."
"There is a treasure, buried somewhere far beneath the ocean. Known only as 'The Treasure of the Sunken Queen'."
"Oh, sounds dangerous," says Blue Jay in a sarcastic manner. "This wouldn't happen to be some tall tale you've invented this very moment, would it? For if it is, you might want to rethink you're cheesy prologue."
"This legend is very real! Centuries ago, a mare who ruled the sea had everything she could ever dream of. She and her ship were once the most feared things on the waters. They conquered opposing vessels, villages, towns and eventually entire islands."
"She doesn't sound too friendly, hmm?"
"I don't think you understand, she murdered anypony that opposed her."
Instantly, Blue Jay and the guards all come to a complete stop. Confused, Maple and Maverick look to the guards who appear to be in utter shock. Blue Jay stands before Maple, nearly touching nose to nose.
"Let me make this perfectly clear, we do not speak of such things here in Equestria."
"What do you mean?"
"We do not speak of the disgusting act you just described! You know the word I speak of, so do not make me have to clarify any further!"
"Sheesh," says Maverick. "You ponies live under a rock or something? Or have you not flown too far from your perfect, little nest? Huh, Blue Jay?"
Maverick chuckles at his own pun, and is thrusted to the ground by Blue Jay in a fit of rage. He grunts as she presses her hoof against his throat, gritting her teeth as she glares into his eyes.
"What you call living under a rock, I call living in a world of peace and harmony. Have you ever wondered what living in a small, cold cell would be like? Because I can certainly make that happen."
"Now you listen here," Maverick somewhat struggles to speak with Blue Jay's hoof still crushing his windpipe. "I've seen more of these 'disgusting acts' than you can probably count, and if you wanna keep this world of yours as perfect as can be, then you'll listen to what Maple has to tell you. Otherwise, I can assure you all that and more will come to your kingdom here."
"And please enlighten me as to why I should believe anything you scum have to say?"
"I could care less if you believe us or not; that's up to you, so go on ahead and lock us up."
"Maverick!" Maple gasps.
"No, please, just get on with it. I want you to. Then when your precious kingdom collapses, I want to be there to watch it happen."
Blue Jay presses harder on Maverick's throat in anger, until she deliberates the matter in her head for just a moment. She can feel a strange and sudden conflict grow in her mind, forcing her to let go of Maverick and turn to the other guards.
"You two, get this cat out of my sight. I think I've heard enough out of him," Blue Jay orders.
"And the mare?" one of the guards inquires.
"Leave her with me."
"Understood," the guard affirms, grabbing hold of Maverick as they all head toward the castle.
"Where are they taking him?" Maple asks.
"To the throne room to meet with our princesses. You'll join him soon enough, but I'd like to take a moment to hear what you have to say."
"Really? You will?"
"But don't think I've given you my trust. Let's just say I find your story somewhat interesting, so I suggest you use your time wisely."
"Y-Yes, of course."
"Now, follow me to my quarters. We can talk privately there."
As Maple follow Blue Jay toward the castle, they veer off and head into a wide, open courtyard filled with mares and stallions sparring with practice weapons. Large, wooden targets are set up for a lineup of archers to send their arrows into, and they all have already clearly seen years of wear. All of the ponies halt their practice at the sight of Blue Jay, and stand with their chests puffed.
"As you were!"
Blue Jay's order then allows them all to proceed with their training, impressing Maple with how obediant the soldiers are. She had never seen such behavior before out on the sea, as she has only grown accustomed to disorder and disobedience. Maple continues to follow Blue Jay to a building with several doors, each one marked with a golden plaque enscribed with the names of high-ranking officers. They enter the room with Blue Jay's plaque, and Maple's attention is instatnly grabbed by a glass case holding a set of armor, along with a rapier-like sword.
"Like it? It's all my equipment from the Great Changeling Invasion."
"Changeling?"
"That's right. Are you familiar with the changeling kin?"
"I'm afraid not."
"Ah, well then you are most fortunate. Those vile creatures are somewhat similar to us, but they are more insect than pony, you see? Their queen infiltrated our castle, disguised. As a result, she and her entire hive subdued our princesses, and had it not been for the courageous acts of all the brave ponies that day, this would be a very different kingdom."
"So, why keep it all in this case?"
"As a reminder. You see the scratches and scrapes in the armor? The scorch marks from changeling magic? As soldiers, we take pride in the damage. Before, it was just a suit of armor. Now, it tells a story."
Blue Jay takes a seat at her desk as Maple looks over the armor, noticing every dent and scratch that Blue Jay had mentioned. However, she also notices something peculiar. Etched into the gold plating is the word, 'Elytra'. Intrigued, she turns to Blue Jay.
"What does 'Elytra' mean?"
"That? Oh, it's the name of somepony I met during that time. I had her etch her name into my armor as a permanent reminder."
"Who was she?"
"If you wouldn't mind, I'd rather not get into the details. Instead, let's move on to the more pressing matter, your story."
Further into the castle, Maverick is helplessly pushed, shoved and ordered to walk faster by the guards behind him. The crimson carpet continues on toward a pair of large, double-doors. The tiled floor is so clean and flawless that Maverick can clearly see his reflection in it.
"Face forward, cat," a guard orders.
"Yeah, yeah, I get it," he says, reluctantly obeying his order.
Lines of finely sculpted, cement columns stand on opposite ends of the hall, and between every other pair, a beautiful, stained-glass window depicting a scene of pony history. "Well, ain't this a pretty-pretty castle you got here? If we could just have some signs up that say 'hugs and kisses for everyone' I think this place will really feel complete."
"Quiet, cat."
"Sheesh, can't look down, can't speak; this place really ain't no fun, now is it?"
Two guards pull open the two large, double doors to reveal the throne room. Maverick is shoved inside, and the doors slam behind him. Up ahead, he looks in awe at the two regal mares sitting in their tall, golden seats. They look down at him with disgust and distrust, but they aren't the only ones staring him down. Standing one opposite sides of the princesses are two royal guards. One possesses a set of royal-purple armor, decorated with golden lining and a blue crest running vertically down the center of his helmet. The distinct color gives Maverick the feeling that this stallion may be a high, if not the highest, ranking officer in the Royal Guard. Across from him, is a face all too familiar to Maverick, as he locks eyes with Brass Plate who responds with a dirty look of his own. Maverick then acknowledges the other ponies in the room, and is in shock to see Captain Vermouth and his crew here as well. Anxiety quickly builds up inside him, as his heart begins to pound relentlessly. Vermouth looks to him not with disgust, but with mischievous pleasure as a smile spreads across his face.
"This ain't good," he mumbles to himself, fearing the worst has yet to come.
"Maverick, my friend!" Vermouth cheerfully greets. "I am so happy to see you."
"Ah, Vermouth. Why am I 'not' so happy to see you?"
"Because you've been caught with you tail between your legs, and you're going to give back what is rightfully mine."
"Am I? Huh, and who says it belongs to you?"
"Well, why don't you see for yourself? These two, kind princesses will see to it that justice is served."
"We would like to give you a chance to speak on your own behalf," says Princess Celestia.
"We believe there are two sides to every story," Princess Luna elaborates, "and after what we've been told by Captain Vermouth and his crew, we will now allow you tell your side."
"Oh great, what web of lies did he weave for you all?" Maverick asks whilst glaring directly at Vermouth. The two double doors behind Maverick burst open, and a group of mares rush into the throne room.
"Your highness!" a violet, unicorn mare exclaims. "I'm sorry we took a bit longer than usual, but we're here now! What's the emergency?" one of them urgently inquires.
Princess Celestia stands from her seat, "Twilight, I am glad you and your friends were able to finally arrive."
"What's goin' on here?" a rainbow-haired pegasus asks, "and who's the cat?"
"He is apparently one of the two sailors who washed up on our beach in a wrecked ship," Princess Celestia informs.
"According to this sea captain, Vermouth, he has stolen something precious to him."
"What was it?" Twilight asks.
"A map that belonged to a relative of his that is . . . no longer with us. He says the map leads to her belongings, and is searching for them so that he may finally find closure for his loss."
"What a load of droch," Maverick scoffs.
"Quiet!" Celestia demands. "You will speak when spoken to, and keep your outbursts to yourself. As the accused, it might do you some good to watch what you say. Do we understand each other?"
Maverick puts on a fake smile, "Of course, my apologies."
"Now, normally I'd have Sergeant Blue Jay here to help settle this feud, as she's proven to be an excellent prosecutor for the truth, but I've been told that she is currently preoccupied with another matter. Thus, instead of intervening her duties, I'm going to ask that you, Twilight, take her place for the time being."
"M-Me?" Twilight asks nervously.
"Yes, It would be the perfect experience for you. Not only that, but I feel you would be perfect to have present during matters such as these. After all you've done for us so far, I find it fair to say that you can be a good judge of character."
Twilight sighs from the weight of the task she's just been given, "Alright, if you have faith in me, then I'm willing to give it a try."
"Wonderful. Then, you may begin when ready."
"You can do this, Twilight," one of the mares, wearing a brown, wide-brimmed hat encourages.
"Yeah, just get the truth outta this guy. That's all!" The rainbow-haired pegasus instructs.
"Thanks, girls," Twilight says as she steps away from her group to then stand before Maverick. She tries to give him a smile; a nervous smile, but a smile nonetheless. To which he responds with a roll of his eyes, and a soft chuckle.
"Don't worry, sweetheart. I'm not here to cause any trouble," Maverick assures.
"I hope not, but we're going to get to the bottom of all this. My name is Twilight Sparkle."
"Maverick. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Say, you're a unicorn too?"
"That's right. Why is that so surprising?"
"It's just that I can't quite say I've ever seen one until today. After what happened all those years ago, I'd thought the unicorns were gone for good."
"What do you mean? What happened?"
"Oh, it's just a sea story. Probably just a myth for all I know. So, there must be more of you here, huh?"
"There are a lot of us unicorns here in Equestria, along with pegasi and earth ponies. We're all united here, and each of us are treated equal no matter who or what we are."
"Sounds like you've got a happy-go-lucky place to live here. I guess Blue Jay meant what she said about harmony and all that nonsense."
"Did you say, Blue Jay?" Brass Plate asks from across the room.
"What's the matter, hard of hearing? I suppose it makes sense after how badly you got beat, eh?"
Maverick's amusement in his own retort is short-lived as he is punched in his side by one of the guards beside him, causing him to kneel down to the floor in pain as he chokes on his laughter.
"Enough!" Celestia shouts. "If this hearing is nothing but a joke to you, then we can end this now and simply find you guilty. Would you prefer that outcome?"
Maverick gets back to his paws, clearing his throat, "What I meant to say was, yes, I did say Blue Jay. She's the one that brought me here."
"Just you?" Brass Plate asks.
"Umm, well--"
"The mare is with Blue Jay, sir," one of the guards informs.
"Pfft. Tattle-tale."
"I see. Your Majesty, if I may, I'd like to meet up with Blue Jay and see if she is ready to bring her in for the hearing."
"You may," says Celestia. "Please, do not take long."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Brass Plate canters passed Maverick and out the double doors, leaving Maverick with a sick feeling in his stomach. He can feel the clock ticking. He fears that once Brass Plate discovers Maple is with Blue Jay, then she'll end up in this same room with him, and their chances of escape just might be completely diminished. Everything they've worked for will have gone to waste, but he tries to hold on to a glimmer of faith that Maple will come through with something. It wouldn't be the first time she's gotten them out of sticky situations, and Maverick finds comfort in remembering this.
"Twilight, you may continue," says Celestia.
"Yes, Princess Celestia," says Twilight. "Now, let's get back to the subject at hoof. You did steal a precious object from this stallion, right?"
"I might have, yes," says Maverick.
"Care to explain why?"
"Whew, now there's no easy answer to that, sweetheart. If you want to know, I'd have to start from the beginning."
"If it'll help shed some light on your actions; then go right ahead, and take your time."
Back in Blue Jay's quarters, Maple is being probed by Blue Jay to elaborate on her story from before. Maple takes a moment to gather her thoughts, as Blue Jay too is distracted by the memory brought back by the mention of the name scratched into her set of armor.
"Now, Maple, this is your time to tell me your story," says Blue Jay. "If I were you, I'd use my time wisely."
"I understand," Maple agrees and nods.
"And just know that if you're planning on lying, I will be able to tell within an instant. I've been through more interrogations than you can imagine, so please don't take me for a fool."
"I wouldn't dream of it. What I'm about to tell you is the honest truth."
"Well, then whenever you're ready."
Treasure of the Sunken Queen
Act I: Part I "Washing Up"
During a calm summer morning in Equestria, ponies are at play, particularly in the town of Canterlot. The streets are filled with conversation and merriment, and the royalty watch over their kingdom from their castle balcony high above. The two sisters, Princess Celestia and Luna, stand at the balcony's edge, taking in the beautiful sight as the breeze brushes against their faces, and the singing of the birds soothe their ears.
"'Tis quite a morning, isn't it, sister?" Princess Luna asks, turning to Celestia in an attempt to engage in small-talk.
"Undoubtedly," Princess Celestia responds without breaking her gaze to the land. "But we must remain vigilant. Things can change at a moment's notice, and we must always be ready."
"Surely we can rest our eyes for a moment. No threats have dared shown their faces here in years. What are the chances?"
"You wait and see. It's attitudes like that that allow evil and villainy to take hold."
"Perhaps you're right." Princess Luna sighs. "However, it would be nice to head down and join our subjects for some fun every once in a while, no?"
"What. . ?"
"It was only a suggestion, sister."
"No. . . Look there, to the east." Luna turns back to the horizon. Passed the miles of lush, green forests lies the shore, and beyond it, the glistening sea. Luna spots a disturbance near the shore, but is difficult to make out with the naked eye.
"What could it be?"
"I'm not too sure, but I have a bad feeling about it."
Celestia peers into the brass-lined telescope nearby, and can now clearly see the object. It appears to be a small sea vessel, and a horribly damaged one at that. It doesn't appear to be occupied, but Celestia feels an uneasy feeling in her stomach.
"What is it?" Luna asks.
"With our luck, possibly trouble." Celestia pulls away from the telescope. "Send a scroll to Twilight and her friends urging them to come to Canterlot immediately. I will send a small regime to inspect and search the vessel."
"Yes, sister." Luna trots off to follow her sister's orders, and Celestia returns to the telescope where she finds yet another peculiar sight. On the same shoreline, another object appears to be traversing the sands. A carriage, and an oddly dressed pony pulling its weight.
Down by the shore, the pony unlinks herself from the carriage, and stretches out her legs. "Ahh! This shall be the perfect spot for The Great and Powerful Trixie to spend some relaxation time." She removes her cap and cape, and tosses them into the carriage through a small window. She lays out a beach towel that shares the same design as her outfit, and takes a seat. "Oh! Almost forgot!" She jumps up and hurries to the carriage. "Trixie can't rest without the help of a great and delicious snack!" As she digs around in the compartment of her carriage, she is startled by a sudden, loud crashing noise nearby. She is surprised to see a wooden ship has washed up on shore. It's hull appears to be damaged, the sails slightly torn, and the mast scuffed and scraped. Trixie approaches the vessel, careful and cautious. "Hello?! Is anypony there?!" Without a response, she takes a few steps closer. Then, the shrill sound of a hatch bursting open puts her on high alert, and her horn lights up. A creature climbs up on deck, pointing an object resembling that of a miniature canon directly at Trixie. It's a nimble, cat-looking creature dressed in old, dingy, brown jacket, maroon trousers and damaged, black boots. Unlike an average cat, this creature stands on two, and is considerably larger. It's fur is of a dark, blueish-grey color, and its eyes are a piercing orange. "Trixie demands to know who you are, and 'what' you are!"
"How's about you tell me where we are, then I might consider telling you," the cat demands.
"Nopony gives The Great and Powerful Trixie orders except Trixie!"
". . . What?"
"What is that thing you're holding, and what do you intend to do with it?!"
"Well, I could pull the trigger and you'll soon find out."
"Maverick! What's going on up there?!" A voice calls from below deck. A mare dressed in tattered, poufy clothing emerges, and is distressed by the situation put before her. Her coat is a very light, peach color, and her mane is burgundy. "What's the matter with you?!" She pushes on his shoulder angrily.
"What? You said to check for any trouble."
"I didn't say point your weapon at the first pony you see!"
"Well, ya got me there." The cat ashamedly lowers his weapon, but Trixie's horn is still lit up with a magical aura, still on the side of caution.
"There's nothing to fear! We mean you no harm!" The mare hops over the rail and lands onto the sand. Trixie spots a sword at the mare's side, and remains weary of their intentions. "Wait, are you . . . a unicorn?"
"Umm, yes," Trixie says confusedly. "What's it to you?"
"Listen, please, we are in dire need of assistance. My name is Maple, Maple Bough." The cat then too hops down onto the sand. "This is Maverick. He and I are being hunted down by a gang of thieves, and if they catch us, we're done for."
"And if Trixie were to believe this story, why must she care?"
"Because we have something they need, a map to a trove of treasure once thought to be lost forever."
"Treasure? Ha! Sounds like something I'd read in a fairytale when I was a filly."
"I assure you, this is no fairytale! This is as real as the sand we're standing on, as real as the wind blowing through our manes! Help us, and we can take you to it."
"Hmm . . . go on."
"Imagine it! Riches beyond your wildest dreams, and the fame of being the one to discover it! Your name, a permanent mark in history!"
Intrigued by the sounds of the rewards, Trixie ponders the thought. It's not the riches that entice her, but the fame that would come with it. It'd be something everypony would hear, and everyone would know her name. She takes pleasure in imagining the crowds that would gather to hear the story of how she discovered the long lost treasure, and the legacy she would leave for future generations to remember and admire.
"So, what'll it be?" Maple asks. "Will you help us?"
"Stay where you are!" a stallion's voice commands from above. At once, a small team of royal guards adorned in gold-plated armor land on the beach, surrounding the two sailors. They fold their wings and point their spears directly at the pair, and the two sailors reel back in fear.
"Come on, fellas. Is this really necessary?" Maverick asks.
"Quiet!"
"Alright, fair enough." Maverick surrenders as he raises his paws.
"Umm, excuse me?" Trixie says to the guards. "We were having a conversation."
"Stand back, miss. Our orders are to bring these two to the castle for questioning. We would advise you stay out of it, these two could be dangerous."
"The Great and Powerful Trixie will stand where she wants! You don't have the authority over me."
"Wait. 'You' are Trixie? The Great and Powerful Trixie?"
"That's right! The one and only." The guards glance to each other before bursting out into a joyous laughter. "Trixie fails to see what's so funny."
"You are! We heard all about you're visit to Ponyville, and the ursa minor! Sure is a good thing Twilight was there to save the day. I guess the Great and Powerful Trixie isn't as great or powerful as we thought."
Like a dagger, the words pierce her heart. She can feel the blood rushing to her head from humiliation, but also fury. She digs her hoof into the sand as she grinds her teeth, watching the guards continue to laugh at her expense. She looks to the two sailors, and can see Maple mouth the words, 'help us, please'. Trixie straightens herself out, and exhales to relieve herself of the tension built up inside her.
"Well then, Trixie doesn't wish to get in the way. Carry on with your business."
She turns her back to them, and starts back to her wagon. Maple turns to Maverick with a look of great unease and discomfort, to which he replies with only a shrug.
"Alright you two, we have a carriage on the way. So, don't make any sudden moves."
"A carriage eh?" asks Maverick. "Will we be also receiving the, how you say, royal treatment?"
"Ha! I doubt it. You two look like nothing more than a couple of troublemakers. Especially you, cat."
"Ouch. No need to be so harsh, officer-knight-guard, or whatever you're supposed to be."
"That's Brass Plate, to you, and we are the princess' royal guards!"
"Oh, fancy. Sure explains why you're such a--"
"Beg your pardon, Sir Plate," Maple interjects. "We aren't here to cause trouble, we swear." Suddenly, an old, folded up scrap of paper falls from Maple's shirt. "Uh, just a moment--" Maple goes to reach for the paper, but Brass Plate steps forward to stop her.
"Not so fast!"
The other guards step closer with their spears, and Maple retracts herself as she holds her gaze onto Brass Plate. He takes the paper from the ground, and unfolds it to reveal what appears to be a map of the seas, drawn in pen. There's also a line that extends from one end of the map to another, puzzling the guard.
"What is this?" he asks.
"None of your business, that's what it is," says Maverick.
"Will you please--?!" Maple urges as she looks to Maverick impatiently, then back to the guard. "Listen, Sir Plate, it's nothing more than an old map to help get to where we need to go."
"Hmm, then you wouldn't mind if I held onto it then since it's so insignificant to you?"
"How's about you just give her back the map?" Maverick intervenes.
"And just what exactly do you plan to do if I don't?"
"Oh, it's not what 'I'm' going to do. Someone else has already prepared something for you while we've been talking."
"What?"
"Fillies and gentlecolts! Watch and be amazed!" Trixie declares. The guards all turn to see Trixie's carriage open up and transform into a stage where she stands proud in her hat and cape, and lined up at the edge are fireworks pointed directly at them. "For the Great and Powerful Trixie shall deliver a lightshow unlike anything you've ever seen!"
"Hold it right there! We order you to step down immediately!"
"And that. . ." Trixie uses her magic to strike a match, and light each fuse for the rockets in rapid succession. She then levitates the lit rockets off the floor of the stage, and gives Brass Plate a gleeful, dubious smile. "That will be the last order you give to Trixie."
The fireworks begin shooting off one by one, and the guards wildly disperse in a fearful frenzy. The explosions from the fireworks kick up huge clouds of sand, and knock many of the guards down onto the ground as they yelp and shout. Maple and Maverick crouch down and observe the madness unraveling before them, and Trixie waves, beckoning them to come to her.
"You two! This way! Climb aboard Trixie's carriage!" Trixie urges.
Without a moment of hesitation, they make a mad dash for Trixie's stage as it transforms back to it's original carriage form. She opens up the door, allowing the two of them to step inside and take refuge as she makes her way to the front to strap herself in to the harness.
"Halt!" Brass Plate orders as he and his team recuperate. "Or we will take you in by force!"
"You will try, but nopony can stop the Great and Powerful Trixie!" She laughs as she tosses a smoke bomb onto the ground instantly shrouding them in a cloud of thick smoke. Trixie yanks and pulls the wagon with all her might, and within seconds they roll at high speed across the shore.
"Stop them!" Brass Plate shouts to his comrades as they then stretch out their wings, and take off into the air. Maple and Maverick open up the front window directly behind Trixie, and are overwhelmed by the thrill over the events that had just transpired.
"Ha-ha! I can't believe you actually did that!" Maverick cheers. "How'd you get this thing to do that?"
"Well, if you must know--" Trixie begins.
"Let's worry about that later!" Maple interrupts. "We still have to lose those guards!"
"Right. Hmm, how shall we go about this?" Just then, one of the guards lands on the roof top of the carriage, readying his spear.
"Well, we better find a way fast!"
"Oh! There should be a lever to your right, give it a pull, but don't break it!"
Maverick looks to his right, grabs hold of the wooden lever and pulls down. They listen to the sounds of gears turning and wood creaking, unsure of what exactly is going to happen. The rooftop flings open, sending the guard above flying off and tumbling across the ground.
"Oooh, that was fun." Maverick says with a grin. The team of royal guards fly ahead of Trixie, and land in a lineup to block her path.
"This is your last warning!" Brass Plate declares as he and his team point their spears. Trixie, with no intent of stopping, makes a quick decision to take a detour into the woods. "Quick! Two of you follow me above, the rest of you follow the carriage on hoof!"
"Yes, sir!" The guards salute as they carry out their orders.
"Where are they? Can either of you see them?" Trixie asks.
"Umm," Maple nervously mutters as she checks the sky. However, there's one small issue. "I can't tell if they're above us! The trees make it hard to see!" She makes her way to the back of the carriage, peering out the little window to see that they're being followed by only two guards. "We've got company at the stern!"
"The what?!"
"Oh, this isn't a ship. I mean the back!"
"There should be a bag of extra fireworks! Figure something out!" Maple finds and grabs hold of the cloth sack, hefty with rockets similar to the ones Trixie fired off from before. She looks to Maverick, unsure of how to proceed.
"What does she expect us to do?"
"Well, I've got one idea," says Maverick as he takes the bag.
"And what would that be? Does it involve blowing us to bits?" Maverick opens up the window at the rear of the carriage, with a clear view of the guards galloping towards them. He ties the bag shut, and tosses it out the window. "Are you crazy? You've only got one shot left!"
"Then let's hope I don't miss."
He raises his weapon and glues his eyes to the bag as the guards approach. Realizing he has a very small window of opportunity, he straightens his arm as he quickly lines up the shot, then squeezes the trigger. The igniting hammer on his weapon slams down, creating a spark that fires a metal ball bearing out from the barrel in a puff of smoke. Luckily, the shot hits its mark, and the bag explodes in a splendor of colors. The guards that were chasing them are then sent flying backward, their backs landing flat against the dry soil with a thud.
"What in the name of Celestia was that?!" Trixie fearfully calls.
"Probably the luckiest shot I've ever seen!" Maple cheers.
As Maple and Maverick relish the victory, a royal guard breaks through the thicket of branches covering the sky, and lands directly inside the carriage with Maple and Maverick. The three of them glance to one another awkwardly before the guard makes the first move. They all scuffle and wrestle inside the carriage, causing it to shake and wobble. Trixie hears the commotion, and can feel the carriage starting to veer side to side. She watches through the window as the three of them tackle and throw each other around, unsure of what she can do to alleviate the situation.
The guard rams into Maverick, pushing him against the back of the carriage. Maple leaps onto the guard's back to try and pull him away, but he violently throws her off within an instant. The guard returns his attention to Maverick as he presses his foreleg against his throat, pinning him to the wall. A sharp sound of wood snapping alerts the both of them, but before either of them can even ponder the thought of what might've made the sound, the back door of the carriage gives way. The door falls and drags across the ground with the carriage, and Maverick and the guard fall with it. Maverick digs his claws into the wood, barely keeping him secured to the door. Whereas the guard finds himself unfortunately unable to grab hold of anything, and is sent tumbling across the forest floor.
"Maple!" Maverick cries out. "I can't hold on!"
Maple scrambles about desperately in search of anything that could be of use, and stumbles upon a roll of rope. She ties one end securely to the inside of the carriage before heading out to the open doorway.
"Here! Grab hold!" she shouts as she tosses him the rope.
She's relieved to see him grab hold of it before losing his grip on the door, but is alerted by a second guard landing inside the carriage from behind her. Without hesitation, she draws her curved cutlass from its sheathe as the guard readies his spear. With very little room for either of them to maneuver, the guard swings and thrusts his spear in vain as Maple dodges and blocks each of his attacks. The two of them now swinging their weapons crazily, also cause damage to the inside of the carriage by cutting up the walls and eventually slicing apart a wooden cabinet full of knobs and gears.
"If Trixie finds a scratch on anything! Somepony will pay!" Trixie declares as she reaches an open meadow.
Now without the protection of the trees, Brass Plate can clearly see them from above. After destroying the cabinet of gears and gizmos, the carriage begins to shake and shutter, causing Maple and the guard to lose balance. Portions of the carriage flop open to form the stage, making it all the more difficult for Trixie to pull the carriage.
"What is going on back there?! Oh, Trixie is beginning to regret this," says Trixie.
The stage now partially formed gives Maple more room to fight, but also the guard. They stand off against each other, waiting for someone to make the first move. Just as Maple is beginning to feel more confident about the fight, Brass Plate lands onto the stage.
"Oh, come now, this isn't fair!" Maple says playfully.
"I don't treat criminals with fairness," says Brass Plate. "Order your accomplice to stop this carriage at once, and surrender!"
"Offer's tempting, but we've come too far to give in to some shiny, speckled boot-licker!"
"So be it."
Brass Plate draws his double-edged sword from its golden sheathe, and readies himself for battle. He and the other guard charge toward Maple, who is nimble enough to swipe Brass Plate's sword away, and dodge the spearhead. Brass and Maple clash their swords together as the other guard charges toward Maple since she is now unable to defend herself. The carriage wheel rolls over a bump in the meadow, knocking all three of them off balance. Brass loses the control over the situation, and Maple seizes her opportunity to then oppress him with a flurry of swings. The other guard is ready to attack Maple from behind, but is tackled by Maverick to the floor. The guard loses his spear in the process, and the two scramble to regain their bearings as they glance to the spear laying just a couple meters away, then back to each other. Maverick pulls out his weapon from his inner jacket pocket, and point it at the guard.
"Don't even think about it," Maverick warns.
"And just what do you intend to do with that?" the guard taunts.
"Let's find out together, shall we?" he pulls the trigger, but is painfully reminded he had already fired his last shot. "Or, maybe we shan't."
Maverick makes a quick dive for the spear, as does the guard. Grabbing hold of the shaft, Maverick turns to lay on his back as he holds it up to block whatever the guard may try to hit him with. The guard's gold-plated hoof slams directly into the center of the shaft, snapping the wood in half. Maverick's eyes widen as he watches the splinters fly, and the guard smiles as he winds up for another blow. Realizing the danger and without many options, Maverick chucks one half of the spear at the guard's head, knocking his helmet. His disorientation gives Maverick just enough time to slip away and get to his paws. Angered, the guard growls as he draws a dagger from the small sheathe at his side. "You're persistent, I'll give you that." The guard moves in for the attack, swinging his dagger as Maverick fights back with his broken spear.
During this, Maple is struggling to keep up with Brass as she is starting to feel the fatigue overcome her. However, she presses on with her attack hoping he won't notice her energy fading, but Brass is already aware, and is now taking his time with the fight. He blocks each of her swings as she continues to waste the little sliver of energy that remain in her. Brass locks blades with her once more, and is able to knock the blade right out of her grasp, and kicks her to the floor. He looms over her with the point of his blade held out to her throat.
"As predicted, you lose," Brass mocks. Maverick is able to take advantage of the guard, doing what he can to infuriate him even more to encourage the attacks.
"Things aren't looking too good for you, would you like to take a break?" Maverick asks sarcastically.
"It is you who will be broken!" The guard declares.
"I hope you mean that. Honestly, I'm starting to get bored."
"Silence, cat!"
The guard charges toward him in a blind fury, clearly telegraphing what he's about to do as he winds up his dagger for a swing. Maverick ducks down, and as the guard's blade flies directly over Maverick's head, he pops back up to knock the guard over the head with his broken spear. The guard drops his dagger, and falls victim to Maverick's ceaseless swings as he gets backed up to the edge of the stage. Completely disoriented and dizzy, Maverick delivers one swift kick to the guard's chest to send him off the edge and into the grassy meadow in a puff of flower petals. Maverick turns to see Maple in danger, and hurries to grab the dagger that the guard had dropped.
"You're making a mistake," Maple warns. "There's something much more at stake here."
"Agreed," says Brass. "What's at stake is your fate. You can either come quietly, or we can continue this pointless quarrel and make things only worse for yourself."
"Not just my fate, but yours, and everypony's in Equestria and beyond."
"What nonsense are you babbling about?"
"Maple!" Maverick calls, attracting the both of them as he slides the dagger across the floor toward Maple.
She grabs it and swipes Brass' sword away from her neck, and sends a kick to his stomach. He stumbles backward, allowing Maple enough space to get back to her hooves and retaliate. Her weapon is small, and her energy is nearly depleted, but a rush of adrenaline is just enough to power her through. Brass is met with an onslaught of quick, furious attacks, and is unable to find a moment to squeeze in an attack of his own. The dagger slices across his face, and he presses his hoof against the wound as he grunts from the pain. Maple turns, and uses both her hind legs to buck his chest and send him flying off of the stage into the meadow. Furious, Brass stands up in the middle of the field only to watch them ride away and disappear back into the forest. He wipes his face to find a smear of blood along the shimmering gold of his armored hoof.
"Captain!" A mare's voice calls from above. Brass is met by another team of royal guards as they land before him and fold their wings. One of them, a mare, approaches him. "Captain, what's happened? Are you hurt?"
"Sergeant," Brass begins with a heavy breath. "Never mind this wound, there were two sailors aboard the wreckage, and they took off with that magician, Trixie. If you and your squad hurry you should be able to catch them before they get too far. They went just due north of here into the forest."
"That aside, we may have a much more important matter at hoof."
"What is it?"
"Princess Celestia says she's spotted yet another ship headed our way, in the same area where the previous ship had washed up."
"Great, more troublemaking sailors."
"Perhaps." The Sergeant turns to her team. "I want all of you to accompany Captain Brass Plate on the way back to the shore while I go after the occupants of the wreckage, please use extreme caution. Judging how these other sailors reacted to our presence, it's safe to assume the crew of this next ship may not be any different." Her team of royal guards join Brass' side, baffling him as to why she'd make such a decision.
"I'd advise against going alone. They're armed, and are going to do whatever it takes to get away."
"You're still alive, aren't you? It appears they could've killed you if they wanted, so why didn't they?" In the middle of her notion, Brass' team arrives to regroup. All of them bruised, scuffed and armor tarnished. "And it looks to me the rest of your squad is also alive and well. I intend to find out exactly what their intentions are. Something's not quite adding up."
"There you go again, only trying to see the good in what the rest of us would call criminals. One day, you're intuition is going to lead you astray."
"It's an intuition that's served me, and the entire royal army well. Perhaps you ought to do the same one day."
"Yes, well, I'm sure that's what's given you rise to the rank of sergeant so quickly. Unlike the rest of us who have to go out and risk our lives." he snarks.
The Sergeant looks to him in shock, taken back by his comment. She feels the want to stand up for herself and defend her work, but cannot muster the courage to speak out. Especially considering the trouble she'd get into for backtalking her commanding officer.
"I'll see you soon, Captain." The Sergeant glares before spreading her wings and taking off into the sky.
"Alright, stallions, on me! Let's move!"
At once, he and his newly assembled team gallop back through the woods until the arrive back at shore. There, they are greeted by the sight of a ship; however, they are stunned by the sheer size of it. When compared to the wrecked ship, this one measures to be at least fifty times it's size. The ship is clean, and appears to be very well cared for with its pure white sails and fresh-looking wood. An anchor falls into the water, and the crew of the ship drop down one by one by a rope. All of them stallions, and all of them earth ponies. They approach, and Brass is instantly alarmed by their appearance, but not for the reason he was expecting. All of them possess a blade, but none are drawn. They're dressed clean, puffy, white shirts, and wear vests, sashes and coats of vibrant emerald, sapphire and ruby that glistens in the sunlight. Their posture is perfect, and their strides are calm and paced. The guards look to each other in bewilderment, but aren't ready to lower their guard just yet. "Halt!" Brass commands. Within an instant, they all stop only meters away from them in the shallow waters.
"Beg your pardon, if I may!" A stallion calls out amongst the crew.
The group separates, standing aside to reveal a stallion dressed in a striking, emerald overcoat and two-cornered hat. He wears a posh ascot around his neck that is adorned with a round, crimson jewel.
"You there, step forward!" As instructed, the stallion approaches. "All of you, remain here," Brass informs his team. "If things are to go south, do not hesitate to act."
The team nods their heads before he leaves to approach the stallion. Brass enters the shallow waters, feeling the cool waters fill his golden shoes. They are soon just a meter apart; Brass can't help but notice a strange confidence about the stallion, and mentally prepares himself to probe him for answers.
"State your name and your business here."
"Yes, of course, sir knight. I am Captain Vermouth, and who do I have the pleasure of conversing with?"
"Captain Brass Plate of the princess' royal guards."
"Well, from one captain to another, allow me express my humbleness." Vermouth removes his hat, and gives a courteous bow before Brass to show his respect. "I assure you we do not come here with ill intentions. We are after the occupants of this small vessel here. They've stolen something quite precious to us, and we cannot allow those miscreants to escape with it. Have you perchance come across them?"
"And what might this precious item be, if you don't mind me asking?"
"It's far too much to explain with what little time we have. If those ingrates escape with it, all of us will be in great peril; I can promise you that."
"Well, as a matter of fact, yes. We've seen them, and we've got an officer on their tails right this moment."
"Only one? I don't mean to question your judgement, but these two are quite . . . rambunctious to say the least."
"Yeah, that's putting it lightly, but trust me, she's one of our best. I'm certain she'll have them placed under arrest in no time."
"Splendid, then that is a relief. No doubt about it."
"Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to take you and your crew in for further questioning so we can get a better grasp of what's going on here."
"Not at all. In fact, I'll have my crew and I relinquish our weapons to you so that there's no worry of any possible retaliation."
"Well, took the words right out of my mouth. A carriage will be here soon, so just wait here with us until it arrives."
"Of course, captain."
Brass is unsure of what to make of Vermouth and his crew. They could very well be just as well-spoken and cooperative if his crew is anything like their captain. The difference between Vermouth and the two sailors is night and day to Brass, but something just isn't adding up in his head. He can clearly see the two sailors as wrongdoers, and Trixie a traitor to the kingdom and the princesses. However, when it comes to Vermouth, he can't fully decide if he is a friend or a foe.
