Shutterbugs

Chapters

Out of the Frying Pan
Cloudy Days
Hat Trick
Opening Attractions

Out of the Frying Pan

“So this is Ponyville, hnh?” I said to myself as I sat with a bored looking expression on my face as my taxi rolled down the main street. I blew a bit of my blonde mane from my eyes, darn bangs get annoying sometimes. I really need to get a trim. “Pretty busy for such a little place. I don't even think Manehattan looked this bustling most of the time.” I adjusted my fishing hat. “I'm gonna have to get used to this. I'm starting to miss the city already to be honest.” Oh, I haven't introduced myself yet. Name’s Flick. My full name is Feature Flick, but..I think that sounds a bit goofy to be honest. Flick will do just fine. As you could probably tell I hail from the big city. Manehattan to be specific. Used to live with my dad, but I felt it was time for me to strike it on my own. Dad was cool with it of course, he even helped me find a place. Said he knew the landlord from way back or something.

The taxi slowed to a stop and the cabby piped up. “That’ll be 10 Bits there guy.” I snapped to, guess I zoned out a bit.

“Oh uh..yeah sure.” I would dig a hoof in my bag a pull out a few shiny gold coins. The cabby counted them over and nodded.

“Yer good kid. Out you go. Got places to go and ponies to see.” I just nodded and hopped out of the cab. I spent a few minutes getting my valuables out of the back. Can't go anywhere without my collection of B grade horror movies. Dad was always a movie buff and I guess it kind of rubbed off on me. After all of that was done the cabby went on his merry way and there I was all alone and on my own for the first time.

“Wooh...kind of surreal. Never thought I would ever get out of that house.” I go to open the door and it wouldn't budge. “Um..uh oh..” I tried to open it a few more times. I knocked to see if anypony was home. “Um..Hello? Anybody there?” After that a mare appeared from behind the house. She had a light brown coat with a fiery head of red hair. She gave a very sultry look in my direction.

“Well hello there, sugga’. Are you the new tenant?” I..wasn't sure what to say at this point. Was she...hitting on me?

“Uh..ye..Yes ma’am.” I swallowed out of nervousness. She shot me a confused look.

“What's wrong sweetie? Don't worry I won't bite. You can call me your new landlord. Name’s Gingersnap honey.” She gave a sly wink, It gave me shivers.

All I did was nod nervously. Heck of a first day, i'm being hit on by a cougar. “Um..na..name’s Flick, ma’am.” She walked over and put a hoof over my shoulder.

“You can relax, honey-bun. You're a little too young for my tastes. How’s Lucky doing? I swear you're the spitting image of him, even down to your chocolate brown coat. You just need to get a little facial hair and I won't be able to tell you two apart.”

She motioned to my lip as she was saying that. I straightened up and cleared my throat. Felt like this was the part in all those noir detective movies where she asked me to find some sort of Maltese Phoenix or something...

“Oh um. Yeah dad’s doing alright. Um..did you know the door is locked?” She looked over to the door.

“Oh, I'm sorry sweetie. I forgot to unlock it for you. I was busy in the back getting some landscaping out of the way before you got here.” She dug in her saddlebags and pulled out a gold key. “Here you go dear. Well, I need to go run some errands. I only live a few houses away. If you need anything at all, Don't be a stranger.” She gave another wink. Ok now I just think she’s flirty to everybody. Oh well Its fine, she seems like a nice enough pony. She piped up one more time. “Oh and rents due at the end of every month. If you need help finding a job let me know and I'll see if I could get some odd jobs for you to do.” She gave another wink at that...what did she mean by odd jobs. Nonono, get your mind out of the gutter Flick.

I opened up the door and got all my stuff inside. After a hour or so of unpacking I flopped onto the bed and just stare at the ceiling for a while. “Man..am I gonna be able to do this? I do need to think about a job.” I heard a rustling outside my window from the bushes.

“What the..” I hopped out of bed and head over to the window to see what looked like a mint colored pony head first in my bush outside, digging around in it with her butt sticking out. After a few seconds I spoke up. After all im pretty sure this wasn't really socially acceptable. “Um..can I..” But before I could get a word in edgewise her head sprung out and whacked the bottom of my window sill. I cringed, felt kinda bad now. “OwowowowowOW!” She sat down and began rubbing her head. Hnh, She was a unicorn, and she had a light blue mane too. She also seemed to actually be wearing a white jumpsuit with a blue vest. Hnh, don't see ponies wearing clothes often.

Still feeling kinda bad I looked over the sill to see if she was ok.. “Woah, Are you ok down there?” She looked up to me and blinked a few times.

“Did that blob just talk-- oh no... Um, have you seen a pair of glasses?” She went back to digging in the bush, most likely looking for her precious spectacles. “AH, Never mind. Jackpot.” She she stuck them on and blinked a few more times before adjusting them.

“Ah, much better....wait..” She once again stick her head back in the bush. Ok, what was this girls fascination with my bush... “Um..excuse..” The mare blurted out. “SHOOT! Lost them again... darn ladybugs...” Oh, well mystery solved again.

“Can I help you miss?”

The mare popped out of the bush again. “Oh..sorry about that. Was doing research...Wait, do you live here?”

Seemed like a no brainer really. “Yeah I just moved in today.”

“OOooohhh. Another new guy. We’ve been getting a lot of them lately. Wait that Ginger lady isn't your landlady isn't she?”

I looked back and forth wondering what she meant by that. “Yyyeeaahhh?”

She shook her head and leaned in a bit to whisper. “You gotta watch out for her, she’s a bit weird. I hear she kidnaps ponies and cooks them up for dinner.”

Wait...what?!. I shot her a very skeptical look. “...Theres no way your serious.”

She nodded. “Your right, im not. Good call.”

Hoof deep in a conversation and I don't even have her name. “So..who are you?” She took a proud stance.

“Oh, My name’s Junie Bug, Entomologist Extraordinaire. Hope you don't mind that I was cataloging the fauna in your flora.”

It was becoming more and more apparent that this town was a little loony. “Um..not really?”

She cocked her head curiously. She waved her hoof to try to get my attention “Hey, earth to new guy. Your kinda zoning out on me. Man, if you're gonna live here we need to fix that. Especially before Pinkie finds out you moved in.”

I shot her a curious look right back. “Pinkie?”

“Oh don't worry you'll meet her soon enough...wait....uh oh..I hear bouncing. Quick, hide!” I was still so very confused.

“Wait wha” but before I could say anything the window would close on its own and the curtain would shut.

“Trust me, you're not ready for the pink menace yet. Just keep quiet.”

As she was saying that a familiar bouncy pink ball of energy bounced by and spot Junie. She bound over. “Hey Junie. How are you today?” Junie nodded.

“Oh you know, doing the bug thing. Same old same old.” Pinkie hopped in excitement.

“Hey guess what! My mane is all tingly! You know what that means?”

“I don't kno..”

Pinkie interrupted as Junie was talking. “It means a new pony moved in today! I'm so excited! Are you excited? ‘Cause I’m excited! You know where they might be? I’ve looked all over, only not ‘cause I just started, but they haven’t been anywhere I looked yet!” She got right up to her face, way too close for comfort.

“Uh, nope, sorry. Nothing’s coming to mind. Hey maybe there on the other side of town.” Pinkie drew her in by the hoof.

“Good idea Junie. I can't let a new pony feel unwelcomed, that’d be just so sad! I couldn't sleep at night...then again I have a hard time sleeping at night anyway.” She giggled and snorted. “Thanks for the help anyway, Junie! Seeyaaa” And in a pink fluffy flash she was gone.

Junie waited a few seconds and reopened the window. “You’ll thank me for that later.” Well that was something, seems Junie was only the second oddest pony he’s seen today.

“What was that for? She seemed nice enough.”

Junie adjusted her glasses. “Oh, I'm not saying she isn't. But trust me, you want to hold off on that for now. If I didn't step in you would be hoof deep in streamers right now...oh.” Junie kind of trailed of a bit. “Are you watching Metal Mares from Mars?”

I was confused at first but then I remembered that I had left the tv with that movie on. Metal Mares from Mars, always a classic. “Um...yeah?” She giggled a bit.

“Oh wow, I didn't think I would meet any other pony that watches that stuff. Man your a nerd.” I gave her a look at first, but then I loosened up. “Wait..you actually watch this stuff? I figured me and my dad were the only ones who really kept up with this shlock.” I said to her with a quizzical look on my face. What...never said it was a good classic.

“Oh its not like I collect the stuff, I just know my B movies... Mind if I join you. Its been soooo long since ive seen this.” She gave a wide smile.

I smirked at her a bit. “Sure its not too nerdy for you?”

She smirked back. “Hey, join the club.”

I pondered it for a bit. Guess it couldn't hurt to get to know ponies and she seemed harmless enough..hm..I wonder if she’s ever seen Cloud 9 from Outer Space. I opened the door for her.

She stepped in and looked around. “Oh wow you got everything. Sinister Swamp Slugs 3, The entire Colts of the Corn series. Oooh! You even have Masked Charger! Nice.” She nodded in obvious approval. “So you got my name, now you get to tell me yours.” She gave me a sly look.

“Oh um. Names Feature Flick...most people just call me Flick really.”

“Feature Flick huh? That’s...oddly specific”

I rubbed my head nervously. “Yeah my dad is a weird guy.”

She nodded. “Its ok, Flick is a cute name. I can get used to calling you that. Since i'm assuming we're friends now.” She gave another sly smile. Wow, This was a bit sudden. She barely knows me, heck she just now got my name.

“Um..really..I mean..Are you sure?”

She took a seat. “Well yeah. You seem like a nice enough guy. I mean us nerds have to stick together you know and if I’m gonna’ dig through your bushes, I should at least get to know you first. I mean, that’s just rude.” She reclined on my couch.

“Uh..ok?” She hopped back up again and invaded my personal space a bit.

“You gotta loosen up a bit too. Seriously, we need to fix that. Ponies might think you're boring or something, and I can tell you're not. I mean... Metal Mares, for Celestia's sake!”

I backed up a bit after that. “I don’t know its just...I feel out of place you know? Im a city pony and this the first time I’ve really been out on my own. I guess I’m just nervous. It’s just all happening so fast.”

“Don’t worry, Flick. This town is... mostly harmless. I’m sure you’ll figure stuff out.”

I took a seat on my couch. “That and I need to find a job. Rent’s due next month, and I’m not sure I want to find out what Gingers odd jobs are.”

She put a hoof on her chin in thought. “Well I can see about getting you a job at Quills and Sofas. I used to work there when I was younger and they know me pretty well.”

All I could do was give her a confused look after that. “Quills and Sofas?”

She nodded. “Yep, Quills and Sofas... it’s a niche market.” She looked over at my flank. “Well what does your flank have to say about that?” I quickly covered my flank until I realized what she was getting at. I had a film reel as a Cutie Mark.

“Oh yeah. I’m a pretty ok photographer.”

“Pretty ok? You wouldn't have gotten a mark for it if you were just pretty ok...then again mine’s a ladybug and I’ve yet to catch a single one...” She grumbled at her own statement. “You could maybe check out the paper? See if they have any openings?”

I sighed and layed on the couch. “Yeah..I'll think about it.” She sighed as well.

“Hey now don't get all mopey on me. We’ll figure something out for you. Sides..I don’t think Ginger’s odd jobs are that bad..”

Cloudy Days

It had been a day or two since I’d moved into Ponyville. Despite the ponies I’d run into, those few days had been pretty quiet. I still wasn’t really used to it but it was...nice. Not that I didn't enjoy the city, but everything about this town was just..nice, you know? Still, if I didn’t get off my flank soon and find a job then it was back to the city for me. As I thought that, I heard a commotion outside. Sounded like somepony barking orders. I peeked outside the door and find that a small group of ponies were down the street. They were dressed in very... odd outfits. One of them in particular was the one calling the shots: a light blue mare with ghost white hair wearing a pair of purple shades and a black and white striped dress of some kind. In particular, she was scolding another mare. Looked like a pegasus, this one was gray with a faded blue mane. As I stepped outside, a familiar pony was examining a nearby tree. It was Junie of course, though she had a very disgruntled look on her face.

Junie grumbled, “I wish that pony over there would keep it down. She’s spooking the woodworms. How am I supposed to get accurate data when they won't give me the time of day?” She huffed as she would keep scrutinizing the tree.

I approached and waved. “Heya Junie.” I looked over at the strange crowd . “Any idea what that’s all about over there?”

“Haven’t the foggiest. All I know is they’re disturbing my worms and it’s ticking me off..” She levitated a magnifying glass over a small hole in a tree to get a look at a worm. It popped back into the tree as soon as she got it close though. “Bah...I give up...So how’s the job hunt going?”

I scratched the back of my head. “No dice. The paper doesn’t have openings. Might try that sofa place you talked about.”

“QUILLS and Sofas.” She started, poking me in the chest. “Get it right.”

Another familiar voice approached. It was Ginger, my landlady. “What is all this commotion-- oh. So it’s her.”

I piped up in response. “Wait. You know her?”

Ginger nodded. “Yep. That would be Photo Finish. She’s a big shot fashion photographer. I modeled for her a few times.”

I gave Ginger a curious look. “You used to model?”

She would give me a sly look. “What...is that so hard to believe?” She batted her eyelashes a few times in my direction.

I blushed like mad, having trouble forming a coherent sentence. “No..I mean..uh..”

Junie would pipe up. “Hey, if she snatches you up can I have your copy of Attack of the Killer Potatoes? I’ve always wanted that.” She would smirk.

Ginger giggled. “You know sweetie if you wouldn't make it so easy I would leave you alone.”

Junie perked up with a idea. “Wait you said this Photo Finish is a photographer, right? Hey, why don’t you talk to her? Maybe get a portfolio and show her your work. She has to know all the big time photographers, maybe she could put in a good word for you.”

Ginger nodded. “Well, she can be a bit abrasive, but she is one of the best. I would at least see if she has any contacts she could refer.”

I thought about it and it seemed like a sound idea. “Yeah...although. I don’t really have anything good to show her at the moment...”

Ginger got that seductive look again. “Well you could always get some glamor shots.” She winked again.

Jeez, I don’t know what it is about her, but everytime she does that I lose it. I froze up at the thought of that.

Junie sighed and poked at me a few times. “Dang it, Ginger, would you stop breaking my friend? I don’t know if Flick has a lifetime warranty.”

Ginger looked over to Junie. “What about you dear? Would you want to model for my tenant here?”

She also blushed like mad at that thought. “Oh, nonononononono...no. I don’t do glamor. Just the thought of it gives me shivers.”

Ginger shrugged. “Well, I’m sure you guys can find some volunteers to help.”

At that point I snapped out of my stupor and shook my head. “Wait..what about Junie modeling?”

Junie blushed again. “Ginger, stop tainting Flick’s innocence!”

Ginger giggled once again. “Well I need to get going. Good luck with your job search, Flick.” And she trotted off. Probably to do some errands.

Junie looked back over to Photo’s crew. “I don’t know about you, but I’m gonna stay as far away from them as I can. I feel if I get too close she might...ugh..accessorize me..good luck on your front, though.” She also trotted off waving as she did so. I also waved and looked back at the crew. Photo was ordering around that gray pony again. I felt kinda bad for her. Then again, that is a pretty cutthroat industry. I headed back inside to grab my camera.

“Too much blush, Cloudy!” Photo would shout at me as she scrutinized the model in question. I felt my wing twitch a bit, guess from the agitation. I sighed as walked over to wipe some off. Honestly though, it didn’t really matter, because in a few seconds she was gonna say...

“Not enough!” she said..right on cue. I would love to see what she sees, because I don't think I’ve ever worked with a pony this over critical. But this is my one chance to show the world what I’m made of, so I can’t blow it. I would reapply the makeup for about the 10th time, and of course she says..

“Too much blush!” She looked mad now.. “So much wasted time... we have a shoot in 15 minutes!” She shouted again. “ROUGE! Show Cloudy how to apply blush!” And on cue she would kind of appear. Rouge was a nice enough pony. She was off white with this lovely navy blue mane. She always seemed to have this air of smugness about her, though. I don’t think she does it on purpose. Maybe it’s just her eyes, she has the most gorgeous eyes. They always make her look a bit mysterious. Rouge would take over and finish up the blush for the umpteenth time.

This time, Photo nodded in agreement. “Perfect!” Then she glared at me. “You should be observing. If you want to keep working with me you should be able to get the blush right ze first try!”

I sighed and nodded. “Yes, ma’am..” Honestly, Rouge did the same thing I have been doing for the past 10 minutes. Just smile and nod, Cloudy, smile and nod.

After that was done, Photo started taking a few shots and we were left to our own devices for a few minutes. I sat down in a nearby bench while Photo did her thing.

A friendly voice piped up. “You alright there, Cloudy?” It was my friend High Style. I always loved her hair. It has this really loud pink to it, but it goes well with her light pink coat. She always wears it really straight, too; she pulls it off well. She and I kind of became good friends over the past month. “I remember when she always got on Rouge’s case, too. Don’t take it personally.”

I nodded. “It’s just...I don’t know if I can keep doing this, you know? I mean, everypony said I should go for it, that this was my one big break..but... is this all I have to look forward to? Being bossed around and belittled..I even got these highlights.” I had gotten some blue highlights for my mane. Apparently, I needed to look more fabulous.

Style sighed. “You’re a great stylist, Cloudy. It’s just...Photo runs one of the tightest ships around. Look at it this way, if you can put up with her, then you can put up with anypony. Don’t forget though, this is only your first job. It’s not too late to reconsider.”

I shook my head. “No, if I back out now imagine how disappointed my folks will be...I have to stick this out to the end.” I got back up and dug through my makeup kit. I looked over to Style. “Hey..do you mind if I take over your next job? I bet if I can show Photo that I can get a model ready by myself, she’ll finally respect me.”

Style looked a bit concerned. “I don’t know..are you sure you can handle it?”

I nodded. “I know I can do it. If there’s anything I’m sure about it’s that I was born to do this. I’ll show the world what I can do.” I didn’t really notice, but there was a heck of a twinkle in my eye. Ever since I was a foal I knew that is what I was meant to do, and I was not gonna let this chance get away.

Style nodded. “Ok... Coral should be waiting for me about now. Go for it.” She ruffled my hair and sent me on my way.

And I was off. I was gonna do my best and show Photo just what I was made of!

It was a long process, but I had gotten Coral looking fantastic. I held up a mirror so she could see. Coral nodded. “It looks great, honey, but I’m not the one you need to be impressing.” She giggled a bit.

“Oh I know..still..thanks.” She cracked a little smile. It felt good to be praised for once.

Photo came back after finishing up her first set of shots to see Coral with my make up job. “Who did this?! All wrong, all of it! Style worked on you, yes?”

Coral was a bit caught off guard, but before she could say anything she was interrupted by the sound of my tears and a meek response.. “No ma’am....it was me...it was all me..”

It was hard to tell, but Photo was glaring at me through her tinted shades. “I didn’t give you permission to work on her!”

Style had been listening from the back and she stepped up. “I did, ma’am.” She was very stern and unyielding, even toward her boss. “I let her work on Coral.”

Photo glared at Style and looked to me. “Stay here.” She looked back at Style. “We go...” The two walked to somewhere more private...of course when they left I slowly tailed them, trying my best to hide my tears.

Style spoke up. “Yes, I let her work on Coral, because I was confident in her abilities. All of the crew is. So far you’re the only one who can't see it.”

Photo scoffed at her. “I honestly don’t get what you see in her. The only reason we took her on was because she is a friend of yours.”

Style was furious at this point. I don’t think I’d ever seen her this mad. “That’s just hurtful! You're just too blinded by your own ridiculously high standards to see her talent.”

Photo was silent. Then she spoke. “She is your responsibility. Go and fix Coral for the shoot.”

I barely heard that last part because I was already on my way back to the shoot in tears...I just had all my hard work torn apart. According to little Miss Stuck Up over there, I hadn't improved a bit... It’s... it’s not fair.. It was getting hard to see past all the tears.

It was a long day, but I think I got all the shots I needed to put together a good portfolio. I put the photos up and made my way over to Photo’s shoot. I had been sort of tagging along with them. Just kind of observing mostly, seeing what I can glean from her technique and such. Ginger was right though, she is a master of her craft. Though I could tell it has been pretty stressful for her crew just from following them. I kept hearing Photo yelling about missing makeup and wardrobes. Honestly, it was kind of weird, you would think that a pony like that would be on the ball with that sort of stuff.

I approached their shoot, making sure not to bug Photo herself. She was busy and she didn’t seem like the type to take kindly to being interrupted. I looked around and there were a few ponies around. Looked like models and the like. I tried to approach one of them, but before I could, I heard Photo shout again followed by a small shriek. It appeared that one of the backdrops fell during the shoot. Didn’t hurt anybody I believe, it was just some white cloth but still, Photo was none too happy. This was getting a bit too weird. It was too sloppy, a pony like Photo should run a tighter ship than this... I smelled something fishy. I tried to talk to the crew member again, I think I saw one them call her Rouge.

“Um, excuse me, sorry for interrupting. I was wondering if when she's not busy I could show Photo a portfolio of mine.”

She looked me over. “Oh, are you wanting to join the crew? I’m sorry but we don't really have any openings right now.”

I shook my head. “Oh no it’s just.. I've heard she’s really good and was wondering if she could reference me to somepony who could use a photographer.”

She looked back to Photo and back to me. “Oh..well. I'm not sure how she would really react to that. She’s never really been one to hand out compliments but I can see if she will see you. Fair warning, those better be some amazing shots, she won't give you the time of day otherwise.”

I nodded. “Fair enough I guess.” I changed the subject. “Seems you guys are having a bit of trouble.”

She nodded. “Yeah, it’s weird. Seems we hit a string of bad luck. Missing supplies, missing wardrobe, and now that backdrop is not wanting to cooperate. Photo is about to lose it.”

I nodded. “Any idea when it started?”

She thought about it. “It’s been kind of rough all day, but it really started getting bad when one of our crew got in a fight with Photo about the new girl. I feel bad for her, Photo is being pretty rough on her.”

I figured as much. This is sounding more and more like sabotage. Sounds like one of the crew is getting a bit karmic with Photo. “Who was it? Just out of curiosity.”

She gave me an odd look. “You don't think that fight has something to do with this do you?”

I nodded. “It’s a hunch really, but it seems to line up with what you said.”

“I really don't think one of them did it....but what you say makes sense. Why do you want to know? Are you some kind of detective?”

“Not really...just a guy. Name’s Flick by the way. Rouge right? I overheard the rest of the crew call you that.”

She nodded. “Yeah, that’s right...anyway. Photo got into a bit of a shouting match with High Style.” She pointed to a mare with straight bright pink hair. “You can talk to her if you want. Just make sure she's not busy.”

“Thanks.” I nodded, then headed over to said mare.

“Um, excuse me ma’am, are you busy?” I waved her down. It looked like she was going through her makeup.

She looked up. “Um..not really. Can I help you?”

“Hey, my name’s Flick. I wanted to talk to Photo when she got a chance. I want to show her my portfolio.” Of course I had already talked to Rouge about it, but I as I’d seen from a few crime dramas you want to go into this kind of stuff slow and smooth and segue into it.

She gave me a weird look. “I guess? Not everyday somepony just walks up and asks that. You must not know Photo very well.” She kind of giggled at that.

I chuckled nervously. “Heh, so I've heard. Then again I'm not sure if I want to talk to her like this anyway. With all this stuff going on, she seems like she’s about to blow a gasket.”

She nodded. “Yeah this is all a bit weird. I've never seen so many things go wrong in one shoot.”

“With a pony like Photo as your boss I wouldn't doubt that. I guess that makes it all the weirder.”

She gave me a look. “Are you getting at something, buster?”

“I smell something fishy, is all. Anything you might know?”

“Look if you're thinking it's me you're dead wrong. Yeah I don't agree with her a lot, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to do things like this.”

I thought about it and she was right..she couldn't have. The white backdrop fell. Somepony had to have strung that up from how it looked, and I don't see any ladders with the rest of the equipment. Which means they must have a pegasus or a unicorn on staff for that kind of work.

“I heard you two had a bit of a fight?”

“Yeah, it was over Cloudy, our new girl. She agreed to give her a chance, but she's been kind of out of it since this morning. The stress is getting to her I guess.”

“Do you think it’s possible..”

“...No...it wasn't her. She cares about this job too much to screw it up like that.”

“Ah..I see. Well, thanks for listening, anyway. Sorry if I pried at all.”

“Oh..well. I mean thanks for looking out for us, I guess, but Photo will get over it. Stuff like this can happen you know. I'll let Photo know you want to talk to her.”

I nodded “Thanks, Ms. Style.” I smiled and went on my way.

Maybe I was just overthinking things. It could just be coincidence that all this stuff happens. Like she said, bad days can happen. As I thought that I passed by their makeup tent and I heard a sound coming from inside. I snuck over and peeked into the door of the tent. Whoever was in there didn't notice me. It was a grey pegasus, probably the one who set up that backdrop..and she was doing something. She was messing with the flashbulbs for the cameras. I tiptoed inside and while I had the chance I snapped a picture with my camera, I still had it on me from my shooting. As I did that, she snapped up and saw me. Her face went pale as she just realized that she had been caught red hooved.

“Who are you?!” She said in a panicked whisper.

“Just a guy..I guess you could call me a detective?” I liked that Rouge called me that. Made me feel cool, you know?

She looked at the camera. “You're gonna show that to Photo, aren't you...?” She was less panicked and more downtrodden now.

I took a seat on a chair nearby. “Depends..why would you do this? From what I heard you really want to hang onto this job. Why would you go out of your way to cause trouble?”

She also sat down putting the bulbs back where she found them. She still looked rather depressed.”I...I figured that if maybe we missed a deadline then we would just pack up and go home. No more stress... no more judging. At least for today...she was gonna let me go anyway... I blew it. Apparently I'm not good enough for her...then again, now that I think back on this, it was a stupid plan anyway...I should just leave right now and never look back. She probably wouldn't even give me a second glance anyway.”

“I talked to Style. You know she wants to give you a chance.”

She still looked pretty reluctant. “Honestly, I'm not sure if I even want to do this anymore. I'm not cut out for makeup.”

I would quickly reply. “Photo wouldn't have picked you up if you weren't good at what you did...but I understand. Honestly after watching you guys work I'm not sure if this is my line of work, either.” I chuckled, trying to lighten up the mood a bit.

“...So you’re saying I should just give up?”

“No...don't give up what you want to do... But I would think of another line of work. This particular job might not be for you, is all I'm saying. If you’re not happy with what you're doing, then you probably shouldn't be doing it.”

“But...my family said I should do it..they said this was my one chance to make it big.”

“You should be worried about what makes you happy instead of what makes other ponies happy.” I looked at my camera. “I'm not gonna show Photo that picture...however. I think you should come clean regardless. Guilt doesn't suit you.” I gave a warm smile to show her I meant what I said.

She was still avoiding eye contact. “But...she’ll fire me for sure at that point. I know it..”

“I see it as more of a new beginning, than an ending.”

She thought on it for a few minutes. “Yeah...you’re right. But...could you be there with me...?”

I smiled. “Sure, I can do that.”

She nodded and slowly got up and followed me outside the tent. Seems Photo was just finishing her shoot as well, great timing. She and I left the tent and went to see Photo as she was packing things up. She looked me over. Seeing I had a camera, she assumed I was the pony the crew told her about. “You wished to see me?”

I shook my head. “Actually, Cloudy here would like to say something.”

She still looked kind of nervous, but the moment she started to speak, Style stepped in to interrupt.

“Ma’am, I'm sorry...I've been intentionally making a mess of things all day. The missing wardrobe, the misplaced makeup...it was all me. I'm sorry..”

Photo was actually pretty silent. She just glared...not saying a word.

Cloudy on the other hoof was not having this, she wasn't about to let her friend take the fall for her dumb move. “What are you doing, Style?!”

Style continued the facade. “It was all me, I'm gonna take responsibility for all of this.”

Photo piped up. “Don't lie to me, Style. I knew it was Cloudy zis whole time..”

Both Style and Cloudy were a bit dumbfounded. Cloudy would pipe up. “Wh..what? How?”

“When the backdrop fell it was obvious. Now explain yourself!” I just watched this transpire. Seems Photo was sharper than she looked.

Cloudy would choke a bit. “I...I don't want to do this anymore. I figured that if things went wrong, we would just go home and call it a day....I’m sorry...I’m so sorry.”

Style would step between her and Photo. “You have no idea how sorry she is. Please...don't hold it against her.”

Photo was fairly adamant in her stance. “She said it herself. She doesn't want to do this anymore. She has to go.”

Rouge would also step up. As a few more of the models as well. “If she leaves, then we all leave.”

Style added. “You were way too hard on her. You’re way too hard on all of us. And frankly I’m getting sick of it. All she wanted was a little pat on the back. But of course you set your expectations so high she was never gonna be good enough for you.”

Photo was silent. Her crew had never stood up to her like this.

Cloudy shouted. “STOP!!!”

The rest of the crew stopped and look at her in surprise.

“Thank you for sticking up for me...but...I don't want to do this anymore...I want to do what makes me happy and I’m sorry, it’s not here. As much as I love you guys...this isn't where I belong...”

Photo was still silent. Quietly observing, then she spoke. “Style, Rouge..we go..” And she would turn and walk off.

Rouge looked back at Cloudy and slowly followed Photo. Style looked to Cloudy. “Are you sure about this...?”

Cloudy would nod. ”Yes... I'm sure.”

Style got closer and went in for a hug. “I'm gonna miss you, sweetie..”

Cloudy teared up. “Thank you... for trying to stick up for me... but this is where you belong. I couldn’t ask you to give that up for my sake.”

I was still watching this happen. Yeah, it was kind of bittersweet, but honestly it was for the best.

Style let Cloudy go and began to follow Photo. “Keep in touch, alright?”

Cloudy nodded. “Sure.” She started to head over my way. “..Um..thanks for helping me do that..you're right. I should be doing what makes me happy.”

I nodded. “It’s no problem. Sorry I kind of got this involved in the first place. I guess curiosity got the better of me.”

She gave a small smile. As that happened though Rouge would return with a letter in hoof. She handed it to Cloudy. “Photo wanted me to give you this... sorry about all this.” She once again returned to Photo’s side, getting things cleaned up and such.

Cloudy looked curious and opened the letter. It was from Photo. It said. “I have taken note of your skill. But you were right, this environment was not suited to you. However, perhaps being your own boss would suit you better.” Inside was another letter. It was a referral to a huge salon chain that has stores all over Equestria. It was for opening a location in Ponyville...and it was signed by Photo Finish herself. Cloudy was tearing up...these were tears of joy however. She was so joyous in fact that she immediately ran off whooping and cheering.

I was still there. A bit confused as to what just happened but it seemed things had worked out. That honestly felt good... I never knew I could even do something like that. I mean, I had admired my dad for being a detective but I never figured that I would ever get to do it myself. I smiled and adjusted my hat. “I could get used to this.”

“So, are you a big shot photographer yet?” Said Junie as she just seemed to appear next to me. It honestly spooked me.

“Wah! Don't do that!” I regained my composure. “Nah...found it wasn't really for me. However..” I looked to my camera. “I think I was meant for something a bit different.”

“Oh really now? Well you can tell me over lunch. Cataloging the mating patterns of woodworms is hungry work.” She looked over at some of Photo’s models. “Hey...do you think I'm cuter than those models?”

I choked a bit. Well that came right the hay out of nowhere. “Wait, what?”

“Oh, nothing...just a thought.” She smiled and began leading the way to wherever we were going for lunch. I had no idea where she was going...

Hat Trick

It was a glorious day! The birds were chirping, the sun was shining and I had a pounding headache..wait what. “Gyaa! What the..my head.” I was in bed rubbing my now throbbing head. I felt a pretty nasty bump right on top. “I wonder where that came from..I..can't really recall..Oh well, it’ll pass, time to grab my hat and start a brand new day.” I reached for where I usually put my hat, the bedpost. Strangely it wasn't there...wait...what! I always put it there! I started frantically looking around for it. Checking the covers, drawers, nothing came of it.

“NNOOOOOOOO!” I shouted from my house, no doubt getting a few weird looks from passing ponies. Including Junie, of course, outside rummaging through my bushes.

“Woh! Where’s the fire?” She tilted her head at me. “You look a little different, can't quite put my finger on it though.”

I was frantic. “My hat! I lost my hat! I can't believe it..” The panic turned to sadness in an instant.

“Oh yeah, that little fishing hat you wear.” She looked me over as if inspecting me. “You don't look TOO bad without it. I didn't really know you grow your hair out this long.” She kind of messed with it a bit.

I didn't really say anything. I still couldn't believe I lost it. Junie could probably tell how bummed I was.

Junie would ponder.. “Come with me. We'll get you something to hide your shame in the meantime.” She dragged me by the hoof.

“Wait what? I don't want a new hat!”

“It’s just for the time being, alright? I'll help you find your old one. Besides. You can never have too many hats.”

She dragged me to a little hat shop. We tried a few on but none of them really fit. I sighed. “It’s just not the same.” I said looking into a mirror wearing a little bowler hat.

“I don't know. I think it makes you look pretty dapper myself...OH. You like noir detective stories right?”

“Heh..you know me too well at this point.” I said, taking off the bowler hat and setting it aside.

“Be right back.” And she darted off only to come back a few seconds later with a rather nice looking gray fedora. “Here. Try this.” She tossed it over. I tried it on and...it looked good. At least for now.

“It’s cool...I guess. But there was more to that hat besides the looks.” I took off the fedora. “It was a gift from my dad when I got my cutie mark. Kind of a coming of age present.”

Junie snapped to. “Wait..really? Well why didn't you say so! I know just the pony who could help us.” She grabbed me again and dragged me off to who knows where. Guess I'm going hatless.

She dragged me to a quaint little cottage. Junie knocked on the door. “Hey Goldie. I got a live one.” A pony answered. She had a yellow coat and a blonde braided mane to match. She wore a worn red beret and a khaki vest with all sorts of pockets and such. I could see inside a bit. Her walls were full of little knick knacks and things.

She gasped. “Junie! It’s been a while!” She gave her a big hug. “You need to visit more. Oh..so who’s this with you? No...did you get a coltfriend? I'm so happy for you Junie!”

Well that caught me off guard. “Wait what!”

Junie’s mint green face turned bright red. “GOLDIE!!” She playfully shoved her a bit. “He’s my friend! You're such a jerk sometimes!” She pouted for a bit, though it was obvious they were just messing with each other. She cleared her throat. “Anyway..Flick, this is my friend Goldie Locks. She has a knack for finding shiny things and such.”

“It’s more than that and you know it.” She motioned to her mark. It was a treasure chest. “Nice to meet you..Flick was it?” She smiled and put out a hoof.

“Uh. Thanks.” I responded with my own hoof and shook.

“Anyway. If Junie brought you here, that must mean you want me to help you find something. That’s kinda my thing. Wait.....you're looking for a hat aren't you?”

I was a bit shocked that she called it like that. I held the top of my head. “How did you know?”

“Well for one I can see a slight indent on your forehead where a hat would sit. Also you have a bit of hat hair. You’re obviously somepony that doesn't go anywhere without a hat, and it was important to you I assume. Since you only get a indent like that from wearing it almost everyday.”

Wow..that was pretty good deduction. “Y..yeah. Wow..you're good.” I rubbed my head a bit. It was still kind of bothering me.

She nodded. “You could say that my specialty is finding treasure, and I mean the word treasure loosely. It could also mean personal treasure which I assume that hat is for you, yes?”

I nodded. That hat was probably one of the most important things to me. I couldn’t help but rub my head. Not only did it hurt but now it was cold.

Junie piped up. “So what's the plan of attack here?”

Goldie pondered to herself. “Well I guess first things first. We need to retrace your steps from yesterday. It’s possible maybe you took it off and left it somewhere?”

Junie nodded in agreement. “Yeah if it’s not at your house then you might have left it somewhere. Where did you go yesterday?”

I thought about it for a minute. “I went to Sugarcube Corner I think. Yeah, I got a snack there.”

Junie shrugged. “Fair enough. Let’s just hope Pinkie isn't too loopy today. One minute you're walking in, the next you could be smacking a pinata. No telling with her.”

The three of us headed off to the familiar gingerbread cottage that was Sugarcube Corner. We walked in to see Mr. Cake manning the counter. Very slim pony for someone who works at a sweet shop. He waved and smiled. “Hey there kids. Anything I can get for you?

I piped up. “Actually I was wonder..” I was interrupted by a perky pink pony poking her head out of the kitchen. She then almost bounced her way to the counter with some sort of decadent looking confection in hoof.

“Oh! Junie! You're just in time to try a slice of my Super Duper Triple Chocolate Chocolate Cake..still working on the name though, can any of you think of any more words that end with -uper?”

Junie chuckled nervously. “I think we’ll pass for now.”

Goldie piped up after her. “Speak for yourself that looks delicious!”

Pinkie put it closer to Junie’s face. “Awh come on. It’s got spriiiiinkles..” She gave a little pouty face. Trying to tug at Junie’s heartstrings.

I chuckles with a shake of my head and looked to Mr. Cake. “So...anyway. When I came here yesterday you didn't happen to see me leave a hat here did you?”

Mr. Cake would ponder it for a bit. “No can't say I did really. What about you Pinkie? Did Flick leave a hat here?”

Pinkie ceased tempting Junie and Goldie with delicious sweets and perked up at the question. “Oh yeah I have a bunch of hats! Hold on..” She bolted up stairs in a pink flash and in almost a second later would come back down with a big box of hats. “Let’s see we have this one.” She put on a very colorful top hat with what looked like a big flower on it. “I like this one because it can do this!” The flower squirted me in the face with a little stream of water.

“Gah! What the!” And now my face was wet...great. I heard Junie and Goldie snicker at me in the background. Apparently they thought this was hilarious. Pinkie would go back into her box of hats. She pulled out a colorful jesters hat with little belled tassels.

“Oh I have this one too. It has little jinglies on it.” She pawed at one of them as if she was a cat or something and giggled.

I wiped the water off my face and responded. “I'm actually looking for a gray fishing hat. Do you have one?”

Pinkie would ponder this for second. “Lemee check.” She started digging through her box throwing hats everywhere. One of them landed on my head. It was one of those drink hats that you could put sodas and stuff into. “Nope. No fishing hats. Sorry guys. But that one looks good on you though!” She smiled and nodded sincerely

“I think I'll pass for now. Thanks anyway Pinkie.” I still heard Junie and Goldie snickering at me in the background. I took it off and set it on the counter. The three of us headed out.

Pinkie would frantically wave. “Bye guys! Now let see..trooper..no..grouper..nope..blooper.. maybe?”

I sighed. “Well that didn't get us anywhere.”

Junie still snickering. “At least it was hilarious...hehheh. Right in the face too.”

Not sure if they could hear me but I was grumbling a bit.

Goldie would pipe up. “Ok so this was a bust. Any idea where you went next.?”

“Hm...oh yeah. I went to check on Cloudy. She’s opening a salon here in Ponyville after that Photo Finish thing.”

Junie piped up. “Oh you mean that stylist you helped out? Oooh, Does Flicky have a crush?” She raised an eyebrow suggestively.

“N..no. I was just curious is all. She’s a nice girl. Wanted to make sure things were going ok you know.”

Goldie nodded. “Well we're off then. Lead the way to victory Flick.”

After a while we made our way to where Cloudy was setting up shop. It wasn't a huge place by any means but it was quaint and appealing. I looked inside and they were setting up chairs and counters and such. I saw Cloudy in the back looking it all over with a bit of a twinkle in her eye. I could tell she was happy and that this was what she really wanted to do. She saw us walk in and trotted her way over with a smile on her face. “Oh hey Flick, you brought your friends. Sorry we're still trying to get things situated, pardon the dust. Ooohh.” She gravitated over to Junie. She seemed to be looking over her mane.

Junie was a bit spooked by this. “Um..hello?”

Cloudy would snap out of herself for a minute. “Oh sorry..it’s just..has anyone told you your mane is such a lovely shade of blue? It goes really well with your coat too. It reminds me of mint ice cream.” She would chirp and offer a sincere smile.

Junie didn't really know how to take that it would seem. She blushed a bit. “R..really? You think so?” She looked over to a mirror as if trying to see what she saw.

“Oh yeah. I wouldn't say anything if I didn't mean it.” Cloudy nodded

Goldie piped up. “See I told you you're pretty Junie. You need to listen to me more. Anyway. Did our friend Flick here leave a hat somewhere?”

“Hat?” She looked back over at me. “I knew something felt off. Oh...I never knew you had such a long blonde mane. It’s lovely.” She said in an almost dreamy voice as she looked it over.

I blushed a bit, was my mane really that good looking? Not like it was hard to grow out or anything. “Yeah..seems I've misplaced it. I didn't leave it here did I?”

Cloudy shook her head as she snapped out of her self induced trance. “No I'm pretty sure you left with it. Sorry I couldn't really help more.”

I chuckled a bit. “No it’s fine. Thanks for the help anyway. I'll talk to you later Cloudy.” The three of us started to walk out and I waved goodbye. She waved in response.

“See you later Flick. Good luck!”

Junie nudged me a bit. “You seem to run into the best friends don't you.” She said with a air a smugness about her.

Goldie chuckled at that and looked over to me. “So where to next chief?”

“Well after that I went to a little pawn shop I found. Wanted to see if they had Spirit Slugs 7. I'm still looking for that one.”

All Goldie could do is look at Flick with a confused face. “Spirit what?”

Junie would step in. “Ehhh don't worry about it. It’s a nerd thing. Lead the way Flicky.”

After a brisk walk we would reach a little shop near the town center. It was a bit run down but it was open. Odd Ends of the Earth it was called. Like I said it was a little pawn shop filled with all sorts of...stuff. It was all over the place too. It wasn't really in any particular order but you could tell the shopkeep knew where everything was. We walked in and you could tell this place was around for awhile, you could smell the dust and age. The shopkeep was a nice enough guy, Sonny was his name. Had a great sense of style too. He wore a hat just like mine, though his was even more worn in. He was a older pony with a white coat and short gray hair, and liked to wear a coat lined with pockets for various things. He spoke up as I entered.

“Oh hey is that you Flick? I couldn't tell, you're not wearing your hat. Now now you don't have to change up your wardrobe for my sake. Hehehe. I see you brought a few friends too. Come in come in, feel free to look around.” He waved them inside enthusiastically.

Goldie looked around. “Wow...and I thought I was a pack rat. Flick if you lost your hat here I don't think we could even find it..”

Junie wandered aimlessly around the store. She found what looked like a calendar and she would motion for the others. “Hey guys. Take a look at this.”

We walked over to see what it was. I turned my head curiously. “Is that...Mrs Ginger?”

Goldie piped up. “Mrs Ginger? You mean that landlady?”

Junie would look it up and down. “Hmm..nice plot.”

Both of us would give Junie a weird look. “What..just look at these petunias. They’re great!”

The calendar in question was from a home and garden magazine. Mrs Ginger was dressed in a apron and large sunhat tending a flower bed. Hnh..turns out she was October that year. “Wow...I guess she was a model.”

I heard Sonny chuckle in the back. “Hehehe, best month there is.”

I shook it off for now and headed to the counter. “Hey Sonny? I'm looking for my hat. I didn't leave it here did I?”

He shot me a look. “Now why would you go and lose such a classy piece of headwear? You need to keep a better eye on it.” He pondered for a minute. “No I don't believe so. I'm pretty sure I saw you leaving with it yesterday.”

I saddened a bit. This was the last place I had visited that day. “Oh...well...thanks anyway.”

Sonny put out a hoof and raised my head by the chin. “Hey don’t sweat it kid. Nothing in this world is truly lost. You just gotta remember where you put it. As you can see I've gotten pretty good at that.” He chuckled.

Goldie stepped up. “Well let’s head back to your place. Maybe something will jog your memory. Heck we can look through your house again just to make sure.”

I was still pretty sullen. “Yeah...” I slowly trotted out of the shop. Junie and Goldie followed closely.

It was a quick walk back to my house. Man...how was I gonna explain this to my dad. Just thinking about how he would take it was making my head hurt. Jeez..how did I even get this knot on my head anyway..I..couldn't seem to remember.

Junie trotted up and would nudge me a bit. “Hey cheer up Flicky. I’ll get that fedora you were eyeballing earlier for you. My treat. You know you want it.”

Goldie also tried to cheer me up. “Hey it’s not over yet. I got a good feeling about this. There's not anything I can't track down. Don't worry about it.”

As we got closer to my house I would see Mrs Ginger beside my house sweeping up something. Looked like a flower pot. Might have fallen from a second floor windo...wait..I rubbed my head. It’s coming back to me now. “I...I think I remember. That flower pot wanged me on the head!”

Out of the corner of my eye a gray wall-eyed pony with a blonde mane walked by. She started picking up the pace and whistling out of tune for some reason...hnh. I didn't really think much of it.

Ginger looked up from her job. “Excuse me?”

“Yeah that flower pot hit me on the head last night! Afterward I went inside and just kind of passed out....which means..” I ran inside.

Junie motioned to the door. “Sorry for the outburst Mrs Ginger. Looks like our Flicky just had a epiphany.”

Goldie nodded. “I had a feeling we were gonna find it here as soon as we walked up. Let’s see if that hunch was right.”

The two walked inside to see me digging under my bed. “No..no..no..YES!” I shimmied out from under my bed with the missing hat in hoof, bit dusty though. I brushed it off and placed it on its rightful place on top of my head. “Ah...sooo much better. My head feels whole again.”

Goldie looked me over. “It does look good on you.”

I got up and hugged the two. “Thanks you so much guys for helping me find this. It means a lot to me.”

Junie blushed a bit. “Jeez Flick you're embarrassing me...you're welcome though.”

Goldie giggled. “It’s no trouble. Just let me know if you ever misplace anything else, alright? You hang out with my secretary.” She said nudging Junie a bit.

“Hey! I'm not a secretary. I'm more your agent if anything.”

I thought for a minute...should I ask Ginger about that calendar?

Opening Attractions

I was out and about for the day, since Cloudy had actually invited me to her salon’s grand opening. She finally got everything ready to open up. It was quite an event too, even the Mayor was gonna be there. I was happy for her, I could tell that this was what she really wanted to do. So I figured I could show up and wish her well.

After a short walk through town I came to the site of the event. There was a decent crowd of ponies from all over town. Looking around in the crowd I saw Junie and Goldie there too. I walked up and greeted them. “Oh hey guys. Want to say hi to Cloudy too?”

Junie turned around and smiled. “Oh hey Flicky. I figured might as well. She seemed nice enough. Not much else really going on anyway.” She shrugged.

Goldie nudged Junie a bit. “And I’m here ‘cause she dragged me here.”

“Hey I said we need to hang out more. So I’m not letting you out of my sights.” She pulled her in close as if saying ‘back off she’s mine.’

I chuckled a bit until I smelt something..strong. It wasn’t bad just...pungent. “You guys smell that?”

Junie put up her nose. “Ugh...yeah. Smells like...floor wax? No..Paint thinner? Guh..whatever it is it’s burning my nose...” She put her hooves over it like that was gonna fix something. I overheard a pony grumbling near me. She had this crazy blue updo. I think it added about a foot to her height. I could overhear her grumbling a bit.

“Bah...another salon. It’s hard enough to keep up with Rarity in this town.” Well she sounded none too happy about this. Oh well, not really my business what other ponies’ opinions are. Soon I found myself being hugged out of nowhere by none other than the owner of the place herself.

“You came Flicky! Oh and you found your hat!” Cloudy looked up to my head. She almost looked a little disappointed but that quickly passed.

“Hey Flicky is my pet name. You get your own..like Flickster..or Flicker. Yeah those are good.” Junie said in a bit of a joking manner

“Oh you all came! Thank you guys so much!” She would go to hug Junie too.

Goldie piped up. “Heh, a bit affectionate aren't you?”

Cloudy giggled. “You wanna hug too?” And of course she gave Goldie a big one. “I’m just in such a good mood today. Having one of your dreams come true kind of does that.”

I nodded. “Hey I’m glad everything is working out. You’re a good kid.”

“Awh. Thanks Flick. Oh I need to get ready. The Mayor is gonna be there and everything. We even have a huge pair of scissors. It’s gonna be great!” She trotted off waving goodbye for now. I still heard that other pony grumbling. Man she has some issues..

After a few moments Cloudy stepped out with a tan mare with a wavy gray mane. That must have been the Mayor. “Ladies and Gentlecolts. I would like to welcome you to the grand opening of our new mane salon, Mane Attractions! Miss Cloudy if you would be so kind as to hand me that case over there we can get started.” Cloudy nodded and quickly fetched a case. I assumed it was the case with the big scissors in it. You know, the big ones they use to cut the ribb.. “Its not here!” Cloudy shouted out. Sure enough the case was empty.

The mayor gasped. “Oh dear!”

Cloudy collected herself a bit. “Oh..well. It’s no worry. I’m sure we don't NEED them to finish the ceremony, we can just skip that part.”

The mayor nodded...but then she would stop and shake her head. “I’m...afraid we can't do that.”

“Wait what? What do you mean? It’s just some scissors, it’s not a huge deal right?”

“Well you see I just remembered one of our laws...it’s an old one. One I planned on removing from the books but a law nonetheless. We can't officially open your establishment until we finish the ceremony, and we can't finish without those scissors. I know it sounds silly but it’s the law. If we can find them, then we can pick it up later. ”

Cloudy looked heartbroken. All she could do was sit down.

I can't believe this happened either. Who would have thought that would happen. Then I noticed that updo pony leaving. She didn't even look surprised. ...I smelled something else besides her hair..something fishy. I spoke up. “Mrs Mayor, my friends and I will help find those scissors!”

She looked me over. “Oh well I don't see why not. Feel free to help if you wish. Should you find anything you can find me at City Hall.” She took her leave and the crowd dispersed.

“Flick? You're gonna help me?”

“Well yeah. I mean you’re my friend right?”

Junie and Goldie stepped up too. Junie leaned on me. “And a friend of Flick’s is a friend of mine. Plus my friend Goldie Locks here is an expert lost stuff finder.”

Goldie nodded. “I don't like to brag but..you know. It is on my flank.” She rubbed her treasure chest mark. “So has the case been here the whole time?”

Cloudy shook her head. “Actually no. She went ahead and left the case with me.”

I piped up. “Alright then. First stop is your house. I have a feeling what might have happened to it...I think somepony stole it.”

Junie nudged me. “You sure we want to jump to that conclusion?”

I nodded. “It’s just..kind of a hunch I'm going on right now. Cloudy, could you show us where you kept it when we get to your house?”

Cloudy nodded. “Uh yeah sure if you think it will help.”

I heard a voice in the distance. “Cloudy? Cloudy! How have you been?” Another pony approached. He was a light gray color with a slicked back blue mane.

Cloudy seemed to recognize him. “Dusk? DUSK!” She went in for a hug. “It’s been so long! How’s law school been?”

“Oh it goes. I heard about you opening your new place and wanted to see it for myself. How is it turning out?”

“Ehhh. We've hit a few snags. It should get sorted out soon though.”

I interrupted after some hesitation. “Friend of yours there?”

She turned to us and gasped. “Ohmygosh I'm so sorry. Guys this is my brother Dusk Gray.”

He bowed. “Pleasure to meet you all. I take it you’re friends of my sister?”

Junie nodded. “Yes. We've recruited your sister into our band of misfits...hope you don't mind.” She gave a little smirk.

Goldie gave her a look. “You’re just the queen of first impressions aren't you?”

“I do what I can.” Junie would nod a few times.

Flick chuckled nervously. “Pleasure to meet you too Dusk.”

Dusk looked back at his watch. “Well I hope you get things sorted out. Though I am worried. Are you sure you can handle a business like this Cloudy...I...heard about what happened with Photo.”

Cloudy looked down a bit. “That was different...I...just didn't take very kindly to being bossed around is all. It just wasn't for me. This will be different..”

“Are you really sure about that Cloudy?” He would put a hoof on her shoulder.

She brushed his hoof off a bit. “You know you don't always have to be the knight in shining armor. I'm an adult now Dusk. I think I can handle myself.” She smiled. I could tell this was normal for them.

Dusk cleared his throat. “Well..I'll see you later Cloudy. Good luck.” He bowed and headed off to do whatever business he was doing.

Goldie piped up. “Well he was a dashing young man. He seemed nice.”

Cloudy shrugged. “Yeah he’s a good person. But he always felt he had to be my guardian. He means well at least.”

I shrugged. “Seemed like a nice enough guy anyway. But let’s get to your house. We got some cutting utensils to track down.”

We headed over to Cloudy’s place. It was a quaint little cottage. Nothing too fancy really. She unlocked the door and let us in. It was then I already noticed something off. The door looked like..But before I could complete my thought, Cloudy spoke up.

“Welcome to Casa Del Cloudy. It’s not much but feel free to look around. I had the scissors over here.” She lead us to a small cabinet over her dresser. While I was looking at that I saw Junie doing something weird...like weirder than usual. It looked like she was dancing to some cobwebs over in a corner of the room...well not so much dancing as kind of wiggling around and making a clicking noise every now and then..it was definitely odd. Goldie walked up next to me.

“Ah, looks like Junie found a witness. Best not to interrupt her.”

All I could do was give her a puzzled look. “Witness? It looks like she’s doing interpretive dance or something.”

“Nah it's nothing like that. She has that ladybug on her flank for a reason. She can talk to insects and the like.” She said with a smile.

“She...can talk to bugs?”

Goldie shook her head. “I wouldn't call them bugs around her. She might take offense to that.”

Junie interjected. “Arachnid to be specific and I got some good intel thanks to your little friend in the corner. Also...he says don't worry about that big roach you saw in the kitchen the other day, he took care of him for you.”

Cloudy gave her a weird look. “Um...thanks?”

Junie adjusted her glasses. “Anyway. To my point. While he didn't get a look at whoever it was. You had a case of breaking and entering the other night. He felt a series of hoofsteps he didn't recognize..and they headed right over here.”

Cloudy started to freak out. “You mean...I had a burglar?!”

Goldie tried to console her. “It’s obvious they knew what they were looking for. So you weren't in any danger.”

Junie nodded. “Yes. Hanz was regretful that he couldn't do anything about it. He can only handle the smaller intruders...oh and his name is Hanz by the way.” She glanced back at the web. “Say hi Hanz.” If one looked closely they could see a tiny little spider waving his little leg.

I took this moment to look over the cabinet. I saw where the case used to be but nothing was really...wait. “Hey Junie could you lend me your horn a sec. I think I found something.”

Junie walked over and looked in. “Where do you want it chief?”

“Right there. I see something. Could you pick it up for me?”

Her horn glowed and she would levitate a small piece of hair out of the cabinet. “Hm..it’s blue...but it’s not the same shade as Cloudy’s highlights.”

It occurred to me. That pony in the crowd. The one with the updo. She had blue hair, and she had a bit of a motive. She was obviously not happy with the opening. “I think I know who we need to talk to guys.”

Cloudy looked curiously at me. “What do you mean?”

“I have a possible suspect. Tell you what. You guys stay here and keep looking for clues. I need to talk to somepony.” I adjusted my hat. I've watched enough detective stories to be able to sort of get how interrogation works...sort of. Well it went ok last time I guess..

Junie nodded. “Alrighty then. I'll see if I can round up some more witnesses...I think I see a moth over by that lamp.” She trotted over to it and did her...thing.

I shook my head. “Wish me luck.” As I went out the door to go find my suspect.

I asked around and eventually found my way there. It was a definitely a salon alright. I could smell the hair products from here. I walked inside and could see a few ponies getting their manes trimmed. It was a classy enough place though; from how ritzy everything looked I could tell a mane cut here wasn't cheap. I saw my suspect tending to her station. She didn't have a customer which was good. I started to walk over but I was stopped by the receptionist. “Do you have a appointment sir?” She said in a bit of a nasally voice. She was also chewing some gum of some kind and had this devil may care attitude about her.

“Um I just wanted to talk to one of the stylists ma’am,” I said trying to be as polite as possible.

“Nope, sorry kid but you can't go back there unless you plan on getting a treatment,” she said blowing a bubble with her gum.

“But..but I just want to talk to her.”

“Do you know her sir?”

“Well no but..”

“Sorry. Unless you want a treatment no dice.”

I sighed at this. This was ridiculous...oh well. I have been meaning to get a trim. Apparently I have really long hair.. “How much for a manecut..” I said with a drone in my voice.

“That’s 30 bits sir.” At one point she pulled out a hoof file and started working on her hooves. Still sounding disinterested.

I choked a bit. “Jeez lady! That’s nuts.”

“Sorry. That’s the price. Take it or leave it.”

I grumbled and placed the bits on the table. Well there goes my lunch for the week. I better be getting a back rub or something along with this. “Thank you sir. Mrs Prim will see you now.” I made my way to the mare in question. Man, I can still smell that mane from here. Then again with how she has it set up you would need a metric ton of hair gel to even keep it stable. I sat on the chair and placed my hat on the table. She would proceed to wrap the guard around my neck to keep loose hairs off me.

“What were you thinking of getting today sir?”

“Um..I just need a trim. People keep talking about my long mane. Figured it was time for a trim.”

“Hm. I guess. Any specific style you want?”

“Hm...surprise me I guess.”

She shrugged. “Alright. If you say so.” And she would get to work.

And now the questions begin. What better way to interrogate a stylist then to get them where they HAVE to listen to you. “So how’s business been?”

“It’s been decent really. Though I'm worried. With that new place opening up we're gonna have to rework things around here.”

“So I heard. Did you hear about what happened at the grand opening though? Tragic.”

“Yeah. I kind of felt bad really.”

“Wait really? Wouldn't another salon hurt your business?”

“I mean yeah it would be a little tough for us but hey you know a little competition can be healthy sometimes, and she seemed like a nice enough pony. Hated to see that happen to her.”

Hnh...well that was an unexpected response. “So I'm guessing you don't really know her then.”

“Hm..no. Can't say that I do.”

Hm...that is a interesting point..wait...I think I know who did this. After this I need to get back to Cloudy’s. I have a plan.

“Alright. All done. How do you like it?”

I looked at the mirror. Wow that was fast. No backrub though so that was kind of dis...wow. It was a VERY proper cut. Very short and wavy. I looked like I was about to go to a fancy dinner party or something..or a family photo. It’s not bad it’s..well..it was probably my own fault for saying ‘surprise me.’ “Um..thanks. It looks good.” And it did just...eh. I need to make sure not to lose my hat again cause I'm gonna need it.

“Well thank you. Come again soon alright.”

Now I felt kind of bad. She wasn't a bad pony at all. She was just worried about her business...but now I have a decent idea of who did it. I needed to get back to Cloudy’s.

I returned to Cloudy’s place to find the crew sitting and chatting it up. Seems that they had taken some time to get to know each other. Junie looked as if she was telling a story.

“So yeah this basilisk comes out and and Charger tells us not to look in the eye. He actually got its attention so we could get away. Goldie here was scared stiff.” This warranted a nudge from Goldie.

“Hey don't lie you were scared too!” Junie shifted her eyes back and forth and noticed me walk in.

“Oh hey Flicky!” She said as if to change the subject. “Did you find anything out...woh..” She noticed the hair cut..I hoped had she hadn't. “New hair cut Flicky?”

Cloudy perked up and spoke. “You got a haircut? Awhhh, I liked you hair long..” She gave a puppy dog face and sounded as if I had broken her heart.

I adjusted my hat as to try to hide most of my hair. “Well...the price you have to pay for good information. I think I know what we need to do. Cloudy I need you to get hold of the Mayor and tell her we found the scissors, and that we're gonna reschedule the opening to tomorrow. And make sure she promotes the heck out of it.”

Cloudy cocked her head. “But...we didn't find them.”

Goldie perked up. Looks like she got what I was going for. “Oh I get it! You're gonna trick the robber to strike again. If they think the opening is back on there gonna try to nab the scissors again.”

Junie got a wicked looking smile on her face. To be honest it was creeping me out. “But this time we're gonna be ready. Cloudy I'm gonna need to borrow that couch. Hanz, give me some of your best silk.” She said that last part to the corner of the kitchen where those cobwebs were. I have such weird friends.

It was a long day. Cloudy had told the Mayor the plan and she was happy to help. She spread flyers and tried to get as much attention out there as she could for the next day. The others and I had waited till late at night to start our little stake out. It was dark, really dark. We all hid behind various pieces of furniture waiting for the moment when the robber would strike. Then a rattling came from the door as it had opened and a pony in all black with a ski mask entered. I heard Junie snicker a bit next to me. I put my hoof over her mouth to keep her quiet. I don’t care how funny her trap is.

They went right to the cabinet the case was in. They knew exactly what they were looking for. As they got too close however I noticed Junie’s ear twitch. She had used Hanz’s spider silk to make a trip wire only she would detect and hear. It was rather ingenious really. Though what the trip wire was for was for Junie to drop a small couch on the intruder when he was in position..Dont look at me it was her idea alright...

“NOW!” And Junie yanked a rope to drop a small couch onto the intruder with a loud thump, cushions down of course as to not hurt them too bad. It wasnt very big so they would be fine but they weren't going anywhere. The lights would flip on. “Got’em! Thanks for the help Hanz!” I noticed the spider this time and I swear he saluted.

They struggled to get out but to no avail. I stepped out from behind the couch too. “Well looks like we got you...Dusk.” I trotted over and pulled off the face mask to show that it was indeed Cloudy’s brother. Cloudy looked shocked at the notion. “Br..BROTHER! Wha..Why?’

Dusk looked ashamed. “How...how did you know it was me?”

Oh now comes the fun part. “Well it was a few things really. For one. When we first got here I noticed there was no sign of forced entry. So whoever did it most likely knew how to get in. You did it this time too. I locked the door to make sure of that. We had also found a hair near the case. At first it looked liked it belonged to a certain stylist I met. One with hair that smells like floor wax, which this one doesn't. It’s also greasy, you look like you use a good bit of oil in you hair.”

Dusk rubbed his head. probably regretting going with that hair style.

“And you had said you were training to become a lawyer right, or at least in law school? The law preventing the ceremony was pretty obscure. Even the Mayor almost forgot about it. I figured you might have dug it up in your studies and used it to your advantage. I admit I didn't expect you at first but as I thought about it the pieces made sense. I just wanted to catch you red handed first.”

Cloudy at this point was absolutely livid. “You haven't answered my question yet Dusk...why...why would you get in the way of my dream like that.”

Dusk at this point was in tears. “I'm sorry! I'm so sorry. This was a boneheaded idea and I'm sorry...I was scared..scared you might fail. So I figured maybe if I did this you would give up and go back to Pho..” But before he could get that out Cloudy would interrupt.

“Why do you guys think I can't handle myself! I don't get it. Our whole family thinks I can't make it in my own. I thought you were better than that..”

Dusk was bawling at this point. “I know..it was dumb. You have no idea how sorry I am Cloudy..”

Cloudy sighed. She had cooled down a bit. “It’s just...will you guys just give me a chance before jumping in to save me? I’m a grown pony. I can handle myself. I'm not a little baby anymore.”

Dusk sniffed and nodded. “I can give you back the scissors. They’re at my place. I'm..sorry for all the trouble.”

Cloudy shook her head and managed to crack a smile. “Man for a law student you sure can be boneheaded..also..you guys can get the couch off of him now.”

Goldie helped get the couch off and stood and shook himself off. He still looked pretty ashamed though. Cloudy hugged him though. “Look I forgive you ok...I can tell you meant well. You're still a huge bonehead but you meant well....now stop meaning well before I have to smack you.” She said jokingly.

Cloudy turned to me after that and gave me a hug as well. “Thank you again Flick..thanks everyone. If you need anything from me all you have to do is ask.” She shot all of us a huge smile. She was almost in tears herself.

“Shame you had to jump the gun on that hair cut. You could have had Cloudy cut it for free.”

All I did at that point was grumble. “Don't remind me...um. Think you could spot me for lunch today..this kind of cleaned me out.” I said pointing to my head.

Junie rolled her eyes. “Oh I guess. Only if you let me borrow Killer Potatoes though.”

I nodded. “Deal.”