Equestria Noire Case #3: The Hate Case

Chapters

Chapter 1: A Request from Twilight
Chapter 2: An Investigation in the The Forest
Chapter 3: A Trip to The Hospital
Chapter 4: Evidence and Regrets
Chapter 5: Finding a Criminal
Chapter 6: Conversations About The Past
Chapter 7: Haunting Pasts
Chapter 8: Twilight Comes Back
Chapter 9: Preparing for Court
Chapter 10: Zecora Wakes Up
Chapter 11: The Truth Revealed
Epilogue: Moving Forward

Chapter 1: A Request from Twilight

A week has gone by since Me and Rainbow Dash solved the rape and murder of Wonderbolt Gust Gale. The do’er was her boyfriend Skyler Storms, who was disguised as an alter ego. Corkscrew. We were able to find out what his plans were. And thankfully we were able to stop him from murdering tons of other ponies. Then, I found out he got gang raped and tortured to death in prison. If you ask me, and I know this might be wrong to say, but to a nicer guy it couldn’t happen.

As for what’s happened afterwards, well I found out that Climate Storms actually paid for Gust Gale’s funeral. And I mean, she paid for everything. Her parents and two older sisters didn’t have to pay for anything. I didn’t expect that from her, but if I’m just guessing, I think she felt like she owed them for her son taking their loved one away from them.

Regarding the Wonderbolts, they actually did a big tribute show for Gust Gale when they first went back to doing shows. It was said to be an emotional night for every pony there. Fans and Wonderbolts alike.

What’s really sad, according to Dash, High Winds is still grieving her best friend. She hasn’t been handling her death very well. I’ll just leave it at that, and hope she can find a way to continue on.

So, right now I’m walking back from a candy store here in Ponyville. It’s was called Bon Bon’s Super Sweet Shop. I remember her because she was one of the few ponies who ACTUALLY waved at me in a courteous and friendly manner. She wasn’t intimidated or looking at me all seductive like. She was just a normal, decent pony who happily greets ponies like me.

I went over there to buy a birthday present for my Aunt Mystique Shine. Or, in this case, my adoptive mother. She and her husband Dark Moon took me and my big sister Melody Rays in after I killed my mother in order to save Mel from being beaten to death by her.

They and their seven daughters took us in and we were instantly welcomed into the family. She’s turning 63 in a few days. And she LOVES sweets. I mean LOVES them. She’d always make cookies or bars or brownies or types of candy, you name it. She’d make them a lot when me and Mel were growing up. And they always were delicious. So, I decided to get her a nice package of chocolate covered peanuts. She liked those.

When I walked in, I was greeted in a friendly manner from the store owner. Bon Bon.

“Hello, and welcome to Bon Bon’s Super Sweet Shop. My name is Bon Bon. How can I help you today?” She asked me in a welcoming voice.

Since she was being so friendly, I decided to try and be a little friendly myself.

“Yeah, my aunt’s birthday is coming up. Do you have any chocolate covered peanuts?” I asked her.

She smiled and nodded. “Yep, right over there on that shelf. To the left.” She pointed toward it.

I looked and there it was. A nice, decent enough sized package of chocolate covered peanuts. This looked just right for Aunt Mystique Shine. So, I picked it up and brought it to the counter.

“You’re that new Detective guy, right? What’s your name….Shadow Haze, right?” She asked, making small talk from what I was seeing.

I nodded. “Yes. I am. Nice to meet you Bon Bon.” I extended my hoof toward her. She happily shook it.

“Yes. It’s nice to meet you as well. I’ve always wanted to meet an actual Detective in pony before. I’m a huge fan of R.G. Willis’ Detective Hargenson series.” She said to me.

“I’ve never read her novels, but I’m sure they must be worth a read.” I told her.

“Oh yeah, they are.” She said.

“Hey Bon Bon, what are—“ I heard a voice coming into the store from the back. When she appeared, I saw her freeze when she saw me.

This mare had a mint green coat and a light green mane with a lyre for a cutie mark. She looked about a couple years older then I was.

The look she gave me was one that I see a lot from other ponies in town. She looked intimidated.

“Oh, uh, Hello, uh, you must be, uh…uh…” She said, sounding nervous talking to me. She was even darting her eyes back and forth.

Bon Bon came over and put her hoof around her neck.

“Shadow Haze, this is my best friend and life partner, Lyra Heartstrings. Sweetheart, this is Detective Shadow Haze. He’s the guy who found that Wonderbolt pony’s murder.” She said. So, Bon Bon is a lesbian, huh? Well, it’s Ponyville.

I nodded at her. “Nice to meet you Lyra.” I said.

She gulped. “Ehehehehe.” She nervously chuckled, again darting her eyes back and forth.

Bon Bon came back over to me to tell me what I owed her. After Bon Bon left Lyra’s side, she darted back into where she came from.

Bon Bon rolled her eyes at her girlfriends behavior. “Don’t mind her. She’s just a big fradie baby. Anyway, that’ll be 9 bits.” She said.

I gave her my money, some of which is what I earned from the last case I was on. She put it in a nice bag, and I walked out. She bid me farewell and I did the same.

Now, I’m walking back toward the Castle of Friendship. Where my little office area and room is at.

As I walked, I saw a few ponies giving me looks again. And I saw two ponies giving me looks that told me they were… interested in me, let’s say that.

One was a Pegasus mare. She had a very light yellow coat and a bright crimson red mane. With strawberries for a cutie mark. I saw her wink at me and give me a smile. Not a friendly smile like the one Bon Bon gave me, but a seductive one. I will admit she’s pretty good looking, but I barely know her. And I don’t know what’s she like. That would be an issue if I decided to ask her randomly if she wanted to fuck. It would just be weird.

The other one was a unicorn mare. She had a yellowish white coat and a spiky cobalt blue mane with cyan stripes in them. I think I’ve heard about her. Her stage name is DJ P0N-3. She’s a pretty famous DJ, who has performed in a few cities outside of Ponyville. I saw that look she gave me. She didn’t just give me a seductive look, I saw it in her eyes that she wanted me in bed with her. I can’t deny she looks hot as hell. Although, I honestly see her as a one night stand kind of gal. This may seem mean to say, but I see this mare as a total whore. She probably gets action every fucking day and night. What’s funny is I heard a rumor that she was also a lesbian and was living in Ponyville with her girlfriend Octavia Melody.

I remember her. She was one of those ponies who looked intimidated by me at my Welcome to Ponyville party that Pinkie Pie hosted for me after I got done solving Steel Spears’ murder.

So, if Octavia and DJ P0N-3 are a couple, then why is she giving me bedroom eyes? Is she just fucking around, or is she serious?

Either way, it doesn’t matter. If she is, she is. If she’s not, she’s not. If she makes a move, and I wanna bang her, I might. If she tells me she was just kidding, I’ll just deal with it.

After all, I still think about Angel Blossom from time to time. If I fucked any of those ponies, what would she think? I mean I know she’d still be professional around me as an officer of the law, but I’m talking personally. Would she hate me? Would she feel jealous? Would she tell me she has feelings for me, kinda like I have feelings for her?

Ugh, I’m overthinking shit. I need to make myself some coffee right now.

-/- 1 Hour Later -/-

That feels better. I’m currently sitting in my office with a nice cup of coffee. It was a French Vanilla kind. With a few spoons of sugar in it.

As I continued with my cup, I heard a knock at my door. A potential client?

“Come in.” I said loud enough for the visitor to hear me.

In walked Twilight Sparkle. I haven’t seen her since the picnic before I was first put on Gust Gale’s case. It was good to see her again.

“Hey Shadow. How are you doing?” She asked me in her kind hearted voice.

“I’m well Twilight. So, how was whatever you and Princess Celestia had going on?” I asked her.

She rolled her eyes. “Ugh, it could get so boring sometimes. I’m just glad I got it done.” She said. I couldn’t help but chuckle at that. Yes, meetings could get REALLY boring. I should know.

“But I should be asking how you’re doing after that case in Cloudsdale. Are you feeling okay?” She asked, sounding concerned for me.

I waved my hoof. “Twilight, I’m fine. I’ve been doing this for almost a decade now. If a case ever fucked me up mentally, you’d probably see it clear as day. I appreciate the concern, but you ain’t gotta worry about me.” I told her.

“I know.” She said, flushing in embarrassment. “It’s just a friend wanting to help another friend.”

“Yep. I get ya.”

“Speaking of Friendship” Twilight said, now perking up, “I have a bit of a request for you. A friendship assignment so to speak.”

“Friendship Assignment?” I asked. What the hell is that?

“Yes. See, I have a friendship mission in Baltimare. I promised Applejack I’d help her out on her farm today. Obviously, that’s not gonna happen now. Soooooo….” She grinned and got excited in her eyes.

“You want me to work on Sweet Apple Acres. And while working, you want me to get to know Applejack, and the rest of her family probably, to learn something about the Magic of Friendship, am I right?” I asked her.

“You read my mind.” Twilight said, looking as happy as can be.

I sighed as I got up from my chair. “Well, I don’t have a case going on right now. So, I guess I could get a nice work out in.” I said, now stretching my hooves out to make sure I don’t get injured while working.

“That’s the spirit Shadow Haze. I’ll even come with you to introduce you to the rest of the Apple Family. I’m sure they’ll love to meet you.” Twilight said, now trotting out the door.

I soon followed her. Everything Twilight just said, I hope she’s right. I’m just worried if this whole thing will just be a big waste of fucking time. And I hate wasting time.

-/- Sweet Apple Acres -/-

We eventually made it to a farm that was near the town of Ponyville. Me and Twilight were standing at the main gate, which had a big sign saying Sweet Apple Acres on it.

Before we even walked up to the gate, I couldn’t help but be amazed at the field of trees in this big orchard. Trees with Apples on them to be exact. It looked beautiful. Applejack and the rest of her family must work their asses off to make this place look amazing as it appears to be.

We walked inside and I quickly took a look around the place. There was a pig pen with about 7 or 8 pigs. There was a chicken coup. There was a fenced in area with about 6 or 7 cows.

But all that paled in comparison to the sheer size of the home of the Apple Family. From what Twilight had told me, the only ponies who live here are Applejack(No Shit), her two siblings, her grandmother and a dog. With how big this house was, you could’ve fit about 4 or 5 more ponies here if you really wanted to.

As I continued to be amazed by this place, I saw the pony who I was going to be working with for the next little bit or so. The orange coated, blonde maned, apple for a cutie mark pony known as Applejack. Also, along with Twilight, one of the six Elements of Harmony, with her being The Element of Honesty.

She saw us and came right on over. She tipped her Stetson Hat at us as a way of greeting.

“Howdy Twilight. And Howdy to you Mister Detective Shadow Haze.” She said in the most humble voice I’ve ever heard in my life.

Huh. She actually might be a pony I might like.

“Hey Applejack. I’m afraid I’m gonna have to take a rain check for today. I have a friendship mission in Baltimare.” She said, now turning her head to me.

“So, I’ve asked Shadow Haze here if he’d like to help. And he has accepted.”

I saw Applejack’s interest peak up. “So, ya’ll want to help me for today?” She asked. I swear she had one of the thickest southerners accents I’ve ever heard.

I nodded. “Since I’m not on a case right now, I figured I could use a nice work out.”

Twilight look pleased with our progress. “This is good. Anyway, I’ve gotta get going. I’ll see you two later.” She said, flying away from us. Guess she’s heading off on her “Friendship Mission” now.

Whatever the hell that means.

“So” Applejack said, snapping me out of it. “Y’all want me to show you around?”

I was indeed interested in seeing this whole place. It has perked my interest.

I nodded. “Sure. Lead the way.” I said, motioning her to go for it.

So, she showed me around the farm. The first place she showed me was the front porch of the house. It was here I saw an elderly looking mare sitting on a rocking chair. She had a green apple colored coat and a white mane and tail both tied up in buns. I know who she is. I’ve read about her when I was still in school. This was Lady Smith. One of the reasons why Ponyville is even in existence today. A true legend in Ponyville folklore.

“Hey Granny. This here is Detective Shadow Haze. Shadow, this here is my Granny. Granny Smith. He’s gonna work with us today.” She said, introducing us.

I walked up on the porch and extended my hoof to her.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Miss Smith. I’ve read about you back when I was a colt.” I told her.

She smiled very warmly at me. “Oh, it’s good to meet you too, youngin. And I’m honored to meet the feller who arrested those dirt bags that I’ve read about.” She told me, taking my hoof and shaking it as lightly as she could. Old bones, ya know.

“Thank you very much, Miss Smith.” I said, now walking off the porch and rejoining Applejack.

We then came across the area where the cows were. There was a little filly there, who looked about my nephew Comet Chaser’s age of 10. She had a pale yellow coat with a bright red mane, which had a light red ribbon tied upon it. She was currently giving one of the cows a scrub down. Giving it a bath from the looks of it.

“Apple Bloom, I’d like ya to meet Detective Shadow Haze. He’s gonna be helping us out today. Shadow, this here is ma little sister, Apple Bloom.” Applejack said introducing us.

I looked down at her with a small smile. “Pleased to meet you Apple Bloom.” I said.

When she looked at me, she instantly looked intimidated by me. She gulped and responded.

“Uh, h-hi M-Mister D-Detective.” She said nervously. She had a nasally sort of southern accent in her.

I looked at Applejack, and all she could do was shrug. I guess you can’t tell somepony not to be afraid of somepony else.

Then the filly looked at Applejack. “AJ, I’m finished cleaning Bessie. Can I be excused? I promised Zecora I’d help her out today.” She said, trying to avoid eye contact with me.

Applejack nodded. “Sure thing, sis. Run along.”

“Okay. Thanks, bye.” She said, now running off. She was headed in a direction where a big forest was at. I’d heard about that place. The Everfree Forest. I’d heard it’s not exactly a place ponies go to have a fun time. If anything, at night, it’s a terrifying place to be in.

“Are you sure it’s a good idea to send a little filly into the Everfree Forest?” I asked Applejack.

“She knows her way in and out. She should be okay.” She said, as we walked around again.

“Who’s Zecora?” I asked.

“She a zebra who lives there in a little hut. She practices potions and other sorts of things.” She answered.

I was surprised. “A zebra? I didn’t know a zebra lived near Ponyville.”

Applejack smiled. “Ya might like her. She’s a pretty nice mare.” She said.

We were then going into the north field. This was where we were going to buck some apples, I guess. Or in my case, just pick them off with my magic.

As we were walking toward the field, I saw two ponies coming toward us. One was a HUGE, muscular looking stallion. I mean, this guy was ripped. He had a bright red coat and a dirty light orange shaggy mane. The other was a mare. She had a pink coat and a poofy looking dark purple mane. They were carrying a bucket of apples on their backs toward the house. Applejack stopped both of them and began to introduce me.

“Big Mac, Sugar Belle, I’d like ya to meet Detective Shadow Haze. He’s gonna work with us today. Shadow, this is ma big brother Big Macintosh. And that’s my sister-in-law, Sugar Belle.” She said.

“Pleasure to meet you both.” I said.

I saw instantly that Sugar Belle looked intimidated by me. Maybe not so much as Apple Bloom just a minute ago, but it was still there. She put on a nervous smile to try and greet me happily.

Big Macintosh, on the other hoof, I knew front the first moment he laid his eyes on me, he felt like he couldn’t trust me as far as he could throw me. And he probably could throw me. Granted, I’d still put up a fight, but I know this guy could EASILY take me in a fight. Look at him. Just LOOK at him.

With his eyebrow raised, he said, “Eeyup. Nice ta meet ya, Mister.” He said, in that untrusting kind of voice.

Sugar Belle gulped. “N-Nice to m-meet you as well.” She nervously said, looking back and forth.

After that awkward little exchange, me and Applejack got to work. I did do some bucking like how AJ showed me(No not THAT kind), and I figured if my legs get tired, I’ll just use my magic.

While we were working, Applejack told me, “Sorry bout that, partner.”

I looked at her. “What?”

“My family not greeting ya very well. It wasn’t right that my siblings and my sister-in-law didn’t treat ya warmly like my Granny did.” She explained.

I shrugged. “Well, they ain’t the only ones. Most ponies in town are intimidated by me. But, that’s part of what I am.”

“What do ya mean?” She asked, bucking an apple tree, which was followed by a bunch of apples falling into a huge bucket.

“When you’re in law enforcement, you have to be intimidating. It could make potential suspects and criminals tell you everything you want to know when you need info on a case. And I’ve been doing this shit for almost a decade now. I’ve just become naturally intimidating.” I told her.

She sighed. “I get it, but it’s still not right.”

“Maybe.” I said. “But I get it.”

She shook her head in shame as she kicked another tree and watched as the apples fell in the big basket.

We did this for about 25 more minutes, before I saw something out of the corner of my eye.

I turned and saw Apple Bloom running toward us.

“What are ya doing-“ Applejack began to ask before she saw what I was looking at. She instantly looked worried at what we were seeing.

Apple Bloom wasn’t running. She looked like she was sprinting. And the look I saw on her face. She had tears run down her face. And she had a look of true fear in her eyes.

“APPLEJACK! APPLEJACK!” She cried out, with some sobs mixed in. What was going on?

I didn’t see anything behind her. No creature was chasing her. So, what was going on?

Applejack ran toward her little sister at a huge speed. If Rainbow Dash was the fastest flyer in all of Equestria, then Applejack was the fastest runner.

I followed behind her to see what had made this little filly look so terrified.

We made it over to her and Applejack’s big sister instincts kicked in.

“Apple Bloom, what’s wrong? What happened?” She asked, sounding incredibly concerned.

“It’s Zecora. She-She-She-“ She couldn’t spit it out, so I interjected.

“What’s wrong with your friend, Apple Bloom?” I asked.

She was shaking like a leaf. She had more tears run down her face.

“Just follow me.” She said, running back into the Everfree Forest. Me and Applejack followed.

After running through tangles upon tangles and bushes upon bushes and tree branches upon tree branches, we finally made it to a little hut. A small house so to speak.

I saw the door was ajar. So, I instantly barged in, and there I saw what made this little filly looking so distraught.

There was a zebra mare laying on the ground on her side. She had blood running from her head, forming a small pool of it near a chamber pot. Why that was there I have no idea. There was also bruises and cuts along her side. Looked fresh. New. Like, this had just happened recently.

Applejack came in and just gasped.

“ZECORA!” She yelled out, and now I saw tears starting to form in her eyes.

I instantly got out my phone. “PPD, I need a carriage down here in the Everfree Forest. We got a zebra down here. Looks like a victim of assault. She needs medical attention now. Get over here as quick as you can.” I yelled out.

As I hung up, I turned back to Applejack. “Take Apple Bloom to where the Everfree Forest begins at. When you see the Medical guys coming, guide them over to me. Hurry, she’s bleeding out.” I told her.

With that Applejack scooped up her little sister, put her on her back and ran toward where we entered the Everfree Forest.

I put my gloves on my hooves and went to work, trying to help this zebra survive. I tilted her head upwards, got some paper towels I found near a desk that was next to the chamber pot. I put the towels on her head where her wound was. I just hoped that causes the bleeding to stop. Or at least not flow as much as it was just a few moments ago.

So, I just laid here with her. Hoping and praying that help comes very quickly and soon. Celestia, please don’t make them too late. Please get here on time. Don’t die on me, Zecora. Please, don’t die. Please.

Chapter 2: An Investigation in the The Forest

The paramedics arrived within 20 to 25 minutes. I sat on the ground with her the whole time. Just holding that paper towel onto her injured head. Whoever it was that attacked her really did a number on her.

When they arrived, Zecora was hurriedly strapped onto a stretcher and loaded into the emergency carriage. As they were taking her away, I saw Applejack just look down in disgust. With her Stetson covering her face. Before the paramedics arrived, Apple Bloom was told by her big sis to go and tell Big Macintosh and Sugar Belle what was going on. And seconds before she was taken away, here they came. Looking just as worried as Apple Bloom and Applejack were.

Now, it was just all five of us standing outside Zecora’s hut. Me thinking who could’ve done this.

Suddenly, Apple Bloom looked up at me with a worried face.

“M-M-Mister Shadow, I-Is Zecora g-gonna b-b-be alright?” She asked with a few shutters mixed in, as well as some tears welling up in her eyes.

I felt so sorry for this poor filly. This Zebra was her friend, and she found her beaten to within an inch of her life. She must be so scared of what she saw, and terrified that her friend could possibly be dead.

I shouldn’t come to that conclusion, but after what I saw, this Zebra mare would be lucky to be alive after that.

I sighed. “I don’t know, kiddo. She looked in pretty bad shape.” I said.

She whimpered a little bit. Thankfully, Sugar Belle pulled her into a hug to comfort her. I heard a few choked sobs from the little filly.

I lowered myself down to her level. “Hey, the paramedics came within good time.” I said to her, as she looked back at me. Tears still very much fresh in her eyes.

“She’s in good hooves now. Maybe her life will be saved. Just don’t lose hope now, okay?” I told her.

She sniffled a little bit, wiping her eyes with a her forehoof.

“Who coulda done this? Was it a Manticore or something?” Sugar Belle asked, sounding concerned.

I saw Big Macintosh shake his head. “Eenope. If it was, we woulda heard it from here. Manticore attacks are pretty loud. And Zecora’s hut and Sweet Apple Acres aren’t to far from each other.” He told us.

“Not to mention” I started to say “There would’ve been a huge claw mark or gash in her side. As well as more blood then what I found. Plus, Zecora was found inside her hut. If it was a Manticore, she would’ve been found outside somewhere.” I said.

Applejack, who had her Stetson tilted down for a few moments, now tilted it back up.

“Well, looks like we got a mystery to solve, eh Shadow?” She asked me.

“So, that means you wanna work with me on this case?” I asked.

She nodded. “I’d be happy to help, partner. Zecora’s ma friend too. And I’d like to get the varmit that did this.”

Varmit? Wow. She sure is a country gal if I’ve ever known one.

“Alright. Good to know.” I said.

“Hold on a minute.” Big Macintosh said. Oh great. He’s probably gonna not want her too.

“AJ, are you seriously considering partnering with this guy? Y’all barely know him.” He said in a scolding tone. I saw the looks on Apple Bloom and Sugar Belle’s faces. They knew this wasn’t gonna be good. And I did too.

She furred her eyebrows. “I know Detective Shadow Haze well enough. And I know he’s a good stallion, who will work his flank off to find justice for a pony. Or any type of creature in Equestria.”

“How do y’all know that?” He turned toward me with an untrusting look on his face.

“How am I supposed to know y’all will protect ma little sister? How am I supposed to know you won’t fuck up and get her killed?” Big Macintosh asked me in one of the most hostile tones I’ve ever heard.

“BIG MAC!” Sugar Belle exclaimed, while Apple Bloom looked scared. I guess these two, mostly Apple Bloom, have never heard Big Macintosh use the F word before.

Good thing they aren’t around me that often.

This motherfucker is asking for it. Just as I was about to tell him off, Applejack stopped him.

“That’s Enough Already!” She hollered at him, her face looking as furious as ever.

Big Macintosh, however, wasn’t looking intimidated.

“Big brother, I told y’all about the deal that Detective Shadow Haze and Princess Celestia made. Any one of the Elements of Harmony, and Spike, can team with Shadow. If he wants too that is. And I’m an adult now. I’ve saved Equestria many times. I don’t need y’all trying to protect me. So, whether y’all like it or not, I’m working with Detective Shadow Haze. So deal with it.” She ranted at her brother.

He just snorted in anger, trying to keep it in. I guess he knew her mind was made up. And there was no stopping her.

“Fine.” Big Macintosh said. He then turned back to me again.

“But make sure she survives this in one piece.” He told me.

“Hmph. No problem, Happy Hayburger.” I insulted him. It probably was a dumb insult. I just thought of that fast food place in town. Hayburger Hut. And the main color was red. Like Big Macintosh right here.

He didn’t look angry, but he did give a big sneer as she shook his head at me.

“Come on Sugar Belle. Let’s take Apple Bloom back to tha house.” He said, now turning to his youngest sister.

“Come on kiddo. I’ll make ya some dinner.” He said, now gently guiding her out of the Everfree Forest. Sugar Belle followed him, before she mouthed “Good Luck” at us.

Now, it was just me and Applejack. Us alone. Working together to find out who attacked Zecora. And why.

“I’m a might sorry, Detective. Big Mac ain’t normally like that. He’s usually one of tha nicest ponies ya’d ever meet.” She said, looking disappointed in her big brother.

I just snorted. “I guess I understand why. I mean, he’s your big brother. He’s supposed to be over protective. Especially with somepony who looks like a demon from hell.” I said.

Her face scrunched up in a frown. “Y’all don’t look like a demon. Y’all are just a normal pony like me.” She said.

I couldn’t help but chuckle. “What is “normal”?” I asked her. She just snorted in annoyance.

“Alright, it’s time to get serious.” I told Applejack. She appeared to agree with me, due to her nodding her head and putting on her game face. Whatever the hell that means.

“What do we do first?” She asked.

“First, we need to go over the crime scene. The scene of Zecora’s assault.” I said, now turning toward Zecora’s hut.

Almost immediately I noticed something. The front door showed signs of breaking in. There were some signs of damage to the door, mainly it looked like somepony was beating on the door with their bare hooves.

I walked inside and looked at the other side of the door. There appeared that Zecora was trying to hold the door from being broken into. Maybe she tried to find some things to barricade it with, but the assailant must’ve overpowered her, broke in and beat her to within an inch of her life.

Overall, Zecora did NOT know her attacker. Was this just something that happened at random? Feels kinda odd that somepony would sneak into the Everfree Forest just to beat up somepony. Then again, there are some fucked up ponies out there. So, maybe it WAS some random attack.

“Zecora didn’t know who her attacker was. Signs of breaking in are evident on the door.” I told out loud to Applejack, who was still outside for some reason.

“I think I found something, Detective.” She now called out to me.

I walked outside and saw Applejack a few yards away from me. She was looking at the ground. I wondered what it was, until I saw it.

There were hoof tracks in the ground. Those probably belong to Zecora. Or the suspect.

“I think Zecora knew somepony was following her and ran for it.” She said, still looking at the tracks.

“Huh?” I asked, sounding surprised she thought of that. “What gave you that idea?”

She put on a big smile. “Ah used to be a filly scout. We learned all about animal tracks when we were out in the wilderness. And types of movement in the tracks.”

I raised an eyebrow in confusion. “Movement in the tracks?”

She nodded, and then motioned for me to follow her. I did. It was only about 10 feet away from where Applejack called me over the first time.

“Look. These prints here are pony prints. Or possibly zebra prints.” She showed me. They did look like prints that you’d see from a pony. Or a zebra.

“These prints show that Zecora must’ve been walking home from wherever she was. Y’all can see it by tha texture and tha space in tha ground.” She told me, showing me the hoof tracks. I took out my camera and took a picture of it. Definitely could be useful later on in the investigation.

“Okay.” I said. She motioned me again to follow her, which I did. She was walking slowly this time. It was here I started to notice the texture and shape of the hoof tracks started to change.

“Now, when ya look at the hoof tracks, you can see that they change instantly. The tracks look closer together, because Zecora must’ve seen something or somepony who spooked her. Then she took off running back to her hut to get ta safety.” She explained to me.

I looked back at the tracks where Applejack showed me before and the ones she showed me now. It appears she’s right. Due to the shape, texture and distance between the hoof tracks, Zecora was walking home, saw somepony was following her and then started running away. I took more pictures of them with my camera.

“Hmmm. It does make sense. Good work, Applejack.” I told her. She just smiled all humble like and crossed her front legs together.

“Here’s the problem though.” I said, now causing Applejack to look at me.

“There’s only one set of hoof tracks. Looking at them, they all look the same. They all must belong to Zecora. Even if she was running from something, there’s no proof of somepony ACTUALLY there.” I told her, causing her to sport a glum look.

“Unless….” I started to say, before I walked back to Zecora’s hut. With Applejack close behind me.

I looked around to see if there were any clues to find during Zecora’s running away from whoever spooked her.

When we made it back, we walked inside to look around. It was small, so we had to make as much room as possible.

There was a table that was tipped over on its side. Maybe the suspect flung it over to get at Zecora. I also looked in a few jars that were on some shelves. There appeared to be bits in here. A decent amount from the looks of it. I’m starting to think robbery might not have been the motive here. Cause if it was, the suspect would have ransacked the place. And while there was a sign of a struggle, it didn’t look like the suspect stayed too long to take some of her things.

Then, I noticed a window open. I guess I didn’t catch that when I first walked in and saw Zecora on the ground.

I walked over and looked outside the window to find any clues. I mainly just saw a bunch of trees, branches, leaves, and birds.

Then, I looked down in a little flower bed that was outside the hut. I saw a single purple feather. I levitated it with my magic and took a close look. There’s only two types of creatures in Equestria that have feathers. Pegasi and Griffins.

I remembered the markings on the door that faces the Everfree Forest. It looked like some creature was punching and banging on the door to be let in.

Griffins have both wings and are the only creatures in Equestria, that I know of, that have claws. Dragons have claws too, but not feathers. They have scales. Griffins DO have feathers. From their wings.

Not to mention, Griffins are known to be pretty grumpy, if not angry, creatures in Equestria. Not all of them, but quite a bit of them. Could a Griffin be driven to murder though? I don’t think I’ve heard of a lot of stories about Griffins murdering other creatures that pissed them off or something.

Also, with both Griffins and Pegasi having wings, they could fly and not leave hoof tracks in the dirts. Back outside, there wasn’t another set of them. Only Zecora’s, possibly.

I put that feather in a plastic bag. I’ll send it to Cadaver in a little bit.

“Shadow, come here.” Applejack said aloud. I looked and saw she was standing next to some type of desk. Apparently, Zecora must like to write down some things. For spells, or possibly a diary.

She motioned me to look under the desk. I did so, and found what appeared to be some type of tool. I levitated it out from under the desk, and almost dropped it due to the shock of what I found. Applejack stumbled back a little bit.

It was a socket wrench handle. There was blood on the top of it. So, it appears this was the assailants weapon of choice. The assailant attacked Zecora with it, then threw it under the desk to get rid of the evidence.

Or, maybe he was in a hurry. I just thought that right now.

As I put the socket wrench handle in a bigger bag, I said a loud to Applejack, “I’m thinking I might know what happened.”

“Yeah? So, what’ve ya got?” She asked, looking interested.

“Some pony or creature was following, if not stalking Zecora on her way home. She notices it, then starts running home. The creature chases after her. She makes it inside, tries barricading the door while the suspect is trying to break it down. The suspect overpowers her and manages to break in. He proceeds to beat the ever loving shit out of her.” I explain to her.

Applejack shuttered. “That’s crazy.” She said.

I nodded. “Yes. However, there’s two things I’m also thinking.”

“What?”

I showed her the jars on the shelves. “One, robbery wasn’t the motive. If it was, he would have taken all her bits.” I said, now putting the jar back where it was.

“Okay. What’s number two?” She asked.

“I’m thinking your little sister unexpectedly saved Zecora’s life.” I said.

She looked surprised, her eyes widening. “What make’s ya say that?”

“When I was here with Zecora before the medics arrived, I saw that her wounds looked recent. Very recent. Like, it happened just now.” I said.

She looked shook. “So, y’all are saying…”

I nodded. “I’m thinking the suspect must’ve heard Apple Bloom coming, and fled the scene to not be discovered. He might have had an intention to murder Zecora, but flew away when he heard her coming from outside.” I showed her the purple feather. “Judging from this feather I found, the suspect is either a Pegasus pony or a Griffon.”I told her.

She took a quick look at the feather. “Hmm. Y’all ‘r right. And I’m leaning toward a Griffon.” Applejack said.

Again, I raised my eyebrow. “What makes ya say that?” I asked.

“Pegasus feathers are pretty small. Griffon feathers are pretty bigger. This feather looks bigger than a Pegasus.” She said.

“The Pegasus could be a bigger pony then normal ones, ya know.” I said.

She nodded. “True. True.” She said.

“Alright.” I said. “Let’s head back to your farm. I need to ask Apple Bloom some questions.”

“Why?” She asked.

“Well, one, I need her statement at what she found. And two, I need to ask her any little things she might’ve seen or heard while on her way to Zecora’s. Not to mention, anypony Zecora has had some history with recently. Any troubles or concerns. You know what I mean.” I told her.

She sighed. “Ah guess. Just go easy on her Shadow. She’s my baby sister.” She said.

I nodded in agreement. “Not to worry. I won’t hassle her. Now, let’s get outta here. This place is starting to creep me out.” I said.

She smiled all sly like at me as we walked away from Zecora’s hut. With Applejack leading the way.

-/- Sweet Apple Acres -/-

Applejack and I eventually made it back. As we walked through the back of the farm, a border collie came running out toward us. She started jumping over Applejack all crazy like. Barking and yipping. Guess, she was wondering where her owner was.

“Heh-heh-heh-heh, good girl Winona. I’m okay, ole’ girl.” She said, petting her loyal companion.

Next thing I knew, Winona came running at me and starting jumping on me. Pretty much asking me to pet her.

“Down girl.” Applejack said, which caused the dog to stop.

After that, we walked into the house and found Big Macintosh, Sugar Belle and Lady Smith(or Granny Smith as she was apparently called now, due to her being a Grandmother) in the living room consoling Apple Bloom. The little filly still looked worried out of her mind for Zecora. Poor thing.

Big Macintosh looked over at us walking in. I saw the look of distrust in his eyes.

“Ah see you two are back. What’d ya find?” He asked.

“Well, me and your sister found quite a bit. However, I need to ask Apple Bloom some questions.” I said.

The filly looked up at me with an intimidated expression. It was bad enough she was scared for her friend, but now she had to talk to a guy she didn’t entirely trust? I guess I can’t blame her for looking at me like that.

Big Macintosh, however, didn’t look like he liked that.

“Don’t ‘cha think she’s scared enough already? Ya can’t wait a little bit?” He asked, rather rudely to me.

This asshole is starting to piss me off. Big time.

“BIG MAC!” I heard Granny Smith exclaim to her grandson with a cross expression on her face.

“This stallion here is just doing his job. It’s basic protocol. There is no need ta be rude as you were just now.” She scolded him, which got a smile out of me.

Big Macintosh looked dejected. “But, Granny, Apple Bloom just-“ He started saying but was interrupted. By my partner.

“Why don’t y’all shut yer big mouth, before I do it myself, big brother. And y’all better watch yer tone, Mister.” Applejack said in a loud voice, showing she wasn’t fucking around.

Heh. That shut the bastard up.

Then, his wife spoke. “Sweetheart, he’s just doing his job. We need to do what he says, okay?” She said in a kind, gentle voice.

He snorted in defeat as he stood aside and allowed me to sit in front of Apple Bloom.

Applejack sat next to her little sister with an arm around her for comfort.

“It’s alright, little sis. Detective Shadow Haze wants to find out who hurt Zecora. I know he’s a bit scary looking, but he won’t hurt ya, I promise.” She said, in the most warm voice I’ve ever heard. Talk about sibling love.

Apple Bloom got a confused look on her face. “Didn’t you do the same thing with Zecora when she first came to Ponyville?” She asked.

Then, in a moment where I had to suppress a laugh, I saw Applejack get red in the face and pull her Stetson hat over her eyes.

“Ah thought we were past that.” She said in a low and embarrassed voice.

I’ll have to ask about that later.

“Apple Bloom?” I said, getting her attention. She turned to me, while still showing a bit of intimidation.

“All I need from you is to tell me what happened, as well as just a few questions about Zecora recently. Can you do that for me?” I told her.

She slowly nodded her head while not looking me in the eyes.

“Ah wanna help.” She said in a low, quivering voice.

I smiled and pulled out my notepad. Time to get stated on this case.

Author's Note

Hope ya like the chapter. Be sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thanks to all of you and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 3: A Trip to The Hospital

So, Apple Bloom gave me her statement. Apparently, she was gonna help Zecora organizing potions for spells. She was a few feet away from Zecora’s hut when she called out that she was here and ready to help. She then noticed the front door was ajar. She gently rapped on it, said she was coming in, and then opened the door to find Zecora’s lifeless body on the floor. She immediately runs back to get help.

After I wrote all that down, I started to ask her some questions.

“So, Apple Bloom, how long have you known Zecora, and how close are you two?” I asked.

I saw her make eye contact with me for a split second and then looked back at the ground.

“I’ve known her for about 2 and a half years now. Ah first met her when she first came to Ponyville. Every pony, even Applejack here, thought she was some “evil enchantress” or something. But, she was just a friendly zebra. I offered to help carry some heavy thangs for her. And we’ve been good friends ever since then.” She told me.

“And how often do you visit Zecora?” I asked.

“About once or twice a week. I help her with spells and potions and stuff. We have a nice brunch together. We talk about our week. That kanda stuff.” She said, still looking at the ground.

“I see. You two must be really great friends.” I said to her.

She nodded. “Yeah.” Then she looked back up at me with a fierce look on her face.

“Why Detective? Why did that have to happen to her? She hasn’t harmed anypony. She hasn’t done anything to deserve that. Who would do something like that to a good mare like her?” She asked me, sounding emotional.

“I don’t know, Apple Bloom. Maybe that is where you can help me.” I told her. She looked surprised there.

“Now, during these brunches you had with Zecora, did you ever notice anything off about her recently?” I asked the little filly.

“W-What da ya mean by off?” She asked.

“Any abnormal behavior. Maybe, she talks to you about somepony she doesn’t necessarily trust.” I told her.

She was quiet for a couple seconds before responding. “Well, two weeks ago was pretty weird. But, I didn’t think much of it.”

“Oh?” I said. “And what would that be?”

“Well, me and her walked to her hut after I caught up to her halfway through the Everfree Forest. When we were walking, she was looking around constantly. And she even looked out the windows of her hut when we made it there.” She told me.

I nodded. “Hmm. Was she ever like that before?”

She shook her head. “No. It felt like she thought somepony was watching us. And she never acted like that before.”

“Did you ask her why she was like that?”

Again, she shook her head no.

“Now, Apple Bloom, I look at you and I see a pretty smart filly.” I told her. She rubbed the back of her head with an embarrassing look on her face.

“Well, I do get good grades in school.” She said.

“That’s good. However, what I was thinking, was you seem, to me anyway, like a filly who sees and hears things. And can form an opinion. So, my question is, whenever you walked around town, did you hear anypony talk about Zecora? Anypony you think didn’t like her, and even might want to hurt her?” I explained to her.

“I don’t know. I haven’t seen anypony in town give her looks when she’s in town. And I haven’t heard ponies talking behind her back.” She told me.

“How often does she come to town?” I asked her.

“A few times a week. She comes to this store that makes herbs and grass thingy’s. I think it’s called Guatemalan or something.” She said to me.

“Okay, one last question and I promise we’re done. Okay Apple Bloom?” I said. She nodded. I saw Big Macintosh give a silent snort. Guess he can’t wait for me to leave.

“Now, before you entered Zecora’s hut, did you see or hear anything before you found her like that?” I asked.

She thought for a quick sec before responding. “Well, I think I heard some cha-chink sound. I guess I thought Zecora musta dropped something.”

After I wrote that all down, I closed up my notepad and stood up. “Thank You Apple Bloom. You’ve been a brave little filly.” I told her. She actually smiled a little at me.

Could she maybe start warming up to me?

“And I promise I’m gonna find the one who did this to your friend.” I said, before I heard my phone go off.

I took it out and it read Ponyville Hospital. Guess I’m gonna get the news right now.

I excused myself and walked off toward the front door to have this conversation in private.

“Shadow Haze.” I answered.

“Detective, this Nurse Redheart.” The mare on the other line said.

“How’d you get my number?” I asked.

“Princess Twilight Sparkle gave it to me not too long ago.” She said.

I probably should be pissed Twilight gave my number to somepony I don’t even know, but I guess if it’s a future victim, they can contact me instantly and not have to wait. So, I guess I get why she did it.

“Anyway, I need to see you right away. It’s about Zecora.” She told me.

My nerves started to pick up. If this mare tells me Zecora is dead, I don’t know how I’m gonna tell Apple Bloom this.

“What’s the scoop? Is she okay?” I asked.

“I’ll let you know when you come here. But, please come. I think I have something you’d might like to see.” She said.

I told her alright, and then hung up. What could he so important that she can’t tell me over the phone? And why didn’t she tell me if Zecora is alright or not?

I walked back into the living room and motioned for Applejack.

“Come on. We gotta head over to the Hospital. Nurse Redheart says she needs to see us.” I told her.

She nodded. Just before she was about to leave with me, Apple Bloom followed too.

“Can Ah come too? I wanna know if Zecora is okay.” She said.

Big Macintosh stepped in again. Ugh, this big fucker.

“Ah think y’all should stay here, little sis. Let them handle it.” He told her. He made it look like he was wanting us to do our jobs. When in reality, he just didn’t want his baby sister to be alone with me. Even though Applejack was with me too.

Talk about untrustworthy much.

Applejack sneered at her big brother. “Big Mac, Apple Bloom just wants to know if Zecora’s alright. She can come just this once. It’s not like she’s gonna be on this investigation.” She said to him.

Just before Big Macintosh said anything else, Sugar Belle stepped in.

“If it makes you feel better, I’ll tag along too, sweetheart. After we get the word from Nurse Redheart, I’ll take Apple Bloom home. Okay?” She said. Sugar Belle seemed like a sweet mare. Why she married this overprotective assface is beyond me, but beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, I guess.

He snorted in defeat. “Eeyup.” He said. Sugar Belle kissed him and then her and Apple Bloom walked out with us.

I swore I saw Granny Smith look at Big Macintosh with disappointing eyes. Can’t say I blame her.

As we walked over to the Ponyville Hospital, again I saw the townsfolk giving me looks of fear, lust, and untrustworthiness. I especially saw the untrustworthiness in some mare with a pink coat and blonde mane and tail. With a pair of cherries for a cutie mark. She looked like she’d try to fight me before speaking with me. The keyword being try.

As the looks toward me continued on, for some reason I looked behind me at Apple Bloom. I don’t know why, but she had her head down in a look of…..shame, was it? Sympathy? Was she feeling bad with the look she gave me earlier at the farm?

Applejack, on the other hoof, just shook her head in disgust at every pony looking at us. She looked like she was ashamed at every pony in town right now.

Guess it’s nice to have some ponies have my back.

We made it to the hospital and proceeded to walk inside. As we walked in, I saw Sugar Belle look like a chill ran down her spine. She was walking at the back of us. With Apple Bloom walking in front of her.

Applejack leaned in toward me to tell me something.

“Sugar Belle hates hospitals. Some pony she knew died here, and she was here to see it.” She whispered to me.

Damn. That’s perfectly understandable why some pony would hate hospitals. Not to mention, all the sick, injured ponies here as well.

Anyway, after we quickly spoke to the receptionist at the front door, we took the elevator to the 3rd floor. This floor had an Emergency Unit on it. Intensive Care to be exact. This was where Zecora went after being taken away from her hut.

We walked into a waiting room where I saw a pony waiting for us. She had a white coat and a pink mane and tail. She all look so had a medical symbol for a cutie mark, as well as a matching hat.

This must be the pony who called me. Nurse Redheart.

She walked up to us. “Good afternoon Applejack. And you two Apple Bloom and Sugar Belle.” She said to them. They nodded at her with a smile.

She quickly turned to me with an intense look on her face. “Are you Detective Shadow Haze?” She asked.

I flashed my badge at her. “Does that answer your question?” I asked.

“Yes, good.” She said. “I need to speak to you in private about Zecora.”

Apple Bloom butted in. “Is she okay?” She asked.

“I’ll have to tell you after I give Shadow Haze here an update on her.” She said.

“You mean me and Applejack? She is my partner for this case, ya know.” I told her.

She looked surprised and confused at once. “Wait. How did-“

“It’s a long story.” I interrupted her. “Anything you can tell me, you can tell her.” She looked at Applejack, who had her serious face on.

Redheart sighed. “Very well. Come with me.” She said, as me and Applejack followed her over to what apparently was Zecora’s room.

As we walked away, I heard Sugar Belle say to Apple Bloom, “Come on, sweetie. We’ll wait here.”

It’s good to know that Sugar Belle treats both her sister-in-laws well. I know some ponies who treat them as if they are nothing. They may flat out hate their in laws. Can’t say I blame them for it, because let’s face it, in laws can be douchey, unlikeable pieces of shit. But, it’s good to know the Apple Sisters treat Sugar Belle like family.

We walked into room 1513. And when I saw Zecora, I almost felt an urge of anger built up inside of me. Keyword being almost.

Zecora was in a medically induced coma. She was layed on the bed with her head wrap up in gauze and bandages. There was a ventilator covering her muzzle for oxygen. And I assumed there must be a tube down her throat to feed her and give her fluids.

Applejack pulled her Stetson hat down in front of her face again. I could tell it was hard for her to look at her friend like that.

“So, what’s up?” I asked Nurse Redheart, hoping I wasn’t gonna hear what I think I was gonna hear.

“Well” She started. “I have good news and bad news. Which would you like me to start with?”

“I’d start with bad first. Get it outta the way.” I said.

Redheart nodded. “Bad news is Zecora has suffered a major concussion. And we’re worried about internal bleeding. We don’t know if there is yet, but it is a possibility she might have it. Also, her kidney was bruised as well. Whoever did this, completely brutalized her.” She told us.

I nodded. I was glad what she was telling me wasn’t what I was thinking.

“Alright, so what’s the good news?” I asked.

She smiled a smile full of relief. “Good news is that because of you and my medical staff getting there as quick as they could, we were able to save Zecora’s life. Other than the injuries I just told you, Zecora will live.” She said.

Before I could respond, a huge sigh of relief came out of Applejack’s mouth, causing me to turn to her.

She had her hoof on her chest. “Thank Goodness.” She said.

Yes. Thank Goodness indeed.

“You two are lucky you got there when you did. If you guys would’ve came there 20 minutes later, Zecora would’ve died.” Redheart said to us.

That caused a chill to run down Applejack’s spine, I could tell. It’s just amazing how much time can be the biggest factor in everything.

“What else can you tell me about?” I asked her.

“Well, I also found traces of spit on her face.” She told me.

I suddenly felt a rush of panic run through me. “You don’t mean she was raped, do you?” I asked.

She shook her head at me, causing me to calm down.

“No, I mean he spit on her face. As in a sign of disrespect. He attacked her and then spit in her face.” She said.

Insult to injury, huh? That sounds interesting.

“How long until Zecora comes out of the coma?” Applejack asked.

“Well, that’s even better news. Even if we are worried about internal bleeding, the suspects attacks weren’t big enough to make her go into a long coma. So, at worst, she’ll be in a coma for two, maybe two and a half weeks. At the best, only 5 to 6 days. So, she will come out of this soon, I can promise you that.” She told us.

This was good to hear. Now, when she wakes up and if we don’t have anything, she can tell us who assaulted her.

Hopefully, she doesn’t have amnesia or something.

We thanked her for the info and left, which Nurse Redheart took that as a sign to get back to work.

We came back into the waiting room. And I swear, once Sugar Belle and Apple Bloom saw us, the little Apple filly damn near sky rocketed out of her seat and ran toward us.

“Well? Well? What is it? Is Zecora gonna be okay? Huh? Is she?” She asked, both sounding scared, nervous and excited all at once. She had her front hooves on Applejack’s chest and started hopping up and down like crazy.

I cleared my throat to get her attention. Sugar Belle walked over to us as I told Apple Bloom everything that Nurse Redheart told us.

The little filly did the same thing that Applejack did when she was given the good news. She gave a huge sigh of relief and uttered, “Thank Goodness.”

Sugar Belle heard everything I told Apple Bloom. “So, how long until Zecora is out of her coma?” She asked, which caused me to tell her what Nurse Redheart told us. She looked relieved to hear that as well.

“Alright.” I said. “I’m gonna deliver the evidence we gathered to my pathologist, Cadaver.”

I turned to Applejack, who had my full attention. “Applejack, you can head on home with Apple Bloom and Sugar Belle. I’ll let you know if I discover anything.” I told her.

She nodded in agreement. “You got it, Detective. Let me know as soon as you find something.” She said.

“I will.” I told her.

She then walked out of the hospital with her little sister and sister-in-law back to Sweet Apple Acres.

I teleported the pictures of the hoof tracks, the feather, and the socket wrench handle over to the Ponyville Morgue. I even texted him what was going on. Hopefully, I didn’t interrupt him while he was doing something.

As for me, I walked out of the hospital as well. Back to the Castle of Friendship. I’m gonna go over some old case notes. Because, after what I just heard from Burse Redheart, as well as the evidence I’ve gathered, I’m thinking I know what the motive was. At least, I hope I’m right.

However, if I don’t find too much, I know I’m gonna need to contact somepony.

-/- Castle of Friendship -/-

I looked through some old case files. Some from when I was on the force, some from after I left the force, some from before I left the force, and even some before my time even on the force. It’s amazing with all this history here. Although, I’ve always been a big history buff. Especially, old cases from back in the day.

And while I found some interesting stuff here, I still needed some ideas. So, that’s when I decided to call somepony for help.

After a few rings, I heard on the other line,
“Angel Blossom.”

I smiled at the sound of her voice. “Hey. Good to hear from ya.”

I could tell she was surprised when she heard my voice. She always was adorable when she got flustered.

“S-S-Shadow Haze? What are you doing calling me out of the blue?” She asked me in an excited tone.

“What? I can’t call my on again off again girlfriend?” I asked in a teasing way. I loved to tease her.

She was stuttering for a quick second. That also was adorable. I just wish I could see her doing it. That would’ve been better. Thankfully, she managed to calm down and speak in a professional voice.

“That depends. Are we even on right now? You’re not fucking some random slut?” She asked.

I shook my head. “I’m not gonna deny that there are some mares here that are interested in me. And, sorry to say, I might, keyword being might, be interested in them. But, I’m not. You know my willingness to work.” I told her.

She snorted in annoyance over the phone. “What do you need, Shadow?” She asked me. Guess she knew that this was about business. She could tell I joked around with her first when I was in business mode. If I was in a bad mood, she’d know when I start insulting her and shit. Which is an admitted dick move on my part.

“I need you to look into any criminals from Ponyville, or anywhere near it, that may have committed any crimes, mainly assault or murder on zebra’s. A zebra who lives here was just assaulted and almost murdered by an unknown assailant.” I explained to her.

“Oh My God. How bad is it?” She asked me.

“The victims name is Zecora. She’s in a medically induced coma. Nurse said it could be two and a half weeks before she comes out of it.” I told her.

“Zecora?! She was the one?” She asked, actually sounding surprised.

“You know Zecora?” I asked her.

“No.” She told me. “But, I do have some info on her family. She has a brother who was assaulted by somepony 7 months ago. His name is Zakwani.” She told me.

A brother? That’s interesting.

“What can you tell me about that?” I asked her.

“Well, he survived with a concussion and broken ribs, as well as a punctured spleen. He was lucky to survive. As far as who it was, we still haven’t found anything. As far as we know, the suspect might’ve left town.” She told me.

“Wouldn’t it be a major coincidence if this same suspect who assaulted Zakwani also assaulted Zecora?” I asked her.

“It could be possible. Because of what Zakwani told us.” She said.

“And what’s that?” I asked.

“He told us that the suspect called him racial obscenities while he assaulted him. And that he could hurt his whole family as well.” She told me.

Oh, so the suspect is a racist piece of shit toward Zebra’s, huh? Zecora’s assault might have a new motive now.

“Alright, would you send me everything about that case to me? You can just text it to my phone. And I’ll have Cadaver analyze it.” I asked her.

She sighed. “I might get in trouble with Captain Carothers, but if it can help find Zakwani’s assailant, I’ll do it. Just don’t let him know that I sent it to you.” She said.

I smiled. “Thanks.”

“No problem.” She said.

We were silent for a few seconds before she spoke again.

“It feels good talking to you again, Shadow.” She said.

“Yeah. It feels good talking to you too.” I said.

“Sorry about the comment with the sluts. That was uncalled for.” She told me in a sheepish tone.

My heart started to beat a bit. “Eh, it’s no big deal.” I said.

“Ya know, when I have some time off, maybe I could come and visit you. We could do something together.” She told me. I could tell she had a pink hue in her cheeks.

I have a feeling I have it too. I get that way sometimes when I talk with the mare I have some type of romantic feelings for.

“That’d be nice.” I said.

“Yeah. Well, I guess I’ll see ya later.” She said.

“Yeah, thanks and catch ya later.” I said, hanging up.

Sweet Celestia, that was difficult in the last few minutes. Well, at least now I have a lead on this case.

And hopefully, it can help me catch the racist fucker that did this.

Author's Note

Make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 4: Evidence and Regrets

-/- Sweet Apple Acres -/-

It was about 8:30 in the morning as I was walking over to Applejack’s family farm. Before I walked up to the door, I still couldn’t help but be amazed by the beauty of this place. Any family would be lucky to have a farm this great looking. I remember as a colt growing up, one of my cousins(or “Other Sisters” as they called themselves; I eventually accepted them as such) said that she would love to buy a farm one day and raise a family on it.

At that time, I thought she was thinking foolishly, but now I could kinda see why she would say such a thing. Yes, there would be a lot of hard work, which could result in whiny kids complaining about too much of it, but even so it would seem nice to live in a great place like this.

Though, that’s one of my family talking. Me, I’m perfectly fine living where I am now.

Even if some of the town folk don’t trust me entirely.

Anyway, I walked under the big Sweet Apple Acres sign and saw Big Macintosh pulling a plow through some soil. With how big and strong he is, I can see why this must be one of his main jobs. Bucking is Applejack’s specialty apparently.

He made a quick glance at me, snorted with distrust in his eyes, and continued plowing.

Guess somepony still doesn’t trust me.

I knocked at the door and waited a few seconds before Apple Bloom answered it. When she saw me, I saw quite a few emotions go through her in a flash.

First was surprise. She must not have expected me early here. She might’ve thought I’m a mid afternoon guy, which I kinda am.

Second, she had that same look of intimidation on her face, like I see so many other townsfolk have. Guess she still is a little afraid of me.

Third, she had that quick thought of get a grip and stop being scared. I saw her eyes close for a quick sec, while she shook her head fast.

Fourth, and lastly, she put on a smile. And not just any smile. No, this was one of the many smiles I see on Pinkie Pie every fucking day. It could be annoying, ya know.

When I saw this smile on Apple Bloom, it really felt like she was trying to show she wasn’t scared of me. And that she was trying to make me feel welcome.

The keyword for both of those being try.

“Howdy, Mister Shadow Haze. What brings ya here to our neck o’ tha woods?” She asked me, trying(again) to sound humble.

“Where’s your sister? I need to speak with her.” I said to her.

“She’s in the South field bucking apples.” She told me, before looking interested.

“Have ya found anything about Zecora’s attacker?” She asked me, sounding excited. She even put her front hooves on me while her back legs stayed on the ground. And she was even wagging her tail like the dog, Winona.

Yes. I said that. That actually happened.

“I think so.” I said, as I walked away from the front door. I heard Apple Bloom follow me as I made my way to the South field.

-/-

I heard the wacking sounds as I approached Applejack. She was currently covered in sweat, even wiping some off of her forehead.

“Hey Shadow Haze.” She greeted me, while panting.

“Applejack, I think I’ve found a lead.” I told her. She instantly stopped doing what she was doing and looked interested, like Apple Bloom was just a few moments ago.

“Ya do? What is it?” She asked me.

“Well, according to one of my old coworkers from when I was on the force, she told me there was a similar attack on another zebra. This one being in New Colt City. My home town.” I told her.

They both looked interested. “Okay. But, what does that have ta do with Zecora?” Applejack asked.

“The victim of that attack was her brother.” I told them.

They both let out a huge gasp. “WHAT?!” They said at the exact same time.

I turned and looked at Apple Bloom. Her eyes with a bit of intimidation in them.

“Now, Apple Bloom, did Zecora ever mention to you the name Zakwani? Her older brother?” I asked her.

She thought for a moment before she gave me her answer.

“Well, Ah didn’t ask too much ‘bout her family. But, I thought I did hear her one time mention a niece she has.” She said to me.

“Did she tell you her name?” I asked. She shook her head.

“So, ya think this was a personal attack on Zecora? Or her brother?” Applejack asked me.

Before I answered, I said to Apple Bloom, “Hey Kiddo, I’m gonna need you to leave this part to me and your big sis. So, can you give us some privacy?”

“But, Ah wanna help too.” Apple Bloom said, with a hint of a whine in her voice.

Applejack gave her little sister a stern look. “AB, do what Shadow tells ya. This is our case here. Y’all aren’t involved like us. So, why don’t y’all go and feed the pigs?” She told her.

Apple Bloom snorted with a somewhat pouty look on her face. “Fine.” She said as she walked away.

Now that it was just me and Applejack, I was able to tell her what I believe was the motive for this assault on Zecora. And Zakwani too.

“So, what do y’all think it is?” Applejack asked me.

I sighed before I told her, “I’m thinking this was a hate crime.”

Applejack looked stunned for a few seconds. And before she could say anything, I heard my phone go off. It was a text from my pathologist, Cadaver.

Shadow, I need to see you immediately. I’ve got something from the evidence you gave me.

“Come on, Applejack. Cadaver needs to us.” I told her. She agreed and walked with me over to our destination.

-/- Cadaver Clinic -/-

“This isn’t the first time our mystery assailant has attacked somepony. Mainly, another zebra.” Cadaver told us. He had the socket wrench handle on a table in front of us. There was still blood on it, although it did appear that he had taken samples from it. As well as any hair fibers from Zecora’s coat.

“Y’all mean that the guy used this same socket wrench handle on another zebra before?” Applejack asked.

Cadaver nodded. “I looked through the evidence from Zakwani’s attack in New Colt City and compared it to Zecora’s attack. Both of them had been hit in the head with this very socket wrench handle. And both had facial and head injuries as well.” He told us, before taking out pictures from Zakwani’s attack.

“I also found this too. Both attacks appeared to have shown traces of motor oil. This socket wrench handle has been used, apparently, to do auto work. On machines, wheels, things like that.” He said to us.

“So, our guy is a mechanic.” I said.

“It appears so.” Cadaver told us. “I also think that this attack on Zecora was poorly done. Sloppy.”

“What makes you say that?” I asked him.

He then brought out pictures of both Zecora and Zakwani’s attack. “Zakwani’s head injury was to the back of his head. And according to Angel Blossom’s report, he said he never got a look at him. The assailant attacked him from behind.” He explained to us.

“Now, with Zecora, it’s different. There was facial scars on her, as well as head injuries. There was evidence of her running from her mystery attacker, as well as attempting to barricade the door. She may not have known who her attacker was, but I am 100% positive she saw him. Face to face. I’m thinking, the attacker was going to kill her, however he got distracted by somepony outside. So, he throws the socket wrench handle down to try and get rid of evidence.” He told us.

“Wait.” I stopped him before he continued on. “Why would he throw his weapon away? Wouldn’t it make more sense for him to take it with him? I mean, there’s evidence that our mystery attacker is either a Griffon or a Pegasi.”

“I’m thinking because he didn’t expect somepony, so he panicked. With Zakwani, he must’ve had the perfect scenario to attack him. He must’ve been in an alleyway where no pony can see him.” Cadaver told me. This shit keeps getting more interesting.

“But, why didn’t he kill Zakwani then?” Applejack asked. “If he had him in the perfect place to do it, why not then?”

“Well, and this is just my opinion, I think he had no intention to murder Zakwani. I think he wanted to brutally assault him. Then, after he kinda got away with it…” He stopped and paused.

So, I continued for him. “He figures he wants to take it a step further. Commit murder. However, his plans are interrupted by Apple Bloom, which he doesn’t expect to happen, he panics, throws away the socket wrench handle, and flees the scene.”

Cadaver nodded. “Yes. And when Zecora eventually wakes up, unless she doesn’t suffer any memory loss, I’m certain she can identify her attacker.” He said.

“Have you found a DNA sample?” I asked him.

“It’s taking a bit, but it should be available by later tonight. And, I’m almost positive it’s a Griffon that attacked her and Zakwani.” Cadaver said.

“How can you tell?” I asked.

“The size of the purple feather you found. As well, I found traces of what appear to be a talon mark. Griffons have talons as hooves. It would make sense that he would have a good grip on it.” He told us.

So, Applejack was right. It was a Griffon that did this. She was pretty smart. Although, I still wonder how she could tell the difference between Griffon feathers and pony feathers.

Anyway, I thanked Cadaver and me and Applejack walked out. I took a look at her with her head to the ground.

“Something wrong, Applejack?” I asked her.

She gave a sigh. “I just feel uncomfortable that some creature, ANY creature would want to harm another just because of their race.” She told me.

“Applejack, I can be the first to tell you that I have seen SO many hate crimes when I was in New Colt City. Hate crimes aren’t as common, but they also aren’t as unlikely. It’s sad, but it’s true.” I told her.

She had her head down in shame.

I guess she didn’t think race would come into this crime. Unfortunately, there has been a lot of times, even back when I was on the force, when race came into the motive or reasoning for a type of crime.

Not just race either. Genders too. Some were victims simply because of the fact that they were born male or female. And the same could be said about race too. Victims only because they were Zebra’s, Griffon’s, Yak’s, Dragon’s, Hippogriff’s, you name it. There’s also been crimes against ponies of a differing sexual orientation. There’s been several rapes and murders of gay stallions and lesbian mares and transgender ponies, simply because of who they are.

It just sickens me sometimes to see stuff like that.

“Are y’all sure?” She asked me softly. I nodded.

“Yeah. But, let’s be frank: it’s not just criminals that commit these hate crimes that are racist. Some are average everyday ponies like me and you. And this may seem horrible to say, but I truly think all of us have some type of prejudice in us. Whether we like to admit it or not.”

Applejack then looked at me with the most intense glare I’d ever seen from the other Elements of Harmony. And I thought Rainbow Dash gave a good one.

“Are y’all suggesting I’m racist too?” She angrily asked me.

“No. That’s not it at all.” I said.

“Then what? Huh?”

I sighed. “I’m just saying I think every creature in all of Equestria has SOME type of view or opinion on any type of creature. Now it could mean they could be flat out racist toward that species. Or, maybe, they see them and view them as a stereotype, but don’t necessarily hate them or treat them any different. Or, and this is a big one, they could just look at them on the surface and just form an opinion based on how they look.” I explained to her. She still had that glare on her face.

“Stuff like this is difficult to talk about, Applejack. I know. I am NOT calling you or trying to label anypony here as racist or prejudice. I’m just saying ALL of us here have been guilty at one point and time of being scared of or judging some creature based on how they view them.” I told her in the most gentle way I could.

She snorted at me. “Kinda like how every pony looks at you?” She asked me.

I knew she’d go there. So, I guess I’ll go with this.

“Didn’t Apple Bloom tell me you and your friends all thought Zecora was evil, just because she was a Zebra and looked different?” I asked her.

I saw the look on her face change from a glare to a look of regret and shame. She tilted her Stetson hat over her eyes.

“Ah don’t like to talk about that, Detective.” She said in a low voice.

“You feel terrible don’t you?” I asked. She didn’t answer. Just kept that position she was in.

“You’re ashamed because you feel you discriminated against somepony, because they looked different. And as an Element of Harmony, you’re supposed to be better than that. Am I right?” I asked her. Again, she didn’t answer, but I thought I heard a small sniffle.

Was she starting to get choked up?

“Applejack, it’s okay.” I told her.

She then lifted her Stetson hat up to look into my eyes. There were very small tears in them. As well as an angry look on her face.

“No, it’s not okay.” She said, raising her voice. I guess I should just let her vent right now. “Y’all talk about stereotypes and stuff, we’ll let’s talk about me. When Ah did that, Ah feel like Ah enforced a stereotype for ponies like me. A country farm girl, who hates other creatures and believes all ponies and other creatures should be separated.” She told me, which was then followed by a shudder. She looked almost sick. Wonder what for.

“Ah also have heard rumors that some ponies ACTUALLY think that Ah have sexual relations with mah siblings. As well as mah cousins from other parts of Equestria.” She said, now looking me super close in the eyes. I mean, her muzzle was literally a centimeter close to touching mine.

“Do you know how SICK that is, Detective? Do you know how much it bothers me that ponies ACTUALLY think Ah fuck mah brother? That’s fucking disgusting. And I’d NEVER do something as horrifying as that. Ah’d rather kill myself then do that sick, demented shit. And anypony who enjoys shit like that should get some fucking mental help.” She ranted toward me.

I completely understand what she’s saying. Because farm girls and country ponies like her DO get stereotyped as that. Being racist, KKK supporting, in-breeding, alcoholic crazy ponies. And it IS sick. The racist part is one thing, but INCEST?

That is fucked up!

Applejack continued on. “Ah felt horrible that Ah didn’t treat Zecora right the first time Ah saw her. And the fact that Ah didn’t, makes me think that maybe Ah am a little prejudiced.” She said, as a small tear rolled down her face.

I sighed as I took a tissue out from my coat pocket. I keep tissues on me in case I got a cold while investigating a case.

She smiled, took it, and wiped her eyes with it.

“I get it Applejack. We all at some point think we have committed some type of prejudicial action, even if it wasn’t intended. But, that doesn’t mean you’re like the guy who attacked Zecora and Zakwani. Okay? You aren’t ANYTHING like them. And don’t think that you are, or I’ll arrest you for being stupid.” I told her with a joking grin.

She sniffled with a smile again and nodded. “Thanks Detective. Ah needed to get that off mah chest.” She said.

I smiled and nodded. “And just between you and me: I think incest is fucking disgusting too.”

She rolled her eyes. “Ah know. Big Mac is mah big brother. Mah Ma woulda whipped us if she found us doing that. And Daddy too.”

She continued to talk to me about her family as we walked back into town. It’s good to know ponies like her can learn from their actions from before and want to be better. Because, and this may sound mean spirited and too brutally honest to say, but a lot of the the time, ponies can’t learn from their mistakes to save their lives. No matter how hard they try.

I’m just glad I met somepony who is different.

So, after Applejack went home, I headed back to the Castle of Friendship. I got a Hayburger from a random stand in town. I got hay fries and a soda to go with it. I figured, if I’m gonna look over some case notes, I might as well eat while doing it.

Then, I was met with a big surprise when I came to the front door of the Castle.

There was a zebra standing right there. He looked about 7 or 8 maybe even 9 years older then me. And I instantly knew who it was. Based on the photos I saw of him from the reports Angel Blossom gave me.

It was Zakwani. Zecora’s older brother. What the hell is he doing here?

Chapter 5: Finding a Criminal

While I stood there with my food still encased in my magic, I noticed there was another pair of hooves underneath the male zebra in front of the Castle of Friendship. The pair of hooves looked smaller then the adults. And when I saw a head peak out from under the male zebras legs, I was even more surprised then when I first looked at him.

It was a little zebra filly. She had a black coat with white polka dots. A rare type of coat for a zebra. She even had a little pink bow on her. It kinda looked like Apple Bloom’s bow. This must be Zakwani’s daughter.

So, that must mean this is Zecora’s niece. The one Apple Bloom said Zecora mentioned in passing.

The zebra filly hid her face a little bit behind her fathers black and white tail. I’m guessing she feels intimidated of me. Can’t say I don’t understand why. She’s a little girl looking into a stallion who looks like a demon from hell.

Zakwani then looked down at the zebra filly and spoke to her.

“It is okay sweetheart.” He said, now turning his head up to look at me.

“Are you Detective Shadow Haze?” He asked me.

I nodded. “Yes. I am. You must be Zakwani. Zecora’s brother.”

“That I am. I’d also like you to meet my daughter, Zara.” He said, presenting her to me. And even nudging her over to me with his muzzle.

When I saw the filly up close, I realized that Zara looked to be about the same age as Apple Bloom. Maybe she can make a new friend.

I kneeled down to be at her level. “Nice to meet you, little filly.” I said to her, extending my hoof.

However, she quickly backpedaled over to her daddy, hiding under his legs again.

Zakwani chuckled a little bit. “I apologize that she doesn’t much reply. She’s very, very shy.” He said, apparently rhyming. Odd.

Any way, I did look over at Zara, and I could see a little red hue on her face. She looked embarrassed. Poor thing probably doesn’t even know what this place is. Or is not used to pony’s like me.

“Did Detective Angel Blossom send you?” I looked up and asked Zakwani.

“That she did.” He said while nodding with a smile on his face. “Although, I am quite surprised that you live with The Elements of Harmony. To live in such a Castle, it must fill you with such glee.”

He rhymed again. Weird. “Well, I wouldn’t say it fills me with glee, but it’s a nice place to stay. My old crappy apartment would prove that.” I told him. Okay, I think I should get down to business.

“So, I take it you and your daughter are here because of what happened to your sister Zecora?” I asked him.

After I did that, I saw that pretty warm smile go away and turn into an ice cold straight faced look. It felt almost unsettling. The keyword being almost, because I’ve had that look on my face almost all the time.

“Where is the hospital? We need to see her.” He told me. He seems really worried about her. I wonder how close they are. Could they be like how close me and Melody Rays are? Or my other sisters?

I sighed as I walked over to the front door of the Castle of Friendship. “Follow me.” I said, motioning him to follow me. He did.

However, Zara didn’t follow at first. She looked scared to go into somepony else’s home. Who she doesn’t even know.

Zakwani reassured her it was okay, and Zara walked into the Castle of Friendship with us. Slowly, I should say.

“It is an honor to be in such a castle. I just hope me and my daughters’ presence is no hassle.” He said, following me into the big room with the map of Equestria on it.

And there he goes rhyming again. What is that?

“I don’t think the Elements of Harmony would have a problem with you or your daughter her, Zakwani.” I said to him.

Before I began to ask him what I wanted to ask him, I saw Zara looking around the room in amazement. She looked so infatuated with this Castle. It was like she was a princess in one of those old fairy tales. She even looked amazed at the Cutie Map.

And if I’m speaking for anypony who would see this right now, she looked so adorable.

“Zakwani, I have some questions for you. Regarding your attack in New Colt City 7 months ago. Also, about Zecora as well.” I told him.

I saw him nod his head at me. “Yes. Detective Angel Blossom told me everything about what you had discovered when that evil creature attacked my little sister.” He said, as he sat down on a chair next to me. Looking at the chair, this looked like the chair that Rarity sat in. I took the seat next to him.

“Now, when you were attacked, did you see your attacker?” I asked him.

He shook his head. “No. The coward attacked from behind. And yelled things at me that were most unkind.” He said, again rhyming. I’m thinking I’m gonna have to get used to this.

“What kinds of things did he yell at you? Also, can you describe the attack itself?” I asked him.

He snorted in anger before he retold the series of unfortunate events. “The coward hit me with an object that felt to be metallic. And the things he yelled, you would believe he was quite manic.” He told me, looking upset. He was probably more upset now than he was 7 months ago.

Another rhyme again.

“The things he yelled were offensive to my kind. And the way he spoke them, let’s just say he was quite defined.” He said, rhyming again.

“Well, for the record, you can tell me what he said. Even if it is offensive.” I told him.

He turned his head to see Zara looking at us. She appeared to not want to hear what it was that the attacker said to her Daddy.

So, he motioned me to bring my ear over to him. He whispered that word in my ear. The word that has been said by quite a bit of ponies, as well as other creatures too, toward Zebra’s. The word that, unfortunately, has been around maybe even before Princess Celestia and Luna themselves founded Equestria.

“I see. And is it true that he threatened to hurt your family as well?” I asked him.

He nodded again. “He tell me he can get away with what he has done. And if I report him, me and my family, the next time he see us, he will have a gun.” He told me. I guess now I’m getting used to his rhyming.

“Did you know your attacker?” I asked him.

“No, never met him before. And other than what I know now, I don’t want to know more.” He said.

I wrote down what he said on my notepad. “Side question, did you smell motor oil on him? We found traces of a smell of that when we found Zecora.” I told him.

He thought for a moment, and then made a quick realization. “Yes, I did! I did smell that very oil. And I thought, regarding my belongings, he was going to despoil.” He told me. Do all Zebra’s rhyme all the time when they form a sentence?

While he was telling me everything that happened to him, I saw Zara walking around the large room we were in, just taking in the view. She looked starstruck.

Man, she looked so cute.

“Okay.” I said to Zakwani. “Now, did you report your attack to the police when it happened?” I asked him.

He nodded. “I did. I reported it to Angel Blossom. When she saw my injuries, I saw she was quite numb.” There goes the rhyming again.

“So, what happened with this case? It just went cold?” I asked him.

“No. They found the creature who did this. They just couldn’t capture him. Because the coward fled New Colt City.” He told me.

Oh, that is interesting. “What’s the suspects name? Did they tell you?” I asked.

“They say his name is Gavin.” He said.

Okay. So, the suspects name is Gavin. Originally a New Colt City native(like tour’s truly), he commits an act of brutal assault. Then, flees his hometown like a little bitch.

So, he moves here to Ponyville. Small, quiet town. Tries to start a new life.

Possibly, with a new name. Not to mention, with all that happened to Zecora, he’s probably planning to flee Ponyville now too.

I better hurry up and figure out who this “Gavin” guy is.

“Alright, thanks Zakwani. You’ve been a big help. And I promise I am gonna find the racist fucker that did this to you and your sister.” I told him.

He smiled at me. “Thank You Detective Shadow Haze.” He said, extending his hoof to me. I accepted the hoof and shook it.

“Detective Angel Blossom did say some good things about you. Although, I got the impression she liked other things too.” He told me, kinda showing a teasing glance.

I lowered my head. I liked a few things about Angel too. Her physical features were quite nice.

“Uh, thank you. Anyway, would you like me to escort you and Zara to the Hospital now?” I asked him.

He looked excited. “I would like that.” He said. He called for Zara to come. She did.

As we walked out of the Castle of Friendship, I grabbed my food. I guess I’ll just eat it in the way over to the Ponyville Hospital.

-/- Ponyville Hospital -/-

I had to look away when Zakwani and Zara looked through the glass window of the room where Zecora was staying in. Her being in a medically induced coma brought out tears in there eyes.

“Auntie Zecora.” I heard Zara softly utter with a bit of a small sob coming from her throat.

Zakwani, however, didn’t say anything. He just stood there. Looking at his younger sister in the state that she was in. Tears ran down his face. His lip quivered. Sniffles ran through his nostrils.

Nurse Redheart did tell them that Zecora was gonna be okay. However, that didn’t stop them from feeling the way they felt now.

As they continued to look on, I heard voices coming down this way. I looked in the direction at which it was coming from.

It was the Apple Family. This time, all of them. Big Macintosh(whom I call Happy Hayburger), my partner on this case, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Sugar Belle(Big Mac’s wife), and Granny Smith.

I had no idea all of them were gonna be here. I guess, Zecora is a great friend to the entire Apple family. Not just Apple Bloom.

“Howdy, Shadow.” Applejack said, as they approached us. I saw Zakwani and Zara look over at them as well. While me and Zakwani turned to face them, Zara hid behind her father again.

“Hello every pony.” I greeted them. All of them, except Big Macintosh of course, greeted me with a warm smile. Even Sugar Belle and Apple Bloom. He frowned a little bit when he saw me.

It was then, they noticed the two zebra next to me.

Applejack saw the tears in their faces and got a concerned look on her face.

“Who are your friends here, Shadow?” She asked me.

“This is Zakwani.” I introduced him. “He’s Zecora’s brother. He was told to come here by one of my old partners back when I was on the force.” Zakwani, while still having visible tears on his face, did wave a little bit to them. Every pony, even Big Macintosh, looked to show sympathy toward him.

Then, I pointed toward the little zebra filly. “And that’s Zara. Zakwani’s daughter.” I said. He showed her to them. All she did was just grab her father’s tail and just hide from them.

“She’s very shy. I apologize.” Zakwani said to them.

Apple Bloom approached Zara and said to her in the most friendly voice possibly, “Hi. My name’s Apple Bloom.”

Zakwani looked down at Zara. “Sweetheart, don’t you want to say hi to the little filly?” He asked her.

Zara shook her head, her eyes looking up at her father, while still hiding behind his tail. Apple Bloom looked a little hurt at that.

“You’re not afraid, are you?” He asked her in a teasing voice.

Suddenly, her expression changed. She went from a scared looking filly, to a serious look, as she shook her head No.

He pulled his tail away from her and nudged her toward Apple Bloom. They were now face to face. With Zara looking terrified as ever.

The Apple filly looked at her with a nice, warm smile on her face.

“It’s okay, sugarcube.” Applejack told the shy zebra filly in a gentle voice.

“Yes. Just say hello.” Zakwani told her.

Zara looked at both Applejack and Zakwani before turning her attention to the Apple filly who, by my estimation, did indeed look the same age as her.

She avoided eye contact with her as she uttered out a barely audible…

“….hello.” She said to Apple Bloom.

That made every pony here smile. Including me, a little bit.

“See? That wasn’t so hard, was it?” Zakwani said to her.

Zara looked down and blushed in embarrassment.

After all that, Big Macintosh and Sugar Belle approached Zara and wanted to say “Hi” to her too.

But, she quickly ran over to her father’s legs and hid under them again. I saw him give a sigh of disappointment.

She still has a long way to go before coming out of her shell, apparently.

“Okay, Applejack. I need to speak with you alone. I have some info regarding Zecora’s attacker. As well as Zakwani here.” I told her.

“How about we all go to the cafeteria?” Sugar Belle asked in a sweet voice. “We can get to know each other, Mr. Zakwani.”

“I think I would like that.” He said, now looking down at his shy daughter. “Come on, sweetie. After quite a trip, you must be hungry.”

Almost immediately after that, Zara’s stomach rumbled. She blushed in embarrassment again.

Apple Bloom giggled. “Ah think y’all would like the food here. It’s actually not bad.” She said. Zara avoided eye contact with her again. It will probably take a bit for Zara and Apple Bloom to become friends.

“Come on.” Big Macintosh said. “Ah’ll lead the way.” He then lead every pony, except me and Applejack, down to the cafeteria to get a bite to eat.

I motioned for Applejack to sit with me in one of the chairs in the waiting room.

“So, uh, what’s up?” She asked, before sitting down next to me.

“Well, it turns out my theory was right. This WAS a hate crime.” I told her, with her eyes closing in anger, while she snorted through her nostrils.

“How do y’all know?” She asked.

“Before we arrived here, Zakwani told me what his attacker said to him.” I said.

“Which was?” Applejack asked, looking intense.

I hesitated before I whispered what Zakwani told me. And after I did, Applejack looked pissed.

“That racist mother fucker.” She muttered silently.

“I do have good news, however. I happen to have a name.” I told her.

Her pissed off nature went away and was replaced by interest.

“Ya do? Who? Who is it?” She asked.

“His name is Gavin. And he has to work at some auto shop here in Ponyville. Do you know of any in the area?” I asked.

She nodded instantly. “Yeah. There’s a place called Grease Monkey. It ain’t too far from here. Ah get tools there whenever something breaks on tha farm.” She told me, now sounding excited.

“Well, let’s go pay this place a visit.” I said, getting up from my seat.

She nodded as she sat up.

-/- Grease Monkey -/-

“Welcome to Grease Monkey, how can I help you?” Some overweight looking, older pony said to us as we walked inside. He was bald, had a dark blue coat and a wrench for a cutie mark. He also looked pretty older. Guess he’s been working here for years. Maybe even owns this place.

I flashed my badge. “I’m Detective Shadow Haze, this is my partner Applejack. We’re looking for somebody named Gavin. Possibly, he’s a Griffon.” I told him.

He thought for a quick moment before responding. “Well, we do have a Griffon who works here. But his names not Gavin. It’s Gunner.” He said.

Damn it! Gavin must’ve already left town!

….unless….

“Is he here right now?” I asked him.

He nodded. “Yeah. I’ll show you.” He said, leading us to the back. It was pretty noisy, with all the tools, manual and electronic, working on this and that. Guess that’s to be expected when you’re in the auto business. That and getting your hooves dirty.

Or talons in this case.

“There he is.” The overweight older pony said, pointing toward him. And that’s when I saw him.

There was a Griffon working on a crankshaft on a table, with his back turned to us. He looked about 23 years old. Pretty young guy. However, there was one distinct feature about him that made me think this was the guy.

He had a purple coat. It looked exactly like the one we found at the scene.

Applejack looked about ready to go after him, before I stopped her.

“Quick question, sir.” I asked the overweight pony.

“Please, just call me Rod.” He said. At least, I know his name now.

“Okay, Rod, did Gunner over there, by any chance, tell you he lost a tool? Particularly, a socket wrench handle?” I asked him.

He thought a moment again. “Yeah. Yeah, he told me he couldn’t find it. Which is weird, because he ALWAYS had that on him. His daddy gave it to him when he was a kid. Apparently, like some last gift before he died. Something like that.” Rod told me.

I raised my eyebrow. “Gunner’s father is dead?” I asked him.

Rod nodded with a depressed look on his face. “Yeah. Apparently, his daddy was murdered by a zebra when he was like 5 or something. Really sad, man.” He told us.

Applejack suddenly stepped toward him. “Did he ever give ya an impression that he might be prejudiced toward zebra’s when he was working here, Rod?” She asked him.

“Not that I’m aware of.” He told us. “But, I do remember this one time. That zebra mare Zecora, I think her name is. She came in one time to have a wheel fixed for a cart. She comes here, and I ask Gunner to fix it for her. He takes one look at her, and then says he’s busy with something else. Then goes back to what he’s doing.”

“How is that weird?” I asked him.

“Because he’s always willing to help any creature out. I seen him help Yak’s and Hippogrif’s. But when he see’s this zebra, he says he’s too busy. Not to mention, he’s always a pretty laid back guy. So, seeing him look all mean and shit just felt unsettling, man.” Rod told me.

Okay. Now I’m starting to get it. I thanked Rod and started toward Gunner.

Or, is that really his name?

“Gunner!” I shouted out. I saw him turn his head toward me.

“Detective Shadow Haze! You’re under arrest!” I shouted at him.

And then, of course, he has to run. The only issue now is that when he gets outside, which looks pretty close, he could fly away from us. He could have a chance to flee town.

He ran away from us, knocking over a few tables with tools on them in the process. As I chased after him, I saw Applejack digging at something. It was only a moment later that I saw she got out…

No, I am not kidding you…a fucking lasso. Yes. This farm girl also had a lasso. Guess, she’s a rodeo girl too.

She ran in another direction outside. Was she lying in wait?

“Leave me alone, fucker!” I heard Gunner(if that’s his real name)scream at me as he was headed for the door.

Suddenly, Rod blocked the door, trying to block his employer from leaving.

That was when the Griffon slashed his boss’s face. He went down like a stack of bricks, with his face looking carved up like an animal in the Everfree Forest.

I felt like I needed to get Rod some medical attention, but I couldn’t risk losing the Griffon.

Thankfully, I have a great partner. Because, as soon as the Griffon attempted to fly out of the door, I saw his body being pulled down to the ground.

I walked out the door and saw the Griffon slashing at the lasso that was tied around one of his back legs that looked like a leg of a lion.

Applejack held the lasso in her mouth with a grin on her face.

I mounted his back and cuffed him.

“Gunner, you are under arrest for assault with a deadly weapon. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law…” I continued reading him his Miranda rights as I stood him up and walked him over to the Detention Center. Thank Celestia it was pretty close to this auto shop.

“Just ta let ya know Gunner” Applejack said with a sly tone. “Zecora ain’t dead. She’ll live. And she’s gonna pick you out from a line up.”

The Griffon snorted angrily. “The fucking mud pony would be dead if that fucking little cunt filly…” He continued to rant angrily, until Applejack punched him in the stomach.

“DON’T YA’LL DARE CALL MY LITTLE SIS THAT!” She yelled at him. I had to motion her to step back. She did, although with anger on her face.

We stood in front of the Ponyville Detention Center.

“Let’s go inside, you racist piece of shit.” I told him as I proceeded to walk him inside.

“Fuck both of you.” He muttered under his breath.

Author's Note

Hey everyone. Sorry this is late. Work has been crazy lately.

Anyway, if you enjoyed this chapter, make sure to like, comment, favorite and follow for future updates.

Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 6: Conversations About The Past

Gunner(or Gavin, possibly)was thrown into an interrogation room by a few of the Ponyville Police Officers here at the Detention Center almost instantly when Applejack and I trotted in here.

Like the last case I did with Rainbow Dash, I saw how busy every pony who worked here was. Pegasi flying with documents, Unicorn carrying evidence from a case of their own, and Earth Pony who were at a desk, looking up criminal history on potential suspects.

I was here when Twilight and I worked together to find who murdered The First Active Royal Gaurd who just so happened to be gay. And coming toward us was one I almost forgot about. She looked about in her early 20’s, with a red coat and a violet mane.

I think her name is Ruby Glow.

“Hello, Detective Shadow Haze. Nice to see you again.” She said in a friendly voice. Yeah, that was her name. I remember now.

“Good to see you again as well, Ruby Glow. I’m sure you know Applejack, right?” I said, introducing her.

She chuckled a little bit. “Well, of course I do. I come to Sweet Apple Acres every year for Zap Apple Jam. Freakin delicious stuff.” She said.

Applejack gave a chuckle. “It’s coming up in a little bit, Ruby. Ah’ll make sure ya get some.” She said as she gave a hoof bump to Ruby Glow.

“Okay, now Ruby, me and Applejack here are gonna interrogate Gunner here. I need you to look up any piece of information on him while I’m doing so.” I told her.

She nodded happily. “No problem.”

“Also, I’m gonna need you to see if their are any name changes in this area.” I said.

She looked puzzled. “Name changes? Why do you need that?”

Applejack spoke this time. “We think Gunner here had his name changed before he moved to Ponyville.” She said.

I nodded in agreement. “There was another attack in New Colt City by a Griffon named Gavin. I was told this by a former coworker of mine. Detective Angel Blossom.”

Ruby looked surprised. “Are you talking about Zakwani? That hate crime from 7 months ago?” She asked.

I was surprised she knew that. “You heard about that?” I asked her.

Before she could answer, I heard a voice coming up from behind us. This guy I remember. Sort of.

This was the Captain of the Ponyville Detention Center. He was actually only 5 years older than me. About 30. Pretty young for a Captain.

Anyway, he was an earth pony. He had a Grey coat, an Indigo colored tail and mane(that had a buzz cut), and had a Police Captain Hat for a cutie mark. Which was weird, because he wasn’t wearing a Captain hat right now.

Kinda ironic, am I right?

“We all have heard about that brutal attack. Every pony here has. We all make sure to study at least a few cases that are going on in other parts of Equestria.” He told me.

I smiled, as I remembered who he was now. “Good to see you again, Captain Stone.” I told him.

“Likewise. I’ve been looking forward to working with you again after you caught Steel Spear’s’ killer.” He told me, also sporting a smile.

It changed when he saw Applejack. “Why is Applejack with you? She’s not a detective.” He said.

“True.” I said to him. “However, I have a deal with the Princess’ where any of the Elements can work on a case with me. So long as I am the one that leads it.”

His and Ruby Glow’s eyebrow raised. “You work with the Princesses of Equestria?” Stone asked me.

“How?” Ruby asked.

“Long story, and we’ve got some Griffon to interrogate.” I told them.

Stone looked about ready to object, when he stopped himself. Guess he agrees with me on that part.

“Alright. Ruby, go search up what Shadow asked you to. Then tell us what you find.” He told her. She nodded in agreement and walked over to her desk, where a computer was at.

Hopefully, she can find information. And fast.

“Alright.” Applejack said, looking giddy. “Let’s go talk to our guy.”

“That’s my line, Applejack.” I said, as we walked to the interrogation room.

-/- Gavin/Gunner Interview -/-

“So, you like calling Zebra’s “mud ponies”, do ya?” I asked him, as me and Applejack walked in.

Gavin/Gunner was sitting at a table in the middle of the room. There was only one window in the room, which had a chain link fence bolted into it. They do that to make sure suspects don’t try and commit suicide by jumping out of the window, or prevent flyers like him from flying away. That is, if we weren’t in the room with him.

He didn’t say anything at first. Just glared at us.

“Ya know” Applejack said “Ponyville is a town where we don’t exactly tolerate racism and homophobia, Gunner. Or Gavin.”

“I’ve never had the name Gavin before.” The Griffon said.

“Oh?” I asked. “Then, why does your description match a similar attack in New Colt City about 7 months ago? A purple Griffon, who attacked a zebra from behind with one of every mechanic’s favorite tools.” I said, taking out a certain piece of evidence from a bag I brought into this interrogation room with me and Applejack, and tossing it on the table.

“Socket wrench handle.” I said, showing him that very one we found in Zecora’s hut.

“The same one used in Zecora’s attack.” Applejack chimed in with a smirk.

Gavin/Gunner growled. “You have no proof that that’s even mine.” He said.

Ah, lies. I LOVE it when a suspect lies.

“Then why did your boss tell me you told him you lost your socket wrench handle? Or, I should say FORMER boss, because you fucking clawed his face.” I told him, getting close to his ear. Intimidation factor. It worked, because I saw him start to get a little anxious.

Applejack spoke again. “The same socket wrench handle that your late father gave to you before he died.” She said. I noticed after she said that, her head went down a little bit. And she looked….sad. Why would she get sad at this time?

“That father of yours, who apparently was murdered by a Zebra.” I told him. “Come on, Gavin, admit it. It’ll just be easier if ya do. You saw Zakwani in New Colt City and decided to attack him, from behind mind you, to channel your inner rage for zebra’s. Then you fled that very city like a little bitch.” Gavin/Gunner rose up from his seat and got in my face after I said that. He surprised Applejack, but he didn’t surprise me.

“I ain’t no bitch. You hear me? Call me that again, and I’ll..” He told me, trying, the keyword, to look intimidating.

“You’ll what?” I interrupted him in a threatening tone.

“You don’t want to know what I’ll do.” He said pointing his talon at me.

I chuckled. “Ya know, Gavin, ponies who give that type of threat usually have a bark bigger than their bite. Especially, creatures like you, who flee the scene of the crime when a little filly is about to catch him in the act of an attempted murder. You don’t intimidate me. And I know you don’t intimidate Zakwani or Zecora.” I said.

He was looking filled with rage. I’m daring this mother fucker to swing at me. I’ll gladly hand him an ass whoopin.

But, he didn’t. He sat back down and started breathing heavy. Trying to control his apparent rage.

“You guys can’t prove that that socket wrench handle is mine. Or that I was there. Where is your proof, you demon looking motherfucker? Huh?” He asked, sounding arrogant.

I was about to say something, when the Fuck You Fairy came in to deliver our suspect the bad news.

It was Cadaver. He has a clipboard with him.

“Actually, Mr. Gunner…slash Gavin, we can. Your talon prints were a match on the socket wrench handle. Also, the feather you left at the crime scene IS a DNA match to you.” He said, as another pony came into our room. Ruby Glow.

“Also, I’ve read your criminal history. You were charged with assault back when you were in middle school, when you attacked a classmate in the hallway. That very student was, you guessed it: a zebra.” She said, with a grin on her face.

“Oh, and there’s also this” She continued. “You also were arrested 4 years ago for dumping garbage on your neighbor’s lawn in New Colt City. That very neighbor, who just moved in was, again, a zebra. And, I also checked with Mayor Mare’s office records, and she says you had a name change. You changed it to Gunner, originally named Gavin.” She told him.

I was stunned she was able to find out all this much. It was, actually amazing, to see this all happen.

I looked over at Gavin. He looked defeated. Like, somepony had figured out his whole plan and crushed everything.

He was about to say something, until another pony, wearing a suit and tie walked in. He was about my height, except just a hair shorter than me. He had a dark yellow coat with a thinning grey mane.

As soon as I saw who, or what, this type of pony was, I thought Ah, Shit.

“This conversation is over. Me and my client are leaving.” This lawyer pony said to us. Gavin/Gunner looked relieved to see him.

“And just who are you?” Applejack said, looking cross. I even saw her snort too.

“I’m Major Matlock. I’m representing Mister Gunner here.” He told us. He even offered his hoof to me for a hoof shake. I didn’t accept it. He kind of had an offended look on his face.

“Your client here is guilty of not one, but two assault’s. Both of them, were CLEAR evidence of hate crimes. He’s had a history of racism toward zebras.” I told him, pointing at Gunner/Gavin. I could feel frustration build up inside me.

“Not to mention, his DNA was at the scene of the crime. And we have a witness who says that he lost his socket wrench handle, which we found with the victim’s blood on it.” Cadaver told him, showing him the results on his clipboard.

Matlock just huffed at it. Did I mention how much I HATE lawyers? Yes, they ARE a part of the job, but it’s ponies like THIS guy that make me not STAND them.

“My client is a bigger victim. A victim of severe mental health problems.” He told us. I looked over at Applejack and thought she was gonna get in this guys face. If she did that, it would jeopardize the whole case.

“Y’all are HONESTLY going for tha Insanity plea?” She asked, looking angry.

Matlock nodded in a snooty, prissy kind of way. I almost laughed at that.

“Doesn’t attacking random zebras he doesn’t even know sound “normal” to you, Miss Applejack?” Matlock asked her in a really snarky tone.

Applejack looked ready to pounce. So, I put my hoof in front of her.

“Try fighting this in court, Matlock. You’re gonna lose.” I told him, while taking Applejack with me out of the interrogation room. Cadaver and Ruby Glow followed us.

“We’ll see about that.” He said, now sitting at the table with his client.

As the door closed, there stood Captain Stone. Not looking too happy.

“I’m worried.” He told us, while shaking his head back and forth.

“His DNA was at the scene. He’s gonna go to jail.” Cadaver said.

“And his history with zebras will be enough to indict him.” Ruby said.

“Yes, but will he get the maximum sentence like he deserves?” Captain Stone asked, looking in on the conversation between Major Matlock and Gunner/Gavin.

“You’re saying this bullshit insanity plea might get him a lesser sentence?” I asked. I took a quick peak at Applejack. She had her head down. This time, looking really frustrated. Can’t say I blame her.

“Well, this is Major Matlock we’re talking about here. This guy once convinced a jury that his client murdered his wife out of uncontrollable anger, due to her infidelity with another stallion. The guy only got a 10 year sentence.” Stone said, now looking away from the conversation in the interrogation room.

“That is fucking bullshit!” Applejack exclaimed. The rest of us were silent for a bit, before she walked away. I saw she was headed out of the Detention Center. I guess she needs to be alone.

“So, what should we do?” Ruby asked us.

Captain Stone turned to me. “You said your old coworker gave you information on the Zakwani case, right?” He asked me.

I nodded. “Yes. Detective Angel Blossom. She’s a Detective in New Colt City.”

“Did you also say that Gunner, or Gavin’s, father was murdered by a zebra when he was very young?”

“That was told to me by his boss, Rod. Over at Grease Monkey.”

Captain Stone thought for a little bit, then turned to Ruby Glow.

“What else did you find out about him?” He asked her.

“He was born in Baltimare, but him and his mother moved to New Colt City when he was about 3 or 4. Says he’s worked as a mechanic, pretty much all his life. Apparently, followed in his Dad’s clawsteps. Cause he was a mechanic too. Guys name was Gene.” She told us.

He turned back to me again. “Can you contact Detective Angel Blossom again? Ask her for information regarding Gene’s murder?”

“I could do that, but we’re talking about a perhaps 20 year old case.” I told him.

“Tell her by any means. I wanna know about that murder. It could be helpful for our case.” He told me, as he walked away to his office.

“You guys’ll inform me of anything as soon as you find anything, right?” I asked Cadaver and Ruby Glow. They both nodded before returning to their jobs.

As I proceeded to walk out of the Ponyville Detention Center, I heard my phone go off. Heh. What timing.

“Hey, I was just about to call you again?” I said.

“Hello Shadow. I was gonna call and check up on the case you’re involved with.” Angel Blossom told me.

I decided to be a cheeky little fucker when I asked her this.

“Oh? Are you sure you didn’t call me to check up on me? Make sure I was okay?” I smiled with a huge grin on my face, as I knew she was getting flustered again. She’s so adorable when she’s flustered.

“W-Well, t-that is o-one of the reasons, for sure. Because, I DO care about your well being.” I heard her embarrassingly say. I could tell her cheeks were pink.

“But, I also want to know if Zakwani made it there. I sent him there to see you.” She said.

“Yeah. I found him at the Castle of Friendship, waiting for me with his 10 year old daughter, Zara. And for the record, yes he did make it here okay.” I told her. I realized now that I was already in the town square. Ponies looking in on my conversation. While also looking intimidated of me.

“Well, that’s good. And I just have to say, Zara is the cutest little zebra filly I’ve ever seen.” She told me with an “Aww” tone in her voice.

I chuckled on the inside. That’s a big reason I’ve always liked Angel. And maybe even developed feelings for her. She always has a soft spot for kids.

Just like me.

“So, what was the reason you needed to call me for?” Angel asked me.

I cleared my throat. “Yes, well, I need you to look up a case from about 20 years ago. This might help us with what’s happened with Zecora and Zakwani.”

“A cold case, huh? Which one is that?” She asked me.

“There was an apparent murder that happened in Baltimare. A Griffon named Gene. He was apparently murdered by a Zebra.” I told her.

“I don’t believe I’ve ever heard of that. Why is that case significant with this one?”

“Well, you’re not gonna like this, but Major Matlock is representing our suspect. Gunner….slash Gavin.” I said to her. I expected a surprised reaction, and I was NOT disappointed.

“MATLOCK! That fucker is representing him? W-W-Wait, what about DNA evidence or witness statements?” She asked me, now sounding NOT very happy.

“Oh, we have that. However, Matlock is going for an insanity plea. And the Captain over here, Captain Stone, believes he could make that happen in front of a grand jury. I mean, he convinced a jury to give a guy 10 years after murdering his own wife.” I explained to her.

I heard a very frustrating groan on the other end. She sounded pissed off. Like I am.

“Alright. I’ll see what I can do. I’ll send you what I have when I find something.” She told me.

“Thanks. I know I can count on you.” I told her.

I could tell she was blushing again. “No problem. And hey, just to let you know, you might see me a lot sooner then you think.” She told me.

Huh? What?

“What does that mean?” I asked. Now I’m feeling flustered.

“Can’t talk now, Shadow. I gotta go. Bye.” She said, hanging up.

I put my phone back in my pocket, before realizing I was a few yards away from Sweet Apple Acres.

What time does when you’re having a conversation, am I right?

As I walked through the front gate, I was surprised by Big Macintosh making a B line toward me. His face looking seriously pissed off.

“WHAT DID YOU DO?” He exclaimed in an angry tone of voice. I know he doesn’t seem to trust me, or even like me, but what’s his big issue with me now?

“What?” I asked him, sounding seriously confused.

Big Macintosh snorted in anger. “AJ came back here looking all sorts of frustrated and angry. I even saw some tears in her eyes.”

Now I kinda see. Applejack must’ve felt really pissed at Major Matlock. That’s why she left the Detention Center in such a huff.

“And you think I had something to do with it, huh?” I asked him, my eyebrow raising.

“I KNOW it was you.” Big Macintosh said in a gruff tone. This guy is seriously asking for an ass whooping.

“Well, you’re wrong, Happy Hayburger.” I said to him.

His face got a bit red in anger when I said that. “STOP CALLING ME THAT!” He yelled at me.

“I can call what you what I want, you big dumb mother fucker.” I said, now MY voice raising.

He got close to my face now, trying to intimidate me.

“I’m telling ya now: don’t fuck with me.” He said.

“No, I don’t think YOU should fuck with me.” I told him in a threatening tone. “You lay your hooves on me, I will beat you to within an inch of your life, and THEN arrest you for assaulting an officer of the law. What would your wife think?”

At this point, it was a foregone conclusion that we were gonna start fighting. I was just daring this mother fucker to have the first hit, and then I’m gonna proceed to commit police brutality on this guy. Only difference between this situation and others that were bad, is this guy is fucking asking for it.

“STOP IT, BIG MAC!” I heard a voice shout over at us. We both looked and it was Sugar Belle. Tears were flowing down her face as she galloped toward us.

“WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?! Are you fucking crazy? Threatening a police officer with violence?” She yelled at him to his face, her back facing me.

“Sugarcube, listen, he-“ Big Macintosh was trying to tell his wife before being cut off.

“NO!” She exclaimed. This mare was not having any of it.

“You should let Detective Shadow Haze give an explanation as to why AJ ran home like that. You can’t make accusations. I expect better from you.” She told him, poking him in the chest with her hoof.

I saw Big Macintosh sigh in defeat. Ha. Fuck this asshole.

“Now that this situation is handled, can somepony please tell me what all is going on?” I asked Sugar Belle.

She turned to me and explained everything. Apparently, Applejack came home with tears in her eyes. She ran into the fields somewhere. Which had….oh Celestia….

The gravestones of her parents. I saw Big Macintosh look sad too. These guy’s parents were dead? I was wondering where their parents were, seeing as how Granny Smith was still here.

“I need to speak with Applejack. Can you point me to where she is?” I asked Sugar Belle.

She smiled and nodded. Then pointed to where her direction was.

I nodded. “Thank You.” I said, turning and walking in that direction.

I turned my head back and said to them, “By the way, when I’m done talking with Applejack, I’ll need to talk with all of you as well. Including Apple Bloom and Granny Smith. It’s very important.” I then continued to trot to where Applejack was.

-/- Apple Family Memorial Site -/-

I saw her there. Her back to me, looking at the apparent gravestone of her deceased parents. I heard a few very light sobs and sniffles coming from her. Her Stetson hat was even off her head, and was on her hoof, placing it near her chest.

Damn. This poor mare misses her Mom and Dad a lot. I wish I could relate, but I can’t.

And I do hate seeing a mare cry.

-/- Flashback to 16 years ago -/-

He had heard a strange noise.

9 year old Shadow Haze was walking around the home he lived in with his aunt Mystic Shine and Uncle Dark Moon. As well as his 7 cousins, who have adopted him as their other older sisters.

Another pony who lived here, was his ACTUAL older sister. The pony whom he saved from getting beaten by their evil bitch of a mother.

Melody Rays, who was 14 now, was the source of that noise.

He looked in the room she shared with one of his other sisters. And there she was. Sitting on the bed.

Crying.

Why was she? Did she feel sad? Was she hurt?

Shadow couldn’t stand seeing this. Thankfully, it was just him and Melody alone.

He walked over to the bed she was sitting on. She saw him coming in. She looked at him with visible tears in her eyes.

They just looked at each other for a few seconds before young Shadow wrapped his forelegs around his big sister. Attempting to stop the crying.

She sniffled and hugged back. They were like this for a few minutes. Just the two of them.

Just the two of them. Against the world. Against everything.

-/- End Flashback -/-

“You okay?”

Applejack turned to me. I saw the tears in her eyes and on her face. She quickly wiped them away, while putting her Stetson hat back on.

“*sniff* I-I’m fine, Detective. And I’m sorry I walked out like that. I just got a little emotional. That’s all.” She told me, trying to keep a strong face on.

I walked over and put my hoof on her shoulder. As a source of comfort. While I did that, I got a good look at the gravestones.

Bright Mac. Pear “Buttercup” Butter.

“Those are your parents, huh?” I asked her.

She sniffled and nodded a little bit.

“Did that part with Gavin’s father being murdered remind you of your parents?” I asked. She had her head down. However, I did see one tear fall down her face and hit the dirt below.

“I feel like I empathize with Gavin a little bit. And I hate that.” She said, still looking down.

“Why’s that?” I asked her. Although, I kinda had a feeling I knew where this was going.

She looked up to face me. With the most serious face I had seen on her since I first met her.

“Because my parents were murdered too.”

Author's Note

Hey everyone. Yeah, I know this is so fucking late. I recently got a new part time job. I have two jobs now. And it’s been rewarding, but also tiring as well.

But, I finally got this chapter updated. If you like it, make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 7: Haunting Pasts

Flashback to 11 years ago

She had waited for them for a while. They were supposed to be back yesterday. What could possibly keep them being so late? Why haven’t they contacted them? It wasn’t like them to do this.

3 days ago, Bright Mac and Pear Butter had traveled to Manehatten for a business trip. Pear Butter had talks of putting a factory in Manehatten. This very factory would be a produce factory housing all kinds of apples, oranges, pears and bananas. This was to help out other members of both the Apple and Pear families.

Granted, the Apple/Pear rivalry was still technically a thing, however the heat from that feud had died down over the years of marriage between Mac and Butter. Pear felt that if she truly wanted this rivalry to end, she would do so by offering members of the Apple, Orange, Pear and Banana families, as well as some their friends, a job that would bring fresh produce for all families members to their farms.

Yes, they’d still grow their own produce on their farms, but extra factory based produce wasn’t bad either. And, with members of the four families, as well as friends of those families, maybe they all could get to know each other. Find out things they have in common. Things they don’t. Similarities. Differences.

Mainly, she wanted to do this so her three children could meet and be friends with those very families. Instead of learning to hate them, like how the Pears had learned to hate the Apples, and vice versa.

Of course, she always knew better. She never hated the Apples. Hell, she fell in love with one, married him, and had three kids with him.

Bright Mac was a bit hesitant at first, but he eventually agreed. He also wanted the feud to end as well.

Hell, maybe Grand Pear and Pear Butter could reconcile, like she so DESPERATELY wanted.

11 year old Applejack had just put her 1 year old little sister down for a nap. With help from her Granny Smith, of course. Big Macintosh, aged 16, was out in the fields with his stallion made plow. She knew both of them were starting to get concerned, just like she was.

Applejack was about to head out into the orchard to buck some apples, when she saw two ponies coming up toward the house.

They both were dressed in uniforms. Police uniforms. One was a rather large pony with a really thin mane line. She could almost see his scalp perfectly. The other one was a, pretty well in shape pony, with a police hat covering a black mane.

She felt her heart start to race.

“Excuse me, little filly, is there anypony else here living with you?” The large pony asked.

“Uh, yeah. Mah big brother. And my Granny. Why?” She asked in the most innocent tone of voice they would ever hear.

Before the two police officers could say anything, Granny Smith had appeared on the front porch. She had appeared to have heard everything.

“Can I help you two boys?” She asked out loud as she made her way toward them.

The two officers had a look of compassion on their faces. The large pony had his head down in sadness, while the well built one took his hat off and held it to his chest.

Now Granny Smith felt her heart race.

“Ma’am” The well built officer said “We have come to, unfortunately, bring you some bad news.”

“W-W-What?” Granny Smith asked, now sounding worried. It was even worse with her first born granddaughter here too.

“Your son and daughter-in-law are dead.” The large one said.

As minute that sentence left his lips, Granny Smith felt her legs go numb. Her heart pulsed. She a cold chill run over her whole body.

Applejack, on the other hoof, reacted differently.

She punched the large officer as hard as she could.

“LIAR! LIAR! NO, IT AIN’T TRUE! WHERE IS MOMMA AND DADDY?! THEY AIN’T DEAD! THEY AIN’T DEAD!” She yelled, cried, and screamed at the officers while repeatedly punching the large one in the stomach. It didn’t hurt him, but he did have to try and get her to stop.

Thankfully, Granny Smith held her hoof out and put it on Applejack’s shoulders. Either to level herself at such a devastating reveal, or to try and calm her granddaughter down.

Granny Smith looked deep into the well built officer’s eyes and asked, in a pleading voice.

“It’s not true. Please. Please tell me it’s not true.” She asked with tears rolling down her face. Sobs choking from her mouth.

It can’t be true. Her only child. Her son and his wife. Dead. No. No, it’s not true.

The well built officer, with the most sorry and compassionate look on his face uttered the two words which she desperately didn’t want to hear.

“It’s true.”

Once that was said, Granny and Applejack burst out wailing and moaning. They held each other and just cried. Weeped for their now fallen family member.

“What’s going on over here?” A voice said. The two officers looked at a 16 year old stallion.

They both sighed in sadness.

-/- End Flashback -/-

I felt my heart ache hearing that story. She told me that her parents were apparently mugged at gun point by some random bum. Bright Mac defended his wife, taking a bullet for her. But unfortunately, she also was shot instantly after Bright Mac was shot. She was in shock seeing the love of her life being gunned down by somepony. She didn’t have time to run or give him any of her bits.

The police and ambulances were called. But, sadly, it was too late. Bright Mac and Pear Butter were pronounced Dead on Arrival on their way to the Hospital.

They didn’t even make it to any local business offices to pitch to them their whole family factory idea.

So fucking sad.

She also told me that the funeral was really, really tough for her. Every Apple Family member there was just bawling and crying their eyes out. She even told me that she was hugging and crying with Granny Smith and Big Macintosh the whole time. They never left each other’s sides.

And poor little Apple Bloom was only a year old when this horrible tragedy happened. She never got to know who her parents were. She was, pretty much, raised by her siblings and grandmother. Mostly her siblings, due to Granny Smith’s old age.

Guess Applejack had to grow up a lot quicker then she would’ve wanted to. In order to raise her little baby sister.

Huh. Kinda like my big sis Melody had to.

Thankfully, the piece of shit who killed her parents was caught. And he OBVIOUSLY got a life sentence. Hopefully, he’s rotting in whatever prison he’s at.

I held Applejack in my arms as she cried her eyes out onto my shoulder. I just hugged her for about 5 minutes, before she started to calm down.

“I’m so sorry Applejack. I had no idea.” I whispered to her, as she let go of me.

She sniffled and wiped the tears from her now puffy face with her hoof. Her eyes were also red from the crying as well.

“What if Gavin is crazy?” She asked me out of nowhere.

“What?” I asked in a confused voice.

“I know he deserves to be in jail. But, his Daddy was taken from him by a Zebra. I could understand if that’s why he hates them. He has a reason.” She told me.

I shook my head at her. “Believe me, Applejack. I’ve seen crazy. And I’ve seen psycho. This guy is as perfectly sane as my sister is when she gets ready teaching a class.”

She looked confused. “What?”

“Never mind.” I said. “Look, even if Gavin’s Dad WAS taken from him, that’s still no excuse to hate and be racist toward Zebra’s.”

“But, don’tcha understand where he’s coming from?” She asked me.

“Of course I do.” I said to her in a stern voice. “I absolutely see where he’s coming from. However, he is ultimately responsible for his actions. No pony forced him to act in that way. Even if he IS mentally unwell, he still has enough sense to know what right from wrong is.”

Applejack shuttered. “What if I am like Gavin?” She asked.

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. “What?” I asked her in an unbelieving tone.

She sniffled again. “My parents were murdered. His Pa was murdered. I feel like I’m kinda condoning his actions because I feel some type of empathy for him. Does this mean I’m exactly like him?” She asked.

I shook my head in disbelief. “Applejack, not to sound mean, but are you that fucking naive and stupid?” I asked her.

She gave me a cross look. That question didn’t set well with her, I guess.

“Yes, both you and Gavin lost a family member, or in your case, family members. Yes, they were murdered. And I’m absolutely sure that both of you can feel some type of empathy for having your family members taken away from you.” I told her. Her glare seemed to fade a little bit. Even if it was still very visible.

“However, just because you share those horrible experiences, and just because you can feel empathy for him for losing his Dad, like you your parents, that doesn’t mean you and him are alike at all. If anything, that makes you and him MORE different than you think.” I said, as I could feel my voice start to raise a little bit. I even saw her shake a little bit at that.

“Applejack, the truth is, things in life are very, VERY fucking complicated. Things aren’t as simple as ponies make them out to be. You suffered a horrible, terrible tragedy, as he did too. However, YOU-“ I poked her chest with my hoof. “-didn’t let that define you. YOU chose to allow your siblings, your Granny, your other family members, your friends, you allowed yourself to let them in to help you during that horrible time. YOU chose a healthy way to grieve your parents.” I told her. Her head was down in a feeling of guilt and shame.

“Now, Gavin on the other hoof, HE chose to deal with his Dad’s murder by NOT talking about it. By bottling everything up. And, most of all, by blaming and CHOOSING to target Zebras as his source of anger and sadness for his father’s death. Grief and Sorrow can be dealt with in many ways, Applejack. YOU chose a healthy way. HE chose a not-so-healthy way.” I explained to her. Her head was still down.

I wanted her to look at me. So, I put my hoof under her chin and raised it to my face. I could see there were some leftover tears on her face.

“You and Gavin DO have some things in common. But you are NOTHING alike. Stop thinking you’re a racist or anything like him. Like I told you earlier, every pony DOES have SOME type of prejudice in them, even if they don’t want to admit, or even KNOW they have it. But, just because that’s the case, to me anyway, that doesn’t mean that every pony is the same. And you two aren’t the same either. Got it?” I said, kinda yelling that last part.

She breathed in a big sigh. And then nodded, wiping those leftover tears away from her face.

“Good. Now stop acting like a dumbass and follow me back to the farm. I have something I need to say to you and the rest of your family.” I said, as I starting walking back toward the farm.

She was right next to me in a matter of seconds. We were silent for a little bit before she said this to me.

“Thanks for knocking some sense into me, Shadow. I guess I needed that.” She told me, with a bit of a shy smile on her face.

I even smiled. Felt weird that I did. “Just doing my job, Applejack.” I said, as we both continued to the farm.

-/- A Few Moments Later -/-

When we walked inside the Sweet Apple Acres home, Apple Bloom instantly walked toward the front door where Applejack and I walked in. She looked relieved and concerned for her big sister, especially after seeing her looking upset when she came home from the Detention Center.

“Sis? You okay?” She asked her in a sweet tone of voice.

“I’m okay, Sugarcube.” Applejack said, now pulling her little sister into a hug. That surprised Apple Bloom, but she hugged back.

“I just got a little emotional with this case. Thankfully, Shadow here knocked some sense into me. So, now, I’m all good to put this varmit in jail where he belongs.” She said, now sounding super confident.

Very similar to a certain blue Pegasus I worked with not too long ago.

We took a few steps into the living room, where Happy Hayburger, Sugar Belle, and Granny Smith were sitting. The dog, Winona, was laying on the carpet near the couch where Sugar Belle and Happy Hayburger were sitting.

“Hey Applejack.” Sugar Belle said with a touch of sympathy in her voice. “You feeling okay?”

Applejack nodded. “Yeah, I’m good. I just needed a moment. That’s all.” She reassuringly said.

“Did you go see THEM, deary?” Granny Smith asked her, also with sympathy in her voice.

Applejack waited a minute before she nodded her head yes. I patted her shoulder with my hoof for comfort. She looked at me and gave me a thankful smile.

Through my gaze, I saw Sugar Belle look at her husband and then cock her head at me. As if telling him to say something to me. And I think I know what it is.

Big Macintosh sighed. “I’m sorry I overreacted, Detective. I just-“ He paused, trying to find the right word to say. He doesn’t know what Applejack told me. So, I guess it’s only fair that I tell him and every pony here.

“Applejack told me about your guys’ parents.” I said to them.

The mood in the room seemed to change to a bit of a depressing one. Every pony, except Applejack, had their heads down in sadness. Even Apple Bloom. And she barely even KNEW her parents. Just based on the timeline of how old she was, and when they were murdered.

“I’m truly sorry that happened to you all. My condolences.” I said.

They were still silent for a bit, before Big Macintosh spoke again.

“I know it wasn’t right for me to do that, Detective. It’s just, I love my two little sisters. Anytime I see them cry or look sad, I just feel like I have to do something. And, when she came back all crying and everything, I just assumed that YOU said something that made her cry. And I felt I needed to confront you about it.” He explained to me.

I guess I understand that. Big Macintosh is an over reactive dumbass, but he’s a good big brother. He had to have stepped up his game as a big brother when his parents died. He also must’ve had to grow up a little bit faster too. Granted, not as fast as Applejack, due to the age difference, but still. I guess I can respect him for that.

“Wait a minute?” Applejack asked. “What happened while I was gone?”

Big Macintosh sighed. He explained everything to her what me and Big Macintosh almost did. When he was done, she gave him a very cross look.

She shook her head slowly and said, “We’ll talk about that later, Big Brother.” He just looked like he felt bad for what happened.

She then looked over at me. “So, Shadow, what did y’all need to talk to us about?” She asked.

“I’m glad you asked.” I said, as I now have my attention to every pony in the room.

“We have a problem with this case. A lawyer named Major Matlock is presiding over Gavin. The Griffon who assaulted Zecora and Zakwani.” I told all of them.

“Who?” Granny Smith said, looking confused.

“He’s a lawyer, who managed to convince a jury about 6 and a half years ago, to give a stallion only 10 years in prison, after he brutally murdered his wife.” I said to them.

Applejack looked disgusted, while every pony in the room just looked surprised.

“I think I read about that case in the papers. Didn’t that guy then get released after only 5? For good behavior?” Sugar Belle asked. It appears she’s warming up to me. That feels…good. Nice.

I nodded. “He’s going for an insanity plea. And even Captain Stone, the police captain, believes there’s a chance Gavin could get a jury to buy it.”

Apple Bloom stood up. “Y’all mean he’s gonna walk?” She asked, sounding angry. Guess I can’t blame her for being just that.

“Not necessarily.” I said, attempting to relax her. “However, he could get a light sentence, and even be put in a mental institution, instead of a prison where he SHOULD be.” I told her.

Granny Smith shook her head in disappointment. “That, unfortunately, doesn’t surprise me. With all I’ve seen these past decades, Zebras have always been treated lower than ponies. I’ve seen racial treatment of Zebras during my time. It always made me sick.” She says to us.

Her grandchildren looked surprised. “How bad was it?” Apple Bloom asked.

She had a scowl on her face. “My great uncle…he was a racist piece of shit. He was the outcast of the family for a reason.” She said in a disgusted tone.

“I heard about Great-Great-Great Uncle Apple Cobbler. From Great Auntie Apple Sauce.” Applejack told her. “But, she didn’t go into much detail. Why was he an outcast?” She asked.

Granny looked at Apple Bloom. I guess she was wondering if her youngest granddaughter was old enough to hear this. She was 10. Not that young, but not exactly old enough to hear stuff like this.

She was silent a few more seconds before she told all of us.

“He was a member of the Klu Klux Klan.” She said in anger.

Every pony in the room gasped in horror. I didn’t, but I did give a surprised expression.

“O-O-Our Great-Great-Great Uncle was a KKK member?” Big Macintosh asked, sounding genuinely surprised.

Granny Smith nodded. “He was the only one, that I know of, that was apart of all that. The entire Apple Family kicked him out of the family. I even heard he was involved in some hangings of Zebras. It made me sick to know that I was related to him.” She sounded genuinely disgusted with her great uncle’s actions.

It just proves that I’m right. You can be related to some pony, you can relate to and empathize with some pony, and you can even agree with some pony.

However, that all doesn’t mean you are a racist like them. Granny Smith and this Great-Great-Great Uncle Apple Cobbler were blood related, but that doesn’t mean they are ANYTHING alike. And ponies who think that should be ashamed of themselves for thinking that.

The mood of the room changed again. This time to uncomfortable. Now is as good a time as any to continue what I was saying.

“Anyway, there is gonna be a court date. I’ll be given the information as to when that date takes place.” I told them.

“What does that have to do with us?” Applejack asked.

“Well, I’m thinking we’re gonna need all of the resources we need to put this guy behind bars. Prison bars at that. And, that’s why…” I turned my gaze to Apple Bloom. She looked surprised when I did that.

“What?” She asked.

“Apple Bloom, do you think you’d be willing to testify in court?”

Author's Note

Yeah, this chapter got kinda heavy. Especially, toward the end. I hope all of you are enjoying this story so far.

Anyway, if you guys like this story, make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 8: Twilight Comes Back

After a few moments of silence, Big Macintosh stood up from the couch he and Sugar Belle were sitting at.

“No.” He said flat out. This one didn’t sound like him being an asshole. This one sounded more…stern. Parent like. As it should be, seeing as how he’s been a parent to Apple Bloom for years now.

“This could help Zecora’s case.” I told him.

“Are you crazy? It’s one thing to interview her, but have her be on a stand? In front of a jury? That could traumatize mah little sister.” He told me.

“I think I’m gonna have to agree with Big Mac here.” Granny Smith said, now getting up rather slowly from her rocking chair. I could see the struggle in her as she was getting up. Her old bones probably creaked and cracked while doing so. But, that apparently didn’t stop her. For her age, she was still a tough old bird.

“I think testifying in court is too much for lil’ Apple Bloom.” She said, showing concern for her youngest granddaughter.

Apple Bloom turned to her older brother and grandmother, sporting a cross look on her face.

“I told y’all before: I’m not a baby. I can handle mahself.” She told them.

Applejack took a few steps toward us and asked, “Why do y’all think it’s a good idea for Apple Bloom to testify?”

“She was the one who found Zecora. She knows Zecora very well. That, and I think the jury might sway more toward a little filly who was friends with her. They could sympathize with Apple Bloom with how she found Zecora.” I said to every pony. They appeared to be listening to my every word.

However, Applejack didn’t look to happy with me.

“Y’all are saying that you want to USE mah little sis as a way to put a guy in prison?” She asked me, sounding very cross.

I had a feeling somepony might feel that way if I was gonna bring it up. Can’t say I blame them.

Because, unfortunately, it is true.

“Yes. I’m sorry if that doesn’t sit well with you Applejack, but that is just the way the court system works. You have to manipulate how the jury is gonna feel toward the Plantiff and the Defendant. If a jury doesn’t feel anything, chances are they aren’t gonna go with the decision we want. I’m telling you, Matlock could manipulate the jury with the whole mental health. In this case, fight fire with fire.” I explained to her.

Every pony in the room appeared to not like what I was saying. I had to tell them the truth about this. They have to understand how the court system goes.

I just hope I didn’t screw myself out of this.

“Y’all think I should do this?” I heard Apple Bloom ask me. When I looked over at her, I saw that innocent look in her eyes. I know that if and when she does go on stand, she could be scared to death. Especially with Major Matlock representing Gavin. That guy would probably bombard her with questions that she wouldn’t know how to answer.

I’m now starting to think if asking her was such a good idea after all. But, now that it is asked, I need to continue on with it.

I lowered myself toward her to be on her level.

“I think it could help with putting that bad Griffon in jail for what he did to your friend. So, yes, I do think it would be a good idea.” I told her, before I placed my hoof on her shoulder. Which kinda startled her a little bit.

“However, I’m not gonna force you, okay? If you don’t feel comfortable, you just tell me. I’ll still find a way to put Gavin in prison.” I told her, while taking my hoof off her shoulder.

As I stood up, I heard Sugar Belle reply, “I also agree with Big Mac and Granny Smith. I don’t think Apple Bloom should do this.”

Apple Bloom then turned toward her big sister. As if to ask her what she thinks. Her opinion probably meant the most to Apple Bloom. Judging from what I heard about their parents, Applejack was more of a motherly figure to Apple Bloom then a big sister with how she helped raise her.

Applejack gave a sigh. “Ah don’t like it, to tell ya the truth. I don’t want mah little sis up there on a stand where she could get ambushed with questions.” She said, which was followed by a snort and a tip from her Stetson hat to cover her eyes.

“However, Shadow, if y’all think this could help get justice for Zecora and Zakwani, then Ah promise I’ll support mah little sis with whatever decision she makes.” She said, now turning her attention to her little sister.

“Sis, it’s up to you, Sugercube.” She said.

I nodded my head. “And take as much time to think it over as possible.”

Apple Bloom just stared at the floor for a few seconds before looking back up at us.

“Can Ah have a bit longer to think?” She asked.

“No problem at all.” I said. I think I felt a smile form on my face. Huh. Weird.

-/- Castle of Friendship -/-

I was getting tired. After catching Gunner/Gavin, the whole bullshit insanity plea with Major Matlock, me almost getting into it with Happy Hayburger, Applejack revealing her parents’ assassination, and trying to convince lil’ Apple Bloom to testify in open court, I felt ready to climb into bed and get some sleep.

I know it’s only going on 8, but I feel like I need some shuteye with all this stress. I just hope Apple Bloom does say yes. I also hope Angel Blossom found something on this apparent murder from years back.

Because if not, I might be fucked.

I was walking through the streets of Ponyville, every pony looking at me with intimidation in their eyes(and some with seduction), when I heard my phone going off.

Ah fuck. Well, guess my shuteye will have to wait.

I took out my phone and answered it.

“Shadow Haze.”

“Shadow, where are you right now?” The voice on the other line said. I knew that voice instantly. And I’m kinda glad that voice was speaking to me now.

“I’m just on my way back to the Castle of Friendship. Just passed Sugarcube Corner. Why do you ask?” I asked that voice.

“Get back here as quick as you can. I want to know everything that’s been going on while I was gone.” That voice asked me, sounding kinda worried.

“Is something wrong, Twilight?” I asked, sounding concerned and surprised. When did she get back from Baltimare?

“Just-Just please come back.” She pleaded with me. This sounded serious. Was she in some kind of trouble?

“Alright, I’ll be right there.” I said, hanging up on her, putting my phone back into my jacket pocket.

Even though the Castle was only a little bit of a distance away, I ran toward it like how I would when I chase after criminals.

What happened in Baltimare? Does it have anything to do with this case?

Thankfully, the Castle was only a few feet away and I made it there in less than a minute. I opened the huge front double doors, ran down the hallway to where the Cutie Map was at, and there she was.

Twilight Sparkle was sitting at the map in the chair she usually sits at.

“There you are.” She said, now getting out if her seat and trotting toward me.

“What’s wrong Twilight?” I asked, as we were now standing face to face with each other.

“I heard something bad happened to Zecora after I left. Is that true? Is she okay?” She asked me, looking worried.

I nodded. “Yeah. She was assaulted in the Everfree Forest by a Griffon. She was beat up pretty good. She’s at the hospital in a medically induced coma. But, Nurse Redheart did say she would live.”

Twilight breathed a sigh of relief for her friend. However, that relief went back to the worrisome one just a quick second ago.

“Oh Celestia.” She said. “No wonder they all looked so mad.”

I felt a wave of confusion and worry run through me when she said that.

“What are you talking about, Twilight? Who’s mad?” I asked her.

She sighed. “When I was in Baltimare, there was this Activist Group called The Zebra Rights Association. Or ZRA for short. Anyway, while I was doing my Friendship Mission, these zebras came up to me in town one day and asked how could I ignore such a serious crime that was going on in my hometown of Ponyville? I asked them what are they talking about. And they told me a zebra in Ponyville was attacked by somepony.” She explained, looking kind of remorseful. Why would she though? It’s not like this wouldn’t have happened if she had gone to Baltimare or not.

“Shadow, they called me incompetent and prejudice. Even though I had nothing to do with this. So, please, please tell me you found the pony who did it.” She pleaded, getting uncomfortably close to my face. I had a feeling something like this would happen. Whenever a type of different race in Equestria, especially Zebras in this case, is either robbed, beaten down or even murdered, a certain mob mentality forms within creatures alike. And they say they want Justice.

However, let’s be frank, a lot of those creatures who say they want Justice really just want to have their fifteen minutes of fame. They don’t REALLY give a shit about them. They are just SO desperate for attention and a wanting to be liked, if not ADORED, by every pony that they’ll say and do stupid fucking shit. Because they hate their lives so much. They want to try and find some meaning in their lives. It’s fucking pathetic.

But perhaps the biggest thing these creatures do, and the most obvious one, is throwing blame at the wrong creatures for said horrible thing that happens to a creature of another race.

I lightly shoved her out of my face before I told her.

“Yes. Me and Applejack found a Griffon named Gavin. Who legally changed his name to Gunner. His DNA was a match on both the socket wrench handle and the marks on the door. Plus, he’s had a bad history with zebras as well.” I told her.

This got her attention. She walked back over to the Cutie Map and motioned for me to sit down next to her.

“Tell me everything.”

So I did. I sat down next to her(in what I think was Applejack’s chair) and proceeded to tell her everything that happened while she was gone. From the attack being by somepony Zecora did NOT know, to Zecora bring in a coma, to her brother and niece coming here, to Major Matlock trying to go for an insanity plea, and me trying to convince Apple Bloom to testify.

Which, that didn’t set well with her.

She glared at me. “Shadow, Apple Bloom is only 10 years old. She shouldn’t be testifying in court. They’d destroy her on stand.”

“They might.” I said, nodding in agreement. “However, the jury might sway more toward a filly who is a legitimate friend to Zecora. That could, and I’m sorry to use this word, manipulate the jury to put Gavin in prison where he belongs. And NOT in an insane asylum. So, it’s worth the risk, Twilight.”

She was silent for a second before giving in. She gave a big sigh. “I just can’t believe all this has been going on since I left. It’s so much to take in.”

I can only imagine what Twilight is feeling right now. She’s obviously never been labeled as something that wasn’t true. It can be hurtful to be labeled as something when you had NOTHING to do with something bad that happened to a creature of another race.

I put my hoof on her shoulder as a source of comfort. Heh. I’ve been doing that a lot lately. Feels like I’m slightly changing a bit.

“Look, no matter what these Activists say, you are NOT prejudiced Twilight. You had nothing to do with what happened to Zecora. Don’t listen to those pieces of fucking shit. Okay?” I said, kinda showing her a smile. Or, the closest thing I could give to a smile.

Twilight looked surprised at that. Maybe she thinks she’s making progress with me with all these “Friendship Lessons.”

“Look, let’s not worry about this right now. I’m sure we’ll have a clear mind if we get a good night’s rest.” I said, which was followed by a yawn. Fuck, I’m tired.

She giggled at the yawn I just did. “Yeah, you’re right. We’ll talk about it in the morning. Spike will make us breakfast.”

Suddenly, doors to the left of us flew open. And there appeared that little purple dragon, Spike. With a super confident smirk on his face.

“Did somepony say Breakfast in the morning?” He said, when all of a sudden he brought out an apron from out of fucking nowhere and tied it around himself.

Can dragons do magic too? I don’t know.

There was that giggle from Twilight again. “We have to wait until morning for you to cook breakfast, Spike. I know you’re excited, but you’ll have to sleep on it for now.” She said, with Spike looking embarrassed as he rubbed the back of his head with a hue of red in his face.

Wait, I just thought of something. “Hold on, why does Spike cook? You’re his guardian Twilight. So shouldn’t YOU be the one cooking?” I asked her.

Now it was Twilight’s turn to look embarrassed, as she ALSO had a hue of red in her face while rubbing her front hooves together. Reminded me of whenever Angel Blossom gets like that. Except, less cuter.

Spike chuckled. “Because Twilight can’t cook to save her life.”

She turned to him with a defensive look. “SPIKE!” She exclaimed.

He smirked and raised an eyebrow at her. “Do I have to tell him about when you—“ He was saying before being encased in Twilight’s magic.

“Oh my, look at the time. It’s way past a baby dragon’s bedtime. See you in the morning, Shadow.” Twilight said, taking her assistant with her while he was telling her to put him down, and that he wasn’t tired.

I laughed a little bit before I headed downstairs to my room/office area to finally get some sleep.

I just hope I’m right. That a good night’s sleep will clear my head and help me think better about this whole situation.

Celestia, I hope.

-/- The Next Morning -/-

“My compliments to the chef.” Twilight said to her assistant/adopted little brother. Spike had made some pancakes. There was butter, syrup and a few kinds of berries for toppings. Strawberries, blueberries and even some cherries.

And I can’t deny these pancakes are fucking awesome. When that first bite hit my tastebuds, it felt like they went to the moon. I wonder if they met Princess Alina.

Anyway, as we all were chowing down on some pancakes, Spike decided to break the silence.

“So, uh, what are you guy’s gonna do about the guy who hurt Zecora?” He asked before putting a forkful of his awesome pancakes in his mouth. Thankfully, he chewed with his mouth closed.

I finished my bite before I spoke. “Well, one of my old partners from New Colt City is gathering information on Gavin’s father. Apparently, he was murdered about 20 years ago. She even sent me info about her case when Zakwani was attacked 7 months ago.”

“Is Zakwani here in Ponyville?” Twilight asked, thankfully finishing her bite before talking.

“Yeah.” I nodded. “Him and his daughter Zara, from what I’m told, are staying at some motel not to from the hospital. Zecora will probably wake up in about 3 or 4 days now. Hopefully.”

“Okay. What about Gavin though?” Twilight asked.

“His lawyer is Major Matlock. And he’s going for Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity plea. Which, me and Applejack KNOW is all bullshit.” I said.

She groaned. “This is just what I needed after a Friendship Mission. More drama.” She said, followed by another bite of pancakes with her head resting down on the table.

I could tell Twilight was a little stressed. So I decided, since she just mentioned Friendship, I might as well tell her about the fact that I might have made a friend in Ponyville before all this stuff with Zecora happened.

“Did I tell you that I might’ve made a new friend, Twilight?” I told her.

And I am not kidding when I say this. As minute that sentence left my mouth, her head shot up from the table like a rocket. And her name expression went from looking frustrated to complete excitement. Like a filly about to learn a secret she always wanted to know, but was too young to know what it was.

“REALLY?!” She asked out loud. Very loud. Almost using her Princess booming voice like how I heard Princess Luna likes to do. She got really close to my face as she started to Bombard me with questions.

“Tell me, tell me, tell me. Who is it? Do you have much in common? Do you have disagreements in things? Do you get along? Do you—“ She kept asking all these questions in a rapid pace. It was kinda scary to see how into it she was with me making friends.

I interrupted her by, once again, lightly shoving her face away from mine.

“Slow down, Twilight. Can you try to relax? I’ll tell you everything I can if you do.” I said to her.

She still had that look of excitement on her face as she nodded her head. I was correct earlier when I said she was acting like a filly.

I cleared my throat before I told her. “It’s the chocolate and candy store owner, Bon Bon. She was very nice to me. And she even said she always wanted to meet a detective. We had a good conversation before I bought a box of chocolates for my Aunt Mystic Shine. Before we met, she even waived at me. So, I decided to take a chance and say Hi to her back.” I explained to her.

Then out of nowhere, she wrapped her hooves around my neck. “Ooohh, Shadow Haze, I’m so proud of you. I knew you could make friends.” She said.

It felt kinda nice that Twilight said she was proud of me. I hugged her back before she let go.

“Yeah.” I said. “Just too bad her girlfriend isn’t too trusting of me.”

Her face changed again to that of disappointed. “Well, I’m sure she’ll come around to you.”

I levitated our dishes over to the sink. “Let’s go, Twilight.” I said to her.

She looked confused. “We are we going?”

“Sweet Apple Acres. I want to see if Apple Bloom made a choice yet or not.” I told her, getting up from my seat.

Twilight sighed. “Okay. But, if she says—“ she started to say before I interrupted her again. That’s kinda becoming a habit know.

“I know, Twilight. I told her I wouldn’t force her. If she says No, we’ll find another way. Me, Applejack and you.” I said.

She smiled and nodded. “Okay, Detective Shadow Haze. Let’s go.” She said, now getting out of her seat.

We didn’t take about 5 steps before Spike stopped us.

“Uh, guys, there’s a lot of Zebras outside right now with signs. Should I be worried about that?” He asked.

Twilight and I looked out a window that was close to the window where the sink was. And low and behold, the purple dragon was right.

Outside, there was about 25 zebras, male and female, standing in front of The Castle of Friendship. Some had signs that said ZRA, Zebras Demand Rights, Zebras Matter 2, and one scary one, Zebras Are Superior.

I looked at Twilight, who just looked shook up. From her face, I knew she didn’t need to tell me who these zebras were.

These were the Zebra Rights Association group. And they followed the Princess of Friendship to Ponyville.

Ah great. More shit is about to go down.

Author's Note

Hello again. Sorry for the late update. I’ve just had some serious writer’s block lately. But, I hope all of you like this. Make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 9: Preparing for Court

“They followed me here.” Twilight said sounding terrified. Can’t say I blame her. This group of zebras that she doesn’t even know, who harassed her in Baltimare, ends up following her to her hometown of Ponyville? I consider this stalking.

“Just let me handle this, Twilight. I’ve dealt with activists before. Follow me and don’t say a word.” I said, as we started to head toward the front exit. Spike followed behind us with a determined look on his face.

“I don’t think you should come with us, Spike. This might get ugly.” I told him.

I saw he did look a little afraid, but he was refusing to show it. He was putting on a strong look for me and Twilight.

Guess there’s a reason why he’s called Spike the Brave and Glorious.

“I’m not letting Twilight get harassed by a group of ponies she doesn’t even know. Zebra or not.” He said, now standing right next to her in a way that looked as if he was protecting her. It was kinda heroic and a little adorable to see this little guy wanting to protect somepony that can be viewed as his big sister.

Twilight sighed. “Spike, I can take care of myself. And I’ve got Shadow here with me. You don’t have to worry. You should just stay here where it’s safe.” She said.

Unfortunately, her words had no effect on him. He shook his head.

“No. I’ve got your back, Twilight. Even if it would get ugly.” He said, not leaving her side.

She looked at me as if to ask if it’s okay for him to come along. I could see he wasn’t going anywhere. Plus, our deal did say that Spike could help out on any investigations.

So, why the fuck not?

“Fine. Just don’t say anything or do anything if those zebras say anything. They want your attention. They want you to react. Good or bad, it doesn’t matter. They want you to acknowledge them. Don’t acknowledge them. This goes to both of you. Am I understood?” I asked them. They both nodded. Spike even saluted me like I’m a drill Sargent. Goofball.

After that was said, we made our way to the front exit. Hopefully, nothing bad happens here. Celestia, I hope.

-/-

Protesters. Activists. Media Crew. Reporters. Social Justice Warriors. Creatures of some type of movement.

I’ve dealt with a lot of these kinds of creatures before. These types of creatures claim to fight for a cause. To get Justice for a certain type of creature, or somepony of a big group. To right a wrong.

And, honestly, I do support protesters. I really do. I am all for free speech. I am all for somepony wanting to say how they truly feel about something.

Hell, I remember back when I was on the force, an LGBT group called “We Are Strong”, protested outside the NCPD building when one of their own was found murdered. The victim was a lesbian mare, I believe her name was Bedazzle. And the leader was some mare named Buffy. She was a bisexual mare, and was one of the most in your face type of mares I’d ever come across. Almost to a point of me wanting to punch the inner bitch outta her.

However, she did give us the Vic’s name, when we had literally no ID for her. She even wanted to be on the investigation with me and my old partner Scout Ranger. Back before I fucked up……

Anyway, me and Scout did our investigation(without her; even if one of her “sisters” was dead, that didn’t make her a cop), and we found out the same guy who murdered Bedazzle was also targeting other lesbian mares as well. Apparently, he liked to rape and murder mares who don’t find stallions attractive. This was said by Buffy, although with her wound up, sorta crazy attitude, we all thought she was just paranoid.

Well, I can admit when I’m wrong.

We ended up finding the fucker. He was some loser grocery store clerk, who worked in a shitty looking super market. Guy was pathetic, and I have to say Angel Blossom made him cry like a little bitch. Heh. It was satisfying to say the least. And I learned something that day. Even if Buffy was kind of a bitch toward us, especially me, at the end of the day, she was just trying to find Justice for her friend. And, if I’m being honest, I’d probably be in her shoes too.

Now, reporters and media ponies, on the other hoof, are entirely different. The minute they see some creature, who is named a suspect in a big time crime, they will swarm you like flies to a dead carcass. And it’s not just the suspect, oh no no no, that’s not the worst thing. What’s even worse is they’ll hunt down where their families and friends live or work and swarm them too. They’ll harass and bombard them with questions that they, probably, don’t even know a thing about.

Like this other time. A middle age stallion was accused of molesting a 10 year old colt. While me and Scout were investigating, and Angel and her partner Rap Sheet were interrogating him, the news media was literally outside the stallion’s home. He had a wife, two daughters and one son. I could only imagine the fear and humiliation the mare must’ve endured. And the foals. Could anypony imagine what it’s like being 7, 8, 9 or 10 years old and being asked whether your father ever touched you inappropriately? It would be a pretty traumatizing experience. And it was for them.

And for the record, the stallion was proven innocent. It turned out the colt was told to lie by his mother. Apparently, this mare was a former lover to this stallion, and he then dumped her out of the blue one day. She was pissed off and wanted payback. So, after a one night stand with a random gigilo, and waiting some years, she told her son to accuse this stallion.

Thanks to my intimidation factor, I was able to get the kid to confess that his mother was manipulating him to do this. She basically said to him that if he didn’t do it, she’d send him to an orphanage. We were able to arrest the mare for child abuse and manipulation for a false rape accusation. The kid went to live with his aunt and uncle in Harneigh, and the stallion got to go home to his family.

Of course, the media didn’t apologize. Didn’t admit they were wrong. They just said the thing that they all say when a big time case doesn’t go their way:

The Justice System is Flawed.

Maybe it is, and believe me, I’ve felt that way when cases I’ve worked didn’t go how I wanted it too. But let’s be frank here: the news media doesn’t care about you. They don’t care if you’re a victim or a suspect. They only care about creating a sensationalistic headline that they could profit off of to make some bits for their greedy little pockets. They don’t care how old you are, or what your feelings are. They just want to make money off of you.

The news media, to me anyway, are rapists. Of ponies dignities. Fuck all of them.

However, recently, I think the most pathetic group of ponies are what a lot of ponies call Social Justice Warriors. These types of ponies claim to fight for civil rights, LGBT rights, mares rights, and just about anything they see as an injustice to them.

But, I think we all know what they are. They really are just little crybabies(or Snowflakes as I and a lot of other ponies call them) when things don’t go their way.

Probably the biggest crybaby I ever came across was when this 19 year old college mare was seen vandalizing an anti abortion sign. And I literally caught her in the act.

And when I did catch her, she started to get all emotional and even trying to explain that she wasn’t vandalizing it, she was just trying to decorate it. She was even crying when I told her she was under arrest.

Now, I am all for abortions be legal. However, I don’t support vandalism and messing with other ponies property. It was funny how she was thinking she was some tough mare, vandalizing somepony’s property, and when she’s caught and being told she’s arrested, she turns into a little crybaby trying to excuse what she did.

It’s kinda hilarious if I’m being honest.

Now, let’s get to the ZRA. Zebra Rights Association. I’ve heard about these guys. They are a group of zebras who want Justice for other zebras, who were victims of hate crimes, false accusations, and police brutality.

Now, when me, Twilight and Spike walked out onto the front step of the Castle of Friendship, I just waited for them to start calling us racist, prejudice or we’re part of the big problem because we’re ponies and not them. I waited for them to swarm us with questions and harass Spike. I even waited for one of them to bring out a mega phone.

But, that didn’t happen. They just stood there. Staring at us. Some with blank faces, some with disappointed looks, some with peeved looks, and some with angry looks. There were even ponies who were looking in on what was going on. I think I even saw Bon Bon with her girlfriend Lyra.

I decided to break the silence. “Can I help with you something?” I asked them.

I then saw a zebra who looked about 12 years old then I was. He was a zebra with a bit of light grayness in his coat. His stripes looked kinda wavy. And he had a black beard too. He walked up to the front steps and was a few inches away from us.

“Yes. You can help us. My name is Zane. I am the leader of the Zebra Rights Association. Or ZRA for short.” He said, even offering his hoof to me.

I decided to shake based solely on being polite, and not wanting to look bad in front of the guys followers. Or the other Ponyville folk.

“I’m Detective Shadow Haze. What is it that you need?” I asked him, taking my hoof away from his.

“We wish to speak with Princess Twilight Sparkle. As well, we also wish to know where your hospital is so we can give Miss Zecora support.” He told us.

I saw Twilight look nervous when he said that. Spike looked ready to attack.

“How do you know the victim’s name? Her brother never mentioned you or the rest of the ZRA.” I said.

“You’d be surprised how I get my information, Detective. Now, may you please give us the location?” He told me in a very polite manner. I think he’s trying to make himself look like the good guy.

But I can see right through him. He’s using this as a way to make us look bad by not giving him what he wants. He’ll probably label me as a racist. Just like lots of creatures, other ponies included, would label me and other law enforcement officers as.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t give out information of victim’s to ponies she doesn’t know. No disrespect, I’m just doing my job.” I told him.

“Really?! Or do you just not WANT us there?” I heard a random female zebra yell out in a hostile voice.

“Is it a pony only hospital?!” I heard another yell. This one was also a female.

“It’s okay, Zya. Zira.” Zane said, calming them down.

“We can’t force him to give us classified information. However, we DO wish to speak to the Princess.” He told us.

I shook my head. “Twilight told me about the interaction you and your followers had with her in Baltimare. I’m not gonna allow you to harass her again.”

“You guys called Twilight prejudice!” Spike blurred out.

Twilight gave him a glare. “Spike, quiet!” She quietly yelled at him. He still looked ready to pounce, but stayed back.

“You got a problem with the truth?!” Another female zebra in the crowd yelled out.

“All ponies are prejudice toward zebras!” I heard a male zebra this time.

I glared at those two zebras in the crowd and that caused them to shut the fuck up. It’s good to have an intimidation factor on your side.

“Twilight also told me you called her that. How can you refer to her as prejudice?” I asked Zane.

“Simple. One of our fellows gets brutally assaulted, and she just happens to be away? She didn’t NOT know. She just doesn’t care. She doesn’t care about other minorities in Equestria.” He told me in an intimidating voice. Not that it scares me. I’ve seen more intimidating ponies then him.

He then looked at Twilight and told her. “And you call yourself a Princess.”

While my conversation with Zane went on, I noticed Twilight was getting upset at what he was saying about her. She had her head down. As if to not look at him.

However, that changed when he said that. Because as soon as that conversation left his lips, Twilight looked up at him in the most angry look I’ve ever seen on her face.

He had a shocked look on his face before what happened next unfolded.

“HOW! DARE! YOU!” She yelled out in her Princess voice. She yelled so loud that it knocked back Zane into his followers like a bowling ball hitting pins.

Strike, I guess.

“How dare you call me prejudice, you piece of fucking shit!” She yelled at him. Damn, I’ve never heard Twilight use the f word, except when I told her about Silhouette. She looks super pissed.

“I may be a Princess, but I can’t control when some creature does a terrible thing. It wasn’t my fault that happened to Zecora, who is a friend of mine. I also run the School of Friendship, which has all kinds of other creatures there. Yaks, Hippogriffs, Griffons, Changelings and, yes, Zebras.” She told him while I saw that her eyes looked about to have tears falling down from them.

“So, how dare you call me prejudice. If anything, you all are prejudice for thinking all ponies are prejudice—“ She started to say before I grabbed her by her wing.

“That’s enough Twilight. Let’s go. You two, Spike.” I said to them as I lead Twilight to Sweet Apple Acres. Spike followed us. Not before shooting an angry look at the ZRA.

I even saw Zane look pissed off as he shook his head at us.

-/-

“Why did you stop me?!” Twilight yelled at me, as I let go of her wing. Spike was right next to her.

“Because any more, and you would’ve made yourself look bad.” I told her as we started walking toward the road where Sweet Apple Acres was at.

“How so?” Twilight asked angrily.

“I told you.” I said, giving Twilight a stern look. “They want your reaction Twilight. The ZRA has several followers who will spin what you just did and try to make you look even more prejudice, even though you aren’t.”

“But, Shadow I have to—“ I stopped her right there.

“No. Twilight, this is one of the reasons why I was hesitant to have you work for me.” I said to her.

“What do you mean?” She asked.

“You’re easy to rile up. Sometimes, you just have to accept things the way they are. Like I told you before, don’t let your emotions get ahold of you during a case. It’ll just make everything go to shit. Cold hard fact of life, Twilight.” I said to her.

Both of them gave me a glare. Guess they feel like I’m siding with the ZRA, when I’m not.

“Look, we’ll talk about this later. Let’s go to Sweet Apple Acres.” I said to her.

They continued that glare, until they walked with me.

-/- Sweet Apple Acres -/-

Twilight and Spike still weren’t looking at me when we arrived. As we walked under the Sweet Apple Acres sign, I saw Applejack bucking apple trees to our right. Several types of apples fell into the bucket as they fell from the tree.

I decided to let her finish her work, however Twilight and Spike went over to her. Probably both to say Hi and to get away from me. I hope I didn’t piss them off too bad.

I knocked at the door and after a second of waiting, Happy Hayburger answered the door.

We stared each other down for what felt like hours, even though it was only a few seconds. With what happened yesterday, things were probably gonna be tense between us for a while.

And I’m okay with that.

With a slight sneer on his face, he stepped out of my way and let me inside. I heard laughter in the kitchen. From the sound of it, it must be Sugar Belle and Apple Bloom.

I took a few more steps and saw my thought was correct. Apple Bloom and Sugar Belle were baking something. It looked to be some type of muffins. They smelled pretty fucking good too.

I stood in the kitchen entryway for a minute before making my presence known.

“You two look to be having fun.” I said aloud. That got they’re attention, as they stopped doing what they were doing and looked over at me.

“D-Detective. How nice to see you. I didn’t hear you come in.” Sugar Belle said, looking nervous while holding a wire whisk. Apple Bloom held the bowl that was filled with batter.

She put the bowl down and came up to me.

“I’ve made my decision, Detective.” She said to me with a serious tone. Although, I can’t lie, it was kinda funny she said it like that while wearing a white chef hat.

Now it was time to get serious. “Okay. What?” I told her.

She breathed in before she told me, “I’ll do it.”

I saw Sugar Belle look defeated. I know she didn’t want her sister-in-law, who was only 10 years old, to do something very scary in participating in open court.

Me, on the other hoof, I couldn’t help but smile. I had a feeling she was still scared, but she was gonna do it anyway. This was one brave filly.

I think her parents would be proud of her.

Before I could respond, I heard Spike, Twilight and Applejack come inside. They stepped into the kitchen with us.

“We’re coming with. End of story.” Applejack told me.

“I guess you know Apple Bloom agreed to it?” I asked her.

She nodded. “Yeah, and I’m gonna go with for moral support. And to make sure nothing bad happens to mah little sister.”

I saw Apple Bloom blush. She hid her face with her bow in embarrassment as she said, “Applejack, not in front of every pony.”

I thought that was kinda weird. She just looked annoyed the last time she was called little or baby by her family. Now she looks all embarrassed and blushing? Wonder why that is.

“I’m going to.” Twilight said. “I want to help Apple Bloom too. I’ll teach her what I read up on court hearings.” She smiled and got a proud look on her face.

“I once read Court Hearings 101: Everything You Want To Know About Testifying In Court. Heck of a page turner that was.” She said.

I chuckled as I shook my head. “I’m sure you can Twilight, but since I’m in law enforcement, I’ll be the one to teach her. That, and I’m leading the case.” I told her. And I kinda bummed her out when I said that, with the disappointed look on her face.

I saw Spike sniff the air for a sec. “Woah. What are you two cooking?” He asked.

Sugar Belle giggled. “Me and Apple Bloom are making Apple Cider Muffins. And she’s gotten really good at it, Spike.” She said, for some reason winking at him.

Apple Bloom hid her face in embarrassment again.

Hmmmmmmm.

“Alright.” I said, now gaining every pony’s attention. “Let’s go you four.” I said as we walked out of the front door to Sweet Apple Acres.

-/-Ponyville Court House-/-

“I’ve never seen a courtroom in pony before. This is kinda cool.” Apple Bloom said, staring in interest around the facility.

Though, that wasn’t the case on the way here. When we were walking through town, I couldn’t help but notice she was avoiding Spike’s eyes. She would look at him for a couple of seconds, and when he would look at her, she would look away.

Oh. It appears lil’ Apple Bloom is smitten with Twilight’s assistant. Wonder why that is though? Either way, it’s honest to Celestia adorable.

Anyway, while we were standing in the row of seats where ponies would be sitting to watch this unfold, I guided Apple Bloom toward the stand. She sat down in the seat that was between the Judge’s seat and where the jury would seat.

“Okay Apple Bloom. The first thing that’s gonna happen is somepony will come up to you with a Bible. They’ll ask you to raise your right hoof. Can you do that?” I asked her and she did with a smile on her face.

“Then, they’ll ask you to place that hoof on the Bible. Then they’ll ask this exact question: “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? So help you Celestia?” Then you will say…” I motioned for her to guess what she has to say.

And, she got it right. “Yes, sir I do.”

“Good. Next, one of the prosecutors will ask you about what happened when you found Zecora in her hut. They’ll ask you what your relationship with her is. They also are gonna want to know of any ponies or other creatures in Ponyville who may have had problems with her. Most of all, they’ll want a reason as to why Gavin should be in prison and not a mental facility.” I explained to her.

She nodded. “Okay. I think I could handle that.”

Twilight stepped in next. “Well, sweetheart, there’s also this too. Gavin’s lawyer will ask some questions that might be hard to answer. He actually might ask if you’ve ever met Gavin, which I don’t think you have, have you?” She asked.

Apple Bloom shook her head no.

“I thought so. But, they might even ask some questions that might seem inappropriate.” She said.

Apple Bloom raised her eyebrow. “Like what?” She asked.

This time Applejack spoke. “They might ask if Zecora…did some things with you…ya know, that parents tell their children what inappropriate is.” She said, looking really uncomfortable.

Apple Bloom now looked really offended. “Zecora had NEVER touched me inappropriately. She’s mah friend.” She said.

“I know she is.” I said, stepping in. “But, unfortunately, that could possibly be a valid question to ask. And that is something I really need for you Apple Bloom.”

“What?” She asked.

“I need for you to be a really big girl here, and try not to get all emotional and offended. The jury might form an idea in their head and think otherwise. So, you have to try to keep your emotions in check, okay?” I told her.

Now, she looked worried. Guess I can’t blame her.

“But, what if they really DO ask me what Twilight suggested? I have to defend Zecora.” She said.

“I know, sweetie.” Twilight said. “But, Shadow Haze is right. You need to remain calm. And actually, if you do what he says, that actually will help Zecora even more. Just trust me, okay?”

That was surprising for me to hear that come out of Twilight’s mouth. I looked over at her with a look of disgust on my face. She saw it, and just looked away. I could tell she knew what I was gonna say to her later.

Apple Bloom was quiet for a minute before she replied, “Okay. Ah’ll try. Ah’ll try mah best.”

I nodded at her with a smile on my face. “That’s good Apple Bloom. If you do this, I’m sure Zecora will have Justice in no time.” I said to her.

“Don’t worry Apple Bloom. You’re gonna do great.” Spike said randomly. I saw her blush again.

“Thanks, Spike.” She said in a low voice. I even saw Twilight giggle.

“Alright, I think that’ll be enough for today. Come on Apple Bloom, let’s get y’all home now.” Applejack said, as her little sister got off the stand.

And as minute she did that, I heard my phone go off.

“Shadow Haze.” I answered it, and I couldn’t believe my ears. The others must’ve seen my face as my eyes widened in shock from what I was just told.

“I’ll be right over.” I said and hung up. “Applejack, take Apple Bloom home. I have some place I gotta be.” I said, walking out of the doors leading into the courtroom.

As I was in the hallway, Twilight and Spike had caught up with me.

“Shadow, what’s going on?” She said, sounding concerned.

“Gavin just murdered a zebra prison inmate.” I said as I was now heading outside.

Author's Note

Hope you guys like this chapter. Make sure to like, comment, follow and favorite for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 10: Zecora Wakes Up

-/-Ponyville Jail-/-

“The dude just lost it, man! I don’t know what the fuck came over him.” One of the guards told me as Twilight and I walked through the hallway leading into the jail cells. Spike was told to wait in the lobby. Probably wouldn’t be a good idea for him to see all these criminals. Especially one who just killed one of them.

I was called just a little while ago that Gavin had assaulted and murdered a male zebra inmate. From what was said, the zebra was in for armed robbery and drug possession. And when he was put in the cell with Gavin and a few other pony cell mates, the guy just went nuts and started to smash the zebras head into the bars. Even the other inmates were trying to get Gavin off the guy.

As of now, Gavin is in solitary confinement. They couldn’t trust Gavin with the other inmates. They’d be worried he’d try to kill them too.

“Why would you put him in the same cell with a zebra?” I asked him. I was pretty mad right now.

The guard looked defensive. “Hey man, I didn’t know what the dude was in for.”

“Bullshit, you didn’t know!” I yelled at him, causing him to flinch. I think Twilight and Spike flinched a little bit too.

The guard didn’t say anything after that. There is no way he didn’t know what Gavin was in for. Word has been getting around town what had happened to Zecora. Lots of ponies are talking about it.

Either this guard is lying through his teeth, or he’s an incompetent moron.

Anyway, we walked over to the solitary confinement cell where Gavin was. He just stood there looking at us walking toward his cell. He had some hoof marks on him, obviously from when the zebra inmate tried to fight back.

“Your lawyer is gonna pissed at you, Gavin. You just convicted yourself.” I told him.

He just leaned into the bars with a smirk on his face. “Who cares about him? He’s just a zebra. They don’t belong here in Equestria. They should just go back to their homeland where they belong. Not here trying to steal jobs away from other creatures like me.” He ranted at us.

I was stunned by this guy’s lack of remorse or compassion. And his lack of subtlety of racism toward zebras. I shouldn’t be, but I just am for some reason.

Twilight approached the bars with an angry look on her face. Oh Celestia, here we go again.

“YOU ARE A HORRIBLE CREATURE!” She shouted at him. He just smiled all arrogant like at her. The fucker made ME want to punch him in his bitch face.

“I’m gonna make sure you receive the death penalty. And I can make it happen, Gavin. I’m a Princess, after all.” She said, returning that grin that Gavin gave her.

Now, he just looked cross at her. He probably was worried now. There’s a good chance he may die after what he did.

“There’s not a chance in hell with that happening.” We heard that damn voice again.

I turned toward that voice as I spoke in a sarcastic tone. “Looks like your lawyer came after all, Gavin.” I said, as Matlock entered the cell with Gavin, even giving him a cigarette. I fucking hate cigarettes.

“On what grounds would this not happen?” Twilight asked, looking angry.

Matlock now gave a smirk that I wanted to punch off. “Would you REALLY execute a creature who has severe mental health problems?” He asked her.

“You’re still going for that?” I asked him.

He nodded. “Yes. What just happened here proves it. My client needs Professional help. He was born with hatred wired into his brain after his father’s murder.” He said, offering Gavin a light for his cigarette, which he accepted.

“No pony is born racist, Matlock. The judge or jury won’t buy it.” I said to him, watching the smoke blow from Gavin’s beak.

“We’ll see about that during arraignment. Which, by the way, is five days from now. Just to give ya a heads up. See you in court, Detective.” Matlock said, now sitting down with Gavin in his cell.

I shook my head at them, not believing all the bullshit that was spewing out of this guy’s shit shooter.

Twilight and Spike were about to say something, until I grabbed them with my magic.

“Come on, you two. Let’s go.” I said, dragging them with me.

-/- Ponyville Detention Center -/-

“This is not good.” Captain Stone said, with Me, Spike, Twilight, Applejack, Ruby Glow and Cadaver all sitting together. We walked to Sweet Apple Acres to pick up Applejack and take her with us. We explained everything to her while we walked over here. To say she was not happy would be an understatement.

“Gavin knew what he was doing the whole time. If he’s declared insane, I guarantee you every creature who has prejudice views on another creature could claim mental health problems as a defense.” I told him.

We were all silent for a minute, before Spike spoke up. “How can we prove he’s not crazy? Should we get a psychiatrist to examine him or something?” He asked.

“Matlock wont let any doctor we offer anywhere near him.” Stone said, before hatching an idea from his brain.

“But, we do have a psychiatrist who works with us. She analyzes criminals who have committed murders, rapes, and other terrible crimes. If anypony knows about true mental health problems, it’s her.” He said, getting up from his seat.

“Let me go make a call.” He said, now entering his office.

I sighed as I put my hooves to my face. I hope to Celestia he’s right.

-/-1 Hour Later-/-

“Hello, every pony. I’m Doctor Gwynn.” A very young looking unicorn mare said, approaching our little circle. She looked about in her early to mid thirties. Her coat was a light pink color, she had a short curly orange mane, and a cutie mark with a pony brain on it. This, I guess, showed that psychology is her special talent.

Every pony, including myself, shook hooves with her. She seemed like a nice mare. Hopefully, she knows what the fuck she’s doing.

“Good to have you here, Doctor Gwynn. So, have you brought your research with you?” Captain Stone asked.

She nodded happily and brought out some paperwork from a sachel she had on her side. There were pictures of brains of random creatures. The kind of pictures these were, were PET scans. I saw the color pattern on some of them.

This should get interesting.

“Major Matlock is going for an insanity defense, based on what he believes is genetic hatred wired to the brain. That’s what Captain Stone said, right Detective Shadow Haze?” She asked me. It was good to see she didn’t fear me. So, I guess maybe there’s a chance I could befriend her.

“Yeah. If this case goes to trial, and he wins, no pony will ever be held accountable for their actions ever again.” I said to her.

“It’d be like if a stallion molested a filly or colt, and then gave a defense that his love of children was just something he was born with.” Applejack said, not sounding happy. I saw Twilight motion for Spike to go to the break room. She gave him a few bits to get a snack or soda from the vending machines. Let the adults talk, I guess.

She levitated one of the PET scan pictures to us. This one had writing on it that said ZEBRA MINISTER.

“This is from an interview that me and a few other psychiatrists did with a few zebra ministers. We monitored their brain wave patterns and compared them with a normal pony brain.

She showed us a picture of a pony brain. This one had a different color pattern on it then the zebra one did.

“If you look here,” She pointed on the zebra and pony pictures “This is the prefrontal cortex. You’ll see on the normal pony brain that it looks bigger. The zebra one is smaller. However, there also is another part of the brain that could predict violent behavior.” She said putting the pictures down and pulling out new ones.

“It’s called the subcortex.” She said, now showing us the same two pictures from before, only now it showed from the lower back part of the brain. “Notice how both brains have the same brain wave pattern.” She told us, putting those two down and bringing up two new ones.

“That is, until I showed a picture of the KKK to the zebra we interviewed. Notice how his brain wave pattern in the subcortex lights up even bigger than the pony one does.” She showed us, comparing and contrasting both brain wave patterns.

“This is all interesting information Doctor Gwynn, but how does this help us in putting Gavin in prison where he belongs?” I asked her.

“Yeah. It seems to me, like you’re agreeing with Matlock.” Applejack said, looking suspicious.

Doctor Gwynn shook her head. “My studies show that, while violent behavior could POSSIBLY be predicted, there is no research that shows anypony or creature is BORN to hate another creature. Hatred is learned from other ponies or creatures you are associated with from the time you are born to when you are a grown up. The zebra here told me he was taught what the KKK had done to his kind for years by his grandparents and his parents. Even some friends who were victims of some type of crime in their lives.” She explained to me.

“Here’s the problem though.” Twilight interjected. “Even if your studies DO prove that Gavin wasn’t BORN a racist, the jury could still buy that he was manipulated by years of learned hatred. He could STILL be deemed insane.” She said.

Ruby Glow spoke up next. “I read up some more on Gavin. His school records all show that he was sent to a therapist throughout his entire middle and high school years. Says it didn’t exactly help him that much.” She said, looking defeated.

“Not to mention” Cadaver spoke next, “The ruthlessness of the attack showed a serious sign of rage. That could also be in his favor too.”

Captain Stone groaned in annoyance. “Could this get anymore difficult?” He asked out loud.

All of a sudden, my phone went off. “Shadow Haze.” I answered it. And what I heard on the other line surprised the fuck outta me.

“I’ll be right over.” I said, hanging up.

Every pony looked at me with interest. “What’s up, Shadow?” Cadaver asked me.

“Well, Applejack, I guess you can go get Apple Bloom now.” I told her.

“Why?” She asked me.

I smiled as I said, “Zecora just woke up at the hospital.”

-/- Ponyville Hospital -/-

Applejack quickly went and picked up Apple Bloom from their home and joined Me, Twilight and Spike to go and see Zecora. Doctor Gwynn and every pony else stayed behind at the Detention Center. I guess to figure how the fuck are we gonna get through this damn case.

And as if our day wasn’t already shitty enough, the ZRA was outside the Hospital, protesting in honor of Zecora. There were signs that had her name on it, as well as signs that said duragatory remarks about police officers.

One of them saw us and they all just stared at us. Then I saw Zane come up.

“Detective, I trust you’re coming here to ask Zecora questions about what happened to her, am I right?” He asked in a condescending voice that I wanted to smack out of him.

“What gave it away?” I asked sarcastically. I saw a few zebra followers glaring at Twilight. Probably were still pissed at her rant toward them not too long ago. Though, I know they won’t attack. She’s a Princess.

And even if one of those zebras attacks her, I’ll be there to slap the cuffs on the son of a bitch and take him to jail.

“I’m going to ask nicely this time. After Zecora gives you information on her assault, may we have some information as well? Please?” He asked us.

I motioned for the others to stay back. I got this.

“The answer is No, Zane. You aren’t a part of this investigation. I’m simply doing my job. And these ponies have a right to be here because they have a personal relationship with Zecora. You do not.” I told him in a firm voice.

Then he laughed at me. His followers joined in to.

“These two hick ponies are friends with a zebra? I’ll believe that when I see it.” He said.

That little comment looked to get to Applejack and Apple Bloom. Especially, lil Bloom.

She stepped right in front of me. Standing face to face with Zane.

“What gives y’all the right to judge whether or not I’m friends with Zecora or not, ya big bully.” She yelled at him. I was surprised. She had the guts to stand up to a guy who was twice her size and had a group of followers with him.

I guess I was right when I said she was a brave little filly. And I think Spike was surprised too. I certainly saw it in his face.

“Ponies like you are the ones who lynched us back in the old days.” One of the zebra followers said.

“Yeah. I’ll bet your family members from way back when we’re Klan members.” Another said.

“You will probably be just like them.” A female one said.

All of Zane’s followers started chanting things at us. Some type of chant that sounds like they are Warriors for Justice. But the truth is they just want to harass ponies they don’t like.

It was getting to Apple Bloom, I could tell. She was looking scared. Yet, still standing her ground. But, it didn’t look like for very long.

Spike moved forward quickly before Applejack could. He stood in front of Apple Bloom, defending her. I think I even saw her blush a little.

“Hey, leave her alone, you assholes. Shes just here to support her friend. She’s right, ya know. You all are just bullies. And I hate bullies.” He said, showing how brave HE also was.

Zane, I think, did look a little concerned when Spike defended her. I even saw some of his followers look ready to pounce. Guess they wouldn’t think twice about attacking a technical child if they attacked their charismatic leader.

Now, Zane was also twice his size, but Spike had wings, claws, sharp teeth, and the biggest advantage: he could breathe fire. One wrong move from Zane, and he’ll be a zebra fireball. And I don’t think he’d like that.

Twilight contained them both in her magic, pulling them back toward her. Showing a disgusted look on her face.

Applejack just looked angry. Really angry. So angry, I was concerned she would do what Twilight did not too long ago.

I stepped forward. “Look Zane. I appreciate that you want Justice for Zecora. As all of you as well.” I said, actually acknowledging his followers. They just had their heads turned away from me. As to not acknowledge me.

I continued. “However, you accusing ponies as well as stereotyping them won’t make your movement look good. If anything, it’ll make you come across as hypocritical and uninteresting.”

Zane looked like that comment stung him. “Uninteresting?”

“Whether you like it or not, or any of your followers or supporters like it or not, ponies ARE a race in Equestria. And the fact that you say things like what you just said now to Apple Bloom, show that YOU are a racist too. Or at least, have some type of racism in you.” I told him literally right in his face.

He looked pissed. As did his followers. “You call ME racist? After everything that zebras went through in this country many, many years ago?”

I snorted at him. “Guess there’s a legitimate reason why. Doesn’t mean it’s right, but I understand it.” I said, now turning my head away from him to look at the others.

“Come on every pony. Zecora is waiting for us.” I said to them as I walked inside. They followed me a second later.

-/- Zecora’s Room -/-

Nurse Redheart lead us to her room. And when we got there, I saw Zakwani and Zara there as well. Zakwani looked relieved that his younger sister was awake now. He even looked to have brought her a tray with lunch from the cafeteria. It was untouched now, but she’d probably eat it later.

Now Zara, on the other hoof, was just hugging and crying her aunt. She was apparently MORE relieved that her auntie was awake and okay. Well, for the most part.

Every pony else also looked relieved. Especially Apple Bloom, who was getting emotional looking at her friend. She then trotted in her room.

“Zecora, you’re okay!” She shouted as she hugged her left side. Zara was on her right.

Speaking of, Zara looked to be surprised. Guess she didn’t think Apple Bloom was serious about her friendship with her auntie.

Zecora just looked down at her friend and her niece and just smiled.

“No need to fret, my little pony. I am quite alright, even if my head feels tingly.” She said. Her head was still wrapped up in bandages. However, we still could see her face. Thankfully, her face wasn’t mangled during her attack.

We walked in and I flashed my badge to her. I also saw Zara turn and hide behind her Daddy. Guess this many ponies in one room could be overwhelming for her.

“Zecora, I’m Detective Shadow Haze. I’ve been working the case on who assaulted you. Along with Applejack and Twilight here. And I just wanted to tell you, we’ve found the guy. He’s currently in jail now, and will be appearing in court not to long from now.” I explained to her, while pulling out a photo of Gavin/Gunner out of the pocket of my trench coat.

“This is who we’ve arrested.” I showed her the photo.

When I did, I expected her to get scared. To get angry. To feel relief. Something, knowing that the Griffon who tried to murder her was now in prison.

However, I saw a zebra who looked remorseful. The way she closed her eyes and shook her head. The way her mouth frowned.

To me, she just looked disappointed.

“Yes. That is the Griffon who attacked me.” She said.

Every pony looked surprised at her reaction. Including me.

“Aren’t you glad, little sister?” Zakwani asked.

“Yeah.” Applejack said, looking confused. “He almost killed you, and you look like you feel sorry for him.”

“Because I do.” She told us point blank.

Apple Bloom climbed off Zecora’s bed and looked at her in disbelief.

“Why would ya feel sorry for somepony who tried to kill you? Are you insane?” She asked, kinda raising her voice at her. She was given a stern look from Applejack, causing her to look ashamed.

“Because of what he was yelling at me, as he was beating me like a tree.” She said.

I got closer to her. “What did he yell at you, Zecora? What do you remember?”

She breathed in a sigh before replying, “See what you did, Dad? See what you made me do?”

I was shocked. What?

“Miss Zecora, the guy who attacked you, his father was murdered by a zebra 20 years ago.” I told her.

She shook her head. “I don’t think so.” She said.

What is she saying? That Gavin’s Dad was NOT murdered? That there’s MORE to the story of his apparent racism?

What the hell happened 20 years ago?

I need to contact Angel Blossom right away.

-/-

I left the room to go into the lobby. The others stayed in there to help Zecora catch up on what was going on. Maybe, even get her some things.

The dial tone only went to one before Angel picked up.

“Shadow, I’m so glad you called. I found out something about that crime from 20 years ago.” She said to me, sounding frantic.

“Yeah, and apparently Zecora, the FUCKING VICTIM, thinks so too.”

“She woke up?”

“You heard my words.” I said, kinda raising my voice.

“No, Shadow, this is good. Especially, with what I found.”

I raised my eyebrow. “What the fuck are you talking about? How is this good?”

I heard a smirk on her line. “Well, I dug through SO much research for this crime. Me and Rap Sheet even talked to a few ponies who loved there during that time. I looked through every cold case file I could find.” She explained to me.

“And?” I asked.

“Nothing. Not a thing.” She said.

I groaned in frustration. “How is this good? What, are they covering up something big?” I asked her.

“No.” She said, attempting to calm me down.

“I mean Nothing as in, there was nothing to find. There was no police report from a murder of Gene the Zebra.” She said to me.

I felt a jolt of lightning flow through my body when she said that. I can NOT believe what I’m hearing.

“What are you saying, Angel?” I asked her, my tone intensifying.

“What I’m saying is, there was no murder of a Zebra named Gene over 20 years ago. This crime never happened.” She told me.

“What?” I said, now sounding very pissed off. “How can you be so sure? Are you 100%?”

“Well, I think you’ll have the answer tomorrow morning.” She said, sounding pleased with herself.

“What do you mean?” I asked, sounding kind of harsh with her.

“Well, I was able to find a certain some pony who could help put Gavin in prison where he belongs. A certain somepony, who has ALL the answers we need.” She said.

I started putting the pieces of this new puzzle together in my head. Which is kinda hurting from this new revelation.

“Who?” I asked her.

“I think you already know. Meet him at the train station tomorrow morning. Then take him to see Gavin. Hell, maybe you could avoid a trial.” She said.

“What makes you think that?” I asked her.

“Shadow, just trust me, okay? Look, I gotta go. Bye for now.” She said, hanging up.

I could not believe this shit. I spent all this time, thinking about a murder that happened over 20 years ago, and now I hear that this didn’t even fucking happen.

Whoever Angel is sending, this better be good.

Author's Note

Make sure to comment like favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.

Chapter 11: The Truth Revealed

“Mares and Gentlecolts of the jury, will you all please rise. Judge Monique residing in docket number 0717: The ponies vs Gavin.” The judge said, as the jury rose from their seats.

This was it. Today was the day. We’re all here in the Ponyville Courthouse. I was sitting in a seat next to Applejack and Twilight. Apple Bloom sat next to her big sister as well. She looked nervous, seeing as how she was gonna go up on the stand in a little bit. I just hope I trained her good enough.

“Where is this pony you were talking about? He needs to be here.” Twilight whispered in my right ear.

“Yeah.” Applejack whispered in my left ear. “And who is this pony anyway?”

“You both just gotta trust me.” I whispered to them. “I trust Angel Blossom with my life. If she says this is the way, then this is the way.”

“That’s fine and all, but where IS this pony?” Twilight asked, sounding worried.

“He’ll be here. Just wait, okay?” I told her.

I looked over to my left and saw Major Matlock with his client Gavin. Guess he’s not going by Gunner anymore. He was caught. No sense in using that name anymore.

I looked forward and saw the judge looking over the docket with her reading glasses. She looked about in her late 40’s, maybe early 50’s. Maybe even pushing mid 50’s. She had a light brown coat with a receding curly grey mane, that probably looked better back in her younger days. Her cutie mark was a gavel being slammed down.

“Major Matlock, it says here you are going with a not guilty by reason of mental defect. Is this true?” She asked him.

He nodded with that professional, but somewhat arrogant smile on his face.

“That’s true, your honor. My client was born with hatred and racism wired into his brain. He’s not responsible for his actions.” He said to her.

“There is no such research that proves your theory, Matlock.” Doctor Gwynn said. She was representing Zecora AND Zakwani today. Odd choice for it, but hey, she’s a doctor so, maybe that could work.

“Well, shouldn’t this trial here be a good reason to test that theory? Why not prove your research and theories right, by this trial involving three clear cut hate crimes?” He asked.

“This doesn’t feel appropriate for that.” Doctor Gwynn said.

They both looked up at Judge Monique. She looked to be interested in this.

“I do agree that the circumstances regarding this case does seem inappropriate for research to be questioned. However, I do admit I’m interested to hear this.” She said, looking at both of them. Doctor Gwynn looked defeated, while Matlock just smiled that shit eating grin of his.

“Motion granted, let the proceeds begin.” She said, banging her gavel.

Alright, let’s get this fucking trial started. I just hope our pony makes it on time.

-/-Apple Bloom-/-

“Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you Celestia?” Doctor Gwynn asked Apple Bloom, who had her right foreleg raised in the air like I showed her.

She smiled and nodded. “I do, Ma’am.”

“So, tell us your name, and relationship to the victim, Zecora?” She asked, while walking away from her to stand on the middle of the room.

“Mah name’s Apple Bloom, and Zecora is mah friend.” She said.

“And how long have you been friends with her?”

“Ever since she first moved to Ponyville a few years ago. I saw she was having trouble carrying some groceries to her cottage, and Ah offered to help her. And ever since then, we’ve been friends ever since.” She said with a smile on her face. Okay, so far so good. Keep going Apple Bloom.

“So, would you care to tell the jury what happened that day you found Zecora assaulted?” Gwynn asked her.

Apple Bloom nodded. “Ah was gonna go help her organize some potions for some treatment she was working on. Ah had just finished up mah chores, and Applejack let me go. So, Ah went through the Everfree Forest, and when Ah was outside, I called out to her, but Ah didn’t hear an answer. And Ah saw the door was ajar. So Ah slowly opened the door and….” She paused, and sniffled a little bit. She looked about to get emotional, but was keeping herself together. Good. Keep it up Apple Bloom.

“What did you see, Apple Bloom?” Gwynn asked, with a kind tone in her voice.

“Ah saw Zecora on the floor. Her head was bleeding, there was a puddle of blood on the floor near the big pot and her face and body had cuts and bruises on em.” She said, really trying to hold it in. Come on, kid. You can do it.

“Then, you immediately ran back to your home and got Detective Shadow Haze and your big sister to help her. Right?” Gwynn said.

Apple nodded. “Eeyup.”

“Now, Apple Bloom, did you see Gavin flee the crime scene?” She asked her.

Apple Bloom shook her head. “Eenope. When Ah opened the door and saw Zecora, he was already gone.”

“And, with this assault on your friend, do you think Gavin should be in prison?” Doctor Gwynn asked.

Apple Bloom angrily looked over at Gavin and Matlock. And I have to say, the look she gave him….I was completely right when I thought she was very brave.

“Even if he IS mentally unwell, he almost murdered a pony. So, yes. Ah DO think he should be in prison.” She said, almost burning holes in Gavin. Who, by the way, didn’t appear to like Apple Bloom looking at him like that. If this wasn’t in a courtroom, he might have attempted to attack her.

“Your witness.” Gwynn said, walking back to her desk, which did have Zecora and Zakwani next to her. Zecora looked to feel bad for Apple Bloom, having to watch a little filly up on the stand and recount a truly traumatic event. Zakwani also looked remorseful to, although he also looked pissed off when Matlock then stood up.

Ah great, here we go.

“Now, Apple Bloom, you said you’re friends with Zecora, right?” He asked, approaching her stand with that cocky look on his face.

Apple Bloom had a look of disgust on her face. “Yes.” She said, trying not to sound intentionally rude to him.

“Did she ever confide in you? Did she ever tell you that she thought somepony was after her? Maybe, stalking her?” He asked.

She kept that glare on her face. “No, but Ah felt she was keeping something from me, and I didn’t wanna worry her.”

“So, maybe what happened to her was your fault then?” After that was said, I saw Apple Bloom look hurt by that statement. I wanted to go up there and slap the hell out of Matlock.

Thankfully, Doctor Gwynn instantly shot up out of her seat and exclaimed, “Objection!”

“Sustained.” Judge Monique said. “I will not tolerate that in my courtroom, Matlock. Tread lightly.” She also gave him a look of disgust.

He put his hooves up to get them to calm down. “No further questions.” He said, smiling at a pretty hurt looking Apple Bloom.

Zecora and Zakwani also looked at him with a look of disgust on their faces too. I would’ve done the same to that piece of fucking shit as well.

-/-Dr. Gwynn-/-

“Doctor, you showed your research to the Detectives on this case, correct?” Judge Monique asked her. Gwynn’s pictures were on display here in the courtroom. The ones she showed us at the Detention Center were there, as well as some new ones as well. Guess she had time for more research on hoof. Hopefully, it works.

She nodded. “Yes. I recently interviewed Gavin at the Detention Center with a brain wave pattern helmet. The results here show his brain wave activity when being shown pictures of Zebras.”

“And what do you make of this research you have been finding?” Judge Monique asked.

“I’ve noticed his brain wave pattern fits a similar situation with a Zebra Prime Minister.”

“Which was?”

She paused for a quick sec before continuing. “The Minister was shown pictures of the Ku Klux Klan, as well as a Confederate Flag. And his brain wave pattern rose. As well, his sub cortex levels grew as well.”

“So, overall, what does your research say about this, Doctor Gwynn?” Judge Monique asked.

“Like the Zebra Prime Minister with the KKK, Gavin has a real serious hatred for Zebras. Especially female ones. I showed him one of a male and a female. His brain wave patterns rose slightly higher then for the female then the male. Either way, whenever he see’s a Zebra, he gets ripe with anger. I believe if he was in a room long enough with one, he wouldn’t hesitate to attack, if not murder them.” Gwynn explained to the Judge, as well as the jury.

“Yet, you feel the plea Gavin is going for is not right. Why is that?” Monique asked.

“Even if violent behavior could POSSIBLY be predicted, thanks to the research I’ve done, I’ve also seen that all of these brain wave patterns ultimately started from a learned and taught belief by their elders. You could be bit by a dog one day, and that may make you not like them. However, that doesn’t mean you were BORN to hate them.” She told every pony. I think she came across very good here. Hopefully, it’ll stay that way.

Because NOW Matlock is coming forward again.

“Doctor Gwynn, you say violent behavior could POSSIBLY be predicted. Could you also predict if somepony was gonna be diagnosed with a type of rare condition? Or, something hereditary to pass onto a child from their parent?” He asked, again with that look. I just wanted to smack the fuck outta him.

“Doctors have shown that diseases CAN be predicted with family histories.” She said.

“So, with family histories, don’t you think that if one pony has a hatred for a certain race, why is it not possible for somepony to be born a racist?” He asked.

“Like I said, racism is a learned and taught behavior. They would learn it from their elders.” She said, lightly tapping her hoof on the stand.

“But, you said that mental diseases can be predicted due to family histories. If somepony hates a certain race, wouldn’t you TECHNICALLY classify that as being mentally unwell?” He asked.

That question appeared to have surprised her, as well as the jury.

“If somepony hates a certain race, I would view as a flawed and warped mindset, but not mentally unwell.” She said.

“But, you’re a Doctor. What you just said right there sounds more like an opinion. Subjective, if you will. Objectively, a warped and flawed mindset could classify as being mentally unwell, correct?” He asked, kinda raising his voice.

She was silent for a split second before she replied, “It’s not that simple.”

“My point exactly. No further questions.” He said, heading back to his desk.

Damn it, he’s fucking good.

-/-Gavin-/-

“I was in trouble a lot in school. Got into fights, suspensions, that kinda stuff.” He told his lawyer.

“And did the school ever send you to a counselor or something?” Matlock asked, sounding sympathetic to his client. The fucker.

“Yes, but it didn’t help.” Gavin said so matter of fact like.

“How long have you had this resentment and hatred toward Zebras, Gavin?” Matlock asked.

“Probably ever since my father died. He was murdered 20 years ago. Then, 4 years ago my mother died. And I think my hatred for those things have increased further.” He said.

That “those things” comment looked to have pissed Zakwani off. Zecora, however, just shook her head in disappointment.

“Gavin, do you feel any remorse or regret for what you did to Zakwani and Zecora?” He asked him. I saw that even HE was surprised at his clients cold heartedness.

“No. Why should I? They come here to perform their rituals, they have several children with different partners, they call out the Justice system whenever one of their own is shot by them, yet don’t bat an eyelash when one of their own kills a police officer, and they are the ones mostly in prisons, who would just commit crimes again and again. So, no. I’m glad I did what I did.” He told his lawyer, while every pony in the jury listened in with disgust.

Matlock went to his seat while saying, “No further questions.”

Doctor Gwynn stood up. “You know, this whole insanity plea seems kind of funny, Gavin. You seemed to know what you were doing the whole time.”

“And how’s that?” Gavin asked her.

“Changing your name to Gunner when you flee New Colt City to move to Ponyville, stalking a Zebra and learning her whereabouts before you attempt to murder her, and following another Zebra into an alleyway, where no pony could see you, just so you could assault him. Admit it, you knew what you were doing, weren’t you?” Gwynn said, getting in his face.

Gavin stood up on stand and got in her face too. She backed away a little bit. Probably, didn’t want her face bitten off by his beak.

“My father was murdered by a Zebra. Which sent my mother into a lifelong stance with depression, which is what she ultimately died of. They think they are SO much better then us. And yet, they do more crimes then ANYPONY today. And we’re supposed to be okay with that?!” He yelled in her face.

“Order!” Judge Monique exclaimed, slamming her gavel down.

“What about the ZRA, huh?! They hate ponies, so what’s wrong with ME hating Zebras?!” He yelled again at her. He looked ready to lunge at her.

“ORDER! ORDER! If you don’t calm yourself, you will be brought back to your cell, Gavin.” Judge Monique said.

Matlock stood up. “Gavin, that’s enough.” He said.

Gavin just angrily looked around at the jury.

Before he left the stand however, Zecora stood up. Every pony looked calm now.

“Your honor, I have something to say to Gavin.” She said.

“Please proceed.” Judge Monique said.

If I could speak for the whole jury, the tension was really awkward here. Zecora standing face to face with her attacker? Most ponies would be sick to their stomachs if this ever happened.

“I can see that you have a lot of hate inside you. Toward myself and my brother too.” She said, pointing at him. Zakwani just looked disgusted at the sight of Gavin.

“I cannot speak for my brother. As I’m sure if he had the chance, he’d use a pillow on you to smother.” I saw Zakwani nod his head to that. Can’t say I blame him.

“However, for me, I do not, nor DO I want, to live with that hatred too. So, Gavin, my message is, even if you tried to kill me, in order for me to move on….I forgive you.” She said with a smile on her face.

To say the whole jury, her brother, and even ME were shocked would be an understatement. After everything Zecora went through, she forgives him?

Even Gavin looked surprised as he got off the stand.

-/-Surprise Guest-/-

I felt my phone vibrate. I set it on silent, which is something I normally don’t do. However, jury duty, you do have to silent your phones for the proceedings.

I took my phone out and saw the text.

Just outside the door. Am I on yet?

I smiled as I stood up.

“Your honor?” I called.

“Yes, Detective Shadow Haze?” Monique asked me.

“Permission to add a late witness to the stand? He’s here now.” I asked her.

She looked baffled by that statement. “Why haven’t I heard of this mystery witness as of yet?”

“I was worried the witness wouldn’t show up. But, he’s outside the doors right now, waiting to be lead in.” I told her.

“Objection. This seems like a set up, your honor.” Matlock said.

Judge Monique thought for a moment. She appeared to look annoyed. And yet, interested to see what was up.

“Overruled. I’ll allow it. Send him in.” She said.

“Thank you, your honor.” I walked over toward the exit doors and opened them to let our new witness come in.

He was a Griffon, just like Gavin. He also had a purple body on him. He even shared a few facial and physical similarities to Gavin, except this guy was older then he was.

As the Griffon walked over to the stand, I looked at Gavin.

He looked shocked. Confused. But most of all, super pissed off.

The Griffon sat down on the stand, and put his hand on the Bible.

I asked him, “Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you Celestia?”

“I do.” He said. I saw a quick look this Griffon have Gavin. It looked like a look of shame and disappointment.

“Please state your name and relationship to the defendant.” I said to him.

He deeply breathed through his nostrils. “My name is Gene, and I’m Gavin’s father.”

The entire courtroom gasped. Twilight and Applejack looked shocked.

“Objection. Gavin’s father is dead. This is all a ploy to put the jury in favor of my client, your honor.” Matlock said.

Before Judge Monique could say anything, Gene brought out a picture. He handed it to her.

It was a baby picture of Gavin. And in that picture, was a younger looking Gene. With a brown coated looking female Griffon.

“Overruled.” She said, showing the picture to Matlock. He looked so confused.

He turned to Gavin, who still looked SO pissed off right now, looking at Gene. His father. “Gavin, what’s going on here?”

“If you allow Gene to speak, he’ll tell you. Tell all of you.” I said to him.

I turned to Judge Monique. “I’ll allow it.”

I saw Matlock sit down in defeat. The look on his face fills my body with nothing but joy and happiness.

“Now, Gene, tell me something, why does every pony think you’re dead?” I asked him.

He sighed sadly. “Because, I allowed it to happen.”

“Why’s that?” I asked.

He was quiet for a quick sec, before he explained everything.

“20 years ago, I was a traveling mechanic in Baltimare. I traveled all around the state to help ponies fix things.” He said.

“Okay.” I urged him to go on.

“My wife Gennete and I were having really bad troubles in our marriage. Gavin was around 2 and a half, 3 maybe. One day, I traveled further away into Baltimare. I was gonna help somepony with her washer. It died on her not too long before.” He explained to us.

“And who was it that you met, Gene?” I asked him.

He looked over at a now fuming Gavin for a quick sec before continuing.

“A zebra mare named Zena.” He said.

“And what happened with this Zebra mare, Gene?” I asked him.

He looked so ashamed before he answer my question.

“We got to know each other a little bit. Soon enough, she started calling me for other things that needed work on. Like the sink, a wheelbarrow, that kinda stuff.” He said with his face looking down in shame.

“Was there something going on between you two?” I asked him.

He nodded. “One day…..we met up for sex.”

The whole crowed looked uncomfortable here. Gavin looked about ready to explode.

“After that, I decided to divorce my wife, marry Zena, and move to Detrot.” He said.

Before I could say anything else, I heard a loud noise. I turned and saw Gavin had pounded his talons on the table in front of him in anger. He was seething with hate and rage for his father.

“No further questions.” I said, going back to my seat.

Instead of Matlock approaching, who by the way, looked scared to see his client like this.

Gavin approached his fathers stand.

“Did you forget to tell them how you did it? According to Mom, she got a FUCKING LETTER IN THE MAIL!” Gavin yelled at him in anger.

“Gavin, I’m sorry. It’s my fault.” Gene said, looking genuinely remorseful for his past actions.

“You damn right it is. You know what Mom told me? She said you were brutally murdered by an evil Zebra. Why would you never come around to tell me any different? Do you know how hurt I was finding out that you were still alive when I got my name changed? Do you?” Gavin asked him, now with tears sprouting in his eyes. He was getting emotional. Never seen this from him.

“I WANTED to see you, but your mother wouldn’t let me. She had custody of you. She threatened that if I ever tried to come visit you, she’d call 911.” He said, appearing to try and reason with his son.

“But you didn’t! You just wanted to spend time with those half breed mud pony kids of yours, didn’t you?!” He angrily asked him.

“Your mother filled your head up with all these lies, all this crap about Zebras. Because she was angry with me! Don’t you get it? She poisoned you with her hate.” Gene said to him in a slightly calm voice.

“Mom worked her ass off to take care of me. YOU NEVER GAVE A FUCK! SO FUCK YOU!” He yelled and then did the last thing before being pulled out of the courtroom by security.

Like what he did to Rod, he clawed his father in the face.

“ORDER! ORDER! ORDER! Take him back to a cell now!” Judge Monique exclaimed as the security guards subdued Gavin.

As he was being taken away thrashing and screaming, he yelled, “IF YOUR KIDS WERE HERE, I’D FUCKING KILL THEM! THEN I WOULD FIND YOUR WIFE AND KILL HER TOO! THEN I’D LIGHT YOUR FUCKING ASS ON FIRE! FUCK YOU! FUCK ALL OF YOU!”

He was taken out of the courtroom. The whole jury was just stunned at what took place. Twilight, Applejack, Zecora and Zakwani looked stunned.

However, Gene just looked up at me with that claw mark on his face as blood started to trickle down it.

Hopefully, that was enough to convince a grand jury.

Epilogue: Moving Forward

After Gavin’s little outburst in the courtroom, he was officially sentenced to life in prison. He wasn’t gonna go to some bullshit mental health facility. He was going to prison where he belongs.

However, what was even MORE satisfying the Gavin’s sentencing, was just seeing the look of defeat on Major Matlock’s face. Guess he didn’t expect his client to lie to him about his father being dead all these years. His look was just priceless.

Anyway, all of us were now at Sweet Apple Acres. We were sitting on a picnic table outside, just shooting the shit about what all had happened.

“So, y’all kept Gavin’s father being alive from us, just so you could surprise the courtroom?” Applejack asked.

“Mhmm.” I nodded with a smile on my face. “Not to be rude, but I knew you guys would probably tell some townfolk, so I met Gene at the Train Station that morning in secret. I told him to go to a motel and stay there until the court proceedings began. Then, he’d sneak into town and then wait by the door until after Gavin gave his testimony.”

Twilight glared at me. “Still, it wasn’t right of you to keep something like that from us, Shadow. That’s not what friends do.” She said. I saw Applejack look to the right. As if, to avoid Twilight’s gaze. That’s pretty weird.

“The ends justify the means Twilight. Gavin is in prison now, and that’s all that matters. It wasn’t to mess with you, it was just me doing my job. Okay?” I told her in my stern voice.

She snorted and looked away, slightly getting red in the face in embarrassment.

“Overall, we got ‘em, Shadow. We got the varmit.” Applejack said proudly.

I shook my head and chuckled. “Yes we did, Applejack. Yes we did.”

As we continued our conversation, I saw Zecora, Zakwani, and Zara coming up to us from the side of Sweet Apple Acres where the Everfree Forest started at.

Zecora didn’t have her head wrapped up anymore, but her brother and niece were staying with her, from what I’ve heard, until she is stable enough to be on her own. Her concussion, as well as internal injuries, were going to take a while to heal up altogether.

Thankfully, she has her family there for her.

“I see you’re up and about. Its good that you are doing that.” I told her as they were close enough to our table.

Zecora giggled. “I would be doing it myself. However, my big brother even won’t even let me dust my shelf, without his help.” She teasingly glanced at him. I saw Zara giggle a little bit. It was kinda cute seeing her like that.

Zakwani just looked flustered. “Well excuse me for looking after you, dear sister.” He said, sarcastically looking offended.

Twilight and Applejack laughed at this exchange, while I just snorted lightly in amusement.

“Pie’s ready, every pony!” I heard Apple Bloom shout out to us as she brought an Apple Pie out on her back. There was a cloth between the pie pan and her back, so she didn’t get burned.

“Ah see Sugar Belle’s lessons have been paying off, lil’ sister.” Applejack said.

As she set the pie down on the table, she went up to the three Zebras.

“How ya doing, Zecora?” She asked, sounding concerned for her well-being.

She smiled. “I’m doing quite fine, my dear. Even if my pain is still here.” She said, patting her head. Apple Bloom hugged her friend gently.

“Ah’m just so happy you’re alive, Zecora. Ah was so scared when I found ya like that.” She said. Zecora just smiled a warm smile down at her friend.

Zakwani did the same, which then followed him gazing down at his daughter. He motioned for her to talk to her. Zara looked a little hesitant.

That’s when I decided to chime in. “Ya know you three, if there’s one pony you should thank for all this, it would be Apple Bloom.”

I saw Apple Bloom look at me with surprise. She must not have expected that. Twilight and Applejack looked that way too.

“Shadow Haze, you were the one who solved this case. You should get some recognition for it.” Twilight said.

I nodded to her. “I agree, however if Apple Bloom hadn’t have come and got us, Zecora probably WOULD have died.” I then glanced back at Apple Bloom.

“You’re a very brave filly, Apple Bloom. You testifying in court, standing up to those ZRA guys, being strong in that scary situation, you truly are one of the bravest foals I’ve ever met.” I said to her.

She blushed while fidgeting with her bow. “You’re too kind, Shadow.”

All of a sudden, Zara walked up to Apple Bloom. She shyly rubbed her front foreleg, looking away from her.

“Thank you, Apple Bloom.” She said, then looked up at me. “And thank you, Detective Shadow Haze.” I saw that smile again.

I saw Zakwani proudly look at his daughter. Could she FINALLY start to come out of her shell? Possibly, make a friend?

“Alright every pony, let’s dig in. This pie looks good.” I said. Every pony agreed, and we all had a slice.

-/-

“This pie is quite good. I don’t think I can eat more, even if I should.” Zecora said, finishing a bite of the apple pie.

“This is delicious, Apple Bloom. You and Sugar Belle did a good job.” Twilight said to the little apple filly. I saw her flush in sheepishness.

“Well, I’m glad you all enjoy it.” I heard a voice coming toward us. Speak of the devil, and Sugar Belle arrives. With Happy Hayburger by her side.

I stared down Big Macintosh for a little bit before I asked, “How’re you two doing?”

Sugar Belle smiled. Seems she doesn’t look too intimidated by me anymore. Guess that’s good.

“I’m well. And Big Mac has something he’d like to say to you, Detective.” She said, eyeing her husband. She tilted her head toward me while staring at him with a serious look on her face.

Big Macintosh closed his eyes and sighed heavily.

“Ah’m a might sorry about the way Ah treated you, Shadow. It wasn’t right of me to judge you like Ah did. Or almost start a fight with ya. That was stupid on mah part. So, Ah apologize.” He said, not looking me in the eye. He looked as if he was embarrassed to be apologizing to me. Guess his wife made him, or she won’t speak to him. Or, and this is my guess, no sex until he does it.

Every pony looked at me in silence, awaiting my answer.

“I’ll accept that apology. No hard feelings, Happy Hayburger.” I said to him. Sugar Belle giggled, while Big Macintosh flushed in embarrassment. He may have to get used to that nickname. Cause that’s what I’ve given him.

Suddenly, I saw Sugar Belle’s giggle turn to a look of surprise. And a little bit of concern.

“Some Zebra is coming toward the farm.” She said, pointing toward the front gate of Sweet Apple Acres.

Sure enough, Zane of the Zebra Rights Association was heading toward us. He didn’t have his followers with him. Seemed kinda odd.

“Apple Bloom.” I said, getting the filly’s attention.

“Yeah?” She asked.

“How about you and Zara run along and go play somewhere? We need to talk with Zane.” I said.

She nodded her head and turned to the Zebra filly. “Come on Zara. Ah’ll show ya mah clubhouse that me and mah friends use.” She said, motioning for her to follow.

Zara looked a little nervous to follow a filly she didn’t know very well to a place she hadn’t seen. She looked at her aunt and father for approval. They both nodded.

“O-Okay.” She said nervously. They both got up from the picnic table and walked away together.

Hopefully, they can have some fun.

I stood up from the picnic table after they left and made a beeline for Zane. I told the others to stay back. I’ve got this.

“You’re trespassing Zane. I’m gonna have to ask you to leave.” I said, now standing face to face with him.

“I will. Until I get a word with Zecora and Zakwani. My fellows need some type of word from them.” He said, not moving a muscle.

“Zecora and Zakwani are none of your business. You have no right or jurisdiction to come here and demand to see them.” I told him.

He just shook his head while smiling sarcastically at me. “Denying a Zebra what he wants is almost like denying him or her Justice, Detective.”

“That’s enough, Zane.” I heard a voice say from behind me. It was Zakwani, with Zecora following right behind him.

“I’m only wanting to help you two.” Zane said.

“Insinuating racism and trying to manipulate laws and regulations is not helping us. If anything, it hurts us and you even more.” Zakwani said to him.

Zane frowned at him. “Why are you defending Detective Shadow Haze? He’s not a Zebra. He’ll never understand what it’s like to be a Zebra in Equestria.” He asked, sounding angry.

“He saved my life. Because of that, my decision is suffice.” Zecora said, her eyebrows furring.

Zane had a look of disbelief on his face. “What about loyalty to your fellow Zebra, Zecora? What about certain other Zebras who are victims of hate crimes? What about Zebras who have to deal with stuff like this everyday?” He ranted. I could tell this guy is passionate about wanting to fight racism toward Zebras. And, I can’t deny, I probably would root for this guy.

If his motives and how he handles it was in the right way.

“I get what you’re saying, Zane. I can’t ever understand you and several other Zebra go through in this country.” I said, attempting to continue before he cut me off.

“No you don’t. And I’m glad you’re smart enough to know that.” He said, looking more intensely upset.

“However, you going around, accusing other ponies and businesses of racial discrimination, just because a Zebra doesn’t get his or her way, or is even attacked or killed, doesn’t help your organization. All you’re doing is making more enemies. Rioting, intimidating, assaulting, accusing racial discrimination, will result in MORE of your fellow Zebras deaths.” I explained to him. He appears to not be budging.

“Sometimes, you have to MAKE ponies see what you mean.” He said.

“And THAT is why I am NOT a supporter of your group Zane.” Zakwani said, which caused a glare from Zane.

“You may have the best goal in mind. However, you plan to achieve them with all the wrong ways. In case you haven’t forgotten, Gavin was imprisoned. We won the case. You accusing Twilight Sparkle of being prejudice was uncalled for and unnecessary. Deal with it and accept it.” He said, now getting face to face with him. The tension was pretty thick here. You could almost cut it with a knife.

That’s when I decided to end this. “Enough. Zane, as you can see, Zecora and Zakwani are doing okay. Not perfect, but okay. They don’t need you to help them. I’m sorry, but it’s the truth. You are trespassing and harassing these two. And if you don’t leave right now, I’m gonna have to arrest you. What’s it gonna be?” I told him, now with he facing me.

He sighed, calming down. “Negative Peace over Positive Peace, I guess.” He said, attempting to turn away, before I said the last word.

“Using Zandayu’s words won’t lend credence to your’s Zane. He walked with Angels. You’d gladly slide through shit just to get the things you want.” I said. He grumbled and walked away from the front gate, looking disappointed.

I motioned for them to follow me back to the table, where we all rejoined the others.

“What’d he want?” Big Macintosh asked.

“He wanted information on how Zakwani and Zecora were doing. It wasn’t his business, so we told him to leave. It took a bit, but he left. And I’m sure him and his followers are leaving town in a little bit too.” I told them, taking another bit of the apple pie.

Twilight sighed in relief. “Thank goodness.” She said.

“Yeah. I don’t think Ah could deal with that varmit anyway.” She said.

“I don’t think his heart is in a bad place though.” I told them, which got them all to look at me in surprise.

“The way he goes about it is wrong, I stand by that. However, I can’t deny that Police brutality in Zebras has been an issue within the Police force. I’m sure there was a few of my coworkers who were apart of that back when I was on the force.” I explained, with them cringing at the thought of Police brutality. Uncomfortable, I know.

“However, it’s ultimately wrong to say somepony is racist or whatever just because they’re ponies. Ponies aren’t born racist. No creature is. Gavin wasn’t. He was taught racism by his mother. And I’m pretty sure his mother was taught that by her parents as well. At the end of the day, racism isn’t hereditary. It’s a learned and taught experience, and ponies need to understand that.” I explained to them.

Zecora smiled and nodded. “That is very true. And I agree with it, yes I do.”

Sugar Belle sighed sadly. “I guess just creatures, not just ponies are the ultimate evil. Teaching the next generation terrible things like that.”

“That’s unfortunately true as well, Sugar Belle.” I said, before my phone went off. I saw the caller ID was the Ponyville Prison.

I answered them and was shook by what I was just told. I thanked them and hung up.

Twilight looked concerned. “Shadow, what’s wrong?” She asked.

“Well, Zecora, Zakwani, it appears you had a few supporters on the inside. Gavin was just stabbed to death in the courtyard at the Ponyville Prison.” I calmly told them.

Every pony looked stunned. I even heard Twilight gasp, while cupping her hooves to her mouth.

Then, for the next few hours, we just decided to shoot the shit with each other. To hopefully get this news out of our heads, and move forward with our lives.

Hopefully, it’ll be easy to do.

Author's Note

Well, this marks the end of this case. Side note, I plan on doing some side stories with a few characters from my Equestria Noire stories. You may see a short story revolving around Shadow and his nephew Comet. Stay tuned for that.

Anyway, I hope y’all liked this story. If you did, make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and I’ll see ya next time.