The Slash of Truth

Chapter – 5

Spike stared into the mask that has taken Canterlot by storm, malevolently cutting every man and woman that stood in his way in his volcanic wrath. Spike didn’t know how to breathe at that moment, he had forgotten how to speak. He felt his dragon blood turn to ice at the mere sight of Frank, the victim’s blood anointing his mask.

“Say something, Spike,” Frank said in Joel’s voice, but Spike didn’t catch that fact, he was too stunned to even apprehend what the killer just muttered. Spike was terrified beyond belief as the candles added to the fear faction. “Spike… It’s me… Joel.” Frank said, taking one step closer to the shaking Spike.

“NON MUOVERTI!” Spike Shouted at the top of his lungs, trepidation dripping from his tone. Frank never stopped however moving, Spike started to hyperventilate with each step closer. Tears spilt down his scaled skin, his heart pounding like crazy. “Please don’t move, you don’t have to do this… I don’t want to die. NON VOGLIO MORIRE!” Spike pleaded, his eyes closed tight as he waited for a sharp pain, wishing it was painless. He waited and waited, but nothing came or at least he thought. Instead, he heard the door close behind him, next to a jingle of keys and the sound of a door closing. Spike quickly turned and opened his eyes, seeing the door closed and Frank with the keys in his hand, the same bunch of keys that Joel had before walking down.

“Don’t be afraid, Spike. I didn't bring you down here to kill you.” Frank said calmly but Spike didn’t believe him one bit, why else would he close the door? He wouldn’t let him leave. He was trapped with the most rancorous murderer the world has ever seen.

With a cold sweat spilling and his stomach tightening when Frank started to walk forward, Spike almost lost his footing as his mind screamed for him to step back. As he stumbled back, his attempt to make distance stopped as his lower back came into contact with a table, a table smothered with guns. Spike picked up the first handgun he saw, The Glock 17 model, a very popular gun where Frank was from and somehow made it over here, and now, it is pointed straight at Frank with shaky hands.

“Stay away!” Spike cried out, looking down at the iron sight with one eye closed. Frank stopped in his tracks, seeing the pistol raised at him.

“Hey! Take it easy, Spike! No one has to get hurt, let’s talk this out.” Joel said carefully, raising his hands up to show he had nothing in his hands, chancing another step forward.

“HO DETTO DI NON MUOVERTI, CAZZO!” a hysterical Spike shouted, his unsteady hand violently shaky as he breathed heavily. It was quiet and still after that, the flickering candles the only thing to be alive as it’s dancing deathly, waiting for blood to be spilt once more in this room. The biblical ritual that the masked man provides for them to keep their flame ablaze forever more.

Eventually, Spike had his breathing steadied and his hazy mind started to clear as he realised he had the situation under control. Frank was unarmed and he had a weapon pointed right at him, he had him right where he wanted him. He fantasised about this moment, believe it or not, that killer… that homicidal son of a bitch has made Spike suffer to the deepest of depression.

“Why…?” Spike muttered venomously, his anxiousness replaced with barely contained self-righteous rage, his smouldering eyes daggers like a purebred dragon. “Frank, Joel– or whoever the fuck you are! Out of everyone you could of killed, why did you have to kill her!” Spike said darkly, his razor-sharp canines teeth showing as they gnashed together.

Joel understood what he meant and he wasn’t amused by his question. “I didn’t kill, Rosette.”

“YOU FUCKING LIAR!!” Spike roared, finding confidence in his fury to step closer. “YOU BEATEN, RAPED AND SLIT HER THROAT LIKE A PIECE OF MEAT!!! YOU DISGUSTING BASTARD!!!” Spike shouted with so much hate that his emerald green eyes burned with esoteric power as he had the barrel of his gun touching the forehead of the mask. Staring mere inches away.

“Spike… I’m not going to tell you again, I did not… Kill… Rosette.” Frank said warningly, his own temper rising.

No, Joel wasn’t taking that shit anymore. Slowly, he lifted down his hood and ripped off the velcro from the back of his head, loosening the mask, and revealing Joel’s daring glare. Spike actually growled predatorily at seeing his face. Hatred didn’t came close to what Spike was feeling at that moment.

“Like hell you didn’t! Everyone knows it was you, so stop lying! Why did you kill her?! Why didn’t it have to be her?!” he exclaimed, slobber spat and more tears spilt. “I fucking loved her! she was my everything! The day she was taken away from me, I swore I would kill you for what you did, and now I’m here with a gun to your skull. But… To learn it was you… You fucking disgust me, you dirty, little rat! You killed your own little sister.”

Something snapped within Joel. something fierce, something savage took hold of his body as one second he was staring down the barrel of the Glock and the next, he saw red. he had his both hands were wrapped around Spike’s neck as he held him against the floor, his wide and fearful eyes looked up at Joel as he straddled him. He knew. How did he know that she was his little sister? How?

“P-please… Please…” Spike rasped, trying to desperately to speak as his face turned red. This kid, the nerve of this kid to beg for his life. The audacity to shout in Joel’s face about doing something so odious that he never did. He heard the same phrase every single day.

‘You killed her.’

‘You rapist.’

‘You murdered a little girl.’

‘I hope you kill yourself for what you did.’

‘You’ll regret what you did.’

With every different sentence but the same meaning, Joel tried his hardest to keep his anger in check but, he had enough. He wanted to kill him, he wanted to go to school tomorrow and butcher every single student and teacher that accused him of the crime he would never dream of, he needed this city to suffer, he needed… He needed… He needed to stop! With swift speed, Joel reached for his back pocket, receiving his blade and jamming it into his own forearm, ragging his rogue arm off Spike with a yank. Spike fought for air as he coughed violently on the floor, his hand covering his throat as he massaged his airway.

Joel cursed himself for letting his rage let loose as he ripped out his blade and put it back in his back pocket, crimson blood dripping from his open wound. Quickly pulling up his jacket sleeve, he inspected the potentially fatal injury with a straight face. Thankfully, the blade missed all the nerves and was in between the two bones. Just a flesh wound, nothing too serious, not a problem for tonight, just needed it to be strapped up with some medical aid.

Raising his arm to stop the blood flow, Joel strode to the end of the table with the tools and went for the green medical kit with a red cross on it. Trying to unlatch the kit with one hand, he didn’t pay attention to Spike who rose up behind him, still gagging heavily as his jugular was sore from the strain.

“You should have kept your fucking mouth shut!” Joel bellowed with a growl, grabbing the roll of bandages from one of the pockets. “Not a very good idea to piss off a murderer, fucking idiot.”

Spike didn’t respond, not like he wanted to; his vocals felt like they were crushed and his heart was working overtime for blood flow to his brain, feeling dizzy as he stumbled his way back to his feet. The first thing he did when he found his feet was to claim the gun he had dropped; it was by the exit door. Scattering to collect it, Spike picked it up and aimed it at Joel yet again.

“How did you know she is my sister?” Joel asked bluntly, cleaning the wound with a bottle of saline and wrapping it with clean bandages. Spike glared.

“Give me one good reason why I should tell you anything?” Spike said viciously. Joel turned his head just to scowl.

“You tell me now or I’ll make you tell me from up there, I’ve fucking had enough of you.” Joel snarled, nodding the handing chains in the middle of the room. Spike quickly glanced at it, shuffling nervously. “You better start talking because I'm a hair away from fucking losing it with you.” Joel spat, turning to continue to wrap his arm up.

Spike sweated from a distance, trying to swallow the lump in his throat. Why was Joel so calm? He has a gun pointed at him, and yet, he turns his back on Spike. Does he have a death wish?

“I just want to leave, I don’t want to be a part of this!” Spike yelled desperately, feeling like the goods are against him despite him with a weapon.

“I told you, spike. Once you know, there’s no going back. I warned you and you ignored it. Whatever happens now, stays down here.” Joel denied, finishing up dressing his arm with multiple layers. He turned to face Spike fully, pulling his sleeve down. “So, I’ll give another warning. Drop the gun and we can settle things without a fuss, or we can do this the hard way, and trust me, you do not want to be chained up.” Joel said so casually that Spike believed him, walking towards Spike at a slow pace.

Spike was officially horrified, he didn’t know what to do. Lower his weapon and risk being defenceless or try and fight his way out with the risk of his own life. There was one only real option he could choose; Spike never knew how to fight, all he had was the anger issues to back him when the time came but, at this stage, all the anger withered under the scrutinising gaze of Joel. He could drop the gun and hopefully talk things out but, that could also lead to him killing Spike easier. Yet again, he could have killed him before but, he stopped himself, he stabbed himself for whatever reason just to stop himself from strangling Spike to death. Why? Why did he stop himself? It was like something within Joel wanted to kill Spike but, he hurt himself to keep himself under control. There is something off about Joel that Spike has never seen before, something that Spike couldn’t put his finger on. Spike didn’t know what to do, fight or flight? Or maybe…

“So, Spike. What’s it going to be?” Joel asked, now face to face as the dead eyes of the human stared into Spike’s soul. At that moment, the last bit of fighting spirit shimmered away with his will as the gun pressed against Joel’s chest. One little pull of his finger and it will be over but, Spike couldn’t, he wouldn’t let himself pull the trigger. So instead, he just held the gun out as fresh tears came, hunkered down in defeat.

“Please… I don’t want to die. please, please, please… Don’t do this.” Spike sobbed, his head down with the gun held out to be taken. Spike felt the gun leave his hand and his heart skipped a beat at the feeling of vulnerability.

“You made the right choice, Spike,” Joel enunciated, making Spike slowly look up with tear-filled eyes. “Not many would have handed over the gun, they would of mindlessly pulled the trigger without a second thought, not realising that the clip inside the gun you just had is empty.” Joel smugly said, ejecting the magazine with a satisfying click and showing the magazine with no bullets inside.

Spike’s jaw dropped in shock, gawking in stupidity as his mind tried to process that he was carrying a gun with no bullets inside. He was so blinded by fear that he just assumed that it was already loaded, he was defenceless from the start. He imagined pulling the trigger just to have that gut-wrenching feeling in his belly. If he had pulled the trigger, Joel would have killed him for sure.

“There… There was no bullets?” Spike said speechlessly, feeling sick once again.

“Of course not, I’m not so careless to leave a gun loaded. That basic weapon checks and handling, you know.” Joel said coolly, putting the clip back in the pistol. “And besides, the safety was on so, even if the magazine was fully loaded, it still wouldn’t fire.” Joel said matter-of-factly, walking off to the table with all the weapons on and putting them back with the rest.

“S-so… What does this mean for me?” Spike asked.

“Well, the choice is up to you, to be honest. If you cooperate with me, I’ll cooperate with you. It’s not rocket science, mate.” Replied Joel, chuckling slightly at his demeanour as he leaned back on the table, his legs and arms crossed.

“Really… No bullshitting?” Spike murmured, a spark of hope growing.

“If you know me long enough, Spike. You’ll know I don’t bullshit in times like these. Trust me.” Trust him…? Trust a killer? It’s a laughable thing to think to any sane person but, not so much anymore. Joel, a murderer had every chance to kill him down here and nearly did but… He was still alive. He should of killed him but, he didn’t. Could he trust him? A murderer? A murderer who has killed countless times? Maybe, just to save his own skin.

“Okay, I’ll trust you for now,” Spike said carefully, getting back on his feet.

“Come on then, let’s talk.” Joel let out, walking over to the far end of the room where a table and chair with a pinboard over the top were. Spike followed hesitantly.

“What are we gonna talk about?” Spike asked, sitting on a chair that Joel gestured to. Joel frowned.

“I want to know how you know Rosette was my little sister,” Joel ordered, crossing his arms as he looked down at Spike. Spike glanced away with a face of sadness.

“Me and Rosette were... We were close. Inseparable to the point we did everything together. I loved her, and she loved me, it was perfect. She bragged about you like you were the coolest person in Canterlot, she admired you a lot. She told me that you were a fitness freak, always exercising early in the mornings every day, she told me you had a passion for football; celebrating when Liverbirds score and cursing when they lose. I know you listen to The Bulge, Bruno and Ragged Insomnia. I could go on and on but, I’m sure you wouldn’t want that.” Spike said, making Joel’s brows rise slightly. Everything he said was true, he use to do all that after Rosette’s death but, Joel never had the time to do most of them things again, plotting and planning, killing everyone that got in his way. By the way he spoke of her, they must have been a couple, a deep one. Joel now knew why Rosette was brighter than usual in her last months.

“So… you two were together, huh?”

“We didn’t do anything sexual, we kissed once and that’s about it!” Spike quickly added that very important information. Joel huffed in amusement.

“I always teased her about her getting a boyfriend, turns out she already had one.” Joel murmured reminiscently, a small smile on his face.

“Yeah, she told me you did, I found it hilarious at the time.” Spike said, his mind wondering back to the past. The days where he could stare at her beauty and be starstruck every single time. Her body was lissom, her rosy, young, bright Byzantine skin is as smooth as silk and her freckles were simply adorable. Her long, shining Rebecca purple hair was the embodiment of idyllic; the redolent smell of her hair always an addicting drug, and her ruby red eyes, the eyes he fell in love with, the eyes he can get lost in forever if he really wanted to. He wished to see them one more time, he would do anything to see her one more time.

“I never killed her, Spike.” Joel said, making Spike look up. “But, I’m trying to find the person that did.” He said resolutely, his fist tightening.

“So… It wasn’t you after all?” Spike asked throatily, the pain in his throat still there. Joel just shuck his head in reply. “But the news said that-”

“The media, the news, the police, it’s all lies, Spike. They’ve been feeding you lies to stop the riots, criticism and vandalism that came after it when the police gave no updates on the case, then when I came along, they pinned the blame on me. They just covered up the case with me as the number 1 suspect. The department is corrupted.” Joel said stridently, frustrated by his ignorance. “It’s what police do, if they can’t find justice, they make it up so at the end of the day, they are not at fault.”

“I… I don’t believe it.” Spike said in disbelief.

“Believe me, Spike. It’s not the first time they had done it. In fact, they are doing it right now.” Joel said, shocking Spike further.

“What do you mean?” Spike inquired.

“What do you think I mean?” Joel said tautly. “Did you ever think why the name of the student’s death this morning never went public?”

“Their parents wanted their child’s death to go private, it's legal to do that. It said in the news that the victim’s parents wanted to keep it private.” Spike dejected, shutting down his theory.

“That’s what they want you to believe, Spike. It’s all a misconception to hide the truth, they are making a simulation that they want you to believe in! I’ve noticed a pattern, did you notice that my little sister's name went public? Someone I didn’t kill… Every woman and man I killed never went public but, there were always a few names that were mentioned in news reports that we were killed. It’s not a coincidence.” Joel said strongly, trying to get it in through Spike’s head. Spike slowly started to understand, there were still a few doubts about his logic but, bits and bobs started to make sense to him.

“So… That means you killed that student last night, didn’t you.” Spike said glumly, her heart aching as Joel just nodded. “Who was it?”

“Richie.” Joel said, his name acid on his tongue. Spike never knew Richie personally to call him a friend, he only really hung around Dosh. In fact, Spike didn’t really like him at all. Too many rumours going on around him, sexual harassment, and touching little girls inappropriately; Spike knew it was wrong to judge by gossip but, he was a bit too creepy and perverted to believe them.

“Why? What did he do?” Spike asked, dreading the answer. Joel didn’t answer at first, he picked up the used ciggy from the ashtray but quickly realised that he left his lighter upstairs as he searched all his pockets. Spike seeing this, raised a finger the tip of his finger lit a small flame.

“Here,” Spike said, catching the slightly surprised Joel off guard.

“Hmm, forgot you was a dragon. Cheers.” Joel thanked, lighting the end of his cigarette and popping it back in his mouth with a long inhale and puff. Joel frowned as he exhaled, the thought of the bastard left him feeling bitter.

“He was going to kill Ditzy.”

“What!?” exclaimed Spike, gobsmacked with outrage. “He tried to kill Ditzy!? Why!?”

“I don’t think it's my place to say, I think Ditzy should be the one to tell you just… Just give Ditzy some time, she is really traumatised from last night, she nearly died for fuck sake.” Joel uttered profanity under his breath.

“I understand, what about her daughter, Dinky?” he asked.

“Dinky was almost one of many to go missing, they would have gotten away with it if I wasn't there, she still a bit skittish about the whole thing so be careful what you say to her.” Joel replied, flicking the finished bud away.

“Fucking hell… You basically saved their lives then.” Spike said in awe, imagining the relief Ditzy and Dinky was in to be saved. “I… I guess I was wrong about you… You're not the psychopath I was led to believe. Don’t get me wrong, what you're doing now is wrong for so many reasons. It’s not right to kill so many people just to find one man.” Spike scrutinised.

“I’ll cut down as many people as it takes to find that one man, I threw away my morality the moment of her death,” Joel muttered, staring at Spike seriously. Spike huffed through his nose, shaking his head in disapproval. It was silent after that for a minute, awkwardness in the air as they looked in different directions, lost in their own thinkings.

“How's your arm?” Spike suddenly questioned.

“It’s fine, didn’t cut any nerves.” Joel responded, just as plainly.

“Why did you do it?” Spike asked, a bit of worry in his tone.

“Sometimes, I just get really furious to the point that I have to take drastic measures to stop myself. Let’s just say I have very bad anger issues.” Joel chuckled, finding his mental illness entertaining. Spike frowned deeply at that, Dragon-type equestrians are known to have to get angry by nature and it takes a lot to calm them down but, to harm himself like the way he did… That’s insane. Spike wouldn’t dream of taking a knife and stabbing himself like Joel did.

“That’s not healthy, Joel. You need some help.” Spike said with genuine concern.

“I don’t need a therapist, Spike. A person asking me questions is the last thing I need, trust me, it’s bad for their physical health if you left me in a room with them.” Joel scoffed, remembering the last time he saw a therapist. He remembered the last one he saw, his name was Col Cole, an understanding man but, Joel gave him a mean hook when asked about his deceased friend. Did he regret it? Not really. Spike just sighed

“Fluttershy is going to flip if she ever finds out about you, you know.”

“I’m not telling her and she’s not going to find out.” Joel barked quickly with a daring glare.

“What? Why? Why did you show me then?” Spike inquired, throwing his arms up in question.

“I never intended to tell you at all to be honest but… I guess… I’m desperate for help at this point.” Joel muttered quietly, embarrassed to speak louder. Spike raised his brow, the side of his mouth raising slightly.

“Pardon me?” Spike asked playfully, making Joel deadpan.

“You’ve awfully gotten brave, maybe I should teach you why they call me the Boogeyman of Canterlot,” Joel said with a menacing grin of his own.

“I don’t think that’s going to happen, I think you need my help I think I heard you say.” Spike laughed, his finger on the back of his earlobe vexingly, Spike was feeling brave all of a sudden.

“You're not too young for a smacked ass, y’know,” Joel said smugly, making Spike’s smirk sink.

“Touché,” Spike said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head.

“But with all seriousness, I need your help with something to find Rosette’s killer.” Joel said sternly, his whole mood changing in an instant, catching Spike off guard for a second.

“Why me though? Out of everyone, why me? I’m the worst person to ask for help. I’m weak, I can’t fight to save my life and I’m not going to kill!” Spike said, emphasis on the last part.

“You're probably right, you're probably the most untrustworthy person to ask for help but, I don’t know anyone else that can speak dalian like you.” Joel averred to Spike, almost like he was imploring. Spike was dumbstruck once again in a span of a couple of a few minutes. Joel wanted him because he speaks dalian… That’s it?

“What’s the catch?” Spike affirmed, quilting in suspicion.

“The catch is that you have to come with me to a highly guarded area and we could both possibly die in the process.” Joel shrugged serenely.

“Nope!” Spike boomed, getting up from his chair as he paced. “Are you mad! You really think I’m going to follow you into a death trap! Nope!”

“Spike, I know it sounds bad but, I need you. Without you, I can never find that bastard.” Joel petitioned, following him around the room.

“I can’t.” Spike stopped and turned to Joel, worry clear in his eyes. “I’m sorry but I can’t, I don’t want to do it. I don’t want to die.”

“What do you want if you help me? I’ll do anything, please!” Joel pleaded. Joel couldn’t believe what he just said. ‘Please…’ his dignity was hurt as he felt so pathetic begging for help like this? Has he really gotten this soft? He would have had him up on the chains by now, cutting bits of flesh off his body until he agrees to help. But no, the next thing he was about to do was to beg on his knees. He felt ashamed of himself.

“Anything, you say?” Spike said pensively, his gears turning.

“Yes! Anything! Money, a favour, anything!” Joel beamed.

“Well… I guess there is something you can help me with.” Spike eventually let out, an unsure smile on his face.

“Yes! What is it?” Joel said with a rayed smile, holding Spike by his shoulders.

“Okay, if I’m going to do this, I want your help to… I need your help to get… To get… Rarity.” Spike blushed furiously, turning away.

“To get Rarity?” Joel muttered, making him raise a brow. Joel wasn’t going to say anything but… Spike would break into a highly secured area just for Joel to help him get some girl who owns her own successful luxury clothing shop. Does he really have a chance with her? Also, didn’t take him long to get over Rosette if that’s the case.

“Uh… Spike, how am I supposed to help you? Do you think I know how to get some gal for you?” Joel blankly said, his face stolid in a lack of understanding of his logic.

“Well… You could get rid of Hoity Toity?” Spike said quietly.

“You want me to kill him!” Joel blurted out in surprise, making Spike facepalm.

“No! Of course not. I just want you to… You know… Make them break up somehow.” Spike mumbled, Still a bit embarrassed. Joel just stared lazily as he wasn’t impressed by his request. Joel sighed.

“Okay, I’ll do it but, that’s not a fair deal for you so I’ll add a little something more.” Joel said, walking passed Spike to the weapons table and turning to face a confused Spike. “Come on, Spike. Come and pick your weapon of choice.” Joel called over, making Spike’s eyes widen in excitement. A gun… He’s given me a gun, Spike thought, his giddy side coming into the forefront of his behaviour. Spike never liked violence and always tried his best to keep himself disciplined but, he always had a feral interest in weapons. When he pointed the gun at Joel, his blood rushed in an erotic thrill, the fire in his belly started to grow and his instinctive mind wanted to kill him where he stood, that’s when his anger kicked in and ended up nearly dying because of it. Dragons are a warrior race by nature, and a fully-grown dragon that is centuries years old can give an alicorn a chase for their money. So it was only natural for Spike to be exhilarated for being gifted such destructive weapons, and it was for Free! Without wasting another second, Spike hurried to Joel’s side, a big smile plastered on his brightened face. Joel couldn’t remember seeing someone as happy as Spike at that moment, what had gotten into him?

“I guess you really like your guns, huh? You look just as happy as Troy Deeney scoring the winner against Leicester in the semifinal playoff.” Joel chuckled, entertained by his childish nature.

“Huh…?” Spike said, not paying attention as he marvelled in the sumptuous sight.

“Never mind.” Joel rolled his eyes with a grin.

“I want this one!” Spike exclaimed, pointing at the Benelli M4 pump action shotgun on the wall, drooling as he reached up to grab it. Joel quickly grabbed his wrist away from the weapon.

“Let’s start with something light, don’t want you blowing my bloody head off.” Joel suggested, pointing out the rows of pistols along the table. Spike grumbled something but Joel ignored it, instead he picked up one of the pistols. “This here is-“

“A Ruger-5.7x28mm pistol. It has a 5 inch barrel and can hold around 20 rounds a clip. It’s a standard issued weapon for the police force.” Spike said lamely, looking onto the next pistol and picking it up. “This gun I wanted to kill you with is the Glock 17, a second generation that is extremely rare to find on the market but, still in use in the army. It carries around 24 9x19 calibre bullets and the barrel is a solid 4.49 inches. A very accurate weapon to use in a firefight.”

Joel was impressed, he had named and given the right measurement for the two pistols. He even knew how many bullets went into each gun. Joel put the Ruger back on the table, watching as Spike inspected the Glock 17 with surprising astonishment. Not bad for a kid who doesn’t want to kill.

“How did you know all that?” Joel asked intuitively.

“The same way I learned dalian; lots and lots of books.” Spike mumbled, shrugging his shoulders.

“Wait… So you're telling me you have never fired a weapon…? But you know everything about them… You are missing out, lad.” Joel chuckled, poking Spike’s chest with a finger. Spike just groaned needily.

“The story of my life.”

“You know what… I’ll take you to the firing range if we survive. you and me will shoot every gun in that shop, I promise.” Joel said, making Spike smile a bit but, the reminder of the task at hand made him flinch. He had forgotten that he might not make it out alive. Was he ready for this?

*knock, knock, knock.*

The sudden sound of the door knocking caught the attention of the two boys, turning their heads to the source of the sound. Walking over, Joel creaked open the door just a bit just to look down to see Ditzy’s daughter standing nervously behind the door, her eyes watery as she shuck, looking up in his eyes with fear.

“S-s-sorry for d- uh, disturbing you mister b-but, I don’t know where m-mommy is.” The little girl stuttered, glancing everywhere but his eyes. Joel smiled warmly as he kneeled to her level, opening the door wider. He felt his erratic heart melt at her adorableness.

“Don’t worry, love. Your mother is just sleeping, she didn’t get much sleep last night so, I don’t think it’s best to wake her up just yet, okay?” Joel murmured in the softest voice he could.

“Oh… Okay.” She squeaked, shuffling in discomfort. Feeling left out, Spike opened the door wider, hiding the Glock 17 behind his back to see who it was and his eyes widened as he saw a familiar face. “Spike?!”

“Dinky?!” the two shocked voices said to one another.

“What are you doing here?” Dinky asked, not so nervously as she saw a familiar face.

“I’m… I’m…”

“He’s a friend of mine, he going to be staying here for a bit.” Joel joined in, wrapping his arms around Spike’s shoulders like good ale pals. Out of nowhere, Dinky’s stomach started to rumble and a small blush grew on her cheeks.

“You hungry?” Joel asked, the little girl nodding shyly as she held her stomach. “Alright, why don’t you go back upstairs to the kitchen and we'll make something to eat for you, is that alright?” she just nodded again, turning away and carefully headed upstairs, looking over her shoulder and watching Joel anxiously. Once she turned the corner, Joel sighed.

“That girl is never going to get used to me.” Joel mumbled under his breath.

“Give her some time, if you could make me believe you are a good murderer then you shouldn’t have a problem proving you’re a good human.” Spike reassured, his hand on Joel’s shoulder.

“A good murderer? Are you saying you trust me?” a smug smile on Joel’s face.

“Don’t push your luck… But yeah, I think I can trust you to some degree.” Spike nodded to himself, confirming Joel's claim.

“I’ll take what I can get at this point.” Joel waved off. Anyways, have you picked your pistol?”

“Yeah, I think I’ll stick with the classics.” Spike pulled the gun in front of himself, admiring the marvellous slight.

“Good choice. Now, let's have some tea, shall we?” Joel cheered, he was starving, if he was correct, he hasn’t had anything to eat at all today. With the day he had today, he deserves something massive. Donna Calzone? 15-inch meat fest pizza? He could eat a fucking cow if he had one. It didn’t take Joel one step onto one of the loose stairs until Spike stopped him.

“Joel…” Spike said, looking conflicted.

“Yeah, bud?” Joel looked back.

“I… I maybe have done something stupid.” He said warily, reaching for his back pocket and showing his phone screen with ‘Recording’ written on it. Spike recorded the whole thing? When did he do that? Joel’s jaw dropped.

“When… How…?”

“When you turned around to put the Glock back, I took a chance to record everything after that, if I survived, I was going to report you to the authority but… I… I don’t think I want to now. I… I hope you find the killer and I hope you make him pay. So… friends still?” Spike said, nervously smiling. Joel was caught off guard even more by the revelation, Spike was going to destroy evidence to have him executed, or even worse; a lifetime sentence. He could have ended Joel's rain of slaughter but, he’s letting him go… Joel smiled understandingly.

“For Rosette?” Joel wondered.

“For Rosette.” Spike nodded, stopping the recording and deleting the video.

“Quick-thinker, smart and brave… you're alright, not bad at all. That took some guts, kid.” Joel complemented, bringing a smile to Spike. “Come on, let’s get some scran.”

And with that, they both carefully went back upstairs.

It was an uneventful ride back home for Fluttershy, Thankful that her mind was more focused on what was in front of her than what happened today, she would surely cause an accident if that was the case. When she left the loud, busy streets and onto the quiet, nature’s path on the edge of Canterlot, only then could she feel free to breathe properly. Where she went was to a cheap, small cottage on the edge of the forbidden Everfree Forest and the hustle and bustle of Canterlot city, right in between the two is the quietest place she could find where things were meant to be peaceful but, that was far from the truth.

Once she got home, it was already dark as time was moving forward as it was nearing winter, meaning that it got dark earlier. when she stepped through her front door, all her thoughts, her stress, and everything that happened today hit her like a bullet. Her shoulders sagged, her energy depleted and ready for bed. But not for Fluttershy; she wasn’t living alone.

When Fluttershy walked in, every bird, every dog, every cat, mouse, rabbit, lizard, snake, rat, fox, squirrel, and racoon rushed to the front door to see their favourite caretaker and friend. Noise flooded the room with tweets, barks and claws scratching the wooden floor as they surrounded Fluttershy before she could close the door, everyone greeting the pegasus.

“Yes, yes, hello little ones. I’m home.” Fluttershy said tiredly, smiling the best she could. “I’ll feed you all just… Just let me sit down for a bit.” She mumbled, trying to stroke as many of her animal friends as she could before standing up and casually walking throw the ocean of animals, moving out of her way as she made her way to the couch, feeling drowsy.

“Sister!!” a childish voice said from up the stairs, the sound of heavy clanking getting louder as they finally reach the bottom. There with all her childish innocence and joy was Mimosa, a 5-year-old Pegasus with Clear blue sky skin and Sandish yellow hair, tied up into a ponytail. Her yellow dress with white spots suits her also bright yellow eyes. Underneath Mimosa was her best friend, Fang, a grey, grown wolf that has stuck with Mimosa for some time now, you wouldn’t see one without the other nowadays.

“And here comes the troublemaker,” Fluttershy said playfully as she held her arms out for a hug, making Mimosa’s grin widen cheekily as she climbed down from Fang to make her way to her big sister.

“I missed you!!” she said, pouncing up and wrapping her arms around Fluttershy’s waist with a tight squeeze, the energetic girl was already too much for the worn-out big sister. “How was school? Did you learn anything new? Did you have fun? Well, did you?” she asked cheerfully, embraced weakly by Fluttershy as she leaned back onto the comfy cushion on her back.

“Yes, I had a good time in school, I learned that you are just as cheeky as ever and yes, I had fun,” Fluttershy said, scratching Mimosa’s head as she giggled preciously. Fluttershy hoped she never lose that giggle. “What did you get up to today, you little rascal?” Fluttershy asked, making Mimosa glance up.

“Me and Fang drew pictures!!” she suddenly exclaimed, unclasping herself and hopping over the couch as she ran into the next room with Fang following, his tail waggling. Fluttershy heard some shuffling going on with chairs for a moment before Mimosa and Fang came back with pictures in hand. Squealing with excitement, Mimosa gave them to Fluttershy from over the couch, hovering above Fluttershy’s left shoulder as Fang looked above Fluttershy’s right, the two waiting for Fluttershy to look at them. All the animals gathered around Fluttershy to inspect the pictures too.

The first picture was Mimosa’s artwork: it was Fluttershy’s cottage with a bright blue sky and a smily sun with the Everfree Forest in the background. All the animals were drawn bursting with colours and all of them had happy smiles on their faces. Fluttershy and Mimosa were in the middle holding hands as Fang was by her side. It was a ray of colour and the effort that went into the drawing that Fluttershy loved about it, it wasn’t realistic by any means but, it was enough to know what she was drawing. Moving on to the next picture, Fluttershy chuckled at the multiple-coloured paw prints on the paper, overlapping each paw with different bright colours in a bundle of prints.

“Well…? What do you think?” Mimosa asked, waiting in anticipation. Fluttershy didn’t answer, looking over their work, and making Mimosa and Fang frown. Once Fluttershy was finished, she laid the work on his lap and breathed deeply and let out a sigh.

“I don’t like them.” Fluttershy muttered in a disappointed tone, frown on her face as she crossed her arms.

“What!!” Mimosa exclaimed and Fang barked, both shocked. They didn’t see the small rise of the edge of Fluttershy’s mouth.

“I love them!” Fluttershy clamoured, surprising the two in a surprise attack as both Fluttershy’s arms wrapped themselves around the two and pulled them over the couch in a flurry of tickle attacks as she went straight for their bellies. One was loving the attention with his tongue lolling out while the other was giggling loudly with a smile back on her face. “You two did a great job, I think I should put them in a frame.”

“YAY!” Mimosa cheered, catching Fluttershy’s hand as she freed herself. “Can we do it now?” she asked, bouncing on the couch with his knees.

“Not right now, hun. How about you watch some TV while I take care of our little friends here, okay?” Fluttershy suggested, putting the pictures on the coffee table and rising from her set with a huff. But Mimosa didn’t let go of her hand.

“Come and play, sister. We haven’t played in ages.” Mimosa whined, trying her best puppy-eye stare. Unfortunately for Mimosa, Fluttershy was immune to such adorableness, she was also most drained by the emotional roller coaster today. She felt like she could sleep for at least a week.

“Come on now, sis. I need to feed the animals.” Fluttershy moaned, her words dragging somnolence she didn’t have the to strength escape of the Mimosa’s grip.

“Pleaaaassssseeee!” Mimosa begged, clinging on.

“Noooooooooooo!” Fluttershy begged back, trying to escape.

“Pretty pleaaaasssssseeee!”

“Pretty nooooooooooooo!”

“Please?”

“No?”

“YES!”

“Ughhhhhh!” Fluttershy groaned in annoyance, the stubbornness of the little devil is going to be the death of her. “Why must you torture me!?!?”

“Come and play with me!!!” Mimosa furiously clinging on her entire arm with her arms and legs wrapped around. Fluttershy had enough at this point, she just stood back up with the little missy attached, Mimosa flapping her wings as Fluttershy walked to the kitchen with Fang and the rest of the animals following. Fuck it, I’ll just do it with one hand, Fluttershy thought, unaware of the curse she thought mindlessly. She would have told herself off if it wasn't for the fact that she didn't care at the moment.

With a bit more convincing and a promise to bring her some candy tomorrow, she reluctantly let go and watched cartoons on the TV with Fang. As they did that, Fluttershy started by pouring dry food from a bag for the dogs and cats in each blow that had their names written on them. Next were the birds; she refilled multiple bird feeders with more seeds around the house and some more on the pouch of the birdhouses for the baby birds. She couldn’t forget about those who can’t fly down to get food themselves. Then there were the herbivores, a bowl of vegetables would do the trick for the little critters but, a carrot was served for a certain white rabbit. As for those who eat meat… She didn’t really want to imagine what they had for their meal, it would make her sick.

Now it was hers and Mimosa’s meal next. Fluttershy was thinking about a steak salad for the both of them, nothing too special but it does the trick. As she was cutting the carrots, Fluttershy’s mind went somewhere else, back to Joel. It’s all she would think about today as she was finished with one carrot and onto the next. He was a kind person although he wasn’t the brightest. When they first met, it started off shaky; Joel didn’t want anything to do with her and Fluttershy selfishly kept bugging him that she was surprised that he didn’t snap at her. She wanted to help him, and at the end, he wanted to help her - so he says. Joel wanted Fluttershy to dump Feather Bang and take herself out of the lives of her former best friends. It might have been the hardest thing for her. How could someone’s heart choose between their friends and someone that needs help? for her, another part of her died on that stand. She didn’t blame him though; life wasn’t fair like that and he was only trying to lessen the pain of losing friends. If she was going to go through with this, she was liable for that she will end up alone with the human. Was it worth it? Maybe, she couldn’t tell for sure, only time could tell.

Fluttershy was quickly snapped out with a sudden pain causing her to drop the knife on the chopping board and gasp, shaking her hand rapidly for a second. Looking at the source of the pain, she saw that she had cut her index finger with the knife, blood leaking as it dripped onto the the chopped-up carrots, the blood… Blood… The knife; it had blood on it… Blood… Blood… So much blood… Blood everywhere… On the walls, on the floor, on her hands, face and clothes… Blood was all she saw, that’s all she could smell, feel and taste as everything blurred in and out of force, her blood rushing around her body so fast that it could be used as a water hose. Her breathing was out of control, and her eyes shrunk to pinpricks as her hand shook shakily. Blood… She felt sick to her stomach as she just watched it drip… Drip… Drip… She could hear blood-curdling screams echoing all around her, the agonising screams of small children, the yells for help from boys. They all screamed down her ear along with the eternal buzzing. Everything around her faded out as all she could see is red… thick… blood.

“SISTER!”

Fluttershy jolted back, the sudden zone out making her jump as her heart froze over, and cold sweat dripped from her forehead as tears were mixed in with the sweat. Fluttershy turned to face her little sister, Mimosa looking back with worry at the doorway. How long had she been standing there, calling for me?

“A-are you okay?” Mimosa asked in a small voice. Fluttershy didn’t answer at first, she was too busy trying to catch air as her breathing was unstable. Finally getting it under control with breathing exercises, Fluttershy answered.

“Yeah… Yeah, I'm okay... What’s up, hun? Did- did you need anything?” Fluttershy said, composing herself as her whole body shook still.

“Somebody is at the door,” Mimosa said, the smile nowhere to be seen. Somebody... Is at the door? Nobody knocks at her door this late, nobody does-

*knock, knock, knock!*

Fluttershy’s heart jumped into her throat as a round of knocks banged on the door, making Mimosa scatter behind Fluttershy’s back as animals broke up into their own groups and hid, except Fang who only growled at the front door. Fluttershy had a bad feeling about this.

“Mimosa, go to your room,” Fluttershy said quietly, rubbing her back for comfort.

“Why, sis? Who is-”

“Just do it!” Fluttershy whispered harshly, making Mimosa take a step back in fright. Recognising her mistake, Fluttershy soften her face and hunkered down to her level. “Please, hun. Go up to your room and hide, and don’t come out until I say it’s okay to come out, okay?” Fluttershy said calmly as she could, making the little pegasus tear up.

“What’s going on, sis? Your frightening me.” She whimpered, sniffing as her eyes watered.

“Don’t worry about a thing, sis. Everything is going to be fine. Now, be a big girl and do as I say, okay?” Fluttershy reassured, kissing her on the forehead like it was her last. “Go, go.” She ushered her on.

“Be careful, sis,” Mimosa said, hugging her leg for a second before running up the stairs, hearing a door slam and shuffling just above her.

*knock, knock, knock!*

Another wave of knocks raised Fluttershy’s anxiousness, her heart racing and blood pumping. Fluttershy stood back up and left the kitchen, making sure not to leave without the knife. Entering the lounge room, Fluttershy saw that Fang was still at the door growling. Fluttershy snapped her fingers, getting the Wolf’s attention. Pointing upstairs, Fang already knew what was being asked of him as he immediately went up the stairs. Fluttershy looked out the windows; it was darker than before as it was pitch black. She couldn’t slyly peek to see who it was in advance, she would have to answer the door.

Fluttershy’s whole body started to shake in fear, wondering who it could be this whole time. It could be the Harmony Girls but, they haven’t knocked at this time in years. Did she order something online? No, that couldn’t be right. Fluttershy had a terrible feeling about who it could be but, she just didn’t want to believe it was true. All this time of taunting her and now, it’s at her front door.

Slowly she made her way to the front door, kitchen knife behind her back as her rushed with every step. Eventually, she was at her door, hesitating to touch the door knob. She took many deep breaths on the doormat, trying to compose herself for whoever was behind this door. Eventually, her hand landed on the knob and twisted it, slowly opening the door as her grip tensed around the knife’s handle. When she opened the door, she was stumped. Who she thought she was going to see turns out to be only Feather Bang, standing there with one earphone in and the other dangling down his chest.

F-Feather Bang… What are you doing here?” she gasped as the chilly wind hit her. Instead of replying, Feather Bang stepped closer and forcefully pressed his lips on hers, catching Fluttershy off guard as he put his tongue inside her. She quickly pushed herself away from him, Feather bang narrowing his eyes in confusion.

“What was that for?” he said sternly as she tried to find her breath that Feather stole. Fluttershy narrowed her brows.

“What are you doing here, Feather Bang?” she asked, she swiped her lips with one hand as the other was still behind her back. Ignoring her slightly irked tone, Feather Bang smiled suggestively.

“Babe, I just came here to see if you wanted to come out. Me, the boys and the Harmony Girls are gonna be at the Nightdale Night Club, wanna hang out?” Feather whispered closely, stroking her curvy waist to her hip on both sides as he smirked, looking at her erotic body.

“Feather Bang, now isn’t the best time to be going out. We’ve got exams coming up, I can’t afford to be goofing off.” She persisted, slapping his grooming hands-off as she took another step back into her house as he followed her inside with that grin. The grin that she always hated.

“Come on, babe. It’ll be this once, unless… We can have some fun here. Just you and me, my little birdy.” He said, closing the distance as he grabbed her forcefully around her waist and mashed his body into hers, their lips inches away. “Tonight will be the best time of your life.” Was the last word he uttered before plunging his lips back into Fluttershy’s, but this time, Fluttershy had nowhere to go as he snaked one arm around her back and the other gripped her firm and squishy buttock. Fluttershy struggled as she tried to escape his lips, trying to pull away his feeling hands but, it was futile, his strong body had full control of her drained body, touching every part of her body freely. Fluttershy felt something poking her lower region and squirmed away, tears of dread spilling. When his sly hands slid down to her panties, something jolted within her, pushing him away with an unknown strength and slapped him so hard that she heard something pop in his neck, making him break his hold and step back in shock, his face slightly red with a handprint.

She was stunned herself has she never had struck anyone in her life, especially that hard, her own hand stung from the sudden attack. It just happened, without her knowing like any other time Feather Bang would try to feel her up but, she marked him. She felt guilt build up as she felt like apologising but a glare from Feather Bang made her heart sink in dread.

“You fucking BITCH!” Feather roared, raising his hand as he send her sprawling backwards with a slap of his own. She fell back, landing on her arm behind her back as she looked up with terror. “All this time I’ve been trying to get into your pants, all this time I’ve waited for you to get in your knees and blow me for once, why couldn’t you be more like your slutty friends!?” he shouted, as he clenched his fist in a ball, shaking with rage.

“Please, stay away. I don’t want this!” she cried out, crawling away weakly.

“I don’t care! We are going to have sex whether you like it or not, you slut!” he said, undoing his belt, and loosening his jeans above her.

“No no no no no no no, this can’t be happening.” She Whispered to herself, feeling sick of the thought of losing her virginity by being raped in her own home. She was so weak, so helpless to do anything. She had a knife in her hand but she was so scared to use it, she didn’t know what she would do if she used it on another living thing but, as he pulled his pants down with his underwear, freeing his junk, she felt her body tense as he wore a cruel smile.

“This is what you will be worshipping once I’m done with you!” Feather cackled, getting closer. It was too much for Fluttershy, Feather Bang wanted to have his way with her like a piece of meat made for his pleasure. She hated it, she hated the way he treats her every day, the way he doesn’t care about her feeling on the matter. It’s all been about him, and she was just being used to fill his egotistical, demented figure. She had enough, she’s had enough of his games. Joel was right, he needed to go.

“STAY AWAY!” Fluttershy screamed out, revealing the kitchen knife and pointing the knife right at him, making the boy freeze in his place and his smile wiped from his gob.

“Fluttershy… Put the knife down… Now.” Feather said carefully, backing up slowly as he raised his hands. His whole body tensed as he froze again, something vicious behind was growling lowly, daring him to make a sudden move. He sensed energy behind him, the embodiment of Wrath was upholding his judgement with prejudice. Slowly and steadily, be turned to meet the eyes of a born, bred killer. Sneakily it crept in the shadows on all fours from the stairway, snarling predatorily and gnashing its dagger-like teeth shown on display, showing its maw that has killed countless times. It taunted Feather Bang, making him jump in fear with each bark. As it nearly reached the bottom and towards the light, features were becoming more visible with each step it took. His heart dropped and he suddenly found his feet as he started to move away from the fully grown grey wolf.

“I think it’s time for you to go.” A shaky, fearful Fluttershy said. He quickly turned his head to see an angry Fluttershy but, he could still see the fear in her eyes, pointing a shaky, gleaming knife at him.

“Okay… Okay… I’ll go, I’ll go,” he said quickly, moving backwards away from her as he tried to pull his pants up, almost tripping himself over as he made his way to the door.

“Don’t ever speak to me, ever again. You and me are done! If you come near me again, I’ll do more than just slap you.” She said, waving the knife closer, making him fall from the doorframe. He quickly got up and ran with his tail between his legs. Seeing him running into the night, her whole body declined and her adrenaline dwindled, feeling a burning pain on the side of her cheek.

She closed the door and like that, her eyes watered as another wave of tears fell down her cheek. She dropped the knife and fell down the door, curling up into a ball as she sobbed and sobbed and sobbed. She could hear the panting Fang beside her but she didn’t pay any mind, she just wanted to shrink and turn into a mouse and hide into the smallest hole she could find and never come out. She was so, so, so tired, she was so fed up with being so weak. Was that all she was to him? Something for his pleasure? She was mad at herself for not getting rid of him sooner, she should have knew better that he never like her as a companion. It infuriated her that the Harmony Girl can’t see the same thing. Fluttershy didn't know how long she sat there, arms around her folded legs as she balled her eyes out. Seconds, minutes, hours? She couldn’t tell but, she must have dozed off as she was shaken awake by a watery-eyed Mimosa.

“Are you okay, Fluttershy?” the little pegasus asked meekly. Fluttershy didn’t respond, she just grabbed Mimosa in a hug that Mimosa gladly gave back, hugging each other tightly as they basked in their warmth. The two didn’t move, or talk in that time. They were just happy to be together as both of them eventually snored.

It wasn’t a bad night for Joel considering that he stabbed himself. Once he and Spike headed up, breaking some steps on the way, Joel finally got a shower and in that time, Spike cooked Joel and Dinky something. Joel was ingrained by his cooking skills and knowledge, it’s amazing what Spike can whip up with a steak and a few ingredients to add. It tasted like sex in his mouth, fit enough for royalty to taste, he has never drooled so much in his life. That night, he made Gordon Ramsay his bitch.

As they sat around the dinner table, Spike and Joel talked about schoolwork, the exams and what teachers liked and hated, keeping it PG for the third person around the table who put in a word or two as she tried to get involved in the conversation. She didn’t warm up to Joel one bit in that time, looking away when he stares and refusing to talk to him, she was terrified of him that’s for sure. Had no problem talking to Spike though, apparently, Spike helped her with a bullying problem and helped her out with her homework. If she was stuck or being bullied, Spike was her go-to lad.

After that, Joel, Spike and Dinky headed to the living room where they sat down with a blanket over them, the lights off and watched a comedy movie called Lair Lair. It got a few chuckles out of Joel and Dinky was hysterical with laughter when Fletcher was being attacked by his own hand, his face covered with the word blue with a blue pen. It was good to see her laugh, he could only hope that her near kidnapping would fly over her head soon. Near the end of the movie, Dinky was fast asleep as she leaned against Spike’s arm with her thumb in her mouth, sucking it as she slept. Fucking adorable.

Joel carried her up bridal style and took her in the same room Ditzy was sleeping hopefully peacefully. Tip toeing in quietly, Joel was glad to see Ditzy relaxed as she slept. Oddly enough, Ditzy was sucking her thumb too just like her daughter. Yet again... Fucking adorable. Like daughter like mother. A drowsy Ditzy did wake up when he tried to slip Dinky next to her. Joel had to explain to Ditzy that he was putting Dinky to sleep with her, making the the pegasus smile tiredly and pull Dinky close to her. Ditzy thanked Joel kindly and Joel wishes her a good night.

When Joel was back downstairs, Joel and Spike talked for a bit before they got serious. In the short amount of time, they acted like they knew each other, they certainly didn't know when to shut up. They talked about the match they played today, laughing at Flash for trying to get passed Spike and praising Joel for his saves. They also talked about what happened in the cafeteria. Spike was caught lacking apparently, sitting alone and was being taunted by the Wonder Colts, with Spike’s anger issues, it didn’t take long until they started scrapping. He got ganged up on until the teachers broke up the fight. He got a few good punches on Soarin, he knocked out Cheese Sandwich with his wild punches, after knocking out Cheese, he was bodied by Caramel as they both tumbled to the floor. Then next thing Spike knew it, he was being kicked everywhere. Not bad for someone who doesn’t know how to fight, maybe he could show him some moves when they get back. Next, they talked about the basement incident.

“So… What would you have done if I had pulled the trigger?” Spike asked nervously, not sure if he wanted the answer but, curiosity got the best of him. Besides, it’s not like it mattered anyway. He gave him the gun and now everything is dandy… Well, as dandy as it can get. Joel chortled at the question.

“Oh, that? That was just a test: if you pulled the trigger, that immediately would tell me that you are untrustworthy and disloyal to me, so… I would of killed you.” Joel said simply, making Spike chuckle nervously. He had no idea it was a test.

“Of course, you would,” Spike said, now feeling uncomfortable as he gulped.

“Don’t worry about it now, you’ve proven I can trust you.” Joel ensured.

“You know, there are some floors in your test.” Spike muttered, his arms crossed in thought. “Me not pulling the trigger doesn’t mean I was trustworthy or loyal, it just proved that I’m not stupid. I just chose the safest option in the situation.” Spike explained, making Joel grin smugly.

“So what… Are you saying I made a mistake in trusting you?” Joel said, raising a questioning brow.

“No no, you can trust me. I’m just saying that your test needs working on.” Spike quickly said that made Joel’s sharkish smile grow.

“Your thinking too much into it.” Joel waved off his claims, looking outside to see that it was getting dark. “Anyways, it’s time to get ready.” Joel stretched, hearing his joints pop.

Spike was nervous as he followed Joel down to the basement to get himself ready to infiltrate a secured area by dangerous men. Spike didn’t know how Joel looked so calm as he equipped himself with a Beretta 92FS pistol at the back of the belt holster and an AR15 rifle with a suppresser, ACOG optic scope, vertical grip, a flashlight on the side of the barrel and a sling so he didn’t have to carry the gun everywhere he goes. Spike was in awe again by the sight, he didn’t quite realise how much stuff he had.

“How did you get so many military-graded weapons and equipment? You could make a small squad with this stuff.” Spike murmured as he loaded his Glock, taking a few mags with him.

“Killing a lot of people and taking their stuff pretty much. Sometimes I’d go to shady places to make shady deals, you would be surprised what people got their hands on these days.” Joel said, wrapping the sling around his shoulder as he let the rifle dangle. Killing… Wow… It’s insane that he said that freely without no sense of morality behind his words. His stone-cold tone showing his carefree attitude.

“You… You have killed a lot of people, haven’t you.” Spike asked wearily, not sure of his reaction to the question.

“Yeah, tons of people. Why?” he asked plainly, continuing to fill his combat belt with magazines for both weapons he holds.

“You don’t care that you killed them, do you?” Spike asked scrutinisingly. Joel just sighed in annoyance at that blatant attempt to guilt trip him.

“Nows not the time, Spike. We can discuss this after the job is done.” Joel murmured forcefully, the two lads arming themselves as they got ready in silence after that.

Joel felt more than ready as he was armed up with an AR15 with three mags and a Beretta 92FS with also three mags in his utility belt, perfect for carrying ammunition, lethal and tactical grenades which he had two smoke grenades on him already just in case to get them out of a tricky situation. Last but not least; his trusted hunting blade that he takes everywhere, killing everything that stood in its way. Joel was almost ready, all but his mask is on. He flipped the mask over to see what his prey sees in their dying moments. The smile of a demented assassin. When Joel wore this mask, it’s like he is a different person, he stops thinking and let’s his insanity do all the work. most things he did when he wore it was controlled by this mask. It might look like a wooden, painted mask but, to him, it was his other half that completed him. A side that knew no mercy.

“Okay, I think I’m ready,” Spike said, breaking the hypnotic state he was in with the mask. Turned to see Spike to see him packed with his Glock 17 in his tactical belt and wearing heavy ballistic-plated body armour over his purple hoodie. Joel just raised a brow, unimpressed by his selections as he tutted.

“Not a chance you're going like that.” Joel scoffed.

“What do you mean?” Spike asked confused, looking himself over to see if he was missing anything.

“Do I have to be your babysitter…? you really think you're going in with just a pistol?” Joel signed, walking over to the racks of guns, taking the the pump action shotgun that Spike was fond of and loaded it with buckshot rounds. Spike’s eyes widened in excitement but also fear of using it on someone. Joel tossed the shotgun to Spike, catching it with surreal stupefaction, feeling the power it holds in his hands. It felt incredible holding it and yet, terrifying.

“Secondly, take that armour off. You're not going to war, mate.” Joel said demandingly. Spike’s heart sank after that request.

“What!? No! I don’t want to get shot!” a frantic Spike cried out, making Joel roll his eyes.

“You won’t get shot if you just follow my lead. Besides, this is a simple in-and-out job, if we get caught, we run like hell and that heavy armour will only weigh you down.” Joel clarified. The thought of going without protection in his body concerned him. What if something went wrong? What if he had to pull the trigger? What if he got shot?

“Thirdly, you are not going with them clothes.” Now it was Spike’s turn to raise a brow.

“Why not?” spike asked as he wrapped his shotgun around his shoulder by the sling. Joel just grinned as he gestured to follow him to the corner of the room where an old chest waited to be opened. Spike blinked blankly at the worn-out chest that was padlocked. Joel kneeled down and fiddled with the keys until he found the right one. Opening the chest, Joel stepped aside to let Spike see. Spike couldn’t see the design of the clothing as it was neatly folded up, the only thing he was sure of was the ghostly mask that lay on top.

“Get changed, I’ll be waiting upstairs for you. Don’t make me wait, we don’t have long before we go.” Joel turned, heading towards the exit of the basement. Spike didn’t respond, he was too enthralled in his mask.

Joel waited by the front door, playing with his very expensive camera that was wrapped around his neck by a string, playing with the settings and cleaning the lens. He also sported a black backpack with some stuff inside. The sound of footsteps caught his attention of Joel but, it wasn’t the clonking boots of Spike he thought he would hear, instead, it was featherweight footsteps and it was coming from upstairs. Joel looked up the stairs to see Ditzy, wearing the same clothes as she rubbed her eyes as she walked down by the railing guiding her. Joel made a mental note to get her some clothes.

“You okay, Ditzy?” Joel asked, letting the camera hang from his neck. Ditzy peaked up at the sudden call of her name, looking straight at him with a tired smile but quickly lost it as she noticed he carried weapons. “Ditzy…?” he asked once again.

“Oh… Oh yes, I’m fine. I’m just a bit hungry… Are you heading out now?” she asked worriedly as she reached the bottom floor.

“Yeah, no rest for the wicked,” Joel answered with a tired huff. Unexpectedly, Ditzy wrapped her arms around Joel’s neck and hugged him, making Joel stumble as he wasn’t expecting the physical contact.

“Please come back safe.” Ditzy whispered in his ear in a troubled tone. Joel hugged back auspiciously, rubbing her tense back muscles softly.

“No promises.” Joel murmured. Ditzy didn’t like the answer but, she couldn’t really ask for more than that. Ditzy took in his smell as she hummed which was pleasing to Joel’s ears. It was almost enchanting as they just stood there, taking in each other's heat. The warm embrace was broken as heavy footsteps came from the basement, making Ditzy shudder uncomfortably.

“Who’s that?” Ditzy asked, standing behind Joel slightly.

“Don’t worry, it’s just a friend of mine to help me out tonight.” Joel grinned toothily, watching as Spike come up from the stairway in all black.

Spike was dressed in a black heavyweight padded hoodie that consisted of grey stripes around the sleeves, hood and chest area. Around the hoodie was a black leather sling across his waist to his opposite shoulder, the knife holster with the knife inside the only thing it was holding. black and white gloves gripped his hands, grey cargo pants with plenty of pockets to supply extra things. He also wore black boots, and a black balaclava-like skull mask. With his tactical belt with all his ammunition and pistol strapped in and his shotgun wrapped around his back, he looked like he could take anyone down.

Joel could practically hear Ditzy’s heart race as she stared at the mysterious now masked killer in front of her, hiding deeper behind Joel.

“Joel, don’t you think this is a little too much?” spike said, pulling his hood down and removing his mask to reveal his purple face. Ditzy came from behind Joel a bit, surprised to see Spike behind the mask.

“Spike?” Ditzy said in astonishment.

“Hey, Ditzy. How’s it going?” Spike blushed at the fact he was seen like this, all armed up like this.

“You’re… You’re a killer too?” she asked, unbelieving that another student from Canterlot High is out at night like this.

“I know what it looks like but trust me, I haven’t killed anyone in my life.” Spike quickly explained, walking closer to the two.

“Looking good, Spike. I’m kinda jealous that it doesn’t fit me.” Joel whistled in approval, looking head to foot at his getup with covetousness. He wanted to wear this to replace his original fit but, when it was given to him, it was too small for him. So as he poked and prodded, he was happy to see that it fitted him perfectly.

“Why’s that?” Spike asked, standing still and watching Joel inspect him carefully. Joel’s grin only grew as Joel zipped open his jacket, revealing black light body armour and a long sleeve, high-neck, black tactical shirt.

“This body armour has two plates of Magnesium Alloy in the front and back of your body, the strongest and lightest armour I could get my hands on.” Joel said excitedly, zipping his own jacket down to reveal his own armour. “But you, you have some extra protection as under your armour is a kevlar shirt that is 65% polyester and 35% cotton; a rip-stop fabric for any blade and can stop small calibre bullets. Even your hoodie has elastic cotton as it’s material. With everything put together, I promise you anything under a 5.56 calibre won’t penetrate in the chest or back area.” Joel said, knocking on the metal plate with satisfaction.

“For real!” Spike exclaimed, feeling more secure than ever.

“Yep!” Joel confirmed.

“Urm, guys. What are you guys doing that you need some much protection?” Ditzy asked meekly, feeling suddenly under-clothed as she stared at the two boys with everything on from head to toe.

“Sorry, we can’t tell you now but, I promise when we get back I’ll tell you all about it.” Joel said, looking out the window to see the sun lower than before. “We have to go now, there is some leftovers in the oven if you want some.” He quickly said, dragging Spike to the front door. Before she could say bye, the front door slammed closed, leaving the pegasus’s heart racing and praying for their safety.

Each raindrops are kaleidoscope, if Spike could only see more closely. He wonder as he stayed still how it would be to stop time, to suspend this watery gift and peek through each one. Perhaps it would be fun to sit inside those raindrops and take that gravity-propelled ride to the earth, as Spike imagine it he felt his inner self laughing - a little at the crazy daydream and a little at his silliness. He sees the rain beads upon the windows of the cars, upon each leaf and washing his outstretched gloved fingers. Soon they will pull together, forming the puddles, opening up a whole new avenue of rain-related fun. Perhaps it isn't normal to love rain so much, perhaps that is why no one is ever out to bask in its glorious shower. Spike, however, savoured the moments to be blessed with such weather, it helped him put out the blaze within his heart when times got difficult. He was thankful for its presence in a time like this, a time where he needs his old friend to watch over him.

At the top of a active depository, overlooking Meaty&Fest rundown targeted warehouse from the south west of it’s front, Frank was perfectly still as he kneeled down, barely breathing as he heard his heart thump more than that patter on his hood, camera in hand as his view zoned in with only one thing on his mind: gathering intel and finding the best option to proceed inside. For Frank, this he has done this innumerable times and for good reason. Never has he ever mindlessly walked into a job without seeing the world from a bird's eye view. It is idiotic and reckless to the highest degree to go in without a solid plan, you would have to be a thug to be so braindead. Frank was anything but braindead, far from it.

This warehouse was surrounded by additional storage from different corporations, all of them connected by delivery truck lanes, giving Frank more than one way to reach inside. Since everything in the back was abandoned, there was. Lot of covers. crates were left behind, dumpsters were overflowing with black bags that were avoided, Frank could exploit that. Pallets were piled up and used for cover with a few skips. There was even a broken forklift stranded in the middle.

He watched and waited patiently, learning the patterns and noting small details that will come crucial to snaking their way in and out unseen. He stayed there for as long as he needed as Frank didn’t like what he saw down there: patrols around the front, back and up and down the lane around the perimeter, cameras are functional on a rotation routine and there were too many in the back. 15 sentries he spotted; 13 at the ground and 2 on top of the warehouse on each corner. The ground guards were perfectly spread out across the back of the warehouse in groups of 2 or 3, covering almost all the blind spots where they could hide as they huddle around a bomb fire or kept an eye out from their spot. If they were spotted, they would be mowed down on sight. He knew these guards, he knew them well. These are the Wops.

This group have a dress code that every single one of them follows strictly. Each constituent was given a choice to wear a black or dark grey blank hoodie, light body armour underneath or heavy, depending on what they carried into a fight, either way, they had some protection to some degree. They all wore the same pants however; a blank judicious pants with a tactical belt and black mountain boots. The thing that made them stand out however was their white, devious ballistic masks. These guys were no pushovers, these guys were brutal beyond cruel, cold-blooded killers with every weapon in their arsenal, put them together and you have an army thirsty for blood beasts.

The killing was inevitable now knowing it was under the protection of The Order. These men and women are organised and aware, being overlooked will be like Mason Mount winning a game at Wembley Stadium; it’s doable but unlikely. Frank hope that Spike was ready to kill when things got bad – no, not Spike, he couldn’t call him Spike while he is under his mask. He needs a name.

“You see anything, Joel?” said Spike’s hushed voice through Frank’s earpiece. Frank slowly pressed the side of his ear where he heard the voice to respond.

“Affirmative, and don’t ever call me Joel again when I wear this mask,” Frank said lowly, the rigour in his voice making Spike’s scaly skin itch with apprehension. Joel didn’t sound like himself as an unusual accent came from him, something dark and twisted just spoke to him. A man that he has never heard of. Is this… Frank? The heartless killer?

“Y-yes, sir. Sorry, sir.” Spike said quickly, cursing himself afterwards for the lame reply. What was he thinking? They weren’t in the army.

“Don’t call me sir either, just call me Frank.” Frank said in the same tone, making Spike mentally curse more. Frank had seen enough and had his plan engraved in his head, and with that, it was time to take action.

Frank didn’t like his bodies muscle mass, he would have liked to be more toned so that he could dominate more in a fight, He didn’t have the right tools to work on it. He couldn’t afford a gym membership if he could even get one, most of the time he would try and steal dumbbells in sports shop but, there is always that security guard lurking over his shoulder. So, to make up for that, he would put all his time into his stamina and endurance. So, as Frank scaled down the building by dropping himself from edge to edge, he didn’t feel the strain of holding himself up because of his light body and built-in core.

Spike was surprised when Frank suddenly landed right in front of him, his heart skyrocketing from the sudden appearance.

“From now on, you will be known as Joey while you wear that mask,” Frank said, dusting himself off as he stood up straight from the landing. Spike blinked.

“Joey? Why does it have to be a humans name? Can’t it be something cool like… The Reaper.” He said, saying the name deathly.

“Those types of names are given, not chosen. A human name will throw anyone off your tracks considering your a bloody dragon. So, your name will be Joey. Got a problem with that?” Frank murmured darkly, looking back at the now-called Joey for an unbearable second.

“Nope, no problems here.” Joey rapidly said, raising his hands out at his chest to show he was fine with it. “Joey sounds good.”

“Good, now let’s get a move on.” Frank murmured, pulling his knife out that made Joey’s nerves stand in end.

“Wait, wait… Let me just… Calm down a second.” Joey said, his hands on his knees as his heart burned with anxiety. Joey thought he was prepared, in his mind he convinced himself that everything was fine and Frank was going to get him out alive but... Now that he stands here, about to sneak into a highly dangerous area. His life was on the line and no body armour in the world couldn’t reassure him for what he is about to do.

“Remember why you’re here, Joey.” Frank muttered next to Joey in the darkness of two storehouses, opposite sides of the target. Joey looked over to be staring face to face with Frank. “Never forget why you are here in the first place.” That was the last thing he said before he walked over to the end of the alleyway and hugged the wall as he waited in the shadows, his knife out in a reverse grip.

Why was here? Wasn’t it obvious? The thing that drove him to this point was righteousness, hatred and vengeance. When Joey discovered that Frank wasn’t the one to kill his beloved, it only fuelled the smouldering rage that was held within. The disappointment he felt when he thought he knew who the killer was, turns out to be the one looking for the bastard. Joey was dubious about coming but, he saw his opportunity to finally find Rosette’s killer and came willingly. He wanted to find the killer more than anything, Joey wanted revenge.

Joey now remembers why he was here as his inner flame grew in a strange calmness within him. He was ready. He pulled his knife from his sheath, his blood rushing with exhilaration has he felt the cold steel of the blade. He won’t kill them but, he will do whatever it takes. He was determined to find the murderer. So with that being said, he walked over to Frank as he stuck to the shadows.

“I’m ready,” Joey said calmly, holding his knife in his hand.

“Good, stay on my six and we’ll make it out alive, okay?” Frank said, the final advice before they step out.

“Okay, let's do this.” Joey nodded, his heart racing with adrenaline. He’s as ready as he going to be.

Peaking around the corner, Frank’s mask is slightly shown in the light of the lamppost above. Seeing two Wops walking the opposite way down the road, he’s seen them rotate at least twice up and down the road, taking a minute and thirty seconds to reach both ends of the road. Plenty of time to cross and enter the surrounding area, with watching the guard's habits. He knew where to go, when to wait and when to kill.

Frank was going to step out but, Joey grabbed the back of his collar, pulling him back into the shadows.

“Wait.” Joey whispered, his head down in consideration.

“What is it?” Frank asked, looking back.

“I can hear something.” Joey answered back. Joey was picking something, something that crunched the ground, something that was growling lowly like that of a predator.

“I can hear it too; good ear, it sounds like the bosses are here. We need to wait now, let's head back a bit.” Frank declared, the two heading back down the makeshift alleyway and hid behind crates.

With each second the sound got louder until it was right in front of them. A black jeep stopped at the entrance of the alleyway, and the side doors opened to uncover 2 men in black suits with black fedoras, no armour from what he could see but were packed with Tommy guns. This was the Italia Mafia, Frank was happy it was, if he has saw the thugs from the Coyotes, he didn't know what he would do.

With all the doors closed, the driver drove off, revealing two more men in black, one of them holding a umbrella under a little girl also dressed up in an all-black suit of her size with the cream white Order Cross on the back, confirming his judgement. She wore no Fedora to cover her dark purple, wavy hair with a single white stripe on it. Frank quickly pulled out his camera and took multiple pictures. He didn’t get a good picture of her face but, the skin colour and her hair should be enough to identify her next time.

“ahhh che notte le stelle sono spente, la pioggia cade a dirotto e riesco a parlare ancora una volta con mio padre.” The girl said gleefully, a benevolent smile on her maw.

“What did she say?” Frank murmured, looking back at Joey.

“Nothing really, she was just complementing the night and I couldn’t understand the rest.” Joey murmured back, his mind racing. “That skin colour, that voice, that hair... Where have I seen it?” Joey asked himself, his mind working overtime for a specific memory.

“You recognise her?” Frank questioned.

“I know her but, for the life of me, I can’t remember. It’s on the tip of my tongue.”

“Yeah, now that you say it… I recognise her from somewhere… But where?” Frank joined in, his mind suddenly scrambled. The movement of the girl and her bodyguards snapped him out of his thoughts. “No time for that, let's get a move on.” Joey nodded, following him. Looking where the two-man patrol was up and down the road, Frank quickly pulled his head back into the shadow as the two man patrol were just in front of them. Frank couldn't afford to kill them, if he killed these 2, the whole operation will be blown. He noticed that every time they walked passed the side gate to the back, there was always someone keeping track. If it took more than 2 minutes to see them, one of the Wops would come out to check on them. These two are just bait to lure people like Frank and Joey into a trap. Frank had to be clinical about who he had to kill and leave alone. This was like a chess game against The Wops and The Wops are a worthy opponent.

Frank and Joey stayed silent and still like ghosts as one of the Wops did a man's look down the alleyway, completely missing the two teens kneeling in plain sight. They kept walking down the path, leaving unaware of the two masked boys leaving the shadows and hugging the wall of the gate to the back of the warehouse. Frank peeked around the corner, spying as the little girl and her guards moved into the building. Thankfully, someone from the Wops had followed her in. 13 had just turned into 6 spread out on their own, making it easier to breach but, they still didn’t make it easy for him to walk through. He needed to diverge them somehow. Then, he had an ingenious idea that may be a big risk. Picking a small stone from the road, he peeked around the corner again, he spotted the Wop that was on his way to the back door. So, with precision, he tossed a rock at an dumpster.

“che cos 'era questo?” the Wop question said, his BCM-15 with a red dot raised as he pointed at the source of the sound. “chi è là?” he said, slowly moving from his spot, checking every corner. As soon as the Wop passed by the gate, facing the opposite way, Frank took his chance to slither up behind him and with intent, wrapped his gloved hand up, pushing the mask slightly to cover his mouth and jammed his knife into the crook of his jugular making the masked man squirm and struggle. Eventually, the muffled gurgling ceased and his whole body went limp. It was okay to kill this one, he was in the blind spot for everyone.

Joey was frozen in jaw-dropping horror. He knew Frank was a killer and he knew what to expect from this mission but, seeing it in person, seeing the blood trickle down, seeing a person fall limp as their life was taken from them was absolutely terrifying. Frank didn’t stop there, however, he dragged him to the dumpster and flipped the man in like junk, disregarding the dead like it was nothing. It was atrocious and heartless. But… Joey’s blood rushed like never before, his dragon instincts, his warrior's blood rushed through him with intention. Joey didn’t know if he should be horrified or thrilled.

“Joey, what are you waiting for?” Frank suddenly said through his earpiece making him jump. He realised that Frank had disappeared from the dumpster; so lost in the man's death that he didn't see Frank progress. Entering the garden of pallets and rubbish, Joey saw that Frank was kneeling down, hugging a tower of pallets as he peeked around the corner, his mask slightly lit up by the fire. Joey quickly joined him, his heart still racing as he touched Frank’s shoulder to let him know he was behind him.

Now, this was the hard bit for Frank, this bit to move into the building has to be executed perfectly. A security camera was planted at the top of the doorway but, the camera rotates out of the way for a few seconds before rotating back. The thing is, from a distance where the door is visible, Wops huddled around a bomb fire. Keeping warm from the chilly, rainy night, using parts of pallets to keep the fire ablaze. He didn’t forget about the snipers either, he’d have to take them out before anything, one of them was looking down at the area, not to mention the two Wops still patrolling behind them. He could just risk it and kill all of them but, doing that will only just end in disaster as the other bosses from other gangs are yet to come. He needed to make a distraction; a big one. He had an idea, he had it ever since he was up on the roof. It might not work but, it was worth a shot.

Frank went to a pile of pallets; 22 stacked on one another making a building. His plan was complicated and everything had to go perfectly in order to keep hidden. He was thankful that Joey was here; he needed his help for this bit.

“Joey, you see these pallets? I need you to collapse them onto the people by the fire as a distraction, when you do that, you need to wait until the camera faces away from the door and run in while everything is chaotic.. Can you do that for me?” Ask Frank, putting his hand on Joey’s shoulder with trust. Joey nodded, he was contempt to do that, just as long as he didn’t have to kill them. “Good, wait for my signal.” Frank nodded, panting his shoulder. And with that, Frank was about to do his own thing and Joey waited.

It didn’t take Frank long to get into position, he just had to wait for the patrol to move by as Frank’s next destination was to move up to a separate pile of pallets to get some high ground. He meant it when be said he needed to eliminate the snipers from the view. So, when he climbed up his own pallets further back from where Frank is, he took out his suppressed AR-15, flipped the safety off and looked down to where Joey was and gave a thumbs up. That was the signal and now, Frank waited for Joey’s signal to fire as he aimed through his scope. His big boost in height helped him see more than just his head, at least he could see the pegasus sniper’s upper torso to fire at. There were 50 meters between them, that’s kid’s play. He’d shoot himself if he misses this shot.

Joey wasn’t strong by any means, he didn’t consider it to be one of his strengths but, a dragon's emotions can drive them to unspeakable heights. when anger is mixed with a dragon, Joey’s strength, stamina and endurance is multiplied by 10, making dragons one of the strongest creatures alive. So as Joey kneeled down to the bottom of the pallet, his mind went to Rosette and instantly, his power took effect and with an inner growl and his mind full of fury. Slowly, the pallets started to tip; Joey giving all he’s got as his teeth tightened together, his grunts blocked out by the rain and his slowly growing nails digging into the plank, the white-masked men just chatting in there birth language with no idea of what is about to hit them. his eyes slit as eventually all the planks of wooden pallets slipped down, crashing with the fire and the Wops shouted in surprise. Time to enter the building.

As soon as Frank heard the collision between wood and fire, Frank pulled the trigger three times as he putt a bullet in the chest and 2 in the head, effectively penetrating the mask and killing him. Now, he prays that luck is on his side. Jumping from his tower, Frank hid once more behind and waited for the camera to face away from his position. When it turned, Frank ran for it as quickly and quietly as humanly possible. He opened the door but before he left, he stopped at the doorway and looked too see if they saw him. Luckily, they were too busy trying to get their comrades from under the pallets as the wood quickly caught fire. He could only thank Rosette for looking over him as he entered the building.

It was dark, Frank couldn’t see a thing when he had shut the door. He flicked on the touch on his rifle aimed all around the room. It looked to be a meeting room as a long table and chair mostly filled the small room. Cabinets of files and books lined the wall and there was a desk and a computer in the corner. The room was a mess, signs of struggle everywhere as chairs were kicked over, the table was slightly off from the centre of the room and file draws had tipped. Frank heard heavy breathing as he stepped deeper into the room. There, Frank’s eyes widened as he saw Joey sitting against the a door, breathing heavily and blood covering his mask and hoodie as he held his chest, grunting in pain. In front of Joey was a still Wop body, blood pooling underneath him as the blade was lodged in the mans throat.

When Joey opened the door, his heart dropped as right in front of him was another one of them white masked men with his hand on the handle and his eyes full of shock from behind the ballistic mask. Joey was the first to move, barging into him as he closed the door. The sudden attack brought the white masked man into focus as he raised his rifle but, the rifle was on safety mode. A strike of Joey’s fist made the Wop drop his weapon but, he didn’t fall. The Wop struck back with a counter punch to Joey's gut, making Joey spit saliva on his mask and gag for air as he felt his back make contact with something hard. Earth Equestrian, definitely an Earth Equestrian, Joey thought, falling on his hands and knees as he gasped for air. Joey looked up and rolled to his right as a boot nearly came in contact with Joey’s face, making a hole in the wall as his whole foot was stuck. Joey took that time to stand up, pulled around his shotgun from around his back and aimed as his whole body begged for air. Joey wanted to pull the trigger and end this little scrap but, his heart was conflicted. If he pulls the trigger now, everyone will know that they are here and he’d have to kill more than he would ever wanted or worse, he’d die. So, with a heavy heart, he lowered his shotgun and pulled out his knife, his heart racing, hoping that Frank would hurry. The Wop had finally got his foot out and noticed Joey just standing there with a knife in his hand and his legs wobbly. The Wop smiled under his mask at this, reaching for his own knife.

“coltello contro coltello, eh? morirai, maiale! (knife to knife, huh? you're going to die, pig!)” the Wop mocked, charging Joey as Joey stepped aside from the Wop’s flying kick, continuing his assault left to right slashes that Joey tried his best to avoid. Fortunately for Joey, the padded hoodie and shirt protected him from penetrating but, the unpredictable punches he would throw in would make Joey fly back and stumble. Joey was launched into a metal door, denting it as Joey’s nose bled from under his mask. He nearly dropped his knife but a sudden tight grip took hold. He wanted to fall as his face and body were in a world of hurt. He looked up slightly as he saw the White mask walking casually to Joey as he played with his knife.

“grande idiota, non avresti dovuto combattermi. ora muori per il nostro grande leader! (you big idiot, you shouldn't have fought me. now die for our great leader!)” the man shouted, ready to thrust deep within Joey’s chest. For joey, everything happened slowly. He could see the blade moving towards him but he never moved. He could see every detail of the person that is going to kill him. How… How did it get to this? Where did it go wrong? Why did he have to suffer the pain he went through like he did? He was in love, then everything started to go wrong from then on: his sister started to change, everyone had forgotten about him and his sadness, and now, he’s about to die. He was strangely calm however as he listened, he listened to a pleasing voice, making him numb to the world.

‘Spike~.’ It whispered heavenly, the smooth vocalist whispered gently in his ear, making his whole body relax and limp. The blade was 30 inches away from his gut.

‘Spike~.’ She said again, a bit louder and more anxiously. 10 inches away.

‘Spike~!’ she said more desperately, the voice was sounding too familiar now. 5 inches away.

‘SPIKE~!’ the panicked scream cried out and like that, Joey’s eyes flamed a light in a sickly green blaze and his heart was about to explode. It was Rosette's terror-stricken voice.

One inch away.

Joey didn’t know what he did exactly, his whole body moved by itself as the whole room went dark with a flick of his fingers and a gargling sound was heard. He was fine. His body hurt like a bitch but, he couldn’t feel anything stuck in his belly as he felt around his hoodie. What happened? Where had his blade gone? Is he dead? Was this darkness hell or heaven? No, this feels too real. He felt around the wall where his hand went and felt a switch pointing down. He flicked it and his eyes shrunk to pinpricks and suffocated in horror. He found his knife… up the throat by the hilt and into the skull of the Wop, gargling coming from him as his blight fill eyes stared back at Joey’s, trying to speak as he slowly stumbled backwards. Joey quickly flipped the light off in fright. He… He killed him… He’s going to die… He… He just killed another living being… His heart raced rapidly as he felt sick to his stomach, he didn’t know when he fell against the door or how long he sat there but, he felt broken inside as he listened to the final moment of the masked man he heard him collapsed; dead.

“Joey… Joey, are you okay?” Someone said in front of Joey, oddly sounding like a certain-masked killer. “Joey!” he shook his shoulder forcefully, making Joey raise his head.

“I killed someone, Frank… I killed someone.” Joey said guiltily, feeling all his strength leave his body.

“Yeah, I can see that but, are you hurt? Did you get stabbed?” he asked, unzipping his hoodie and searching for any slash marks.

“No… No, it’s just… Punches… Very hard punches. “ Joey wheezed out, his breath not completely back. Frank felt the plate of armour and cringed of the feeling of a dent. It wouldn’t surprise Frank if Spike had a few broken ribs with that punch.

“It’s okay, you're going to be fine. Can you stand?” asked Frank.

“Yeah, I can stand, just… Help me up.” Replied Joey, his handheld out for Frank to help him up. Frank complied and assisted Joey to his feet.

“Good man, you did well. Just take it easy.” Frank praised, patting his shoulder. With a flick of the light, the room was more visible. He looked back to the corpse and walked over, lifting the mask of the Wop. An Earth Equestrian. He killed an Earth Equestrian… Not bad. Not bad at all. Joey just watched with unblinking eyes as he started going through all the man's pockets like a scavenger; taking every dollar, joint and phone shamelessly. He watched as he pulled a picture out of the man's wallet; it was a family photo of him, his spouse and a little boy, all of them smiling like a happy family. But Frank… he pulled Joey’s blade out his neck and he Just crumpled the picture up and shoved it down the flooded throat of the corpse nonchalantly in the most disrespectful way possible.

“Why… Why did you do that?” Joey said, stunned by his lack of empathy.

“Let’s flip that question around, Joey. Why shouldn’t I? I don’t know this man or his family. That’s the mindset you must have when you are ready to kill, to take the gift of life from any man or woman that stands in your way. I did that for sport, Joey. To keep that mentality. The world is a dark place, soon you’ll realise this in time.” Frank said casually, all while he continues to search all his pockets. Sport… To keep that mentality… Who is this monster? Who did he just come here with? He’s mad. He’s insane. Who loots the dead and spits on their corpse like that? So this… This is Frank. A cold-hearted killer of Canterlot City who pretends to be a weak, frail human student of Canterlot High School. This person who - isn’t classified as an adult yet - is quite possibly the scariest person he knows. Joey didn’t know how to reply to such a cruel answer, Frank didn’t look like he wanted a response though as he dragged the dead body into a closet. So, Joey just kept quiet and focused on his breathing.

Closing the closet, Frank sighed deeply. “Now for the part that I really hate,” Frank said, his hands on his waist as he stared at the pool of blood on the carpet. “Cleaning... You could have strangled him to death, would have saved us some time to get in and out.” Frank said jovially, trying to raise the tension in the room. Really… Is he trying to make light of this situation…?

“Are you kidding? I just killed a man and now you scrutinise me for how I killed him... Do you have any idea how fucked up that is?” Joey said harshly, the anger getting the best of him.

“What… Too soon?” Frank asked, chuckling right after as he kneeled down, taking off his back and he pulled out a 200ml bottle water bottle with green liquid inside and a sponge. Wait, what? Is he actually going to clean this floor? In the middle of enemy territory? What the fuck is he actually doing!?!?

“You're fucked. What the fuck are you actually doing? What do you think their gonna do when they find you cleaning the blood of their friend? let you off and give a bit of change, invite you to the meeting and have a nice cup of fucking tea! Why are you cleaning the floor?” Joey raged through his teeth, his eyes green with power. Frank just smirked in amusement as he smudged the blood into the carpet with his sleeve. It’s been a while since anyone has talked to him like that, it was actually funny.

“What? Do you actually think I’m going to leave this room a mess considering this the way everyone comes in? Use your head, Joey.” Frank laughed, irritating Joey further. “Just make yourself useful and sort the room out.” He said too laxly, his jacket sleeve dripping with blood. Rubbing his sleeve on his chest, Frank nodded in satisfaction as he twisted off the bottle cap.

“Fucking unbelievable,” Joey muttered, looking away to the outside door as noises of shouting were still present from it, Joey walked around the room fixing the chairs and table. Frank heard him but chose to ignore him. He is angry, Frank knows this and he was glad he was angry. It was better than feeling that gut-wrenching feeling of the first kill, the trauma of the first kill weighs on ones soul but, when you keep killing, killing and killing, you feel nothing… Empty inside. Yet again, this is just coming from experience, Joey might just take this differently. He’s a warrior race after all.

Frank poured the liquid on the carpet and then, it immediately took effect as the floor sizzled and foamed over. Frank rubbed it in with the sponge forcefully, getting every red stain he could see. Once the sizzling stopped and the bubbled cloud evaporated, the blood was gone. Joey came back from sorting the room and his eyes widened in surprise as all the blood on the floor was gone, erased from existence.

“Huh? Wait… How did you get rid of the blood so quickly? It takes ages to get rid of the blood.” Joey blurted out, standing on the patch where the blood used to be. Frank wiggled the quarter-full bottle in front of Joey.

“Dragon Breath it’s called. As I said, you'll be surprised what you can find in the black market.” Frank said, putting the bottle and sponge back in his backpack. Putting the bag back on and standing back up, he looked around the room and saw the room was sorted. “Here Joey, don’t want to loose this now, do we?” Frank said handing over his blade. Then Frank saw a blade lodged into the door, he went over and pulled it out, inspecting the blade, them he glanced back at the door.

“Nothing we can do about that, let's just hope that they overlook that.” Frank said, opening the door slowly and entering with his rifle at the ready. Time to find where the meeting was held.

Frank knew he was in the working area as a whiff of cold air hit him, making the two teens turn away and close their eyes for a second. The inside lights were off, nothing but darkness, only illuminated by the moon from the open windows above and flashlights roaming in between rows and rows of pallet racking, big enough that it almost hits the roof. To Frank’s surprise, the pallet racking is filled with many, many containers on pallets. Aren’t all the meat meant to be shipped off in the last days of this company? Why are they still here? Not only that, some lockers that lined the wall were open and had some stuff inside: crumpled high-fizz jackets, working gloves, money*yoink*, keys, water bottles and so on. Why wouldn’t the employees take their stuff? Also, forklifts and other support vehicles were neatly lined up and hooked to a battery. Frank didn’t get it, was this warehouse run down or not? He heard that it had been closed down because of an undergoing investigation and some of the human employees was arrested for tampering with the meat, poisoning the product and killing 9 equestrians from the act. The Meaty&fest made a bad reputation after defending the humans, believing it to be someone else. After that, the backlash was huge; no one wanted to buy meat from there, the income was extremely low and everyone was quitting. The owners had no choice but to close down the whole company and live in misery in the debt. So why is this warehouse so full? Some things just don't add up.

He was snapped out of his thoughts as echoes of footprints and a ray of light was coming to his side, quickly Frank and Joey tightly hid behind one of the forklifts that were parked next to the office. A patrol of two walked passed them, talking quietly to one another.

“Sono stanco, Mikey. Il comandante Airborn mi ha fatto spedire armi e munizioni al quartier generale dei Coyotes, quel tizio Frank ha dato la caccia a quei delinquenti come conigli.” One of them murmured tiredly, yawning right after.

“la spedizione da qui o dall'altro nascondiglio? Immagino qui visto che sei già qui. quel Frank... ho sentito cose brutte su di lui. Ho sentito che ha squarciato qualcuno al rovescio. il poveretto ha provato a rimettere tutto dentro.” The other replied, looking over to Frank’s and Joey’s spot as the light passed over the forklift. The light left a few seconds later.

“yikes... mi dispiacerebbe affrontarlo, fratellino. Voglio che tu scappi quando vedi la sua maschera.” The first Wop ordered as they walked passed Frank and Joey.

“non devi dirmelo due votle.” The other Wop responded, the two turning done the avenue of racks.

“What did they say?” Frank asked, moving out of the hiding spot. Joey didn’t respond, he was reluctant to talk to Frank after what he had done. He won’t speak to this asshole, not to someone so demented as him. Frank turned to was Joey was behind him. “The silent treatment… Really? What are you – fucking 5?” Frank barked quietly, getting in Joey’s face. No response.

“You better clean up your act, Joey. You can mope and sulk all you want after this. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you now, you got that!” Frank snarled, standing Joey up as he squared up. However, Joey stared back with an equal ferocity which Frank was surprised about. Frank thought it would be easy to control Spike, he was just a kid – a weak, innocent kid who was mentally vulnerable and scared shitless. But… To kill a man, Spike exceeded Frank’s expectations but… To stand off with Frank; the fucking audacity of this kid. He didn’t know if it was just in the heat of the moment or if it was the beast within him but, he better stop acting like a brat or he is going to get Frank and himself killed. Frank grabbed him by his collar with such quickness it made Joey jump.

“These people don’t care about us, he tried to fucking kill you, Joey.” Frank said darkly.

“He didn’t kill, Rosette. I shouldn’t have killed him, I should have just injured him. But, you have no right to disrespect his corpse like that.”

“He is linked to the bastard though, the fucking lot of them are, and you think I should show respect. Do I look like a dickhead or what?” Frank said quickly, pushing Joey back against the wall, making Joey loose his confidence.

“B-but… He had a family.”

“And I had a fucking little sister.” Frank spat within his mask, his hands trembling with uncontrollable turmoil that it shook within his very core. It took him everything he had to not stab him 3 times in his stomach and stick it into the side of his skull. “I don’t think you understand, Joey… Everyone I kill, I hate with every cell in my body. The hate I have for them is the only reason I haven’t put a bullet in my fucking brain. Hate is the only thing that is driving me. If I want to kill 100 men and women, I will, if I want to stab a man 100 times, I will. If any gang, organisation or government stands in my way to find that one man, I’ll fucking have his head and his families sent to the leader as a warning to not cross my path. So Joey, are you with me or not?” Frank said with low rage in his tone, making Joey tremble in apprehension, the rage he just felt, raw fury that no dragon could ever hope to match. Joey could see his eyes, they were blood red like a vessel had just popped in his eye. It was like a higher being was holding him, a vengeful God who shows no mercy to no one. Suddenly, a dragon felt very insignificant compared to this human. Joey didn’t dare tempt fate and speak again.

They stayed like that for hours but in actuality, it was seconds. Eventually, Frank’s heavy breathing lowered and his pulse going back to normal. Slowly, he unclasped his grip and let go. Frank backed off a step with his head down and looked at his hands.

“Sorry… I… I have a lot of anger inside me… I— come on, let’s just go.” Frank muttered, the beast inside him slowly crawling back to the bottom of his dark mind. Frank turned, and started to walk away. He didn’t check if Joey followed, he didn’t care at that moment. He was sick and tired of caring. If he followed: good. If he didn’t: Frank didn’t care.

Joey took a moment to breathe freely, his mind racing and sporadically. So much anger, so much chaos in one kid. How does he contain it? How hasn’t he gone insane? Is this how he releases it? Killing people? Taking lives to cure his rage and might? That’s wrong, that’s dead, dead wrong but, all this… All this carnage and death for one man. A man who did unspeakable things to an innocent, bright girl. All this… Because of his little sister, all this… For his beloved. Joey hated it, it was wrong but, he too felt anger, he too wanted revenge. But was he willing to kill for that? To take another life? To not care he took another life? It is wrong and Joey didn’t want to but, he’ll try. He’ll try for Rosette. So with that, with his knife in hand, he followed.

Stop and go, stop and go; that was the pattern Frank had when he would bump into patrols in between these narrow racks. The loud voice of the girl echoed around the warehouse. she spoke in Dalian, the inaudible voice gibberish and roughly coming from the centre of the building. Frank didn’t stay long in the lanes, he took to climbing the racks until he was 4 racks high where very few crates rested, manoeuvring passed crates there were in his way and jumping from rack to rack between each avenue. As expected, snipers were posted and Frank took them out without a sound. He claimed a sniper; a SIR40-24 Italian model, it’s popular with these Wops. He saw a glowing light flicker at the bottom rack over, where the girl’s voice was coming from. That was it, the meeting area. The next rack over will be where he will wait. Jumping over with practised ease, Frank looked down to see what looked like The Last Supper.

Candles stood firm in their golden glory, one on both ends of the table and one in the middle. A tablecloth was laid neatly on top of the 70-meter-long table but only 4 chairs were present. Plates of food covering the table fit enough for royalty to eat, well-displayed dishes were garnered with spices and seasoning, and the sauce was just the tip of the iceberg, Spike would have a field day just at the sight of this. Plates, forks and knives were in front of their respective chairs, and a bottle of champagne with a glass at each corner of the plate, all ready to be used. A TV stood at the end of the table oddly enough, the wires snaking away to some other location. Frank kneeled as he stayed still, hiding behind a box as he waited.

“Psst.” A faint voice said from behind, making Frank arch his back and swiftly pull out his pistol and aim at the sudden sound. There he saw Joey crouching with his hand’s up. Frank sighed and lowered his pistol, holstering it.

“Took you long enough,” Frank whispered, standing on the edge of the rack and holding a hand out. Joey nodded and jumped over, grabbing Franks's outreached hand, Frank pulling him on safely.

“Almost lost you for a second, good thing I didn’t,” Joey replied quietly, sighing in relief as he made it to the other side.

“Tell me about it, I started to miss ye.” Frank sniggered.

“Miss me? Stop it, your gonna make me blush.” Joey said as playfully. Frank chuckled.

“Here, I got you a gift.” Frank whispered, passing over the sniper. “Use it to get a closer look, I’ve got my camera.” Frank murmured, taking his device in his hand and took a seat while Joey looked down the scope beside Frank, his finger feeling the cold trigger, a guilty pleasure of his.

It didn’t take long for Joey to start drooling as he had a closer look at the dishes, he wouldn’t shut up about the smoking steak that is getting cold with every second that passed. The tension was awkward, Frank and Joey didn’t look, speak to each other, not addressing the elephant in the room as they aimlessly watched as the business girl ate greedily as her plate was full of salad and steak. Joey felt the odd one out in this room of killers, ready to kill at any moment but, Joey… He still had doubts about killing, the action was alien and foolish in his eyes. He shook his head, the same stressful melody playing on a loop. He needed to focus, he let his thoughts invade when he is safe and sound, maybe he could get answers for himself from Frank.

Frank had his camera on the little mafia girl, as she took for from each tray, one of her goons pouring champagne in her glass. He wondered why how a little girl could run something big like a gang of gangsters. Respect and power come a long way in the world of the mafia, he guessed that The Boss didn't have much trouble getting his daughter in high places but, to be a boss of a bunch of criminals, that’s like sending a little girl to war. Yet, she was as happy as a fiddle as she ate greedily and drank with a satisfying sigh.

Taking a few more pictures of the little girl, obstructed by his bodyguards that loomed over both her shoulders, Frank noticed that Joey wasn’t looking through the scope of the sniper as he sat back against one of the containers, stroking the side of the long-ranged weapon like it was a living being, sighing softly. Frank was going to say something but, a slam of a door in the other side of the vicinity stopped him. Joey also looked up from his weapon and swivelled his head to the sound of a voice that sounded peeved and on edge.

“Fucking unreal! Lethargic and irresponsible the lot of them. Father lacks proper soldiers.” An Italie-accented man said, his footsteps getting closer with each insulting bark. It sounded familiar to Frank and even Joey’s eyes widened with familiarity. That strong vocal presence that demanded authority, the slow walk that established his no hurrying nature, the untouchable teen from Canterlot High. Dosh. Frank was not surprised by this, he practically knew about Dosh’s involvement in The Order, it was blatant by his Italie heritage and the way he carried himself but, he just didn’t know what part he was involved in. So, as Frank looked across and down to the escort, Frank growled as he saw two thugs by his side, thugs that could only be from the Coyotes. Frank quickly snapped some photos of Dosh in his white tailored suit, getting a few good angles of his face.

Joey looked through the scope once again and had his crosshairs on the new arrival's head, frowning in contempt as his finger twitched. Joey wasn’t that shocked to see the weasel. He would be more shocked if he wasn't here. But why? Why is he here and who is with him?

“Little sister! How are you?” Dosh said crisply, sounding delighted to see his sister. Hearing him, the little girl stirred with grub in her mouth. She smiled and swallowed her food.

“Fratello! è bello rivederti, ma dovresti parlare in Dalian durante la riunione. è maleducato.” The girl waved, getting up and meeting him halfway. Dosh chuckled as he wiped the crumbs from around her cheeky mouth.

“certo, le mie scuse, sorella. non è ancora arrivato nessun altro?” Dosh asked looking around the wide-open area, looking up and seeing guards hidden very well in the outer darkness. Dosh peeked to where Frank and Joey were but, they had taken cover before being seen.

“no, solo io, il mio braccio destro e tre dei miei uomini migliori.” The girl said, gesturing to her guards as they stood vigilant, one of them smoking freely as he glanced around.

“Can you translate this?” Frank whispered through the earpiece.

“Nothing too secretive, she just told Dosh to speak Dalian from now on. She also said that she was the first one here.” Joey replied back through his earpiece.

“Okay, let me know when something interesting pops up.” Frank ordered.

“Speaking of something interesting, the two guards before were talking about shipping weapons to the Coyotes or whatever that means, ordered by someone called Commander Airborn.” Joey elaborated, making Frank turn slightly to Joey.

“Good to know.”

The little girl and Dosh spoke to each other pleasantly, conversing as they ate and drank. The three party’s security wandered around the table, looking at one another like competition, cracking their knuckles and looking them up and down like easy prey. Joey pointed out a few things that were said. Joey confirmed that the little girl was running the Mafia in a hotel but, she didn’t say which one. Her name was never said, all Dosh called her was sister. Dosh on the other hand spoke about his business. Selling women and children for money, weapons and ammunition for the growth of his little gang. With the shipment on its way to the Coyotes, however, things will only get hard for Frank.

“Salve, fratello e sorella.” A soft, heavenly voice said, interrupting the sibling's conversation and the masked boys scanned around the room for that voice. Where did it come from? They didn’t hear a thing, no footsteps, no voices, nothing. Frank almost thought it was just in his mind for a second but, that was quickly ruled out as the siblings looked around too with a smile like this was some game of theirs.

“vieni fuori, sorella. non c'è tempo per i giochi.” The not-impressed Dosh said aloud. It happened instantly, all it took was a blink and just like that, a woman in a white robe and cape draped over her body and head with a horn sticking out the top appeared out of thin air. Her body was magnificent, with her chest being around a d-cup and her mesmerising curved body did wonders for her rump. She was like an angel hidden in robes. The only thing that ruined her look of prosperity and religion was the black necklace with The Order’s Cross that she wore freely. She stood over Dosh's shoulder with calm stillness, carrying a lit profane censer in her right hand. One of the thugs fell back as the other held a gun at the back of her head with a shaky hand as the sudden appearance took them by shock. Dosh just sighed and raised his hand for the guard to lower his weapon. He felt the warmth of the profane censer and looked up to see her shadowed features.

“tipo, sorella. siediti.” Dosh said, gesturing to the seat on his right. The robed woman with all her grace bowed, her limb green horn lighting up and the seat pulled itself back as she sat on, resting the profane censer in the table, tidily eating with a knife and fork.

Frank didn’t know what to think about this spiritual woman. She looked, spoke like a friendly individual but, that couldn’t be the case as why else would she be here? Why is she in the same room with the Mafia leader and a trafficker? It’s like they brought a random, nice unicorn from the streets, put her in some robes and brought her here. She was so out of place that it made the little girl look entitled to be in charge of the Italia Mafia. What did she do exactly? What was her place in The Order? What was her grand scheme?

“This is insane, who are these people? Why are they here?” Joey murmured to himself, shivering as the cold was slowly taking hold.

“These are The Order’s Children, the sons and daughters of The Father of The Order. The most dangerous people in Canterlot.” Frank explained, taking a few pictures of the new guest. “These people are not ones that you want to fuck with, even Dosh has the power to take over a small region of Canterlot.”

“How’s that? How big is his gang?” Joey asked.

“Not big, The Coyotes are the smallest group out of all of them but, Dosh has connections with people in high places to make them dangerous enough. It wouldn’t surprise me if he was linked with the mayor of Canterlot and people in the law enforcement agencies.” Frank snarled.

“Cheap bastard.” Joey remarked with a growl, he couldn’t stand the smug grin he wore at the table. If there was one person he would love to beat into a pulp, he would be up there in his books. He aimed at Dosh and imagined pulling the trigger. Would his head explode or would there just be a bloody hole? his finger ached as his finger rested on the trigger.

More footsteps came - multiple in fact from far end if the racks where the light of the moon didn’t reach. The conversation stopped among the siblings and looked to the direction.

Out of the shadows came 4 figures, 1 of them being a woman by the height difference and her chest. Just like The Wops, they were head-to-toe in all black and nothing but black which includes their ballistic masks. They didn't wear hoodies or any jackets, their full upper body armour was visible and they wore ski masks, covering any glimpse of showing anything that they could be identified by. Each one carried different classes of weapons from a Barrett M82 sniper which a pegasus held, a M249 SAW LMG that the bulkiest earthbound equestrian held and a unicorn didn’t hold anything but, he recognised him all too well, the multiple knives on his belt and a pistol. The female held an AK-12 assault rifle. They were all equipped with side arms, tactical and lethal explosives.

Frank shied away slightly back into the shadows, waving away Joey’s sniper just in case. Being here was a risk on its own, now it just got 10 times worse. Frank had encountered one of them before and to his great shame and pride, he was outclassed in every way when they fought. They were quicker, and stronger with everything they did. They would toy with Frank in hand-to-hand combat. That night he barely got away with his life. If he had his way, he would be more than happy to never face them again. They made him look fragile in comparison.

No one spoke in their presence as they walked around the table, the cold footsteps chilling as Joey shivered as he got goosebumps. Frank was afraid to take a picture, he didn’t know if they would hear the click of the camera which was ridiculous but, paranoia got the best of him. 2 soldiers stood at attention on each side of the TV; their feet apart to we’re their shoulders, their chests pumped out and their hands behind their backs, standing still as their cold-blooded eyes gazed forward, unblinkingly. Robotically, the pegasus switched on the television and stood back at attention.

The screen flickered alive, revealing a man in a black windbreaker jacket, the hood masking his face as he sat at an end of a table, the only light in the room coming from above.

“Papà!” the girl exclaimed with a gleeful smile.

“è bello vederti, mio piccolo Diamante.” A gruff voice said from the TV making the smile of the girl grow wider. “è con grande delusione che non posso parlare con voi tutti di persona o anche ora, questo è pre-registrato solo per questo incontro.” Their father said, a frown now appearing on all their faces. Dosh just tutted as he crossed his arms.

“I’ll need you to translate all this conversation to me now.” Frank said carefully, keeping his eyes on the black soldiers.

“He said that this pre-recorded for them.” Joey replied, trying his best to hear the screen as it was static at times.

“Vorrei poter parlare con tutti voi e chiedere tutti i vostri successi in questi tempi lontani ma, per il futuro dell'Ordine, devo essere assente per ogni negoziazione importante con alleati stranieri all'estero. Spero che possiate capire e accettare le mie scuse, figli. (I wish I could talk to you all and ask for all your ____ in these distant times but, for the future of ___ _____, I must be away for a very important negotiation with _____ allies _____. I hope you all can understand and accept my apologies, children.)” the father of 4 said sombrely, making the girl tearily eyed and the robed women looked down with sadness. The TV paused to let the siblings speak their minds.

“tipico padre! (Typical father!)” Dosh snapped, standing up with the champagne in his hand and downing it in one go. “tirando sempre questo tipo di merda. (Always pulling this type of shit.)”

“Andiamo, fratello. So che è una fottuta stronzata, ma papà sta lavorando sodo per il futuro dell'Ordine. (Come on, brother. I know its fucking __shit but, Papa is working hard for the future of The _____.)” cried the little girl to her big brother.

“la sorellina ha ragione, fratello. per favore non sfogare la tua rabbia su di lui. sta facendo del suo meglio. (little sister is right, brother. please don't take your ___ out on him. he's trying his best.)” the robed woman said with serenity. Dosh huffed once more, sitting once more as he sulked. The screen started once more.

“Mio figlio maggiore non ce la farà oggi perché c'erano... complicazioni al nord. L'ho contattato e mi ha assicurato che tutto fosse sotto controllo. (My ___ son will not be making it today as there were... ____ in the north. I have reached out to him and he has ensured me that everything is ____ _____.)” The Boss spoke reassuringly, no one seemed to be bothered by that fact, however, instead, they sighed in relief. “prima di tutto, il mio figlio più piccolo. Ho ricevuto le vostre lettere ei rapporti sui progressi della mafia italiana. Sono molto impressionato e ha superato le mie aspettative. orgoglioso non inizia a descrivere cosa provo per te, mio piccolo diamante. come ricompensa, ti regalo il Trilogy Hotel. Mi dimetterò dalla carica di proprietario poiché il mio tempo sarà occupato da affari e clienti. Attendo con impazienza l'evoluzione che porterai all'azienda. (first of all, my ____ child. I have received your letters and reports on the Italia Mafia's _____. Im very impressed and you have exceeded my expectations. proud doesn't begin to describe how I feel about you, my little diamond. as a reward, I gift you the ____ Hotel. I'll be stepping down as the owner as my time has being taken up with deals and ___. I look forward to the _____ you bring to the business.)” the hooded man said fatherly, making the little girl beam and squeal with giddiness. The robed woman clapped with joy at her good news.

“molto ben fatto, sorella. stai rendendo orgoglioso il nostro nome di famiglia. (very well done, sister. you are doing our family name proud.)” the woman said proudly.

“sì, molto ben fatto, sorella. (aye, very well done, sister.)” Dosh half-heartedly clapped, making the girl stand and bow sillily.

“mio figlio più giovane, voci e pettegolezzi mi hanno portato a credere che tu stia lavorando duramente con una figura misteriosa che ha molti nomi. Figlio mio, ho già parlato di questo personaggio e di fuggire quando lo incontri. Sono stato informato che l'avevi incontrato ieri sera e dovevo semplicemente agire. quindi, ti do armi, munizioni, armature per combattere quest'uomo e ti do i miei uomini migliori a cui affido la mia vita. questi quattro soldati sono... L'Italia Shadow Force; L'ISF in breve. questi soldati altamente addestrati rintracceranno, troveranno e uccideranno questo Frank. Non interromperà più i tuoi affari. (my ____ son, rumours and ____ has led me to believe that you are ____ with a ______ figure that has many names. My son, I have spoken about this _____ before and to ___ when you meet him. I was ____ that you had encountered him last night and I simply had to take action. so, I give you weapons, ____, armour to fight this man and I give you my best men that I trust with my life. these four soldiers are... The Italie Shadow Force; The ISF for short. these highly trained soldiers will track, find and kill this Frank. He will not interrupt your _____ any longer.)” The Boss informed with seriousness, a menacing grin growing at the news.

“è giunto il momento, i ragazzi di Balton saranno molto entusiasti del grande aggiornamento. (it's about time, the boys in Balton will be very _____ with the big ____.)” Dosh cheered, his guards looking at one another in confusion, oblivious to their language. Balton? Frank will remember that.

“Sìì! è ora di portare fuori la spazzatura! (yay! time to take out the trash!)” the girl perked up, fist-bumping the air in a victory cry.

“in effetti, credo che l'assassino che ha terrorizzato i tuoi affari sarà messo a tacere con l'ISF dandogli la caccia. (indeed, I believe the killer that has ______ your _____ will be put at a _____ with the ISF hunting him.)” the woman supported with a comforting nod.

“anche quei fastidiosi Bulldog e i Coyote non avranno scelta di unirsi come uno, quindi sarai inarrestabile. (even them ____ Bulldogs and the Coyotes will have no choice but to ____ as one, then you will be _____.)” the little girl cheered. The Bulldogs? What do they have to do with anything? Frank knew that the Bulldogs have been butting heads with The Order and The Coyotes but, there must be something more between them.

“mia figlia maggiore, credo che il tuo impero stia crescendo in modo significativo. la mia ipotesi è che la tossina che ti ho regalato abbia funzionato con effetto immediato. Sono contento che la tua religione stia crescendo e spero di vedere il mondo pregare la tua dea, mia cara. (my ____ daughter, I believe your _____ is growing ______. my guess is that the ____ that I have gifted you has worked with _____ effect. I'm pleased that your _____ is growing and hope to see the world pray to your _____, my dear.)” their father said wishfully, his hands coming together into a pray. The robed woman smiled as her hands came together too.

“per ora figli, fate crescere forti i vostri eserciti, diventate forti voi stessi. Io e i miei uomini ci stiamo avvicinando ai Manufatti dell'Olimpo. è solo questione di tempo prima che conquistiamo questo pianeta in nome del nostro signore e salvatore. presto verrà il momento. Ti ho dato tutti gli strumenti di cui hai bisogno per conquistare, il tempo deve essere perfetto. rendete orgoglioso il nome della famiglia Rich, figli miei. (for now children, grow your armies strong, grow strong yourself. Me and my men are getting closer to the Artefacts Of ____. it's only a matter of time before we take over this planet in the name of our lord and saviour. soon, the time will come. I have given you all the tools you need to _____, the time needs to be perfect. make the rich family name proud, my children.)” was the last words he spoke before the TV froze and was switched off by the pegasus. Manufatti dell'Olimpo? Frank has definitely heard that somewhere, he overheard it in history class, it’s a sort of myth or tale that Frank hadn't paid any interest in but now, it looks like he'll need to study more when he gets back to school.

“Mi manca già papà! (I miss papa already!)” the little girl whined, slumping over the table.

“non preoccuparti, cara sorella. ci rivedremo di persona, ne sono certo. (don't worry, dear sister. we will meet once again in person, I'm sure of it.)” the elder sister reassured, finishing her meal and nimbly drinking from her glass.

“scusate ragazze, non ho tempo per perdere tempo. Sono felice che mio padre mi abbia fornito, ma i miei fratelli sono inutili e pigri senza di me lì. Devo anche trovare un accordo, gli affari vengono prima di tutto. (sorry girls, I have no time to dilly-dally. I'm happy my father has supplied me but, my bredren is useless and lazy without me there. I also have to see out a deal, ____ comes first and foremost.)” Dosh muttered, standing up and walking around the table to hug them goodbye.

“ciao, fratellone. Non dimenticare, ti sono debitore per esserti preso cura di questo... (bye, big brother. Don't forget, I owe you for taking care of that...)”

“Miei padroni, è stato trovato un cadavere nell'armadio. Qualcuno si è intrufolato!” a Wop exclaimed, coming from down the shadows of racks. Dosh’s face went pale at the sudden news, his breath stuck in his throat as only one man came to mind.

“merda.” Dosh said, haunted by the flash of images of the one that he fears the most. Everyone weapons were out and ready as the guards escorted their leader out. The ISF nodded to one another wordlessly and they went their different way, the Pegasus taking flight as he hovered over Dosh.

“What did he say?” Frank asked, quickly looking to Joey. Joey didn’t answer at first, Frank could see the wide eyes of Joey.

“They found the body.” Joey finally uttered out.

“Shit. Time to go.” Frank quickly said. “Don’t let the ISF catch you, if you're caught, your dead.” Frank said, standing up and started to run and jump to rack to rack with Joey following. Suddenly, shots were fired as Joey jumped to the next rack over, barely missing him. Hearing this, Frank looked passed the crate down as be spotted the earthling ISF soldier, holding up his LMG as he let rounds fly.

“Fuck!” Frank cursed, taking cover as bullets ripped through the crates above. “Joey, run to the loading dock truck bay and leave. I’ll try and distract them as long as possible, run and don’t look back.” Frank shouted over the echoing gunfire, pointing in the opposite direction. Joey nodded rapidly, breathing heavily under the crossfire. He felt the bullets wush passed, he almost got shot. Joey got up to run down to where Frank pointed but was immediately stopped by a hand. “Joey, don’t be afraid to kill. It’s rather you or them.” Frank said seriously as Joey’s heart raced. Joey nodded again and he fled, running down the rack and onto the next one in the opposite direction. Frank huffed as he watch Joey leave, ignoring the bullets ripping through chucks of wood, his eyes never left Joey until he disappeared from behind a crate in the distance.

“It’s time to dance.” Frank muttered, swinging his AR-15 around and breathed calmly. If he was going to fight at least one of them; his mind had to be clear, his anger diminished and on his game, mistakes are not acceptable at this very moment. The firing stopped as Frank heard a few clicks. Frank came from behind his cover and took aim as the bulky, Black soldier ran for cover. He shot a few rounds but all of the ultimately missed as he had already reach cover before Frank could get a clear shot. As the man reloaded, he took the chance to relocate and hopped down to the next level down of the rack as he did this repeatedly until he reached the floor.

Another rounds of gun fire came from down the lane, three Wops missing their shots as Frank reacted quickly and took cover behind a parked forklift down the side of the racks lane. Frank unattached the flash bang, triggering it and blindly tossing it from behind cover. A loud bang later and a few shouts of pain, Frank quickly came out of cover and took out the blindly shooting men with precise marksmanship. Frank cut through the racks of containers, always finding small gaps to fit through. He needed to get out before another one of the ISF soldiers show up, he was lucky the last was trigger-hungry enough for him to reload his monster. He couldn’t afford to be in that line of sight again.

A trip saved Frank’s life as a 50 BMG bullet flew where his head was meant to be, crashing and making a massive hole in the floor. Frank turned to his side as the Pegasus took the high ground of the racks with his sniper, cocking it for use. Frank let a spray of bullets fly up to the sniper as he advanced away, making him take cover.

A bullet smacked into the back of Frank's shoulder, sending him sprawling forward from the impact. Another bullet struck home in Frank’s arm as he turned to face the black armour woman, raising her rifle at shoulder height. Another bullet hit his chest, making him huff as he ran into the next lane, holding the trigger down as he aimed his rifle sideways with one hand hastily. This is bad, they keep coming from every direction. He can’t take any more hits like that, he needs to break their line of sight.

Pulling out two smoke grenades from his belt, he pulled the pin from both of them and dropped them where he stood, disappearing into the smoke as shots flew in haphazardly, hoping for a killing shot. Only the sniper waited outside the clouded area, patiently lingering for the cloud to clear. The earthling came back from reloading and the woman slowly advanced into the smoke, the two communicating through their own earpieces. the silent fog carrying a heaviness as she swivelled around, feeling something that wasn’t there, listening for any sort of sound other than the shouting Italies giving out orders.

The woman heard something heavy drop behind and instinctively swung the butt of the gun to hit the air, Frank ducked under the swing and swept a leg, making her sprawl back. Taking advantage of her one-second vulnerable state, Frank pounced at her legs as he got into a knee bar hold, taking full control of her singular leg as with a twist and a pull, Frank tore the ligaments in her knee and ankle. She gave a blood-curdling scream as she rived in pain, Frank was going to snap her knee joint but, heavy footsteps started getting louder. Frank slithered away into the mist, awaiting his next prey.

The chiselled man dropped to one knee as he looked down at his bredren as she held her knee, groaning in agony. He said something in Dalian to her panickily, her name maybe? It didn’t matter however as Frank circled around his back with his knife in hand, he was happy that the rough plan worked, taking one down as bait and letting them come one by one to save her. Frank went to strike for the kill but, the woman seeing this reached for her handgun and shot multiple times as one of the bullets struck the knife out of his hands, the others missing around it. Frank’s eyes widened as The hulk of the man boomed in anger, reacting quickly for his size and swung the back of his fist to the side of Frank’s body which Frank got his arm in the way off. Oh fuck, was Frank’s last thought as he blocked the blow but, he went flying into multiple crates as he crashed through them all with force.

Frank didn’t know how long he sat there in a dented crate, his mind rattled and hazy as his right arm felt numb. He wasn’t surprised, his forearm was fucked up badly but, it didn’t hurt either, so that helped he guessed. A flapping sound was heard and with all his power, Frank rolled forward as the crate exploded into chunks as a bullet whizzed passed him yet again.

Grabbing his pistol and letting his rifle hang, he fired to the inflight pegasus who weaved down to dodge. Disoriented, Frank just limped as fast as he could, firing backwards as he went in and out of racks with no idea where he’s going, his sense rattled by the thunderous blow. Seeing doors from across the workplace, he ran with all he had, another bullet flying by. He barged through the double doors, barely dodging another bullet from the sniper as it struck the Wop’s shoulder who was about to open the door on the other side, leaving a bloody hole where the shoulder joint used to be. The female voice screamed in agony until Frank pressed the trigger from under her chin, making her go limp.

Rolling off her body as another bullet struck the corpse's belly, he found himself in the cafeteria. Circle tables with six stools around them attached, trays of scraps of food and rubbish left on the tables. Looking around more, Frank noticed a manual fire alarm at the side of the door. Smashing the glass, he pulled down the leather, making the alarms go off with a red light going off and on around the whole building, the ceiling Sprinklers rain down, trying to put out the none existent fire. He hoped that it would distort them enough for him with the loud noise and make the reaction lax with the wetness.

Frank ran to the cafeteria’s counter, intending to take cover. He felt something dig within his left, back shoulder as he jumped and slid over the counter top. Frank didn’t have time to check if he got shot as a black figure followed him with a tactical knife in his hand. Frank threw himself back as the black-suited unicorn threw his knife mid-slide over the countertop. Frank immediately stood on guard with only one arm raised, holding his M9 by the barrel to defend himself, shooting at him was pointless, he was too fast and unpredictable, he would know. the knifed soldier brandished two more knives from his sash, not letting his opponent rest one second.

The ISF soldier was merciless just like Frank remembered; effortlessly getting in close to Frank, striking at pressure points and evading every attack with flexibility. The blinking of the red light from above and the loud alarm was helping however, missing the joints and only giving Frank minor flesh wounds on his arm and legs thanks to the padding around the areas, he could take that. If Frank kept his focus, maybe he could get out of this or better, kill him.

The pistol grip was marked with scratches from each block that Frank successfully made, waiting for the right moment to through his attack to hopefully stun him to get an edge over him. Then it came.

Red.

Frank was thai kicked at the kitchen island, making space between the two.

Black.

Instantly when the room went black for that one second, Frank tossed the pistol up and caught it by the grip and pointed to where his nightmare stood last time.

Red.

As soon as the crimson light flashed, he was gone… Completely vanished within a second or even less. he felt dread build up as he felt someone's breath tickle his ear.

Black.

Within that second, Frank thought he had died as the room vanished. He should be dead, the unicorn was in his blind spot with nothing to defend himself except his skin and bones if he stabbed in the right place. He could have killed him ten times over within that second. He felt his face turn forcefully, shifting the mask slightly as he stumbled and hit something waist height.

Red.

His back hit the kitchen top as he was hoisted up the waist of his pants and was dragged across the table, hitting every knife, glass and even snapping the tap off the sink. The unicorn was just toying with him now.

Black.

Frank was pushed off the side on his stomach, Scrabbling his way up, as he fired randomly behind him.

Red.

Gone again. If he wasn’t in front of him, he must be… Frank ducked and looked over his shoulder as a knife flew over his head, sticking to the far end of the room.

Black.

Fuck this, Frank thought as he jumped back on his arse, holstering his pistol, grabbing the grip of his rifle and holding down the trigger blindly in the dark.

Red.

All the bullets… Every bullet that was in the magazine was fired in the direction of the unicorn and was caught in a dark blue aura, his horn glowing as he stood there, unflinching and with no emotion in his eyes.

Black.

He heard the bullets drop metallically and footsteps walk forward. “You lose, Frank.” The strongly accented voice said plainly, breathing easily as if he hadn’t just been in a death fight.

Red.

“Any last words?” he asked tediously, the unicorn’s horn alight as all his knives and the kitchen knives pointed at Frank from every direction as he stood over Frank with dead eyes.

Black.

Frank just breathed heavily as leaned up from the floor, dropping his weapon. All the wounds that were inflicted on him started to take effect. His body sagged and trembled as his arm muscles started to give out from holding himself up. He let himself fall flat on the floor, using the rest of his strength just on breathing and thinking.

Red.

There was only one thing he could think of doing in his final moments. He raised his two fingers and pressed against his ear. “Joey… Can you hear me?” Frank wheezed, coughing violently as his breathing was forced.

“Frank! Are you okay? Where are-

“I’m going to die.” Frank interrupted, making Joey sputter.

Black.

“What…? Wait, Frank what are you-

“These are my final words… Find… And kill the bastard that killed Rosette. Look after my friends… Visit Rosette’s grave for me… tell her that I’m sorry… Tell her I’m going to hell for all I’ve done…” Frank muttered, feeling his fingers shake as he struggled to keep them there.

Red.

“Good luck, Joey… Good luck.” Frank said finally, pulling off his earpiece and smashing it against the floor. Can’t be too careful.

“Rosette, eh?” the unicorn said, making Frank hold the air of his little sister’s name being said. “You know, Rosette?” the black-masked unicorn muttered, hunkering down, playing with the knife in his hand.

Black.

“Yes… That’s why I’m here. To find out who killed her. By any chance would you know who killed her? Might as well tell me now… I’m a dead man talking, you see.” Frank chuckled stupidly, defeat in his tone has he let his head hang.

“L'hanno fatto l'azzurro e il mio maestro della scuola di Canterlot. I watched as they did it. I was ordered to stand guard as two boys had their way with her… Don’t worry, they didn’t last long. Then… I was ordered to kill her unfortunately, they didn’t want blood on their hands so they made me do it. a quick slice of the neck and my job was done… Wasn’t my proudest moment but, a soldier does what a soldier is told.” He said nonchalantly, sighing mockingly.

Red… Red is all Frank saw and all he could see as he listened to what the man emitted from his gob. Have you ever felt boiling rage so hot that your heart rate is jacked… Completely through the roof but… Your hand is steady. Never, never has his hand been so steady in his life of being a human being. Have you ever felt so livid that in your sanity crumbles to dust but, your body is so still that he could pass as a corpse? Never has he sat so still, never. Never has he felt this antagonistic fury he had for someone, never. Kill… slaughter… Murder… He wanted to kill… He wanted to kill him… he wanted him to suffer the same pain he felt… He wanted to find his family and torture his mother, father and siblings in front of him as he begged for their mercy. Never has he ever wanted to kill a man more than the man right in front of him. Have you ever felt your mind break? That just happened as Frank slowly raised his head and glared into the eyes of the man who he has been looking for this whole time and chortled, the chortle turning into full-blown laughter all while he glared with no sanity felt in his eyes. The unicorn was now facing the most dangerous creature alive. No holding back, all his anger was remoulded into madness.

“You… You killed my little sister… you… You idiot… You shouldn’t have told me that, you bastard. Coz now, I’m going to kill you… I’m going to kill you all. Every last one of you!”

Black.

The darkness was Frank’s trigger and it happened so quickly that Frank wasn’t too sure what he did. His body moved on its own like it was sentient, with a mind of its own.

Red.

He was standing, with two knives in his hands despite the state of his arms. Multiple knives had sunken into his body from different directions but, he never felt the pain, he never has. It was like a drug he never took, high of on pure insanity. He couldn’t lose his mad smirk, it was hilarious as the unicorn stood their, a knife in hand as he took a proper stance. How the tables have turned.

Black.

He felt his body move once again as his vision was blacked out. He felt his legs move swiftly with a light step, he felt his liquid arms sway with the dance of death with each swing of each blade. He couldn’t see it but, he could feel the daggers touch fabric and eventually blood. No defence, just attack, attack, attack. Cut, cut, cut. Bleed, bleed, bleed. He was so happy, he has never felt so happy of feeling someone grunt in pain. It was simply heavenly.

Red.

Gunfire rang once again but it wasn’t him or the unicorn but, it wasn’t just any gun. It was a Benelli M4 pump action shotgun shooting round after round as cries of pain were heard right after. Somehow, Frank's manic grin grew. The party has just started.

Cuts were all over The unicorn's armour, holding his waist as blood dripped down making Frank extremely happy to see that. The dripping blood on the floor was like a love melody to his ears.

“merda... bastardo!” the unicorn shouted with fury.

Black.

Again, he moved like a demon in the darkness, an unstoppable force of nature meeting an immovable object. Frank thrusted forward towards the unicorn’s torso without hesitation, wanting more blood. The unicorn parried down with his arm as stepped aside making Frank loose momentum for a second in his wild strike. The unicorn hooked the knife towards Frank’s mask in that second but, Frank knee slid passed him as he craned his neck back, the blade missing his mask by inches.

He felt like Steven Gerrard as he had his arms out in celebration, dodging it without a scratch.

Red.

Quickly standing back up and turning, Frank lunged right back in as he swung with a high right slash, making the unicorn step the opposite way of the strike with fast feet. Finding the momentum instantly to strike again, Frank lacerates the opposite way of his late strike, making the unicorn step back.

Black.

Just as soon as he stepped back, Frank closed the distance and jumped up, kicking the unicorn twice to the side of his body but, with a flash of a light, the unicorn vanished as soon as the third kick was going to hit the side of his head, making Frank hit thin air and Frank laughed madly at his magic trick, He’s seen this trick too many times and are too predictable.

Red.

Frank lower down, used the wide, side kitchen knife to block the attack to his upper spine as sparks ignited for a second, lighting up his mask of Frank as he looked over his shoulder. Parrying the knife to the side from the stunned unicorn, Frank spun once to face the him and with that spin, he threw the kitchen knife with the target being the black mask. With impeccable reaction time and speed, the soldier moved his head just in time just to scrape the side of his mask.

Black.

Frank giggled by his near cut, he was thirsty for more. He wanted more blood spilt, he wanted to drown in its thickness. Frank didn’t have enough time to attack first as the unicorn tried to drive his blade home at the side of Frank’s neck but, with the outside of Frank’s arm he rebuked it with his broken arm and wrapped his arm around it, taking full control of it as he pressed up against the unicorn in an elbow lock, immobilising the unicorn from attacking with his other hand otherwise his arm will be snapped in an unnatural way but, the unicorn wasn’t completely helpless as he dropped the knife in his other hand and pulled out his M9 pistol. Seeing this, Frank’s grin only widened as he swept the unicorn's feet and dragged him down to the floor, breaking his arm in the process, making the black soldier scream at the top of his lungs with agony, a sound so delightful Frank basked in the cries of pain from this man instead of ending it there and then as he held him by the arm, on the floor.

Red.

The cries of pain quickly turned to cries of rage as once again, the unicorn's horn lit up and once again all the knives were raised as they had a dark blue aura envelope them, shaking uncontrollably like the knives felt the unicorn’s rage.

With another flash, the unicorn vanished from underneath Frank and at once, all the knives came down on Frank. Frank rolled just in time to avoid most of them but, two impaled right through his arm, the blade sticking out of the other side. Frank didn’t feel the pain however as he stood back up to see that the unicorn had vanished.

Black.

Frank stood there, waiting for an attack to occur.

Red.

Nothing.

Black.

No sound but the gunfire from outside.

Red.

Not a trace of the bastard anywhere, just the blood of him and the unicorn’s splattered all over the wall and floor, covering sharp tools that were used.

Black.

Slowly, Frank’s grin and manic giggles turned into a frown and grunts of annoyance.

Red.

Was this the unicorn’s plan? Wait until he dies of blood loss? No, surely not… He’s a soldier, Special forces for god sake… Surely he’s not that much of a coward.

“Hey! Where are you? Come out, come out to play.” Frank playfully said, still in his delirious state.

Black.

He looked everywhere. Up and Around the kitchen island, in the cupboards, the sink, even the fucking fridge. Frank climbed over the counter back to search around the table and chairs with anger rising with each second of not seeing the unicorn anywhere.

Red.

No… No, he couldn’t have… Did he… Run? From him? Frank? No… Frank won’t let him escape. He’s been alive for too long. Frank will not let him live and breathe another second! He will get his revenge!

Reloading his AR-15 and holstering one of the tactical knives that is stuck in his arm as a temporary replacement. Frank marched towards the exit to the cafeteria, demonic rage filled his being as he desired to find the one he wanted dead.

He kicked the double doors open and walked into the battlefield of gunfire.

“WHERE IS HE!!!!” he screamed as he walked into the crossfire, catching everyone's attention including Joey’s who was in cover behind what looked like a wrapping machine with his shotgun in hand, fresh blood on his jacket and mask as a bullet holes were torn in his hoodie shoulder and waist.

Time froze for Joey and Frank as they made eye contact. Joey couldn’t believe the sight he saw as he stared back at Frank. Joey was nearly at the truck bay when he heard Frank in his ear, finishing immobilising two Wops with buckshot to their knees. He was still a bit shaky about killing but, he liked the idea of injuring them enough for them to take them out of the fight but, when he heard the dying voice of his friend, telling Joey his final words.

It awoke something within him, something he has only felt once before when he heard about the passing of Rosette. No syllable, word, sentence, paragraph or novel in all its entirety couldn’t fully describe the feeling he felt when Frank told him ‘good luck.’ That feeling he felt in his heart, it made him turn around to the two whaling men on the floor. He put the shotgun’s end of the barrel to the temple of the masks and pulled the trigger. He felt nothing, no regret, no guilt, no sympathy, just that feeling that pulsed in his heart. The red flashing, the alarm ringing and the misty rain didn’t help.

Joey walked back with his Benelli in hand, ready to quench this emotion that drove him back into the fight. He aimed his shotgun at the back of an unaware white mask that aimed at a double door and pulled the trigger without hesitation. Brain matter and blood flying everywhere. It wasn’t enough to kill this feeling. He needed more blood. The sound of the shot caught the attention of the test that aimed at the door, even the 3 black ones. The effect was immediate when he shot another round of buckshot into another‘s neck. He felt a sharp pain in his shoulder but, it didn’t stop him from moving forward.

Two shots to another Wop’s chest and the woman laid lifeless as blood gushed from his mouth but, another bullet taken to the waist made him self-aware enough for him to take cover. Cover to cover he moved, taking out the white masked pegasus as they rained down bullets mid flight.

Things were getting difficult as he was getting marked by a bolt action sniper, almost getting hit every time he peaked behind cover, a light machine gun got him on the move as the bullets ripped through everything that came into contact with it, grenades were thrown closely, close enough to send him diving away but no damage taken other than the ringing in his ear. Eventually, he took cover behind a machine, waiting for the right time to take a shot at the bastards that took away not only his love but now, his friend. So, it came as a surprise to hear the roaring voice of Frank, coming out of the double doors looking like a walking corpse. Joey hasn’t seen anyone look more like a 6-slot knife block holder more than Frank at that moment. A knife was stuck in his forearm by the hilt, more riddled his torso, leg, back and even his foot got a knife stuck in it. Blood coated him, christened by the bodily fluid of his own and his opponent’s blood. Cuts, bullet wounds torn his jacket, some protected by the armour and some not but, Frank didn’t seemed to be bothered by the fact that blood dripped from his wounds, instead he wondered as he searched over the ones that are shooting him, looking for whoever ‘he’ was. Joey couldn’t believe his eyes as he stared dumbfounded at Frank’s standing remains, as he stared back. He thought he had died but… Here he is, half dead instead.

The locked eyes were cut in as a bullet slammed into the shoulder of Frank, making Frank turn his head and raise his rifle, starting to shoot back. Joey realising that Frank was the centre of attention, he came from behind his cover and started shooting the first white mask he saw, dealing minor damage considering the range. Once Frank took cover next to Joey, Joey took cover too.

“Holy shit, Frank! It’s so good to see you alive! Are you okay?” Joey shout, checking out the knives stuck in his chest as the gunfire and bullets hitting the metallic machinery rang out.

“I know who the fucking killer is, it’s that fucking black armoured, fucking unicorn cunt! He killed Rosette!” Frank exclaimed, completely ignoring his concerns. Joey clenched and gnashed his teeth as the feeling he's has was at war with his rational mind. He’s come this far, why not kill a bit more but, things won't end well if they hang around. Joey growled in frustration, green fire exiting through the gaps of his razor teeth slightly. Frank seeing this, had a brilliant idea. Frank forgot he was a dragon.

“Joey! Your Flame! Use your fucking flame!” barked Frank, snapping Joey out of his conflicting thoughts. “I’ll cover you, fucking give them hell.” Frank shouted, just when a grenade landed in front of them from a fly-by pegasus who hovered in the exposed spot. Frank made quick work as he shot the pegasus down and Joey quickly tossed the explosive to the obscured Wops and ISF soldiers, chucks of body parts and blood splatter flying across the room.

“You ready? Let’s get fired up!” Frank said with laughter that was not suited for their predicament, rushing out, intending to catch everyone's attention and pulling the trigger on the first mask he saw which was the big black bastard with the black mask, a bullet pinging of his mask as he quickly took cover. Frank however did take some shots to the his stomach by a familiar female ISF soldier that he was sure he took out of the fight. Fucking magical healing spells or some bullshit. Nonetheless, he laughed through the impacts.

Joey breathed in slowly, it was a good idea to use his flame to injure or kill them, it also provided a distraction to make their escape. So, breathing in and out a few times, closing his eyes in concentration for a second before they snapped open as he found his flame. He grabbed and held the flame in his belly as he came out of cover. Lifting the bottom part of his mask and with a feral roar, the green blaze ignited and projected a scorching fire so searing that the water sizzled on contact, the reaction making a haze in the atmosphere. The flames blocked out the agonising screams of his enemies, the clothes and bodies catching fire as they ran in every direction as Frank picked them off one by one, satisfyingly sniggering to himself gleefully.

Joey finished after a couple of seconds of his mighty dragon flames, breathing in heavily from the strain of holding a powerful flame as he fell to one knee.

“Sniper!” Frank suddenly shouted, barging Joey with his shoulder back into cover as a bullet smacked into the floor where Joey once was. “Wakey-wakey, Joey. We are not finished yet, we still need to get that son of a bitch! Come on!” Frank shouted, pulling Joey up to his feet.

“Frank… We need to get out of here! We need to get you back home!” Joey cried out, holding him by his collar as Frank tried to walk back to the carnage.

“What!? Run away! We can’t run now! We are so close to killing that-”

Frank was cut off by Joey as he punched him with a clean hook that baffled Frank for an instant as he faced the direction he was forced to face. “you are no good dead, Frank. If you chase him now, you won’t make it out alive this time. We need to head back, you got that?” Joey screamed at Frank’s emotionless mask, his eyes not one of rage or desire, just emptiness.

“Okay… Okay… Let’s go.” Frank said defeatedly, Joey was right. Despite the near proximity to the man he wanted to kill, things were getting out of hand and it would be no good if he was dead before he could continue looking for that unicorn. Besides, he was suddenly feeling a bit tired. It’s time to take the information he has learned and head home, making it a job well done at the least. Joey let go of him and pattered his collar down.

“Alright, lead the way,” Joey said, cocking his shotgun. Frank nodded and took the first step out if cover. Frank wasn’t fooled by the chaos around him and the aftermath of the flames as the sprinklers did their job and put out the fire but, at the same time created an increasing mist everywhere. They could use that to make their escape but, he wasn’t fooled in the slightest as that pegasus ISF soldier was still out there, waiting. He knew this, he saw him in the high racks, waiting for the right opportunity. So, with that in mind, the first place he shot was the last place he saw the sniper, hiding behind the crates. The sniper flinched away from the sudden fire at his location, having no choice but to back off. Seeing the small retreat, Frank legged it with Joey right behind him.

The sniper didn’t give up however, he took flight and matched their pace he looked through the scope and pulled the trigger, the recoil stopping the black soldier’s flight for a moment. The shot didn’t meet it’s target as it hit one of the rack’s pillars, making a hole as it creaking slightly from the weight.

The chase went on with a pattern, the sniper would shoot, miss then weave and dodge the bullets that Frank and Joey answered back with. The back and forth didn’t last long however as two bullets of Frank’s rifle clipped the pegasus’s wing, making the pegasus cry out in and lose control of his flight, spiralling out of control as he hit the floor. Frank didn’t have much time to finish him off as more rounds started flying passed them.

Frank kicked open the door that led to the back where they started but, it was more dishevelled as the pallets that fell were still ablaze, with people still under, the rain unable to put out the furious fire. The last Wops turned quickly to Frank and were too slow to react as Frank mowed them down with a single spray. Behind him, the white mask still chased and Joey blew a hole in the mask of the Wop as he enter the office door.

“Come on, let’s run for it!” exclaimed Frank, pulling Joey by the back of the collar as Joey took another shot of another Wop coming in. Joey turned and ran with Joey into the pissing-down, freezing night.