Sins of an Equestrian Empire: An Unexpected Journey

Chapter 8 – Where our loyalties lie.

It has come to my attention through studies of these elements the more they fascinate me. They seem to resonate but still only around the presence of certain ponies, how or why confuses me mostly. For example when the princess comes in close proximity the stones light almost acknowledging her presence nearly, this much we already know. But to do this to normal ponies especially one of the royal guards it glows brightly as I passed him in the hallway the other day almost choosing him or her. Could this be cause of the traits needed that the princess talked about, needless to say a night’s sleep is what I need more than anything.

More investigating will be needed.

Star swirled the bearded

date – unknown

Darkness engulfed all of the land as two ponies where heading towards there impending destination, where a task that apparently required attention of both councillors especially Lavaliere was needed. Wreath thought over this many times but the appreciation to actually test magic as well as her peacekeeper skills in the field was something to look forward too. She remembered her training along with the training of others within Hoofington Academy as all the peacekeepers there within the city where all unicorn students in there learning training to be being able to gain as much as they could before being sent out all across the Empire, the only city however they could never be stationed in was unfortunately their hometown in this case Wreath knew she could never see Manehatten again as long as she was in service to the peacekeepers. Few had tried to leave to pursue a life of away from servitude but to all the brand of a traitor and deserter were to be expected.

The chariot was closing in on the town of New Saddle a town that was not quite a city yet it, but still had the luxurious lifestyle of the other cities that surrounded it. At most the town was used as a crossroad through to the capital and beyond the Empire. The business of the town centered mainly through trade whether it would be information to sell or elemental materials mined from Fillydephia the town started off as an intersection for passers through. Wreath check over her necklace as well as her gauntlet as she begun to see the small town lit up as a bouquet of candles in a sea of darkness. The blue pony begun to break the long silence and began consorting with her partner as well as being her rival.

“So, Partner?” Wreath felt a sick taste on her tongue as she uttered those very words. “What do you think about all this, like c'mon like all this does not seem fishy right?” She looked on towards the grey pony as a look of distain was to be met in result.

“I do not care Wreath nor do I want any of this, being played for the fool to do someone else’s dirty work, all I know is I'm stuck with you and till then I hate to say in order to succeed we have to work together an opportunity like these never come by often.” The very words said by Coronet seemed weird as almost as if an offer was coming up. “At most I love what this brings all the gifts and opportunities but at most I hate the one pony behind all of this and for what he had done to me that day.” Coronet raised her left hoove at the scar that now decorated her left check and remembered the timber wolves that gave her the satisfaction of remembering that regretful day.

“You hate Lavaliere on that we can agree Coronet, but still he has a game plan and if we do not watch ourselves we are going to end up nothing more than his pawns.” Wreath talked probably for the first time towards Coronet unsure if this was some ploy or she was telling in some way her own personnel confession.

“Game Plan?, do not think for a second this means were friends the very thought sickens me, I swear once this is done  we are through with all of this and no commoner like you is going to stop me.” Coronet slammed both her front hooves down on the chariot shaking it slightly as it begun to land. Wreath saw suddenly Coronet returned back to her former self over the remembrance of what she had to say. She shrugged it off and remembered that there was a mission that needed to be done and that now was not the time to talk about other trivial matters, Coronets rage issues had to wait as the chariot now landed just outside the town gate.

Both Wreath and Coronet stepped slowly off the chariot as it begun to ascend back into the night sky leaving them in unfamiliar territory. The air itself was stale all around with the lanterns that hung above the town gate swaying back and forth from the leaving of the chariot as they slowly returned back to normal silently standing still illuminating the area around them. The town gate was open with no guard at all at their post which seemed odd at most or a direct showing of lack of leadership in the town watch. Both Coronet and Wreath made their way slowly into the town of New Saddle unsure of who to meet where or would they be meeting them first possibly.

The city itself was dead with no other pony in sight to be seen a slight occurrence that could mean only one thing and that was a curfew was in effect in the town possibly to root out any conspirators, more than likely that Brotherhood that Lavaliere was talking about. The two ponies could not find anypony within sight and decided to at least make their way into town probably towards the town centre to find out what was going on. The street signs swayed back and forth creaking each time as Wreath and Coronet passed by looking for anything of interest, the town pub was closed off as well which seemed odd with such a late night venue closed for all, dogs could be heard barking off in the distance but for what reason was unknown. They continued straight down the road till they came across the centre of the small town a massive fountain which displayed the shield symbol of the town’s peacekeepers and their duty to the Empire. Wreath looked around unsure on what to do next she paused and began to think. Coronet walked over standing beside her talking out to loud to anypony who would listen.

“Well looks like the informant is late, typical.” Coronet folded her two front hooves not wanting to be blamed for any wrong doing she thought she caused.

Wreath was still looking around at the night sky towards the massive clock tower off in the distance for any sign or guidance on where to go. Wreath began to day dream out of all of this separating herself from the world around her, she began to think to herself about what she had learned recently from being in Stalliongrad as well as councillor Rage's office about the following words “Not the Original” and why was that unicorn in the picture not crossed out that said “Element of Magic” as she thought she could no longer hear Coronets nagging voice. As she remained in deep she thought she could have sworn for a second she saw something unbelievable, a unicorn flying through the night sky all dressed in black, she began to think straight detaching herself from her daydream but it was too late as the illusion itself disappeared. Wreath ignored this looking back down to earth shaking her head and looked back up again, the flying unicorn was gone never to be seen again.

“Let’s just keep moving Coronet.” Just as Wreath said those words a fog began coming in from nowhere.

The fog was rising slowly concealing the area around them as they heard the small sound of hooves make their way towards both of them. The two ponies unsheathed their swords in response to this as well as being ready with their new found magic slightly eager to test it is potential. A shadow now appeared from the fog revealing another pony dressed in a formal cloak hiding their appearance, the new pony flicked his horn as the fog slowly evaporated into the night sky. The pony lowered his hood to reveal a unicorn pony to both Wreath and Coronet, he smiled as he slowly begun to talk.

“So looks like you are the two I'm looking for assuming that you are the right ones?” the hooded pony looked sternly at the ponies in front of him eager to test their response.

“And I assume you are the very pony we were sent to meet in this back end of a town or a cheap con artist at best it seems.” Coronet said harshly towards the unknown pony.

“Easy now all high and mighty I was only informed slightly as you were too and I would not like this to start off with insults mind you.” Both ponies now began eyeing each other distastefully at what was exchanged.

The situation fell silent between the three ponies each not returning a response, to Wreath she knew that this mission was getting off to a shaky start and needed to be fixed before the entire trip was for nothing.

Wreath decided to break the silence and fix this dispute before it broke out into a fight “Break it both of you, I assume you are the pony we were told to meet, we have been sent from Stalliongrad and the sooner we get through this the better.”

“Very well, let’s get inside before the guard shifts change around again, even though your here on Imperial Business they do not know that.” the hooded pony ushered them past the town center towards one of the houses trying to shield them from any prying eyes.

Coronet looked on towards the unknown pony as they were being lead off the main road looking cautiously in the event of them possibly being jumped or at least robbed by this pony or his friends. She remembered that they were supposed to meet somepony but was this one the informant was the thought constantly conjuring up in her head. They continued to be led through the dark alley till they reached one of the doors along the countless others they passed by as the mysterious pony raised his hoove banging on the door and awaited for a response. After some time a shutter opened from the top of the door, a bright light shone from the door into the darkened alley. The pony inside gave a brief glance at the three outside before closing it, the overall response after a few moments of silence was the sound of the door unlocking. The hinged door opened slightly to reveal the pony from inside.

“Hurry you three get in now.” The pony said quietly beside the door, ushering them to get inside quickly.

Wreath and Coronet looked at each other unsure of what possible trouble they could have gotten themselves into, both knew if these ponies tried anything funny they would certainly come out on top with or without there new found powers. All three made their way inside before the door closed shut once again. The inside of the house was simple as with all the other houses within New Saddle, the curtains were drawn to avoid any other ponies from looking in possibly. The interior of the house was in shambles far from any high society lifestyle they were accustomed too. The wallpaper was decorated with a dull beige colour. The hooded pony walked over next to his assistant standing next to the fireplace as the logs flickered giving off an orange aura all across the room. The two ponies whispered quietly before the hooded one turned around and begun to speak towards Wreath and Coronet with his voice changed all of a sudden.

“I must apologise for all of this secrecy, Lavaliere told me that I would be expecting you.” the hooded pony’s voice turned from a common pony voice to one of supposed higher upper class you would find in the upper levels of Trottingham.

“You were expecting us? Let’s start with proper introductions first since you seems to have the upper hoove here.” Wreath responded to this pony’s superior knowledge since the one peeve she held were other ponies playing tricks on her.

“But of course Ms Wreath, my name is Cloud Meadow as you probably saw amidst the fog I used to conceal you from any ponies watching. I am a servant to the Lord of his fair town Lord Thunder Prism my friend who you just met was Thunder Crackle our informant within the peacekeepers of New Saddle.” Cloud said out loud assured that the area around them was safe for a more informative discussion. “But you two must be tired slightly from your trip please sit while me and Thunder get you the hot meal as well as the necessaries for tonight.”

Thunder left the room to fetch the equipment for tonight’s event as well as getting food and drink for both Wreath and Coronet, as he left the room Cloud tucked away his hood walked over to his desk next to the fireplace and unfolded two scrolls to show the two students.

“Ahem, if you two wish to still see the proof you need, please have a look at these.” Cloud said as Wreath walked over to examine the documents further proving the unicorn’s true allegiance.

Wreath looked at the documents and saw clearly the proof she needed to see. On the two scrolls was  all the information about both Wreath on one and Coronet on another plus the order being sent to New Saddle to help aid both Cloud and Thunder for as long as needed. A signature at the bottom by the grandmaster with the imperial signature with stamp, issuing this as official business. Wreath read them over twice before raising her head to look back at Cloud.

“This all is legit Cloud but why all this secrecy? Surely Imperial Business does not need to be hidden knowledge.” Wreath stepped back from the documents waiting for Clouds response.

“Hidden Knowledge is an important key of the Empire Wreath, since we can get past this charade of secrecy these documents serves no more purpose.” The moment Cloud said these words he used his magic to toss the scrolls into the fire as they turned to ash all before their eyes.

Coronet looked shocked as she approached the reckless unicorn seeming eager to enter this conversation “What you have done is illegal, destroying imperial orders is against everything we know, that means there is no evidence that this event ever took place.”

“That is true Coronet but sometimes events like these are hidden for safety surely if the griffins or dragons found out about all of this, relations would surely be damaged for years on end, all I ask is assistance just this once.” Cloud walked away towards the table as Thunder entered the room again with plates full of food along with a scroll on the other hoof.

“Ahh Thunder good timing, if it is not much we can all eat as we lay out the plan for tonight, I can assure you we have plenty of time before the traitors reveals himself.” Cloud said inviting Wreath and Coronet to the table.

All the ponies in the room began to tucker into their meals each one seeming to enjoy the food that was set out before them. They seemed detached from the agenda that was to be set out all before them. After the meal was finished Thunder began setting aside the entire cutlery from the table and begun getting down to business.

Cloud rolled out before them a scroll detailing the agenda to be finished as well as a map showing the possible whereabouts of the assailant. “Okay as we all know both of you have being sent on Imperial Business to deal with a potential threat; this mission is an assassination at best.”

Wreath looked somewhat confused over the term assassination and interrupted the talking unicorn “Assassination, we were sent to root out any threats and arrest if need be.”

“I can assure you Wreath that is not the case, if this pony were to live past this night at most the orders for our death will come next morning, even though this pony is a traitor to the Empire he is also a high official to the Lord of this town and holds a high influence. The only choices we have are a silent death and pass it off as a simple mugging gone wrong.” Cloud said looking straight at Wreath who seemed to despise these kinds of dirty dealings.

“Does Lavaliere know about this?” Coronet asked assuring herself that any dealings here would not come back to haunt her but still the use of force seemed all the much enjoyable to her.

“Yes he does Coronet, he in fact authorized this act, although he is high up on the council he does not wish to take part officially in this kind of dealings, we work from the shadow as does he.” Thunder said out of turn assuring to everyone that this was the wishes of their grandmaster as well as a fellow councillor.

“Well yes, Thunder is right but more importantly the target is set to meet tonight as you know over in the trade district of the city in a warehouse that is connected to the grand clock tower a key landmark within the city, I'm quite certain you have at least seen it once you arrived into town.” Cloud looked at both ponies with Wreath nodding assuring him she knew what he was talking about.

“Yes we have Cloud what is the plan for tonight anyway?” Wreath asked not concerned slightly over the town’s history what so ever seeming to be interested in the present.

“The target will meet there within the hour, Thunder himself is to meet there as well as one of the informants there will be a total of three there including Thunder and the target.” Cloud explained further.

Thunder began adding more to the detail of the mission knowing much about it since his life was on the line “As for me I will give the signal to attack once I am certain we got what we needed, after which I will need you two to attack and assassinate the assailant, do not feel any remorse he would do the same to you tenfold.” Thunder said adamant about the cost of failure.

“And what about the third person the unnamed pony you failed to mention.” Coronet asked not wanting any loose ends over all of this.

“But of course the same as well dead at most, the pony would more than likely be a bodyguard or assistant nothing much to worry about.” Thunder said not showing any second guessing in the matter.

“Thunder is right Coronet, we strike within the hour. Down in the pantry will be a passage way to the sewers we will follow it straight underneath the grand tower. Wreath and Coronet will prepare as Thunder prepares to meet the informants, listen to all he has to say, his life depends on it.” Cloud said looking at Thunder certain that failure was far from happening.

Thunder left the house to prepare himself for the event that was coming up within the hour, even though he was not fighting his life was on the line everyone's life was except for Cloud who was staying behind to report on the overall outcome. Cloud himself went upstairs leaving both Wreath and Coronet next to the fireplace letting them look over the details one last time before making the trek to the warehouse. Wreath was concerned over assassinating let alone killing a high official. In all her training of being a peacekeeper arresting and detaining was her overall goal, it was true in rare cases that killing was needed if the opportunity presented her with her death as a possible outcome to her death was something no pony should hold power over.

“Wreath, you okay going through with this you do always seemed to choke up before these situations.” Coronet looked at the blue pony, she seemed slightly pale then before probably nervous over the fear of failure.

“Do not worry Coronet, I will not let it get in the way, when the time comes I will know what to do. But these weapons Lavaliere gave us how much power do you think is in them?” Wreath looked concerned mainly about their origin as well as enhancing their magic as well; she has always heard such treatment always came with side effects all which led to a slow death or loss of magic entirely if lucky.

“I would not worry with the crap we have been through treat this like a training mission and we'll do fine.” Coronet walked away from the fireplace over towards the banister of the stairs checking to see if Cloud was finished and prepared to leave.

Wreath looked at Coronet unsure of why she seemed helpful or at most accepting towards her company, she could have sworn the day both of them passed Lavalieres trial she came out a new pony. What she saw through the chalice room or what Lavaliere told her in secret probably affected her in some way; she stared at the fire as it slowly began to give way as the flames died down slowly. After some time Cloud came downstairs passing by Coronet ignoring her and making his way towards Wreath, he picked up the scrolls that both have read through and torn them to shreds before their eyes. He threw the pieces in what was left of the fire looked at both of them and said in a determined voice.

“It is time both of you this way.” Cloud said as he raised his hood concealing himself once again. He passed through to the room adjacent straight to the small pantry; Cloud proceeded to lift up a small hatch revealing a secret entrance straight to warehouse.  The unicorn began walking back to the meeting room signalling both Wreath and Coronet that the coast was clear to proceed down to the sewer. All three began to drop down to the dark unlit sewer slowly proceeding towards where Thunder was already waiting at the warehouse.

New Saddle sewers was a labyrinth built with a series of complex tunnels all decorated by lime green walls decorated by moss or any chemical waste that was left behind. The sewers were built mainly to divert all the sewage towards the ocean by the Bridle Shores along with excess water during the fall period to prevent flooding. All three ponies silently made their way through the green lit sewers each refusing to speak in the event that their voice echoed down its endless halls. The way was mapped out carefully either by Thunder or Cloud each twist and turn indicated by an arrow leading to the warehouse. Rats and other small vermin quickly made their way past their hooves running back and forth between warehouses that either contained grain and other goods worth trading. As Cloud made his way to the warehouse he ignored all ladders that lead up to the surface until he came upon the one that was essential to the plan, he stopped at one particular ladder examined it slowly before looking back towards Wreath. He began to speak quietly making sure his voice would not echo.

“We are here.” Cloud said pointing up towards the hatch above them certain this was the right one. “You two head on up I will make my way back to the hideout after this is done the chariot you arrived in will be waiting back at the main gate into town, use it to get back to Stalliongrad. It is sad to say we may never meet again. I can assure you it is for the best.” Cloud smiled as he began walking back the way he came fading back into the darkness.

Wreath slowly made her way up the ladder placing one hoove in front of the other ascending up towards the hatch with Coronet following soon after, both made their way from the sewers up towards the wooden hatch with Wreath unbolting it and lifting is aside slowly to avoid attracting attention. With the hatch now gone Wreath took the final steps on the ladder entering the warehouse finally being able to see the staging ground for the attack. The warehouse stacked crates of all shapes and sizes each one branded with the destination and contents, all the towns and cities of the Empire was stamped on each one resting on top of one another reaching as far as the ceiling itself.  The light within the warehouse was dim at best with each row of crates having a simple lantern to light the way. Coronet finally entered the warehouse along with Wreath each looking around observing if any other pony saw them enter, Wreath turned around and sealed the hatch again concealing there entry to the warehouse. Both began to make there the nearest stairwell leading to the upper level to gain an overhead view of where the meeting was to take place exactly. With each step they made a creak could be heard all throughout the warehouse, they looked around making sure that no pony caught their attention but thankfully no one was around to hear or let alone care.

After both ponies ascending the stairwell they made themselves hidden behind one of the many crates that laid on the upper floor after which they had no choice but to wait for the upcoming event. It was not till about a few minutes later that the doors at the other end of the warehouse opened slightly revealing Thunder who seemed overly cautious about the situation he peeked inside and walked entered the warehouse followed by two other ponies, a common earth pony clad in a city watch uniform a bodyguard perhaps with a unicorn dressed as some sort of high official. Wreath and Coronet could easily see that the unicorn was the target. Thunder made his way deeper into the warehouse discussing with the other two as he made his way closer to where Wreath and Coronet where.

“And you are sure about all of this Thunder?, I need the full assistance from you, the capital too if need be should the worst comes to pass, the shipments being sent from Fillydeplhia are unheard of at best.” the unicorn said towards Thunder who seemed awfully concerned about some upcoming event.

“I can assure you my friends that all of this will sort itself out, these threats you have received is nothing more than idle nonsense, why would an official possibly from Stalliongrad have any need to wish any sort of threat towards you.” Thunder jokingly laughed the unicorn’s worries aside.

“Cause this town handles all trade to and from the capital, if any other imperial official where to run this place who knows what would happen, this town’s main goal is a checkpoint of goods at best as well as passers-by.” the unicorn seemed adamant about defending his position on the town even if it was a high official to the Lord itself.

All three made there against the endless rows of crates towards Wreath and Coronet, both slowly unsheathing their swords ready to strike when Thunder allowed it.

“That is true, threats like these come for some reason what about it, could be somepony does not like how you run things or at best something you have done.

What about the ponies you have converged with some bad ponies from what I heard.” Thunder looked around trying to catch the eye of Wreath or Coronet getting ready to strike.

“I have not in the slightest considered converging with the like, I know my loyalties Thunder what are yours, you know of all higher end officials that all of this is nothing more than petty fighting within among the upper classes, I have seen how they look at one another and it’s my job to fix this if need be and I have proof that would route out this cancer.” the unicorn slammed his two front hooves down.

“You have proof show me and let’s address these matters together then.” Thunder looked interested suddenly in what the unicorn had to say.

The unicorn handed Thunder the scroll and began unfolding it. Wreath and Coronet were now directly above them now waiting eagerly to strike when Thunder saw fit. He began reading the contents on the scroll suddenly looking back and forth at the unicorn unsure on how to react to this hard evidence.

“And you are sure this really happened, this is treasonous at best you know.” Thunder asked one last time assuring himself that this was the real deal.

“Yes given to me by a higher up informant who wishes to remain anonymous mind you.” the unicorn said certain he was protected.

Thunder wrapped back up the scroll and smiled back towards the unicorn certain that now was the time. The unicorn looked confused before it was to late Thunder shouted suddenly “NOW” as both Wreath and Coronet leapt down from the upper level right in front of Thunder both with their swords drawn out. In the midst of the confusion the unicorn made a dash back towards the main door trying to escape. Coronet went to engage his bodyguard who seemed to be defending him until he could escape, both clashing swords trying to set the other off balance. Coronet shouted to Thunder to get out of here at once and to Wreath to block off the unicorn from escaping.

Wreath made a dash straight to the door using her magic to keep up with the unicorn as he began using his magic to toss boxes and crates of any size towards Wreath trying to stop her or at most crush her if possible. Many of the boxes slammed on the ground as others burst open spilling its contents all over the floor with the lanterns falling next to them starting small fires within the warehouse. The two unicorns began using their magic against one another as it seemed that Wreath had the upper hand thanks to the necklace as well as the gauntlet. With this she was able to dodge as well as hurl multiple crates blocking the exit entirely. The unicorn stopped in front of were the door once was now buried in numerous amount of wooden crates, he began to use his magic to lift them up to escape but Wreath kept casting to hold them down preventing escape. The unicorn snarled at her as he began running to one of the back doors that lead up to the grand clock tower that connected to the warehouse. Both were now in full chase as Coronet still fought the earth pony.

As Wreath left the confines of the warehouse in full pursuit Coronet prepared to properly duel this bodyguard, both knew that only one could leave to either help their ally. The earth pony raised his sword in a duelling respect as did Coronet before the fight started. Both circled one another waiting for the other to strike. Coronet gained the upper hoof thanks to her magic tossing a lantern at the bodyguard shattering glass and fire all over him; she then lunged straight after shattering the ponies defence and rendering him off balance. The bodyguard fell on all four hooves with his sword still rose defending himself from the brutal onslaught that occurred. In the midst of the chaos he managed to grab one of the broken pieces of glass that scarred his face slashing it back and forth at Coronet. At that moment Coronet backed away as the glass barely missed her throat, the bodyguard responded by using his two back hooves to knock Coronet straight away burying her into a pile of boxes all falling upon her. The earth pony quickly hurried away from the scene towards his master assured that this duel was over. Coronet reacted with brute anger smashing all the lanterns around with magic as all the boxes that buried her were thrown all across the room, she responded with a furious roar as her eyes glowed bright white and the necklace flashed a fiery red. The bodyguard stopped running to turn around back towards once he came to see the angry assassin eyes staring at him all lit up with rage. His instant reaction was to run at once to hopefully reach his master and get him to safety.

Coronet reacted with brute force shouting towards the earth pony to stop right where he was but her response fell on deaf ears as she used her new found magic to lift up her sword as well as the broken glass that littered the floor. With an angered jester she pointed all the glass at the bodyguard as well as her sword as they all began to light on fire. As Coronet ran towards the earth pony she hurled the objects with all her magic towards him all coated in fire flying across the room. The earth pony turned around suddenly unsheathing his sword once again preparing to face this new onslaught. He began parrying the fiery sword as it was flung before him; slowly he was being beaten back as his sword fell upon the floor. He looked down to pick up his sword but as he regained his stance he was instantly torn cut and shredded by the fiery glass that flew right by him. Within a moment the earth pony was no more as he fell upon the ground where he once stood tall, blood, glass and torn clothes was all what was left.

Wreath left Coronet to fight the bodyguard not knowing who would come out on top as she was still in pursuit of the unicorn. The chase itself led up to the grand clock tower of New Saddle as both were determined to either get away or catch their assailant at best. The wooden stairs wrapped all around the clock tower with Wreath throwing magic towards the unicorn trying to at most stop or injure at best, every action she took was responded by the unicorn doing the same. After what seemed like a eternity of back and forth parries of magic they finally came upon the top floor as the unicorn turned around the last corner making Wreath lose sight for a moment as she turned in chase to see the pony was gone from view most likely hiding, she rose her sword defensively unknown where he might have gone.

The upper floor of the clock tower was covered with massive chains hanging from the ceiling with the inner workings of the massive clock constantly turning each lever and crank creaking as it moved back and forth. She walked in slowly her head turning from left to right trying to make out where he might have gone.

“So tell me assassin.” the unicorn’s voice echoed all across the upper floor making his whereabouts impossible to pinpoint.

Wreath jumped at the very sound of his voice as she knew she was all alone without any help from Coronet.

“Tell me who sent you, was it Brightly? Or Whistler? Wait no maybe HeartString? It does not matter each one will pay for this even if it was not their fault. All of them are traitors including you.” the unicorn moved around the sound of shuffling was heard but where was unknown.

Wreath broke her silence finally responding to these accusations “The only traitor here is you, consorting with the enemy we know all about it.”

The room fell silent each turn of the cogs and other machinery was heard all throughout until a massive dong was heard all throughout. Wreath covered her ears dropping her sword in the midst of the loud noise, with this confusion the unicorn now made himself known using his magic to grab one of the rusty chains wrapping it around Wreaths neck as she was hung back up again with the chain being raised by the unicorn. The bells within the clock tower now stopped chiming as Wreath was being hung up trying to use her two back hooves to reach the floor but to no success.

The unicorn made his way slowly over to Wreath assured of his victory as she dangled there struggling for air.

The unicorn unsheathed his own sword as he walked over pointing towards Wreath as he began to talk.

“Before I kill you, that is if you want it slow or fast I WILL be getting a name of whoever sent you, now TELL ME WHO IS SENT YOU.” the unicorn said raising his sword pointing towards Wreaths neck.

The blue pony struggled still looking for anyway of escape, with Coronet downstairs she would have to rely on instinct or at least the magic she was given, she looked around until she found her answer. The unicorn used his magic again to raise the chain further tightening it, with each tug Wreath was desperately gasping for air.

“I can do this all day assassin, tell me NOW.” the unicorn began to grow impatient over this slight delay.

Wreath began to use her magic to slowly reach out as she began to speak “It was....” the only words she could put together on such short notice as she began reaching out even further.

“It was who, tell me.” the unicorn shouted again poking the sword at Wreaths neck.

Just as the unicorn said those words Wreath managed to clasp her sword with her magic impaling the unicorn from behind. The pony looked stunned by this sudden act as his magic was no more clamming on the chain freeing Wreath from her untimely death. As she fell to the floor gasping for breath the impaled unicorn slowly backed away trying to free the sword from where it layed, as he stepped back more and more he fell through the guard rail falling back down to earth all the way down to the bottom floor of the grand clock tower. Wreath managed to free herself from the chains grasp as she walked over to the broken guardrail seeing nothing but darkness not seeing where the unicorn fell. She walked back towards the stairwell making her way downstairs her mission in New Saddle now over.

As she made her way downstairs, Wreath ran into both Coronet and Thunder along with Cloud who showed up after the chaos had died down. All three looked at what was left of the impaled unicorn nothing but tattered remains and broken bones. Wreath made her way up to Coronet who seemed to hold her sword plucked straight from the fallen unicorn, as Wreath grabbed it Coronet began to talk.

“Hey, what happened up there exactly?” Coronet asked slightly curious about the entire matter.

“Nothing where finished here, let’s go.” Wreath not wanting to look at the battered remains of the pony she just killed.

“Hey do not think you can blow all this over, you killed a pony as did I, both traitors at best do not forget that no need to feel sorry for this one.” Coronet said walking up to Wreath both preparing to leave through the main warehouse door.

Thunder and Cloud walked over to both of them to congratulate them on a job well done “Well done both of you and do not worry I can assure you that your superiors will hear nothing but good things from us come morning.” Cloud said giving Wreath a pat on the back as a sign of accomplishment, Wreath however brushed it all off.

“Do not worry me and Cloud will stay behind making sure all of this seems like some sort of unfortunate accident at best I can guarantee no one will know.” Thunder said now happy this entire ordeal was over. “I would suggest leaving right away the guards have being paid to leave the town gate open for you I would hurry before they change their mind.”

Wreath and Coronet left the clock tower going through to the warehouse main door leaving quietly back towards the main gate of town where there chariot would wait letting them leave at once. Thunder and Cloud waited behind as they made their way back into the main warehouse, they began to fully observe the wreckage as the warehouse was now in tatters with two dead ponies high official ones at best. Both made their way to the front door closing it fully as Thunder began to talk.

“Do you think they know about the identity of that unicorn in the other room Cloud?” Thunder asked concerned over the possibility.

“Not in the slightest Thunder, we both played it well; no one would ever think of guessing, Lavaliere wanted him dead that is enough reason.” Cloud said locking the last part of the warehouse.

“Killing that earth pony was one thing but the death of Lord Thunder Prism, tell me Cloud how does it feel to kill your master after all you were his butler and servant?” Thunder asked openly about this thinking how far did Clouds morale grounds stop.

“Let’s just say the pay was good as was the opportunity, Councillor Lavaliere pays well for what reason he would want the Lord of this town dead does not bother me.” Cloud said making his way over to the barrel of oil possibly to torch the place.

“I heard he has his hands in everything these days’ magic, politics as well as number of high officials do not you thing Cloud?” Thunder questioned openly once again but this time falling on deaf ears.

“Hey Cloud where did you go?” Thunder asked as he looked around.

Within a second the pony himself was stabbed with a knife from the back, stunned by all of this he fell to the floor in dire agony. As he turned he could see Cloud looking above him all smiles with devious looking eyes.

“Why you back stabbing son of a.” Thunder said as all life was now robbed from his body.

“Nothing personal Thunder but as we said it was all a mugging gone wrong, we do need a scapegoat, even if it is a peacekeeper informant like yourself.” Cloud said smiling as he laid the body down to rest.

The unicorn got up from where Thunder laid and tossed a lantern towards the crates of flammable oil. As the warehouse took alight with fire Cloud left through the hatch leading to the sewers, as he left the warehouse he took one last look at Thunders lifeless corpse.

“I’m sorry old friend, but you were never cut out for all of these shady deals.” Cloud said closing the hatch leaving the warehouse alight with fire and smoke as it blanketed the entire town.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Canterlot castle still shinned in the moon lit sky with the entire city blacked out except for the few camp fires down in the city. Brimstone and Sermon two of the ponies who arrived recently were left on guard duty since two of the pony’s disappeared from the camp with no trace of their whereabouts.

“Gah ever since that earth pony and unicorn left everyone has bein edgy especially that foreman; you know how superstitious he has about that supposed ghost up in the castle, bunch of nonsense I ask ya.” Brimstone making small talk towards Sermon as they both gathered over an open fire for even the smallest bit of warmth.

“And yet I had the idea to team up with you on this money making job of yours, sure go to a ruined supposedly haunted city and look around might get paid and come back home after all it will only be a week, well so far it is bein a fun trip would not ya say.” Sermon sarcastically replied back to Brimstone.

Brimstone began to talk harshly about his friend snarky remarks “Hey at least I have a plan to make ends meet as for all of this nonsense not my fault, first those two go missing, the bright light show in the castle at night and finally this morning the cook admits clearly somepony is stealing food, I would say grab the bull by the horns and see this through.”

“Well at least we get paid extra food rations for these kind of things, drawing the short straw twice in one night is not gonna make a fun day of work, still if that place is haunted do not you think it would clearly show a sign or something.” Sermon said questionly.

“Yes Sermon that is how ghosts work, I want you to look up at the castle and tell me there’s no ghost maybe that will keep you quiet.” Brimstone challenging Sermon at least to pass the time.

“Fine then I will say it.” Sermon looked up at the darkened castle high up in the night sky taking a swig of cider before he yelled at the top of his lungs. “There is no ghosts, there I said it now what.”

The second Sermon talked a bright blue light flashed through the castle and quickly disappeared returning back to darkness. Both Sermon and Brimstone looked at each other eyes wide open waiting for the other to talk.

“Well I guess this place is haunted.” Brimstone said alarmingly.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A great wall of blue light decorated the old throne room as it began driving out the darkness that engulfed the room. After the light show had ended all that was seen all throughout the room was darkness and three ponies seeming to be exhausted from their ordeals, each one breathing for air or someplace to rest.

“Phew.......that was close.......who do you think the hell was that old pony?” Steel said gasping for air looking for any explanation of what happened in the past five minutes.

“Definitely not a librarian I can guarantee although he did seem fond of you Twilight did you see how he did not take his eyes off of you.” Speed said looking at the purple pony.

Twilight thought about what Speed had to say about this and remembered the old ponies face as well as those fiery eyes looking at her seeing some sort of opportunity or at most something worse.

“Do not remind me Speed we got out of there and soon they will be after us or worse we are already wanted ponies now back in Stalliongrad orders for our arrest already being carried out.” Twilight dreaded the consequences of them being caught even if it was just by one old pony.

“Wanted ponies please Twi that old coot, no pony gonna believe him what is he gonna say three ponies broke in ran downstairs and just vanished. If I recall no one knows anything about this magic hex that gets us around are not that right Speed.” Steel looked at the yellow unicorn for any sort of backing.

Speed now dusted herself from the journey and begun walking over to Twilight.“Steels right Twilight, only the princess and her high council knew of any sort of dealings and their long dead plus even if they did they would not know the spell.”

“But anyway guys we have stayed too long in Canterlot we gotta get moving, Speed where too?” Twilight asked impatiently seeming to be sick of seeing Canterlot constantly in the state it is in multiple times going to and from.

“On that we can agree Twilight.” Speed began getting to work.

Speed unfolded the pages laying them out on the floor for all to see. She looked at one of the pages thoroughly especially the one that apparently had Steels name on it. Speed tilted her head back and forth at the earth pony and then folded it certain that her accusations were right.

“We get it Speed my names on the list, now let’s just get it over and done with and just say it for all of Equestria to hear.” He said tired of these back and forth accusations.

“Steel, Equestria needs you do not think for a second you are alone in all of this me and Speed will be here to help you every step of the way and we will need your help getting the others as well.” Twilight consoled the earth pony of whatever fear or hate he had was nothing to be afraid about.

“Yeah Steel what exactly do you hate about all of this you have been doing nothing but arguing about one little piece of paper that has your name all over it.” Speed asked holding the paper that had Steels name as well as everything there was to know about him, she looked back and forth at the piece of paper she held up with magic testing the chestnut pony’s response.

Steel looked at Speed knowing full well that he was caught by all of this and had no choice but to comply or be found out “Fine I will go with you Twi no matter where now let’s hurry up and find the others before the Empire does.”

“Smart choice earth pony now let’s see.” Speed looked through all the other five pages, she began looking uneasy at some but more interested in others. After some time she raised her head and gave out a destination. “Be prepared guys but the next destination looks like Manehattan a female pegasus pony by the name of Spark Chaser but she is apparently.”

“Apparently what Speed, surely she could not have moved anywhere?” Twilight asked eager for answers.

“Oh no she is still there but Spark is a Peacekeeper Twilight and by the looks of it a new one who joined recently who was just transferred from the city of Stableside the last couple of months.” Speed said concerned over what she had learned.

“A peacekeeper? What are those like the royal guard.” Twilight looked mildly interested as well as confused over what the term meant. Steel on the other hoove had something to say about all of this.

“Twi, a peacekeeper is no pony to hang around; you remember your time in Ponyville think Pike and Lance but a whole city of them patrolling each more horrible.” Steel said angered by the bitter memories “At most what are we gonna do get her to leave the Empire or kidnap her?”

“Well talking about it will not change our initial plan we need her and that is that. We can get there from the throne and it is a straight shot to Manehattan. Twilight could you help me setup the spell, I will give you the honours of starting the casting.” Speed on top of the throne handed the scroll to Twilight as she begun to take her place.

“Sure thing Speed I was gonna ask about that anyway.” Twilight walked up to the throne as she unfolded the scroll as her horn began to glow purple once again. Speed walked down from the throne each step looking at Steel looking to talk about what she just learned.

As Twilight was busy casting the spell she began separating herself from the world around her. Speed noticed this at once and began talking quietly to the earth pony.

“So Steel or should I call you that.” Speed squinted her eyes look suspiciously at Steel.

“Whatever do you mean I got nothin to hide.” he replied suddenly while starting to get slightly nervous.

“Tell me truthfully why do you follow her?, is it for redemption or will you just use her like you did with everypony else.” Speed said slowly showing the page with the names all under Steels name.

“That is none of your buckin business unicorn I have got nothin to prove to you and anythin that paper says is a lie.” Steel reacted angrily towards her but enough to not get noticed by Twilight, nearly on the verge of snatching the paper from Speed but knowing of what scene would be created if Twilight saw.

“I do not care what skeletons you keep in your closet Steel but be assured of one thing you WILL help us or help me Celestia your past will haunt you.” Speed looked the pony in the eye then looked back at Twilight who was still nearly finished casting the spell.

“Fine Speed have it your way, but once this is done were gonna settle this dispute.” Steel began moving towards Twilight not wanting to hear anymore from her.

“Looking forward to it my Lord.” Speed finished speaking and followed as well standing next to Twilight with Steel right beside here.

“Manehattan here we go.” Twilight said as Canterlot castle lit up with bright blue lights for hopefully the last time leaving behind the city still broken a monument to ages past waiting to be restored.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Stalliongrad castle shinned all across the land as the sun began to reach the city walls letting everypony know that daytime was upon them. Stalls, markets all opened once again with the city watch patrolling constantly keeping the peace. However deep within the prison of the capital one particular pegasus was being escorted by peackeepers fully shackled in the event of escape carrying out his final walk to the gallows. The execution of all pegausus was a swift and brutal hanging with shackled wings a delightful irony many found as they always tried to fly away but to no avail. He made his final trip down the long dank hallway living his last moments thinking fully of how he ended up in all of this accused of crimes he did not commit.

The massive wooden doors at the end of the hallway opened revealing the gallows upon which the pony would hang. He made his way inside slowly looking once at the wooden contraption and then down again as slight drops of water patted his head almost like the gods themselves were mocking him as if he were a child. He walked slowly up the steps only to be stopped as the guards left the room leaving him in complete darkness as the doors swayed backwards locking in place preventing no escape. The pony looked around for any sign of life but was not granted any until a voice called out from within the room.

“Enjoying our day are we?” the pegasus pony looked around for any sign of the voices whereabouts but to no success. “Oh come now me and you have much to discuss.” as an old pony walked from one of the corners revealing himself.

“Wait a minute I know you old pony, you’re the one who I saw when I was being brought in, you were the one who ordered this execution!.” the pegasus snarled at Lavaliere.

“The names Lavaliere and please no need to place the blame we all knew you did it, you just needed a little push out of the door former peacekeeper turned bounty hunter.” Lavaliere smiled at the next remark he was to play on this one innocent pegasus.

“Oh yeah and what am I accused of exactly, you have nothing on me.” he said shackling his chains trying to break free.

“Really how about your supposed aiding of conspirators or the late death of Lord Thunder Prism from New Saddle burnt alive within the grand clock tower and that is not including your desertion. I can assure you tampering evidence is quite easy for a pony like me.” Lavaliere tossed the scroll beneath the pegasus’s feet assuring him that he was not lying. The news of the murder as well as fake signed confessions of his signature admitting it all lay out before him.

The pegasus pony looked mildly shocked at what he saw everything needed to place the blame on him was all there nothing he would say would save him, his life was in this old ponies hoove “What do you want Lavaliere as you can see I have a date with the gallows all cause of you, come to laugh are we.” he said not interested in anymore what the old unicorn had to say.

“Oh I can assure you Ace Fritter, is that your name or should I call you by your nickname Swift Devil. I must say faking your death as a peacekeeper and becoming a pony for hire is interesting to say the least. But what if I told you, you could stop all this nonsense by doing a little job for me one more hunt and you are a free pony.”

Swift's eye's opened slowly as he fully looked at Lavaliere and the gallows again before talking again. “What sort of job old pony?” Swifts took a sigh at the thought of once again doing jobs for the high and mighty even though they paid well.

Lavalieres horn glowed unshackling the pony as he began walking up to him. He then raised his hoove on the unicorn and teleported back up to Stalliongrad castle deep in the underground labyrinths that stretched all underneath the castle. The area had no walls endless in all decorations with massive columns that held Stalliongrad castle up on all fours; lanterns decorated the endless void in all directions with a simple wooden table which laid countless objects waiting to be picked at in the center. Both ponies now appeared suddenly out of thin air beside the old creaky table as Lavaliere walked over fully leaving Swift right where he was standing.

“As I said Swift I have a problem.” Lavaliere began talking plainly towards the pegasus.

“I do not do those sort of jobs anymore and you know that Lavaliere.” Swift grunted towards the old unicorn.

Lavaliere snarled as he turned back facing Swift “Oh you WILL or else it will be a swift trip back to the gallows for you, death is a fickle thing for one of your skills, I need a pony who can locate and find two particular ponies. A simple task overall.”

“Really as you might have known my job is to sort problems, just give a name.” Swift now seeming eager to be set free, either to go on the run again or fulfil those mad ponies wish was two thoughts running in his mind.

Lavaliere walked over towards Swift showing straight from his front hoof a green gem, as he touched it a picture appeared straight from Lavalieres hoof illuminating a green aura all around the area.

“These are the ponies I need brought in, for what reason you do not need to know but more importantly the two unicorns must be brought in alive.” Lavaliere explained as he was interrupted.

“And what of the earth pony?” Swift asked looking towards Lavaliere.

“Preferably what he has learned from those two should not be held in public knowledge, how you get rid of him is of no concern just make sure he will not be coming back anytime soon.” Lavaliere said putting away the gem and tossing towards Swift as a reminder of who he was hunting.

“Fine just point me towards the nearest exit and let me on my way.” Swift said adamant to leave thinking possibly of not returning or doing the job assigned.

“Oh but wait, a common pegasus against two unicorns, especially two special ones at best does seem a bit suicidal.” Lavaliere said stopping Swift before he started to take flight. “Take these with you, I think you would remember them your old gear.”

Swift walked over amazed at how all his equipment was not destroyed he began sorting out though it all. He picked up his sword, cloak, smoke bombs and other assortments he used in capturing stragglers he used to pick up back in Canterlot.

Swift began dressing himself appropriately until he saw a gauntlet left on the table.

“What this then it is not mine.” Swift looked remembering if he ever owned such a piece.

“This is a little gift of me to you, as you may know pegasus cannot use magic but with this you will be granted some minor magic at best but one particular spell you will enjoy.” Lavaliere smiled at the possibilities this would bring.

“Really like what kind, magic is really not my thing old pony, stopping it or cancelling it out with nullifying rings is one thing but how is this gauntlet gonna do that.” Swift raised an eyebrow looking at the piece of armour as he began putting it on.

“It is a special piece of advanced form of the equipment used to stop unicorn magic as well as my own personal touches. Your a hunter and at best you need allies to help you hunt, with this timberwolves will obey you on the simple act of a whistle, just raise your hoove and they will follow you. Should make hunting out in the wild that much easier would not you say?” Lavaliere said proudly at this admiring his own devious mind, he had always found timberwolves an elegant creature but also a dangerous one at best.

“You never cease to amaze me you know that, now this should make it easier, should not be long.” Swift said now fully outfitted ready to start searching for Twilight and Speed.

“Ahem just one little thing must be done before we part ways.” Lavaliere walked over placing his hoove yet again on Swift as they were teleported yet again outside the main entrance to Stalliongrad near the Grand Imperial Bridge into the city. Passers-by ignored them seeing this as Imperial Business that they did not want to interrupt.

“Finally sunlight has not seen you in so long.” the pegasus smiled as rays of sunshine beamed down all around him. “Alright Lavaliere I will do it just point the way, but I’m only doing this for my freedom as well as long as the pay is good.”

“Do not worry Swift it will be. My first advice will be to head to Canterlot Castle at most they would have settled there at least for a short while. After which check the main towns along the way, Ponyville would be a perfect place to find that purple unicorn if not Manehattan more than likely hiding in the summer sun celebration being held there.” Lavaliere said giving Swift the final send off.

“Gotcha do not worry they will not be able to hide for long.” Swift said flapping his wings beginning to take flight before being disrupted once more by old unicorn.

“Oh and Swift, it you ever think about backstabbing me or consider the very thought, that gauntlet you wear now will kill you at my command, even so much as take it off will do the same as well. Consider this my insurance on you.” Lavaliere smiled as he teleported away not waiting for a response.

Swift was left alone on the Grand Imperial Bridge contemplating the very implications of what Lavaliere had to say. To save his own life he must capture these two unicorns and fast he looked again at the green gem that was given to him. He thought to himself slowly and said the following words.

“Canterlot, Ponyville and Manehattan, right the hunt is on.” He said taking full flight into the sky over the horizon fully determined that nothing will stop him from being free.

His life depended on it.