Chapter 4

Questions

After the craziness that was yesterday, I was glad to have gotten a nice night to myself. However, I made sure to wake up bright and early again this morning to get in before anypony else. Although I’d been on the job for only a month, I was still intent on proving how reliable I am and that meant not falling into any bad habits such as coming to work late.

But though I wanted to be as professional as I could, I still found it odd that my own boss had just up and left with almost no advanced warning yesterday. I understood well enough that he needed to focus on his own health, however, if that was the case then why did he come in to work in the first place? The whole situation felt very off to me.

Regardless, today was a new day. And we’d likely be missing him again which would still put Remedy in charge of the department. Seeing as how progress would be slower today, I decided to get a head start when I arrived early by preparing all the tools for some of our scheduled surgeries.

Though I wouldn’t admit it publicly, a small part of me wanted to do this so I could earn a promotion. I knew I had a lot of experience to gain in order for that to happen, but it couldn’t hurt to make a good impression now.

Only a few minutes later, I heard the doors to the department open which likely meant either Rem or Sporin had arrived. However, when I peeked over my shoulder I was shocked to instead see the last pony I’d have ever expected. I nearly dropped the equipment in my hooves as Doctor Acardio walked into the room casually as if nothing had happened.

It felt like I was watching a ghost pass by as the Batpony seemed to have miraculously fully recovered from whatever illness he had the day before. To make matters even stranger, he looked even more healthy than he’d been when I’d met him a month ago. His mane and tail looked darker and more flush than before as did his coat, and his body looked much stronger and defined now.

I seemed to forget I was staring at him until his voice shook me out of my daze, “I did not expect to see you this early in the morning.”

I’m not sure why, but in the moment I couldn’t seem to form a response while I still marveled at his inexplicable recovery. To my dismay, he seemed to notice my stupor and spoke again, “Are you well, Mrs Vessel?”

I shook my head for a good second before subconsciously cursing myself for my lack of control. “Yeah, sorry sir-I mean Doctor Acardio.”

I was rarely ever this socially awkward, but given the circumstances I felt as though anypony else would be in a similar boat. Still, I did my best to try and accept what was happening rather than question it any further.

“I just came in early today to get things ready before the shift starts. Yesterday was a bit busier than usual.” I finally answered his first question.

The Batpony raised a brow. I couldn’t quite tell whether he looked concerned or impressed. “I see.”

“In any case, it is rather admirable that you decided to come in so early. I haven’t seen this kind of dedication in many others.” He stated again.

His compliment filled me with pride. I was glad my effort was being noticed. “Thank you sir-I mean-”

I’d done it again and fumbled my words… But this time before I could even correct myself I heard the Batpony chuckle out loud. “You are a fascinating mare, Scarlet Vessel.” He stated before heading off towards his office.

Once alone again, I took a deep breath and tried my best to ignore the one very prominent thought in my head. But it was useless as I couldn’t help but feel flabbergasted that Dr Acardio was here in the hospital today just a few hours after he’d supposedly left on sick leave. ‘How is it possible for a pony to recover from something that bad so quickly?’

But for the life of me I could not find an answer to my own question. Nopony I knew was able to shake off a serious illness as quickly much less show up to work the next day… If I hadn’t been convinced yet that there was something seriously odd about the Batpony, this had practically sealed it.

My morning had passed by normally after my awkward encounter with the Batpony. As the noon hour was drawing close, I was currently aiding in a coronary bipass surgery for one of our high risk patients. However, unlike usual procedures, I was interrupted as another pony walked into the room mid-operation. I tried to keep my concentration before I heard my colleague Sporin address me, “Scarlet, Doctor Acardio wants to see you in his office.”

“But I’m needed here-” I began before he interjected, “He said it’s very important. And don’t worry. I’ll fill in for you while you’re gone.”

All of a sudden my mind went from confusion to worry. It was not very professional to barge into an operating room during a surgery, much less talk to the surgeons while they are working. And it felt even more unprofessional for me to leave in the middle of an operation I was working on. However, seeing as how my own boss was behind this, I couldn’t refuse.

As I nodded, I made my way out before removing my mask and mitts. While walking down the hall I wondered what it was the Batpony wanted to see me for. As I reached his door, I took a deep breath before opening the door and entering.

“You wanted to see me Doctor?” I asked calmly as I stepped inside.

The Batpony, who was behind his desk, simply nodded. “Yes. Take a seat, Scarlet Vessel.”

Judging by the tone of his voice, it felt as though I was in trouble. But what had I done wrong? I thought as a pool of dread built up in my stomach. As I took a seat, the Batpony used one of his wings to pick up a clipboard on the desk.

I stayed silent as I anxiously awaited him to explain why he’d summoned me here. And a moment later, he looked up from the clipboard, “Remedy told me about what you did yesterday while I was away.”

“He did?” I asked.

He nodded, “Yes. You quickly identified the problem and the solution to a very serious case.”

Though I was happy to hear Remedy hadn’t let my work go unnoticed, I felt there was a second part to the Doctor’s lecture.

“I must say, using yourself as a donor for the patient was a great risk. Not to mention against the Hospital’s policy.” He trailed off as he stared me in the eye intently.

There it was. I knew I had to have done something wrong. There was no other reason for him to summon me while I was busy working. I began to feel butterflies in my stomach as I waited for my boss to inevitably rant at me for my obvious mistake and lack of judgment.

The Doctor then put down his clipboard, “However, your actions led to a successful procedure. And for that, they deserve to be commended.”

My eyes lit up after hearing this unexpected compliment. “Thank you Doctor Acardio. But I was just doing my duty.”

“No. You were not doing your duty. You were doing much more.” He replied simply.

Now I was just confused. Was he trying to praise me, or patronize me? “Pardon me?” I asked for clarification.

Instead of answering my question, the Batpony was silent for a few moments before rising from his chair and approaching me, “Follow me.”

I was rather skeptical on whether or not to do so, but seeing as how I was unlikely to get answers otherwise, I decided to trust my boss and follow him.

After a few minutes of walking, Doctor Acardio had led me to one of the more secluded wings of the Hospital. I felt quite uncomfortable as I anxiously awaited him to elaborate on his earlier statement.

As we walked through the hallway, the Batpony then spoke up, “This was not the first time your bold actions have led to a successful procedure in a very serious case. And I doubt it will be the last time.”

The Doctor then stopped abruptly before turning to face me, “I do not believe you are qualified for this position, Scarlet Vessel.”

I immediately wanted to protest and even opened my mouth before the Batpony cut me off, “You are overqualified. More so than even Sporrin or Remedy. You have a natural talent, but your position is holding you back from true greatness.”

The Doctor stared directly at me as he continued, “And that is why I like to discuss an offer with you over dinner at my personal residence tomorrow night.”

‘Did he just offer me a promotion?… And ask me out to dinner?’

“The decision is yours, however, if my offer appeals to you, meet me back at my office before the end of the day.” He stated before making his way back behind me.

I couldn’t recall a time I’d been more loss for words than I was now. My brain felt like a raging tornado with thoughts spiraling out of control as I tried to unpack what the Batpony had just laid out before me. Of course I’d been working very hard to earn a promotion and the respect of my colleagues, however, this felt very sudden and had come much sooner than I’d expected. Furthermore, my boss was now inviting me for dinner at his own house which felt even more odd. It seemed I now had a lot to think about over the next few hours…

A few hours had passed since my conversation with Doctor Acardio, yet to my dismay I still hadn’t made a decision. Though I wanted nothing more than to take him up on his offer, something felt suspicious about the while thing. For one, I’d only been working at the hospital for a short time. And even though I could tell I’d made a good impression, it still felt far too soon to be offered a promotion. Moreover, why had he invited me to his own house to discuss this opportunity? Surely we could talk about it here at work.

Despite my skepticism, every bone in my body was telling me to take him up on his offer. Normally I hated making bold decisions, however, if my experience at this job so far had shown me anything, it was to trust my instincts.

I knew I wouldn’t be able to wait until tomorrow to make up my mind since tomorrow was my day off, and I also knew I likely wouldn’t get another chance like this. Besides, even after hearing out his offer it still wasn’t like I had to accept it, right?

Knowing this, I made up my decision then and there.

As I finished up with my last surgery of the day, I made my way over to Doctor Acardio’s office. But before I could even knock, the door opened in front of me as Doctor Acardio stared down at me. Though the action had slightly startled me, what startled me more was the fact that Doctor Acardio looked like he was expecting me.

“Have you come to accept my invitation?” He asked as he stared down at me.

I had to clear my throat before collecting myself, “Yes sir. I’d be honored to attend tomorrow night.”

My answer seemed to satisfy him as he adorned a small grin, “Very good.”

The Batpony then brought up a small piece of paper and handed it to me, “This is the address of my home. Please arrive at sundown tomorrow evening.”

As I took the piece of paper with my hoof, I nodded before replying, “I’ll be there sir, thank you for the opportunity!”

The Stallion’s small grin turned into a wider smile as he responded, “I look forward to your visit, Scarlet Vessel.”

I smiled in return as I nodded one more time before taking my leave. As I made my way to the break room, I placed the piece of paper in my purse for safe keeping before saying my goodbyes to my colleagues and heading on out.

On my way out, I decided I to check up on my patient from yesterday’s operation; Mahogany Morris. His condition had been much better after the blood transfusion, however, I knew that he would likely feel a bit week over the next few days as his body recovered its strength. Besides still being concerned with his health, I also wanted to find out more about the incident that had left him in such peril.

After strolling through the hall for a few moments I was about to come up on the patient’s room before spotting another Pony standing on the outside. He looked to be a fairly tall and well built Unicorn Stallion wearing a large beige trench coat above a half buttoned up white shirt with a black tie which had not been properly tied. Below his loose attire was a dull gray fur coat while his mane and tail were a deep black charcoal-like color. His mane looked rough and unkempt while on his chin he had a messy ducktail beard.

He appeared to be levitating a small note pad along with a pen and was busy jotting down notes. I wondered what exactly he was doing outside of the room, so I decided to approach and speak to him, “Excuse me.”

He immediately turned to face me before closing his notepad and putting it into one of the pockets on his coat, “Good evening Ma’am. Can I help you with something?” He answered with a tone just as rough as his appearance.

Even though I’d heard very little from him, I could already tell he had a very distinct Shetland Pony accent. His mannerism was also less than subtle, however, I replied anyway, “Oh no thanks, I was just wondering if you’re here to see Mr Mahogany.”

At this the Stallion nodded, “Why yes. I was just here to ask him some questions.”

Now I was even more skeptical about him. But before I could ask another question, he approached me and extended his hoof, “Detective Angus McCane. Pleasure to meet you Mrs…”

Though I was skeptical of his appearance, I could tell based on the badge on his chest that he indeed was a detective. I then shook his hoof as I replied, “Vessel. Scarlet Vessel.”

It seemed after hearing my name that the Stallions posture changed as did his serious disposition. “Interesting So you’re the surgeon who saved him from his near death experience yesterday?”

I could have nodded, but it felt wrong to take all the credit for what was a team effort by both Rem and me. Instead I humbly shook my head, “I was just the assistant. Doctor Remedy was the one who oversaw the operation. I was just doing my part.”

The Detective looked unconvinced as he tilted his head with a raised brow, “That’s not what I heard. I heard that you even donated your own blood to save him. To me that’s going the extra mile, don’t you think?”

Though he had a point, I decided to stay humble and shrug, “Like I said, I was just doing my job.”

“I see…” He answered incredulously.

After a brief but nonetheless awkward silence, I asked a question that was lingering in my head, “So what were you doing talking to Mr Mahogany?”

At this, the Detective brought out his notepad and his pen before explaining, “I’m currently investigating the cause behind his hospitalization. Though, his answers were… Less than satisfactory.”

He then glanced my way, “Since I have you here, would you mind answering some questions as well?”

Though I was suspicious of him, I decided to cooperate with him for the moment. “Sure. What would you like to know?”

“Well, for starters, I’d like to know how Mr Mahogany looked when you first saw him. What condition was he in?” The detective asked.

“He was unconscious and had lost a lot of blood. His skin was pale and his body was very cold too.” I answered simply.

The detective paused as he wrote down my answer down. After glancing back up, he asked, “Do you know what could have caused his condition?”

I nodded, “Yes. There were two small puncture wounds on his neck where the blood had been drained.”

Again he took a moment to write my response down. Shortly after, he looked back up, “And what do you believe could have caused these wounds?”

Now it was me who paused as I debated whether or not to tell him what Mr Mahogany had told me the day prior. However, seeing as how telling the detective would break patient confidentiality, I decided to withhold the information. “I don’t know.” I answered simply with a small shake of my head.

Though I was confident with my answer, it seemed the Detective was less than pleased. “No? Surely you must have some idea…”

“I’m sorry Mr McCane, but I don’t. Perhaps you could ask Mr Mahogany what happened before he went unconscious.” I answered, hoping he would leave me be.

To my dismay, the Unicorn Stallion remained put and still looked unconvinced. “I did. But his answers were inconclusive. He claims it was an accident that happened when he was on his way home from the Arboretum.”

I remained quiet as I let the Detective continue, “But you see, Mrs Vessel, I don’t believe this was any accident.”

Again I stayed silent for a moment, expecting him to continue. But instead, the Stallion put his notepad and pen back in one of his pockets and looked both ways before falling back to me. “I believe he was the victim of an attack by a monster.”

Although I already knew this was a possibility, I remained as stoic as I could while the Detective continued to explain. “I also believe this attack is related to a number of other cases spanning back over the last 250 years.”

After stating his absurd conspiracy theory Detective McCane looked to be judging my reaction. I don’t believe in the supernatural, however, I didn’t have a good idea as to what had attacked Mr Mahogany either. “What kind of monster do you think could have done that to him?” I asked.

At this the Detective huffed, “I wish I knew… I’ve searched every lead up every dead end and still haven’t found the answer. The few Ponies that have witnessed attacks have not been very credible, however, they’ve all given a similar description of the monster.”

“And that is?” I asked.

“It strikes only in the dark, and has large wings. But none of the victims were ever found alive. That was until now…” He answered before glancing back at the door.

Based on this information, I could only picture one monster being responsible for these attacks. “Could it be a Manticore? They have wings and do occasionally attack Ponies.”

Annoyingly, he shook his head as if he’d expected this answer, “No. Manticores are not known for making quiet attacks. They are proud territorial creatures. Not to mention our victim here had only lost blood. Manticores do not feed like that.”

All of his points made sense, however, it still left the question unanswered. I wanted to get to the bottom of the mystery as much as he did, however, the day would be over soon. “Well, I wish you the best in your investigation Mr McCane. But I have to be moving along with my day.”

He nodded, “Very well.”

He then reached into another pocket on his jacket and used his magic to pass along a card to me. “Should you find any more information regarding this case, I would ask that you contact me about it.”

I nodded and took the card before placing it in my purse. As if on queue, the Detective saluted me, “Well, I must be off. Have a pleasant evening ma’am.”

As I watched the Stallion trot off, I shrugged and returned my attention to my original plan. As I knocked on the door, I heard a voice behind shout, “Come in.”

I entered the room before I noticed the red coated Unicorn seated on a hospital bed with a book in his hooves. “Oh, good evening Doctor Vessel.” He remarked as I walked in.

I chuckled before answering, “It’s okay Mr Mahogany, I’m not a Doctor yet. You don’t have to call me that.”

“Oh, my bad.” He said before putting the book down.

“I just came to check up on you. Are you feeling any better today?” I asked as I walked up to the bed and took a seat on a nearby chair.

He nodded without falter, “Yeah, I feel a lot better. Thanks for coming to see me.”

Though he was indeed looking healthier, I could tell that something was definitely weighing on his mind. “Are you sure everything is alright?”

This time he looked away for a moment as he stared at the window in the corner of the room. He then glanced back my way, “I hope that Monster doesn’t come back for me…” He stated with noticeable worry.

“You’re safe here. I’m sure of it.” I reassured him as I looked him in the eye.

He seemed comforted slightly, but I could tell it was still lingering in his mind. Still, this presented another question for me, “Why didn’t you tell the Detective what happened? He questioned you, right?”

The Unicorn nodded, “He did, but I was scared he wouldn’t believe me. He seemed pretty intimidating.”

“Yeah, he was…” I stated as I stared off at the wall remembering my encounter with him.

‘Ironically, the Detective would have believed him…’ I thought as I continued to drift off.

“Did he interview you too? You didn’t tell him, did you?” Mahogany asked with a worried look.

I glanced back at him before shaking my head, “He did. And I did not tell him. I would never betray patient confidentiality. Unless you want me to, I will not speak a word of it to anypony else.”

He looked relieved upon hearing this as he rested his head against the pillow behind him. A moment later though he rose and looked my way again, “Do you think I should have told him?”

Despite being hesitant, I nodded, “I think you should have. Whether your story is crazy or not, you were undoubtedly attacked by something last night.”

The Unicorn dawned an anxious look as he recalled what had happened to him. Sensing his fear, I extended my hoof towards him, “It’s going to be okay Mr Mahogany. You’re safe now.”

Seeing the genuine look on my face seemed to calm him once more, “Thanks Scarlet.” He said simply.

I nodded one last time before standing up and heading on my way.

Author's Note

Uh oh! Some crazy stuff has happened this chapter! I had a blast writing this one (Even though Google Docs failed me and deleted half my progress for no reason at one point)... But either way, I hope everypony else enjoyed this one as much as I did!

Stay tuned for the next one where a lot of stuff goes down! If you're liking the story so far and look forward to seeing more, be sure to favorite and follow the story as well as leave a comment!

Until next time!
-Obsedian_Flame