Family and Friends

Days. Its been days. Nearly a WEEK since I was captured and put into this fucking facility.... I've dubbed the organization I'm working for in here the Shadowskins. They're nothing like the elites but they want control. Killing those that need to die but for their gain. I've been doing jobs for them to just work my way up.... And so far I've not gotten any closer to getting out. Denied my requests for Mythic to help me during maintenance but they did move us into a cell together. Yet they still bring us into the doctors office and tell us who dies if they want me to get out. Four names. Well... code names. The names in order from bottom to top were Nightshade, Predator, Fireborn and The Warden. Of course I've already met him... but I'm nowhere near ready to face him. Though Nightshade? Of course he's first..... Lowest on the rungs on this ladder we call a hierarchy. This guy was a nut in guard armor. Terrorized the ponies who followed orders even to the T. Anyone who even showed the slightest of hesitation didnt fair so well. A beating. Maiming. I've been beaten and maimed before but this? This took the cake. This guy would line up and make everyone watch as he had the one cuffed fucker in front of everyone on his knees like he was about to enjoy a bukkake but this? This wasnt that. As much as I love to be on my knees around stallions willing to glaze my face with their stuff this wasnt that. He took a baton and beat them even to the point to where he split skin.... He's even cut pieces of fingers and ears off. Small mutilation but it had to do with what he said what they werent doing.... Not fast enough? There goes a finger. Not listening? Your ear. Talk back? Oh he cuts your tongue.... or cheek.... And I've had to talk to the guys who know about him. Though now? Mythic and I are trying to figure out how I get close to him.... I was laying in bed reading my book while he was pacing back and forth. "Alright.... We want this fucker on the ground and dead.... but the way we get close to him has to be seen coming but not to the point where we have to fight your way to him...." He said. "....If we can get something to say you're to be there you might be able to start something... Then again rather you not get in trouble..."

I huffed as I just set my book aside. "Getting to him isnt gonna be easy just as anyone... Warden is gonna be the hardest of all unless I get my strength back." I replied sitting up. "...I've got an appointment with the doctor tomorrow morning and I could see about getting a pass to train with Nightshade. Though pretty sure the Shadowskins are gonna ask me to take out a target or two while I'm in there and have you relay who, what and where. Maybe when to make it interesting...."

"Bah.... Shouldnt give yourself a time frame like that. Making yourself start panicking, making mistakes and shite. Rather you stop being messy with your killing.... Leave the impaling and tearing someone apart limb from limb unless they really piss you off." I got up and just stopped him from pacing.

"I'm gonna have to be tactical and secretive about this. That fucking tranq dart they hit me with was fast acting and if I were anyone else I'd probably still be bedridden pissing and shitting in a bucket a medic laid out for me. And when I tell you when a certain 'generator' exploded in Manehattan my friend hit me with four tranq darts and he thought he killed me but considering I had my strength still means these guys are using something to either kill and leave it painless or they would rather not have someone be strong enough to be able to overpower even the warden with his armor... And I think I'm a lucky case considering when I got hit with that they had to make sure I wasnt braindead more than I already am from all the times I've hit my head at high speeds. And you know I've at least been trying to test myself seeing if my strength is returning. You weigh how much even with the metal in your legs?"

"Two sixty. But that still dont mean shite! Lad I might sound like your mother here but I dont want to see you throwin' your damned life away just because you did something stupid! That dart makes you more vulnerable now that your strength is gone. You might still have that agility but without the strength to back it up you're more of a liability than you were with it. One wrong move and you get beaten or worse with these high priority targets. The higher the priority, the more the danger. There's already high danger with this one... Maybe while you take out your assigned targets I can find out some stuff from some of the other prisoners who had run ins with them... Now lets get some sleep.... More awake you are for your doctors appointment and me for my target finding, more coherant we're gonna be when we do our thing...." He just climbed into his bunk and lied back. I grabbed my book laying down in my bunk just read until I felt like I needed to sleep... couldnt tell how long but I just passed out after a while.

And after a fucking WEEK. Guess who decided to show up in my dreams because I was actually able to sleep somewhat calmly? Princess. God. Damned. LUNA. I was just still in the jumpsuit. I just rushed over and hugged her and she did not have any trouble hugging me back. "Oh thank mother you're alive! What are the chances there would be two red alerts sent out about you within such a short time frame?!" She asked. "Where are you? Are you okay? Are you being tortured?"

I just pried her off and huffed. "Not being tortured, I'm fine, pissed and ready to rip someone apart but thanks to that someone I cant do it the way you know I can... Even too afraid to use my sledgehammer considering they fucking sapped my strength... And if I knew where I was I'm pretty sure I'd tell you and expect an army to barrel down on us, releasing me and- believe it or fucking not- my father.... Fucker's actually keeping me sane in here but I've got a real problem on my hands.... and its gonna cause them to run red with the blood of those who I'm damn sure are innocent but also those who arent.... What happened when you found out I went missing?" She sighed getting two seats ready for us from the black abyss that was my dreamscape.

"We had to hide it from your mother, hide your car from her and the rest of the wonderbolts while they all got shipped back to Cloudsdale in the chopper, your family is getting worried again but we told them you're just gonna be staying with us for a while, not even letting them know... We even had to borrow Rocky to impersonate you for whenever your sister calls to make sure you're alright... Thankfully its going without a hitch but I think they're a tad suspicious...."

"Please tell me Elites are taking shifts protecting my family, mother and all! These fuckers are making me do what they ask.... Otherwise they might do more than de-feather my sisters wings.... But you know once I get my strength back I'm ripping someone a new asshole, mouth hole and I am making DAMN sure Schrivechnya tastes blood from those fuckers who decided to kidnap a fucking prince and his dumbfuck of a militant father- who I have to now trust with my life after not for so long!"

"Elites have been notified, Babs' father is trying to not let that work get in the way with other work he has and he's doing his best to not tell your family what really happened as per our orders. The Elites have already caught two strange masked ponies around Sweet Apple Acres and there are more Elites patrolling day and night to make sure your family is safe. Even hiding outside school, following vehicles to and from the house... at the moment we're trying to extract information from them on your wherabouts. I'm just... I'm just hoping we can get you home quickly...."

"When I get home, I'm gonna go for a drink and maybe take my father out for one as well... Figure I owe the old bastard after this... but... I think I have an idea to expedite the extraction... Ikkebuckero, Canterlot Carrots, there should be a group of ponies that you've met that frequent there. Thinking we need help from Overcharge to help... Hacker Mare who might be able to crack the nut that is this place... maybe cause a few malfunctions to allow me access into areas I cant normally get to to further my goals.... So far they have me on maintenance duty on account of my good behavior and my work for them.... Still gonna have to keep up appearances until I get to the head honcho... and by then I hope I'll have my strength back to rip off that armor and maybe his spine out of his ass so I can use his skull as a mace to break the rest of his still twitching body!" ....Yeah... she gave me the look of 'he's insane but I understand' but it was more on the freaked out side. She took a deep breath and sighed before just stepping back.

"....Ryder... You are pissed off... But we will work HARD to bring you home! And if you do manage to regain your strength... please... Make sure your battle is one you can finish..."

"I will Luna.... My father has been making sure that's been burned into my brain since I got here.... Just... Wake me up and be quick about getting 'Charge to help.... She might be a good ticket out if she can hack the system... Only one I trust to do it..."

"I will be as fast as I can.... Wont doubt they'd be hesitant to help me unless I mention you... Be safe... We'll come for you as soon as we know where you are.... but do what you have to for your cover to be effective... and Ryder..."

"Yes?"

"...I wish this were mothers scenario's... but since last time she's been afraid to do so...."

"...At first I thought it was... played along... but the fact everything I've felt thus far hasnt gone and changed.... Its all too real... Do let Celestia know I'm alive and well... but extremely pissed off.... and if you guys get there before the final battle... I do hope I get hold of a gun to feed the barrel to the one who put me in here and give him a little lead to eat as well!" She shuttered.... Just... cowered a bit. "...Apologies... just wake me... feel like the longer i'm asleep, more trouble i'll get in..." She nodded and just hugged me real quick before making herself fade.

Once I woke up I hit the toilet.... Glad Mythic has had something done with him that renders scent useless for him... Though once I was done and flushed he woke right up. He stretched and hopped off the bunk. "...Fuckin' hope its mornin...." He said.

"...Hope so too but... body told me to wake up... feel like we may have visitors soon too... So get what business you need done and be ready..." And wasnt I right? Five minutes after he did his thing, I was just getting ready to sit down on the bed to read some more... Banging on the door. We knew the drill. Both of us just got ready... Went to the door, turned around... I was first... They cuffed me and I stepped away. Then he got cuffed. Didnt take long for him to get dragged out with me following close behind.

One of the guards got in front of us. "Alright... Morning meals are going to be ready for both of you yet one needs a trip to the medical office first..." He said. And of course I have to be a smartass.

"Hope the doctor will use lube this time.... and that they warm it up..." Oh I could tell they wanted to hit me but... instead I got a chuckle.

"Funny.... Now get moving before we forgot to laugh and should punish you like we should!" Oh to have favor with the enemy.... Gonna be a nice surprise when I slit throats left and right.... Anyhow they went and took us separate ways after a while. I went straight to the doctors office.

Office was a bit quiet... only a few doctors getting any work done it seemed while others were going over charts and drinking coffee. At this point I would love a cup... And I dont even drink coffee. Doctor Forcep came from a nearby desk and smiled making sure her folder was nice and neat. "Welcome back patient 35837... Ready for your check up?" She asked.

I huffed. "...As ready as I'll ever be... Oh and if you're doing prostate exams... Not to be gross but havent had a good shit in a few days... feeling a bit bloated..." I said.

"Ah not to worry. I'll see about getting you on a diet that keeps you regular... Maybe see about getting you into the yard for a few laps on your own just to keep things moving."

"Sounds good but uh... Can we get some privacy? I'm uh... I think I'm pushing a little too hard to try to get it out and I think I may have hurt myself a little... wanna make sure the damage isnt too bad...."

"Alrighty then!" She looked to the guards. "Room 3, keep him standing for right now. Once I get in, you know the drill." They just nodded and walked me into the room. I actually started to size em up without em noticing... these guards that were with me were big... still dont have my strength and trust me if I did, these guys would be dead, one maybe into the other room and I wouldnt mind stripping them of their weapons and using one in each hand. Though I'm really needing to think things through here... and this? Yeah... doing that even WITH strength might be a bad idea... even with crossfire. I stood there just hoping she wouldnt actually probe my ass... or if she does I really DO hope she warms the lube.... She came in writing on a clipboard as she also carried a tube of lube, a box of gloves and a pack of moist wipes. She looked to the guards as she put the stuff aside. "Alright, outside gentlemen. Gotta be calm and loose for me to see the damage and not make more! Plus I'd rather not have to wrestle my fingers from someones asshole again!"

The guards sighed. "Yes ma'am." One of them said. They released me and just walked out the door. Doctor Forcep shut it behind them and turned on the privacy glass even going as far as locking the door.

"Alright Ryder... Drop em..."

I blushed hard. "Doc... Things are fine... Just need to do a little checkup and see about getting close to the first guy on the list.... Nightshade is the first target.... Supposedly a psycho who mutilates ponies for stupid reasons just to show others what happens when they dont follow orders or what have you... figure you dont like fixing his bullshit with what supplies you do have right?" She smiled a bit.

"...Think I might be able to do something.... With how your energy levels I've seen as of late from what the guards are telling me I think we may as well test your capabilities as a soldier.... Of course with Nightshade he's got a route around the complex between training for his unit and choosing new ones he thinks are gonna be a nice fit for the unit. Teaches his soldiers to not hesitate even when in danger or even civilian casualties are imminent. Even if there are innocent hostages... He says to empty a clip into them both..."

"...Seems like a real piece of work.... I doubt the maintenance work I do today is going to be on his route... They could have me working somewhere just void of anyone and even change patrol routes."

"Considering he is one of the lieutenants to the leader he may disregard anything in place because he feels the need to do so. And if someone let slip we have an ex soldier doing maintenance work who is willing to cooperate he may just make a b-line for you... My advice? Do everything as you're asked. Take down your targets, keep your mouth shut and if he likes you? He meets with you. One on one. Gives you some alcohol for a job well done... Any one alcohol you want. He's got a fully stocked bar and even can get you anything to eat that you want. Personal chef.... And this one will make anyone anything... Fully stocked fridge of everything from the normal stuff, to fancy... even actual meat.... rumor has it he has pony and griffon meat...."

"...Well lets hope I can get what I ask for... thinking something that isnt a hayburger for once... and maybe his head on a silver platter.... Though uh.... We maybe wanna try to make it seem like you checked me just so they dont get suspicious?"

"Probably a good idea... May even prescribe a placebo for you to take... either that or we just do a quick procedure."

"....If the lube is warming go for it... Just... be gentle..." She gave a nod and just helped me undress before doing the thing with the glove.... She didnt do anything then but the snap... fucking hell.... Just had to think of home.... I was flustered a bit when we went out. Told the guards that I had nothing to worry about but that it should clear up if i keep hydrated throughout the day... And maybe give me something other than a soda to drink... maybe even a sports drink if any can be spared. After that uncomfortable appointment I was brought to the mess hall. I ate there pretty much alone. Bowl of soup this time and some grilled cheese. Even had a sports drink. Cherry thank fuck.

Though after that I was brought to a work closet. Given a tool belt and they even allowed me to take a look at a few maintenance issues on a computer to choose which one I wanted to start on first... Honestly thought they'd assign me on something like that but this was perfect... why? Just as I was about to click on one for stuck doors a new one popped up... It glitched out for a moment but there was a familiar logo attached to it.... On my phone in The Bits chat. Overcharge. I looked over my shoulder at the door. Guards were just standing there having a chat amongst themselves. I quickly clicked on that one and it pulled up a note. 'RYDER! Fucking shit I know you're looking at this but just so they dont get suspicious, this note gets deleted after you click out. We're coming to find you soon. I've got a pinpoint on this but this place is highly advanced and I was lucky enough to find a small window to send this through to get to you undetected. Not only is it highly advanced but I'm thinking this gonna have to be through a fucking frontal assault and hoping I'm gonna be able to stay back. I checked records on you specifically as well.... Drove a weight bar through someone killing them and hit with a tranq.... Nice but fuck me is that a way to go. Keep doing what you're doing and when we see a good opening we'll come as fast as we can. If you can create that opening we can do what we can from our end. OC out. Be Tee Dubs, Izzy wants a word when you get back....'

I heard a sigh just clicking out of the report and just as she said it deleted itself. "You finished choosing an issue yet? Faster we get this done, faster we can get to your outside time." One of the guards said.

I huffed. "Sorry. Trying to choose... Bad with that...." I said just clicking on the first one I saw. Kitchen walk in fridge fans malfunction. "Guess I'll just go for the fans in the kitchen fridge.... Staff says they might just need to be tightened or something... Think I'm just gonna need screws, stabilizers, and... Maybe a flashlight to check inside, make sure nothing is really beyond my repair... and that's a tough thing to do when you figured out to jury rig stuff... and I'd rather not do a shit job on it even if it does end up working..." I just stepped away from the computer and just started to look for things. Just grabbed a box of screws, a box of nuts and put them into a toolbox full of other stuff I might need before heading out. Guards didnt cuff me. Just escorted me to the messhall and into the kitchen. Honestly? Kitchen was pristine. Like better than what you'd find going out to eat. Everything was neat and orderly, clean storage, fridges for what needs to stay cold, dry storage high off the ground and a big nice walk in where they keep cold items that they need in bulk.

Of course immediately while I was in there I heard it, pinpointed the noise and had them shut down the fridge for a bit while I fixed it. And yeah... Just what I expected. Rusted through screws from moisture and luckily no mold so they do a good job cleaning. That didnt take long... maybe about fifteen minutes at most... only because I needed to wait for them to turn it off and bring me a ladder to get up there. Yeah I could've used my wings but rather be steady than trying to use my wings and staying at a constant height where I may or may not hit my head... Trust me when you're asked to fix things here and there but cant move them, you find out stuff. They decided to take me over to the maintenance closet again to have me check the computer yet again... but as we walked back we were stopped by a few guards standing across the hall just in front of the door. One was wearing carbon black armor plating, purple detailing yet it was close to the normal guard armor you see here. The stallion wearing it had a silver mane, a scar over one dead eye and he even had a big ol combat knife on his hip.... and I mean big... not machete big... but big. "...So...." He started. "...You're that one who bent that heavy weight bar out of shape... even used it to give someone giving you trouble... What's your name kid?" Actually got nervous a bit.

"Uh... Ryder sir... And you are?" He grinned.... teeth yellow like he had smoked for years but sounded as old as my grandfather.

"...Your new commanding officer... I was told you were an ex guard... but I feel like I want to learn more about that after your new assignment after lunch.... I'll come retrieve you after that... But some rules before we meet again... unless spoken to, do not speak to me... follow orders as given.... I say you shoot, you shoot, I say fight, you fight and if I say die... well... you can guess.... Do I make myself clear?" I stayed silent. "...You know you can speak now Ryder."

"Yes sir." I replied calm and collected as I could.

"Good. Now on with your work." He looked to the guards as I gave a slight nod. "After his lunch, keep him inside the mess hall. I need a meeting with him." I was restraining myself so much as to not try to tackle him and shove the blade I carried up his ass... That waited until later... but that meant outperforming his other troops.... I just went into the room and set the stuff aside before going back to the computer. No message from Overcharge here... But hopefully next I do.... I have a plan... Went and chose the next one.... Just fixing a door jam but that one was easier said than done... I had to figure out how to take the sliding mechanical door out of its track figure out where it was caught, how to fix it and just.... holy fuck that took up a chunk of time.... Turns out the track was gunked up with hard oil that needed to be cleaned out but apparently they need a different maintenance crew to completely fix it... gotta take out the door, track and replace it and use lubricant of a different nature that doesnt gunk shit up... But hey... at least I diagnosed the problem.

After that I was brought to a nearby restroom so I could wash up and even use the facilities since I was being good whilst uncuffed. But after that I was brought to the messhall where I grabbed some food and went to find Mythic. Didnt take long. He sits in his usual spot somewhere around the door to the yard. I sat down and huffed. He smiled as he cracked open his drink. "How's the ol work horse doin? Kissin' arse already?" He asked.

I cracked mine open just taking a sip out of it. "...And it seems my ass kissing has gotten me noticed.... though I have to keep going... otherwise I might end up losing an eye like you...." I replied.

"Ah... So you got in then..." I gave a slight nod as I ate my food. Even got a little brownie wrapped in plastic wrap for a job well done in the kitchen earlier. "That's good... As far as you've gotten you can go further... just make sure you get him when you have a chance."

"And I might have that chance tonight after the training I have to do.... Nightshade conscripted me into his unit for training.... He seems calm for a drill sergeant but with how calm and old he is... rather not fuck around and find out..."

"Good. You're learnin' some restraint.... Keep that up. Maybe this ol dog has some tricks to teach ya."

"...Honestly starting to not give a fuck on what mom says about you.... Yet maybe get you and her together so you can explain what you do... even if you have to take a kick to the crotch..."

"...And i'd take it... She knows I'm alive and I dont doubt she'd wanna do worse than kick me in the jewels... we do... check her desk for a snub nose or something and hold it until we've talked it out... or if she's already worked out her shit...."

"Yeah... We'll worry about that after we get out of here... but also while choosing maintenance jobs... there is some outside help that knows we're here... Gotta make a window of opportunity... might need to cause a little chaos but in a way that doesnt involve us directly..."

"...Might have an idea... though we just gotta keep doing what we're doing... both for them and us..."

"Right... Now lets just stop talking, eat and have you get out to the yard... I got a date with Nightshade later..." He gave a nod and we just ate. Even shared some of my brownie with him. Oh the taste.... I might get a few from Sugarcube corner once I'm back. But after I was done eating I just sat there. Everyone started filing out of the mess hall. I could hear some guys telling me to get moving. Other than that it was just insults and shit. I was expecting someone to hit me in the back of the head but I guess they knew better to not do that.

Not long later I was almost alone. Few kitchen workers came in to clean up the tables and a few guards were just standing nearby just to watch over me. I just kept my hands folded on the table. I just huffed as I felt I was waiting too long. Went and stood up to try to stretch only to hear the door open behind me. I just looked back only to see Nightshade coming in with his two other guards. "Going somewhere Ryder?" He asked. I sat back down sighing.

"No sir. Just wanting to stretch my legs... Not much for exercise you see."

"You have been restrained to menial labor... I can forgive that. Come. Walk with me. Let us have a chat about what I expect from you." I gave a nod and got up. I walked over just for the guards to stop me. They pulled out cuffs before the old stallion pushed them away. "Leave him be boys! If he's stayed here uncuffed this whole time and hasnt hurt anyone you're good to leave him as we walk. He tries anything, I'll handle it." He patted their shoulders. They just stepped aside and I joined Nightshade's side. His guards walked in front, the others behind. "...Before we talk the nitty gritty... tell me about yourself. Doc said you were a royal guard before we found you."

"Yes sir. I was General. Promoted quickly and had to learn it all through experience. Some of the shit I've been through though..."

"Do tell."

"...Well... Sent off to war, shot, fell out of the plane upon arrival back in Equestria, nearly died landing in snow, nearly killed myself a few times before that, after that... Kidnapped multiple times, and I survived a terrorist attack somehow... Though doesnt end there... but those are the big ones."

"Terrorist attack you say? Wasnt it the one in Manehattan that you survived? How did you do it?" We turned out and walked down the hall... not describing every movement here... Too sprawling and i have zero clue where to go.

"Quick thinking and uh... well that strength I had when I took someone out after getting here helped..."

"I did see that... Guards tell me from eyewitness statements that gentleman tried to steal some of your meal correct?"

"Yes sir."

"Well its good to see you do not tolerate anyone stealing from you..."

"That I dont sir. One of the times after the terrorist attack I was having to watch over my sister and her friends at a sleepover. I went to bed, they were downstairs... Only woke up to screams and next thing you know I'm rushing downstairs just to get hit with a cattle prod... ended up following the bastards myself and if you heard of an abandoned hotel in Ikkebuckero full of bodies... that was me... and if you had seen the last guy that I got my hands on... Oh you probably would've been sick... I nearly was the next morning... fucking adrenaline running the rest of the night."

"A blood bath from the father of the sisters some called it... some thought ritualistic suicide up until they found one with his heart ripped out of his chest, laying in a puddle of his own blood... money scattered about... Like the sins he had crawling on his back drew his hand from the ground and pulled his heart out in the most painful of ways.... and with his death he was forgiven to an extent... but what that last sin was... only he would know..."

"And the sin was wanting to sell little fillies to the highest bidder... and no matter if they figured out what a life is actually worth or not.... They'd die like the rest.... Now about what you expect of me? The thought of it still gets my blood boiling and I'd rather not ramble on about more than my own life stories...."

"You're alright to stop there son. Sounds painful. Now... about what I expect from you..." He went on to explain things plain as day. Fuck up? You'll be made an example of... So if you're told to fire, you fire, you kill and do whatever it takes. Even if you have to shoot a hostage to get shit done. That one kinda pissed me off. He told me how every so often we'd have to take shots and execute a loved one of a prisoner who is brought out to watch... and today is a day that is going to happen. And if i do well. I'm the one to do it. Yet as much as I dont want to.... I have to if i want to have a meal to take down the target.... The blood on my hands already pains me.... more wont hurt but... the fact that of its innocent blood.... The thought of it makes me shutter.... and to hope that Heavens Light might have mercy on me and the life i take for this...

Not long after we were outside. Like.... Actually outside. Got a good look at the place. We were in an outdoor range surrounded by high walls with a guard tower about forty feet apart, two guards in each, barbed wire protecting the tops. The range itself was standard. Targets, stalls, the works. There were snipers, assault rifles, LMG's and such all waiting to be used. There was even a group of prisoners all fallen in line. The two guards who were behind us stayed back at the door while I joined everyone else in line, arms behind my back. I scanned the towers above us. Long range rifles ready. Semi auto, scopes ranging from short to medium range. I looked to the stallions next to me. Unicorn, pegasai and earth ponies. Unicorn wore magic suppression rings, pegasai wings were strapped down... I think I was the only trusted one... Yeah... trusted. "ALRIGHT!" One of Nightshade's guards yelled. "Each of you will be tested. You will aim down range and fire when told. You will be given a second of delay but we expect you to fire when told. Those who perform best, will be promoted. The worst of you will be made an example of! Turn your gun on anyone but your target you best hope your shot goes off first! Attempt to run, be faster than a 5.56!" Nightshade stepped forward. Started marching in front of us.

"First things first! We have a new guest joining us today... Ryder... Former guard for Equestria.... Willing to do jobs nopony else will... He's got more experience than any of you have in your little toes!"

I heard a groan from right next to me. "Big fuckin' deal!" They said. Sounded from Manehattan. "I've seen four guys shoot better than a damn guard!" Nightshade walked over next to me. I couldnt help but look. Guy was right next to me, unicorn. Nightshade snapped his fingers and the guards he had lead us were immediately on him making everyone back up. One guard with the gun to his head, the other holding his arms forcing his legs out from under him.

"Well... Glad you spoke up.... you've been quite the thorn in my side... since you claim the guard cant shoot for shit, why dont we bring out a special guest for you to watch him shoot dead!" Nightshade whipped out a radio and put it to his mouth. "Bring her out." He turned his attention to the range. Down range I saw a door on the side of the building open. Out came was a stallion pulling a target behind him. The target? A mare. Unicorn, her horn cut clean off, blood dripping all over her head... she was even naked. "...You recognize that mare down there? Pretty marefriend of yours..."

"NO!"

"TOO FUCKING LATE!" The old stallion whipped right around getting in his face. "...You've had multiple warnings... all the damage onto her is yours.... and now her blood is on your hands..... You've done nothing but do as I ask but also talk back and I've just about HAD IT!" He looked to me. "...Ryder... Choose a weapon.... Do this and show him why its not wise to defy me...."

I saluted. "Yes sir!" I said. I looked at my options.... The fucking guns taunted me.... But I knew once I picked one up there was no turning back. I chose a sniper. Got a feel for the weapon and went prone with it.... The sight trained on the bloodied mare.... "Just think of Berrie..." I told myself under my breath. I made sure the chamber was loaded... Fifty Cal....

"Ready! Aim!" Everything went silent.... And I mean everything... The stallion behind me was screaming but I heard nothing. The mare at the end of the range was crying. But I heard nothing. All I heard were the beats of my heart just pounding out of my chest. And then it happened. "FIRE!" Without thinking, without hesitation..... I pulled the trigger. I.... I killed her... The fact that I made myself think of Berrie made it better. Not by much though. It was a clean shot.... right between the eyes... Blood and gore flew everywhere. After that shot rang out sound returned.

The stallion behind me was crying. "YOU ASSHOLE! DONT FOLLOW THIS DICKS ORDERS! HE'S LYING TO YOU!" He yelled as I stood up with the rifle setting it back on the table where I got it. I had to take a moment to breathe. I looked back just looking at the group who just stared at the stallion... none of them felt sorry for him... I did. Though I tried not to show it. Nightshade crouched down in front of him.

"....Me? Lie? He did as I asked. Do you hear him talking? Do you hear him speaking out of turn? He follows orders like the guard he was! He's practically programmed that way! And what do you know about the truth anyhow? The mare who you thought loved you is dead.... She murdered before... she would've done it again. That stallion may have saved your ass... and yet here you are still not believing anything I say!" That stallion... he made a mistake. A big one. He spit in Nightshade's face. Caught him so off guard he fell back. I went over and offered the hand that didnt have the blade attached to it to Nightshade. He took it and I pulled him up. I turned away for this next part. I heard a gun cock, the stallion scream before a gunshot rang out. I didnt even jump. All I heard was the wind for a minute. I only turned back when I heard a relieved sigh. The stallion was dead on the ground... Bullet to the brain. "...Change of plans since we have to clean up every part of the range now boys.... We're just gonna send you to the yard for a few laps. Lucky that isnt going to be making us expect anything from you! Wait here while we get more guards to escort you out." Nightshade turned to me, blood on his hands. "For you Ryder... I think we get you cleaned up for tonight. You might go back to your maintenance but rather you relax for tonight. I'll find you later. As for now feel proud... you've cemented your stay at my side... I'll see to it about talking with the warden to give you something more to do around the compound." I wanted to speak.... but I couldnt mutter a word. "Speechless I see. Well no worries there. Nothing a little shot of the hard stuff cant fix..."

I swear when he said shot... I jumped slightly... thought it was code for 'fuck him up'.... But no. I just went over to the group and just... sat down with the rest of them... the fact they let us sit was great. But.... I was waiting for one of em to talk to me... tell me what a monster I was for doing such a thing. Nobody said a thing... Though I did have one of em just kinda reach his hand over... check if I was good without a word while the others watched the body of their prison mate get dragged away. I didnt even give any answer. As I was escorted to a solo shower I uttered a silent prayer to hope that word of an apology reach their ears. To be honest... I havent felt like this since I killed Berrie actually. When I got into the showers I washed myself down... Thankfully I was alone. I honestly had flashbacks to the day I was arrested... The rain falling on me as I thought of the blood on my hands. I was just lucky that I didnt puke until I got out of the car. It took one gag before the guard had to lean me over a trash can to puke. The only thing keeping me grounded mostly was the breathing I did. I showered for about ten minutes or so... Soap, water, shampoo... nothing smelling good but kept me clean. I dried off with the towel they gave me and I was given new clothes. New jumpsuit, shoes, the works. The guards still knew I had my blade. I put the blade on, then the jumpsuit... They gave me a cold drink and just put me in my cell alone... Mythic was doing whatever in the yard still. Though they allowed me to take a nap if need be. I wanted to... But I couldnt... Not after that. To face Luna and tell her.... it was a gamble that I wasnt willing to take... not yet at least. I sat there for what felt like forever until the door opened. I jumped a bit and got ready..... No need. It was Mythic just being pushed in. He fell a bit and grunted as he turned to the door. "Ya fuckin' bastards couldnt've let me just walk in here on my own? Sweet fuckin' Celestia no wonder everyone hates you..." He said as the door closed behind him. He huffed as I helped him up.... Though something compelled me to hug him... I could tell he was worried considering he hugged right back. "Lad...? Ryder what's up with you...? Dont tell me they got to one of your family members..."

I swallowed the lump I had in my throat. "...N-No... They havent... not yet... But... I had to... I had to kill someone that wasnt part of our target lists.... Mare... in a relationship with some smart ass who thought he could joke his way through things..." I said. "...I got Nightshade to bring me to him... I'm part of his troupe... but... god... the fucking shot.... I didnt want to but I had to..."

"Oh Lad... I'm so sorry... but... here... you gotta do what you gotta do... you've just opened a window of opportunity for us." He just stroked my mane.... trying to comfort me.... It helped a bit. "Just buck up, take him down and we got this... You're strong boy.... But I think now you're realizing you arent gonna be alive if you keep fuckin' around the way you do.... Just keep calm until we get out of here. First meal and drink is on me and I dont give a fuck how expensive it is! Just make sure when you do this you arent caught...." He pried me off and just sat me down. "Tell me. What's happenin' now that you've gotten in. Any info I should know?" I stayed silent for a second thinking. What did the doctor tell me earlier?

"...The doc tells me that Nightshade has a chef... Cooks anything, alcohol... Not sure what else is gonna happen but we're gonna be alone..."

"Alone? Works in our favor... but that chef... Either he's tired of being in service to an asshole or he's a psycho too... Cant outright ask... You'll probably see soon enough though..." Soon wasnt soon enough though. I sat there for what felt like forever watching Mythic do pushups and sit ups for what felt like an hour. Maybe more. After a while there was a banging on the door. Mythic and I looked to each other before he got to the far wall. Hands to his side. Guess he learned that one quickly. Either that or PTSD of his own from when he was captured. Listen to what he was told. Otherwise legs get broken. I just stood up and went to the door. Lucky me... Nightshade's guards. No Nightshade.

The guards didnt cuff me. Just closed the door. One got in front of me, the other behind. The one in front glanced back. "Follow me. Should be a quick trip. Good dinner ahead of you and a stiff one for a congratulations on today." He said. I just gave a nod. It took everything in my power to not stab the one in front. I just followed like a little lost puppy. Fuck me was it a long walk. Hallway after hallway, even an elevator... Guess they wanted me to be so confused on where to go just in case... But this was the only time I wanted to go this way....

When we got to the door they stood side by side in front of me. They didnt pat me down. "Nightshade is waiting for you inside." The other guard said. "Best not keep him waiting any longer." I gave a nod and the guards just stepped aside and looked inward at each other. One pressed a button on the wall and the door slid open. I walked in to a very nice living area. Very vintage... honestly impressed me. Vinyl records on the wall near a record player on top of a shelving unit with a lot of records. The player itself was playing... Something I knew from Nukes Galore... Honestly was comforting... but it was about to bring a psycho out to do someone else in.

I just stood there looking around at the furniture. Flatscreen TV on the wall yes but a nice long round horseshoe couch in front of it, looking as if it were pulled from the mid 1950s. There was a mini bar in the corner of the room, few shelves lined with everything needed. Wine, whiskey, rum... even Mead. I was dying to try some to be honest. I hestitantly walked forward into another room only to see Nightshade in... honestly a sweater vest, tie and nice shirt, slacks to go with it. He even had a chef... but... this guy was wearing a collar... Looked tech heavy too with a little antenna poking out the side. "Uh... Sir?" I said alerting Nightshade.

Nightshade looked up and smiled. "Ah Ryder! Come in come in! Glad you could join me sonny!" He said... Honestly sounded more like a grandfather I never knew I kinda wanted... did I really wanna kill him...Yeah... Yeah I did... "A fine job you did today! More than what I could've asked for from any of those! I know this might not make it better but those two... They were part of a fierce gang out there in Manehattan... Protection rackets, sex rings... just everything wrong with the city..."

"I've killed so much... yet everyone I had killed were armed... they wanted to kill me... Only other time i've felt like that was when I killed my ex the day my parents were murdered... then a spy when I was at war... One deserved it... the other was more of a message that I might've regretted after...."

"The feeling fades after some time... yet it gnaws at us like dogs whether it be under the radar or right there annoying us until we snap... Do you know why I do what I do?" I walked over and sat down on the seat he pulled out for me. I shook my head. "...Its because years ago... Nobody would listen to me... I was part of a mafia... Cartel kind of.... I was a lieutenant and high up on there... One day I got a tip from an informant that a deal was gonna go bad... that there were ambushes inside the warehouse ready and waiting. I caught the guys just outside of the warehouse, told them not to go in and to turn around and return the goods. Even go as far as finding another suitable buyer.... but the idiot in charge of our side of the deal was the only one to get away... he didnt have anything... no gun, no drugs, no money.... He was a coward...." Nightshade picked up a knife from the table and just caressed the blade. It was a sharp cheese knife. Short handle, big blade. Pronged at the end. "...I had to teach him a lesson... I cut him up so bad he wasnt recognized by anyone... not even his wife.... She divorced him, took his money, kids... The bastard tried getting back at me... broke into my home, killed the dog I loved dear... Was a gift from my late wife. I woke up to him barging in my room... Silencer on the gun... If it werent for the gun jamming I wouldnt have grabbed the knife in my bedside drawer and stabbed him.... Just watching the life drain from his eyes disturbed me for quite a bit... I had to skip town, burn his body in my bed just to escape... After that initial mutilation others refused to listen to me... say I was trying to ruin the deal and everything... He had everyone else in his pocket..." He grunted throwing the knife... That thing went fast and planted itself in the wall. "...That bastard ruined me... I sold many hide outs to enemy gangs for my own passage out of the city... Slowly but surely it was dismantled up until the leader.... I had to see him get strung up.... But after that I went my own way with the rest of what I had."

"...And... Somewhere along the way the Warden found you... correct?" He sighed and turned around.

"Few years in fact. I was being stalked by someone who wished to do me harm... The Warden was gonna step in but by the time he got there, the assailant already had a smile forced upon his face, drowning in his own blood.... Warden brought me on but... I gotta say I'm getting too old for this... Those guards out there? They arent there just for my protection... they aid me when I have medical episodes... My health has recently been declining... Started coughing up blood and I just... I dont know how long I have left.... I think you might be my replacement.... I've already talked with the warden... He's thinking about this. His call... But we can talk that after our meal. Go on, anything you want. Oh! And I do owe you a drink... Give you a little something to ease the pain."

"Well... For the drink I'm good with anything sweet. Alcoholic or otherwise... Food uh.... I mean burrito with tofu, fries, beans and salsa sounds good...." Honestly? Havent had a burrito in a while... Last time I had one was around the time I got sent back to Nightmare Moon's return. After that I drove past the shop I worked at just to see what was going on. Decided to stop down there just for something. Was. GOOOOOOD. Anyhow he brought me a glass of whiskey and some water. Vanilla whiskey on the rocks. The food? Left something to be desired but I wanted to be nice to save this guys life... Though I could see how pissed he looked while we ate. I faced right towards him. Though as Nightshade finished he gave a sigh.

"That hits the spot.... Do you have room for desert? I've actually got some pie in the fridge. Baked it in the kitchen myself. Might not be the freshest but its great. Cherry pie with ice cream good for you?" I gave a nod. I watched as he got up... probably the worst mistake here... For him... He turned away leaving me to get up and just lodge my blade right into his neck! I'm not sure what happened here.... I dont know if it was due to adrenaline or something that was put in the food but... I found myself with Nightshade in a white void.... Him just on the ground in front of me clutching his neck. He looked up at me scared as I paced back and forth. "...Wh-Why would you do this....? I... I trusted you! I brought you into my team because of your experience... I even cared about your mentality!"

"You didnt care... You never did...." I replied crouching down over him. "....You're a fucked individual... The ponies you've mutilated, the ones you've gone and killed just because they were slow on the draw.... Everyone who you ordered was afraid of you... They did as you asked still but a seconds hesitation is what gets you killed in the end.... Me? How do I know those ponies that were killed were part of a gang? You might be spouting lies just to make us feel better! That mare... She was crying... and she was fucking maimed.... Anyone who does that... they deserve death... and you? This is where you rest.... Whether it be in peace or in fire.... Rest well...." I plunged my blade into his neck again... right where I planted it the first time.... Deeper.... When everything faded I was in front of the chef who was shocked. I took the blade back but just before I dropped him, the chef picked up one of the butchers knives and stabbed him in the same place I did pushing me back and stabbing him over and over.

The chef grunted. "...I wanted to kill him..." He said. Raspy voiced like his throat was dry as a desert. "Rather it look like I did than you.... You heard him... you'd be his replacement.... I... I just want death knowing he did... I cant take life in this thing anymore.... Just.... get the guards in here.... And no need to thank me.... Just.... get out of here... Dont do what this guy did... please..." I gave a nod.

"...Just... Make it look like you're attacking me..." He gave a nod and dropped the body... blood smeared the bar and the knife. He walked around and I just dropped back as he grabbed a drink and threw it on me. "FUCK! GUARDS HELP!" I watched as the chef just pulled on the table cloth making a plate go to the floor and just before he had it all the way off... his head just exploded.... Collar just exploded sending his blood everywhere, head in chunks.... His body dropped to the floor, his blood just... covering me.... All over my face and clothes.... I was just lucky his blood didnt land in my mouth from the way I had my hand... I looked over at the door and just saw the guards rushing in. One checked Nightshade's body while the other one came to my side.

The guard at Nightshade's body just looked over. "He's dead! Multiple stab wounds... Even one to his neck...." He said.

The other guard stood me up by one arm.... I just... hugged myself shaking. "What the hell happened?!" He asked... demanded more like.

I just.... Spit making sure I didnt swallow anything I didnt notice... "...He... He was gonna get desert... The fucking chef stabbed him.... and... he was gonna... gonna kill me..." I said.... I was genuinely scared... No acting here. "...Wh-What happened...? Why did his head explode....?"

"Bomb collar. Made sure he stayed put when in service... guess he wanted it off so bad he caught him off guard.... Just gave up on service...."

The guard who checked on Nightshade sighed. "Get him into a shower and a new suit... second one today that he's needed..." He said. "....Just... tell us if you feel like you're gonna be sick after that... wont object to getting any more food for you so you have something on your stomach." I nodded before they walked me towards a shower inside the living area. I stepped in to the room and just stripped down turning the jumpsuit inside out. Even had to hide the blade under the towel after I washed it. Even had to wipe it down with toilet paper just to hide evidence better. I showered up and I REALLY scrubbed down... I was scrubbing my face down so hard I thought I would've torn it off.

After that I was just herded back to my cell with Mythic... He woke right up when I was let in... as soon as the door closed I just fell to my knees. He hopped down from his bunk and came right to my side. "Lad! Holy fuck thought you'd've gotten yourself killed!" He said. "Heard guards rushin' around saying a bomb went off but never heard a damn thing! Thought you went and martyred yourself to get him! He.... Is dead right?" I nodded. "Great! One down... Three to go... You got enough energy in ya to tell me what went on?" I just... Shook my head.... He looked into my eyes. "...Alright... Bed time lad... but that blade stays with me tonight..." I just offered my arm and he took it right off putting it in his bunk before helping me into my bunk and laying me down.

I just passed out soon after only to be met by Luna. We were in the range... It was dark, run down and it just looked as if it were going to storm any minute. I just got picked up and hugged. "...I feel the pain that plagues you Ryder... I can see it in your eyes..." She said. "What happened? Are you alright...?"

I took a deep breath prying her off just to go and sit down on a range counter. "... Four lives taken today... Two by my own hand... One to get to another... The one I had to kill deserved it... the other that I had to kill to get to them? I... I'm not entirely sure..."

"And the other two...?"

"Collateral casualties... One because he couldnt keep his mouth shut... the other was assisted suicide by helping me cover one of the kills I had to do..." She stayed silent for a moment. The wind of the dreamscape just blew whistling through the ruins. She sighed.

"...No trouble will come of this... and I'm hoping mother can forgive this... Perhaps help cleanse your mind of these..." She looked around. "...Was this where one of them happened?" I nodded. "...Such disrepair.. but what I'm seeing is foliage outside... there's many forests around Equestria... Cant take the time to look through them all. Might need to replay a memory... Dont worry... I'll try to ignore what happened... if that's possible... Might even see about snagging a picture or two to send to Elite scouts who might be able to help..." I wanted to stop her... but... she's seen things through me... Only wants to help. She used her magic to tap into my mind. Cleaning the training area up, brightening the skies and lining everyone up behind her... I zeroed in on the guy who was being executed. The shock in his face still being held tight by the guards whilst Nightshade stood there... grinning.

"Just keep your eyes to the trees... I know the better shot might be down range but... I'd rather you not see what's down there...." Luna just looked off at the trees lining the compound.

"Noted... These look like Eucalyptus, oak and birch trees.... Doesnt narrow it down by much.... But... Cant see any mountains..." I looked around a bit. ...Of course there was a mountain... Down range...

"...Fuck... I think... I might have you disregard what I said Luna... But... Be very aware.... I didnt want to but i had to... blood on my hands because I'm a hostage who wants to go home to his family and is willing to do what ever it takes to do that..." I could see her swallow before looking down range... she lost all color almost and just developed that shocked look. "...Princess... Just... Just do what you need to do please.... I didnt want to but I had to.... Take note and go... this already plagues me... I dont want you to think any different of me...." Her eyes locked to me.

"Ryder.... I will never think any different of you... You're trying to do what you need.... You were told you were not to act unless your hand is forced... And here your hand was forced... it might've been something you didnt want to do... but it was forced... And not to worry... You will not be held accountable for their death....I will do everything in my power to wipe this from your mind... Now breathe.... I need to do some work..." I nodded just breathing heavily. I watched as she pulled out her phone and started taking pictures of the trees and even flew down range just to take a picture of the mountain. She flew back over and landed in front of me shuttering a bit. "...There... I'm no map maker... but that is definitely the largest mountain of The Foal Mountains.... From what face I cant tell but scouts will aid in finding you. Just do what you can... We will await your homecoming."

"...May the day come where my hand is never forced to do that ever again... and if it does I hope my end comes swiftly after..." Luna hugged me.... Even gave me a little kiss on the cheek before breaking away and making things fade. That next morning I woke up and just used the can again before Mythic and I were taken separate ways again.

I was taken all the way to the wardens office. This time he wasnt in his armor but two other ponies were with him. A Pegasus guard who just... he was twice my size... think Big Mac levels with a little more added in. He wore green and yellow armor. The other? Unicorn mare. Two daggers at her side, mask over her face... looked like a gas mask. Grey armor all around. Nothing reflective. I was sat in front of them still cuffed. "This is the new aspirant?" The stallion asked... sounded Steuropean.

The warden nodded. "Yep." He replied. "Nightshade talked highly of him as of yesterday before his demise.... Cant say I didnt see it coming but I told him that chef would've been the death of him... yet he kept saying that one was meaningful to him in some way... dunno why but... definitely did him in..." He looked to the mare. "Predator? Anything to say?"

The mare studied me. Even came around the desk just walking around me. "....You say he was a guard?" She asked.

"General. Stepped down recently. Yet he's a firey one. Assumed you both saw the tapes?"

The pegasus stallion in yellow chuckled a bit. "Firey? I know firey... Yet this one seems like cinders to a snuffed flame..." He said. Finally faces to names. Fireborn the stallion, Predator the mare... and an assassin it looks like.

"And yet he didnt hesitate on showing everyone who was in charge... He was in charge of the guard and gained respect among the Princesses. He would've torn every guard apart if we hadnt tranquilized him before subduing."

"Ah.. so he was the strong pony... Interesting he was able to lift so much albeit being so... puny..."

I grinned. "Forgive me for speaking out of turn... but sometimes good things come in small packages...." I said trying to hide the fact I was freaking the fuck out.

Predator chuckled slightly. "...I like him..." She said. "...Takes charge any way he wants... I wouldnt mind putting him through a few tests of my own..."

The warden slammed his fist down. "Predator. Knock it off. He is going to be a part of our team!" He snapped. "He aint some toy for you to play with! The ones you choose out there are your toys and if they cant find you, they might be as good as dead!"

"Well if he wants in my room, he's welcome any time..."

The warden sighed pinching the bridge of his nose as she joined his side once more. "Bah. I feel he would rather train more, maybe show his skills with explosives and such?" He said. "But only if he wants. Would not mind him dropping in on a few tests..."

The warden huffed. "Alright... So we're in agreement... Ryder is the newest part of us." He said. The two ponies nodded as he looked to both of them. Then his eyes fell on me. "Welcome aboard Ryder. So fast moving up... Real go getter... But now... What do we call you...?"

"You have power behind you... But you seem to like lying low..." ...And I hope that doesnt come to bite me in the ass.

I hummed. "...how about Claymore? Dont know I'm there until its too late?" I asked. I could see them all contemplating it. Even looked to each other.

"Sneaky but when you go off you make it known. Good choice... As of now we're still deep cleaning Nightshade's room... That damned collar did a number on everything. But it will be given to you when its cleaned. Anything inside is yours to keep unless requested otherwise."

"Fair... Though I do ask one thing... Keep me among the prisoners if you can. The sneakier I am when it comes to taking out your targets, the more fear the prisoners would have for obedience."

Fireborn laughed. "I like it! Have them fear us when one of them is always watching!" He said. "Anything we need, we meet in secret anyhow. Even through secure line if need be. But I do like the way you think!"

The warden stood up. "Then its settled. Claymore is one of us but acts as one of them... He is our hand to teach those who defy us a lesson and still has free reign of the facility to a degree." He said. "He can still work maintenance or mingle with the rabble unless we have targets for him to take down."

"Shall I announce it sir? Usually we have your new lieutenants do the announcement but if he wishes to remain secret we might have to do it ourselves." The warden looked to Fireborn.

"Go ahead Fireborn. We'll let Claymore here do as he pleases for the time being. Get a good feel for the place. If we need him, we'll send for him." He looked to me. "Go on. Explore, learn, do whatever until we send for you. If anything get something from the mess hall. Meal time soon." I gave a nod and stood up giving a quick salute before walking out on my own. I did end up exploring but as I explored a thought came to my mind... What happened in Ikkebuckero other than me having to save my sister? I was poisoned by a doctor... yet he detoxed me... And that gave me an idea...

To be continued....