Solid Leads: Equestrian Detective

by MrStories

Rating: teen
Tags: Original Character, Slice of Life, Main 6, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Sad, Other
Length: 10837

Follow Detective Solid Leads as he faces challenging cases and every day life in Ponyville.

This is Detective Solid Leads, a Manehattan born unicorn gifted with keen perception. His special talent has led him to great success in law enforcement and a promotion that lands him his own office in Ponyville. But it also lands him the responsibility to aid with serious cases in cities all over the kingdom. Is he up to the task? Or will the darker side of Equestria claim yet another promising career?

Despite the Detective's new position, he's not going to be called on for EVERY murder that happens in Equestria. This gives him a lot of time to meet and get to know the town locals. Ponyville is rumored to be a very active town, there's always something happening. And sooner or later, ponies who stay long enough get roped into these little random events. Solid is no exception.

Published 2012-12-13 02:20:01 UTC
Last updated 2013-04-23 03:42:53 UTC

Introduction: Goodbye Manehattan

[Author's Note: This is my first fic so I'm a little green when it comes to writing. If you find something wrong, be sure to bring it to my attention through a message. Thank you.]

Solid Leads:
Equestrian Detective

Introduction: Goodbye Manehattan

Manehattan. What a city! When you first glimpse the blinking lights of the high society hotels, gourmet restaurants, and glorious theaters; You'd think this place was built just to be some fancy pony's amusement park. But if you look up a little higher, you'll see the upper half of tall skyscrapers. And if you're curious enough to walk by all the luxurious clubs and designer emporiums to get a better look at these monumental structures, you'll walk 70 years into the past. Because hidden right behind the art galleries full of odd paintings(The kind of paintings that look even stranger when you squint and tilt your head) is a city that has never grown out of it's hay days. One of the first things you'll hear is a paper colt yelling newspaper headlines amongst the passing crowds at the top of his powerful little lungs. The next will be the voice of a kind young stallion asking you if you want a good old fashion hoof shining. Carts and carriages of all sizes are pulled all up and down the busy roads, keeping the traffic cop busy. While walking down the streets, You'll pass market venders, or exotic stores selling far away goods like zebra crafts, or maybe even a tailor or a barber shop. Then you bump into somepony, he looks you straight in the eyes and out of his mouth spouts profanity that would make Celestia herself faint; In an accent that ironically makes you want to smile. But that's the thing you'll notice the most, ponies in this town aren't going to stick their noses in the air and pretend you don't even exist. Nope, ponies here don't think that highly of themselves. They're more comfortable keeping their noses level with yours to tell you that you're slime. Then you finally see them up close. Those towers that looked like daisies desperately trying to escape a jungle of weeds now dwarf even the tallest trees found in Equestria. Pegasai swiftly fly between and around them at high speeds, some of them pushing clouds around for rain orders and others simply trying to get from point A to point B as fast as they can. But after all you've seen, that's just a taste of what Manehattan has to offer. Parks, museums, sports stadiums, and a place for you no matter what your special talent is. Yep, ponies born here love this town and they love everything about it. But tonight, one of Manehattan's sons will have to leave his beloved home behind.

"Well, this is it", Merritt said after the last of his long time partner's bags were loaded onto the train. The train station was abuzz with activity. Ponies greeting their relatives just arriving to town, some saying goodbye to dear friends, foals complaining about how long the trip was. But this was a normal day for Manehattan Central Station."New town and a new office, if only I could come with you".

"Believe me, I told the Princess that you make a great partner. But she said this was my job and my job alone." Detective Leads replied. His pals from the Department were all there to see him off. Even the Captain was there, more exuberant than the rest of the group.

"Lad," He said with a front leg over Lead's shoulder. "You've done me and the department proud! Through your efforts, this town has become a more peaceful place." Two pegusai, who in their haste nearly collided, contradicted the Captain by sharing words with each other.

"Hey I'm flyin' heah, @$%&*^%!"

"Watch where ya goin', ya cross eyed $#%#!"

The rest of the confrontation was drowned out by the crying of a foal and an obnoxious young mare telling the parents to shut him up. The parents of course didn't take too kindly to that, the outraged mother responded with a "how dare you" and swift right hoof to the mare's face. Before a battle royale could start, security broke up the fight and proceeded to escort both parties out of the station. "well...more peaceful than it WAS...", the Captain laughed. "Now boyo, It won't just be me counting on ya to get the job done. You're going to be carrying a lot more weight on your back. Fillydelphia, Cloudsdale, Baltimare, they'll all be looking to you when things look grim. Remember that."

"I will, Sir." Solid replied.

"I was supposed to say that, Captain." Said a aged stallion as he approached the group. "Oh!" The Captain responded, turning his head to the approaching unicorn. "Sorry Strong, didn't think you'd make it in time."

"I haven't missed any of my son's big days and by Celestia, I'm not missing this one." Strong Leads responded.

"It's good to see you, Dad." Solid said to his father.

These two come from a long line of detectives, every generation has had a Leads. And every Leads has been a boon to law enforcement. The father examined his son, reflecting on the years spent raising him. "If only your mother were here to see you. She'd be as proud of you as I am now."

"And then she'd make sure my hat and tie were straight and tell me not get another partner like Merritt." Solid added. The group of stallions chuckled.

"She never did like me." Merritt also added. "And that reminds me, Solid." His voice became more sincere. "When you get settled in...do you think you can do me a favor? For your old pal?" He asked.

"Uh...sure," Leads replied with uncertainty. "What is it?"

Then a cheeky grin cracked on Merritt's face."...could you put in a good word for me with some of the ladies there? I hear that town is swarming with dolls." The guys cracked up, this was typical of Merritt. He has a reputation around the office for being a mare chaser, but he also has a reputation for being the least successful one. Once he tried to hit on a rookie female officer. Would have succeeded if he hadn't slipped and planted his face of the officer's flank. Merritt still has the hoof marks. If anypony ever asks him about the incident, he simply replies "Long story short, powerful legs on that one."

"And this is why she didn't like you," Strong laughed.

"Merritt, are mares all you think about?" asked the Captain, he was the only one not laughing.

"Of course not!" Merritt contradicted, acting like he was offended. "I also think about sandy beaches...with mares, I think about picnics...with mares, and I think about paintings with bowls of fruit...sitting next to mares."

Another good laugh was shared by the group before the conductor announced, "Next stops! Canterlot, Ponyville, and Dodge Junction! All abo-o-ard!"

"Best get going lad, our patrols can only stall the press for so long. You might not get the chance to board with those buzzards pecking at you", Warned the Captain.

"Right!" Lead's bolted for the passenger car.

"Good Luck!" Merritt called as the door closed behind the detective.

"Do you think he can handle himself, Strong?" The Captain asked with concern. The train's whistle blew. Steam rocketed from the engine as it slowly moved forward, picking up speed. "Your son's a fine detective, but the lad's got all of Equestria in his jurisdiction."

"He'll do just fine." Strong replied. "But it's going to be a bumpy ride. And I'm not talking about the train."

Leads took one last look out the window to see the press just arriving, tripping over each other just to get a picture of him. He found their desperation amusing. The flashes of camera lights were all he could see until the train left the station. Using kinesis, he opened the window next to his seat and stuck his head out to watch his home shrink in the distance. His fedora glowed dark blue, as he was also using his magic to keep the hat on his head. Eventually Solid couldn't even see the city lights over the horizon. The city he called his home since the day he learned how to say the word was no longer in sight. With this, the Detective retreated back into the car to get some sleep. For Detective Leads, this event was a big turning point in his career. Over the short time he spent as a detective in Manehatton, Leads had solved a impressive amount of cases. His most recent success made headlines and even caught the eye of Princess Celestia herself. She felt that the detective's unique abilities could be better used outside his department. So by her decree, Leads was given both a great honor and a tremendous responsibility. He was to take cases not only from Manehattan, but from towns a cities all over Equestria. But in order to do that, he'll need to be at a close distance to these cities. Therefore, Leads was given an new office in a town located at the center of Equestria. A town where he can answer any plea wherever it comes from and get there as quickly as possible...

"Twilight? Where are you going?" Asked Spike, carrying a stack of books Twilight Sparkle had just sorted and labeled.

"To the Sugar Cube Corner to pick up something to eat." Twilight replied. "Want anything?"

"How about a jelly filled doughnut?" The baby dragon suggested, his mouth was already watering at the thought of such a delicious pastry.

"Alright, I'll be back in a few minutes." And Twilight was out the door. At the last second, Spike remembered a couple of important details. He dropped the pile of books he was carrying, made a quick dash for the door, knocked down a stack of Twilight's friendship notes, woke up Owlicious by bumping the owl's perch, and trampled a paper hat he made just five minutes before.

"Chocolate frosting, triple the sprinkles!" He called as Twilight was rounding the corner.

"Got it!" Twilight called back. Seeing that all was well in his universe, Spike proudly marched back into the Library, only to be scolded by an angry owl and having to go through the complicated process of making a new hat.

As the Sugar Cube Corner came into view, Twilight could see Pinkie Pie and the Cakes putting well crafted gingerbread houses on display. With the dedication those three put into their work, Twilight wouldn't be surprised if there were entire gingerbread families living inside every delicious dwelling. Mr. Cake was up on a ladder adjusting the angle of a house displayed on one of the shelves. Pinkie Pie was holding the ladder still, directing him. Meanwhile, Mrs. Cake had just finished topping that last cupcake baked for the afternoon rush with pin point precision. Twilight eyed those cupcakes through the window. They sure look appetizing, very appetizing. And the fact that they're fresh makes them look even tastier. But it was when Mrs. Cake topped each one with a strawberry that Twilight made up her mind.

"A little to the left...no, to the right-WAIT!...a smidgin' forward...now turn it counter clockwise."

"Pinkie Pie, I don't think this will make much of a difference," Mr. Cake sighed, struggling to follow his employee's directions.

"Oh just trust her, ginger beer." Giggled Mrs. Cake.

A bell jingles as Twilight enters the store, catching the trio's attention. "Hey Twilight!" Forgetting about the task at hoof, Pinkie let go of the ladder to greet her friend. Mr. Cake suddenly felt the ladder start to wobble under his hooves, he looked down to see his wife and Pinkie both chatting with Twilight.

"Hello Pinkie Pie" Twilight greeted Pinkie who in a split second was face to face with her.

"How are you, dearie?" Mrs. Caked ask.

"Fine Mrs. Cake, could I trouble you for a bite to eat?" Asked her customer.

"Oh Absolutely!"

With his body stretched out and a piece of gingerbread real-estate being the only thing keeping him from falling, he only had three options. One, call Pinkie back; Two, try to keep his balance; Three, fall. Unfortunately the decision was made for him when one of his back hooves slipped. The ladder toppled over and Mr. Cake belly flopped on a table bellow, flipping over the pan of fresh cupcakes. Twilight, Pinkie, and a horrified Mrs. Cake rushed to his aid.

"Mr. Cake!" Exclaimed Pinkie and Twilight in unison.

"CARROT!" Mr. Cake's panicked wife screamed. "Oh my goodness, are you alright?!"

"I'm fine." He replied. Mr. Cake picked himself up and staggered a bit before he shook off most of the frosting. The lobby was littered with ruined sweets. "But we're going to need to clean the up and make a new batch of cupcakes. Pinkie Pie?"...

"I'm on it!" Pinkie called all the way from the Kitchen. Strange, because she was standing next to Mrs. Cake half a second ago. Before Twilight could offer to help, two foals who had been awoken by the crashing sounds began crying. The noise traveled throughout the bakery and to houses nearby. Every window in range was shut tight but that did little to help.

"Oh dear, the twins." Sighed Mrs. Cake.

"Go take care of them, honey bun. I'll clean up the mess." Mr. Cake replied. He headed for the restroom to wash off the frosting while Mrs. Cake power trotted upstairs to calm the twins.

"Well that was exciting," said Twilight.

"Uh-yeah!" Agreed Pinkie Pie, sticking her head out of the Kitchen doorway. Twilight turned back to Mr. Cake as he was closing the bathroom door behind him.

"Will Mr. Cake be okay? I didn't like how he was staggering, maybe he should go see a doctor."

"Oh don't worry Twilight. It's not the first time he fell off a ladder." Pinkie's head sunk back into the kitchen. Twilight waited patiently for Pinkie Pie to prepare more cupcakes. As soon as the fresh batch was tossed into the oven, Pinkie skipped out of the kitchen while humming some sort of fanfare. Then she hopped over the counter, ready to take her customer's order. "Whatcha hungry for?"

Twilight glanced over at the mess behind her. "Well, I wanted one of those cupcakes. But I'll settle with a slice of blueberry pie." Within' seconds, Pinkie Pie had cut a warm slice of pie from one made this morning, wrapped it up, and bagged.

"O.K.! Anything else?"

"Hmmm..." Twilight thought for a second. "Oh! And a jelly filled doughnut with chocolate frosting and extra EXTRA sprinkles."

"Oooo, Spike sure has good taste." Pinkie commented. "He sure d-" The unicorn paused in confusion for a second. "wait, how did you know that's what Spike wanted?"

"He comes in here every once in a while and buys the same thing. Didn't you know that, Twilight?"

"No. But now I know why I've been misplacing bits every month. I'm going to have to have a little talk with a certain baby dragon tonight." Twilight glared off to side.

"Really? Who? Is he a friend of Spike's?"

"No! He...forget it. How much?" The now annoyed unicorn asked.

"Six bits please."

Not two seconds after the doughnut wwas bagged, a new customer arrived. It was the Mayor, who nearly stepped in the minefield of cupcakes. "Oh my," She said as her eyes scanned the mess. "Did I come at a bad time?"

"Nope. It's Just a little insy winsy, teeny weeny, cupcake accident." Pinkie replied. The Mayor carefully walks around the disaster area to get to the counter. "Um...yes, I...can see. Anyway, I'm dropping by for a quick cup of coffee before his train arrives".

"Coming right up!"

"Who's train?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Oh, you haven't been reading the news?" The Mayor asked in turn.

"I pretty much gave up reading news papers after that whole Gabby Gums thing." Replied Twilight.

"Pinkie Pie..." Called the Mayor.

On cue, Pinkie pops up from the Mayor's side of the counter holding a mug in one hoof and several news papers in her mouth. The Mayor casually takes the mug from Pinkie, being used to her unusual ways. "Thank you," The Mayor said to the cheerful pink employee after sampling the brew. Pinkie tossed the papers on the counter in front of Twilight, somehow each one lined up perfectly with the other. They were all issues of the Ponyville Express from weeks past. "Please read the headlines, Twilight." The Mayor takes another sip and Pinkie drops down out of sight, reappearing on the other side of the service desk in a fraction of a second.

Manehattan Slasher Kills Fourth. The confused Twilight looked up at the Mayor who gestures her to read the next paper.

Slasher Vows A Fifth...

MRPD Detective Catches Notorious Killer. Intrigued, she continues to read the article instead of moving to the next headline.

Detective Solid Leads, a rising star in the Manehattan Royal Police Department, adds another arrest to his already outstanding record. But this time it is none other than the infamous Manehattan Slasher. This disturbed killer had the city in a state of uneasiness for an entire month, brutally killing a pony every Saturday. But what made everypony look over their shoulder was the promise from the Slasher that there would be another death the following week. Unknown to the city and the Slasher, Detective Leads secretly requested to work the case shortly after the fourth body was found. Six days later, the hunt was over with the surprising arrest of a waitress who worked at a local diner. Leads said that he had the killer figured out since day one with the only clues being a tiny gem and receipts. He spent the whole week having lunch at several diners nearest to the crime scenes, one diner a day, until he found the killer herself.

"That's interesting, but what does this all have to..."

"Just keep reading!" Interrupted both Pinkie Pie and the Mayor in raised voices.

"Alright alright!" The unicorn continued to the next paper, only this one caught her full attention.

Manehattan Detective Commended By Princess Celestia.
You read right Ponyville, Princess Celestia herself visited Manehattan yesterday to personally award Detective Solid Leads the MRPD Medal Of Justice, the third highest award the MRPD can give next to the Medal of Supreme Service and the Mark of The City. But what shocked everypony that day was when the Princess announced that she will be appointing Leads as the first Royal Intercity Detective of Equestria (RIDE for short). As you can see in the photo above, even the Detective(who is said to be a very calm and collected stallion) is wide eyed from this decree. The word is out that the Detective will be given a personal office building in a different town. What town it will be has yet to be identified...

"Sooo he's moving here?" Asked Twilight.

"Indeed he is." The Mayor replied "Ponyville is a close distance to all towns and cities in Equestria. He needs to be able to get to where he's needed as fast as possible."

"And I-I-I'm gonna throw him a welcome party!" Exclaimed Pinkie Pie as confetti and streamers shout out of tubes in this party helmet she happened to slip on without the other two noticing.

"Pinkie, I think today might not be right for a welcome party. He still needs time settle in, tomorrow would...Oh my, look at the time!" The Mayor gasped at the bakery's clock. "The train should be arriving any minute now! I have to be going!"

"I'll come with you." Twilight offered. "That's fine with me, but we must go now" The Mayor accepted.

"Don't worry Mayor, I'll hold the party off until tomorrow. That way I can make it even bigger!" Assured Pinkie Pie as her customers made for the exit. "Come back for dinner! And maybe for a midnight snack!...can we stay open open that late?" As Pinkie Pie pondered, Twilight and the Mayor trotted out the door, trying their best to avoid stepping on one of the ruined cupcakes.

There was a small crowd around the train station, all asking each other for what they know about the new arrival. Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash were there also. "So...does anypony know who's moving into town"? Fluttershy asked, curiously looking down the railroad track.

Rainbow Dash hovered above. "All I know is he's some kind of cop from Manehattan".

"Manehattin'?" Applejack looked up at her surprised. The fancy side of Manehattan was the only part of the city she had ever been to, it was hard for her to think of a detective coming from that neck of the woods."You sure 'bout that, Rainbow Dash?"

The light blue pegasus nodded her head in response. "That's what the news paper said. Well, the parts I read anyway."

"An' what parts didn't you read?" Applejack asked with a tone that says I already know the answer.

"The parts that didn't have big letters. All I care about are the Daring Do comics anyway." Rainbow Dash replied as she fluffed up a cloud to rest on. The workhorse rolled her eyes, followed by an "Uh huh"

The sound of a whistle could be heard on the horizon, the train was approaching. And on that train, Lead's had just been woken up by the conductor. It was a long two day trip from Manehattan to Ponyville. The train had to pass through Canterlot along the way to restock on coal. But it was a short top due to few passengers going both on and off. There was only enough time to grab a quick bite to eat at a nearby doughnut shop. And they were pretty good doughnuts. With Ponyville's clock tower just coming into view, the red stallion knew he had some time to prepare. Okay Solid, he thought to himself. First impressions are always the most important. I have to be professional...One of Merritt's wise cracks would be useful right about now. Leads spent most of the time he had staring into the bathroom mirror, straightening his hat and tie. But it wasn't until the train started slowing down that it dawned on him. "What are you doing?" He asked himself. Yes, this was a very important day for him but he was only going to blow it if he tried this hard to make a simple good impression. These thoughts were influenced even further when he saw the small size of the crowd. The train inches down the track on it's approach to the station. Fluttershy let out a little squeak and cautiously stepped back when the whistle blew again. She forgot how loud those train whistles were. "Heh heh. It's alright, Sugar Cube." Applejack said to comfort the startled pegasus.

Twilight and the Mayor found it easy to reach the boarding platform, they watched as the passengers emptied out of the cars one by one. A grey hat with a red feather stood out from those leaving the train. "Ah, there he is." The Mayor pointed a hoof at the stallion wearing the old style head-wear. "Detective..." Lead's turned to see a unicorn and an earth pony walking over to greet him. "...Let me be the first to welcome you to Ponyville."

"Thank you." Lead's replied with a nod and gentle smile. "Mayor Mare is it?"

"That would be me. And this is Twilight Sparkle."

"Hello Detective, welcome." greeted Twilight. "Pleased to meet you, Miss Sparkle." The detective returned the greeting with a nod.

Suddenly, Applejack grabbed one of his fore hooves and shook it violently."Howdy d'tective!" The friendly earth pony said. "Ah'm Applejack, this here's Rainbow Dash an' Fluttershy." She gestured her head in the direction of two pegasai. "We're some of Twilight's closest friends."

"...uh...Hello." He replied with the hoof shaking adding a rattle to his voice.

"On b'half of the Apple famleh, ah hope you enjoy your stay here in Ponyvi-"

"-You're from Manehattan, Right?" Interrupted Rainbow Dash, landing next to Applejack who continued to shake Solid's hoof while glancing curiously over at the pegasus.

"W-e-ll, Ye-s. I am." Solid struggled to responded. Rainbow dash then turned to Applejack with a smirk, "Told you."

"Nao wait just ah minute!" Glared Applejack, tossing the stallions near numb hoof to the side.

"Stop!" The Mayor exclaimed, defusing the fight before it could start. "We are not going to waste his time with petty arguments! Mr. Leads, come with me. I'll show you your new residence. Moving services have already-" But before they could even walk off the station platform...

"Mayor Mare!" A voice called. It was the Mayor's secretary, who had just ran all the way from Town Hall and was almost out of breath. "Your meeting with the town treasurer and construction crews starts in ten minutes. You have to be there!"

The Mayor smacked herself on the forehead. "Oh shoot! How could I forget?! Is there any way we can reschedule?"

"No ma'am! It has to be now." The secretary replied.

"Very well." She sighed. "But I'll need somepony else to accompany the Detective." The mayor looked to Twilight and her friends.

"Ah would if ah could," Said Applejack. "But ah best be headin' back to the Acres. Them apples need to be carted to the cellar by nightfall."

"I-i-i...still have some clouds to rearrange." Witch was true, but what Rainbow Dash didn't mention was that it was one cloud ordered from the local old folks home who wanted it for shade while they played shuffleboard.

"Oh...um...and I have to go meet Rarity at the spa for our weekly get together. I'm Sorry." Fluttershy added regretfully. At that, the trio departed the station. The Mayor's hopeful eyes then fixed themselves on Twilight...

It's amazing how a simple run for snacks became an welcome tour, as Twilight found herself to be the detective's guide. But she figured making Spike wait for a stale doughnut would be punishment enough for his borrowing. After a few minutes of walking, Twilight glanced over at Leads who was taking in his new surroundings. He looked up every few seconds, expecting to see a building taller than three stories. Twilight had never seen a member of any royal police force other than the sheriff of Appleoosa. Might as well make conversation, she thought to herself. "So..." She began. The faded red stallion turned his attention to Twilight. "What do you think of Ponyville?"

"It's...different." Lead's replied, returning to his examination of the town. "Not used to seeing this much of the sky, or so much grass for that matter."

"It'll feel normal after a week or two. Trust me, I had to make the same adjustments."

"Oh really?" Leads questioned.

"Mmmhm, I've lived here for 3 years. Yes I miss Canterlot, my parents, my brother; And moving from a castle wing to a library built into a tree isn't what somepony would call a good trade. But still, this town has become a second home. And I've made plenty of friends that have become family to me." Leads didn't respond to Twilight's words of comfort, he just stared straight forward. With her ears bent back, Twilight watched in confusion. Did I say something wrong? There was a moment of silence between them, they could hear nearby foals playing and even other ponies' conversations. One in particular between Lyra and Bon Bon brought a smile to Twilight's face. She didn't catch all of it but she swore she heard something about disguising herself as a bird to get free singing lessons from Fluttershy. The things Lyra says when her mind wanders simply boggles the mind. She though to herself, shaking her head.

Finally the detective broke the silence. "So what did you get at the Corner?"

"A slice of...wait. How did you know I was at the Sugar Cube Corner?" The puzzled mare asked.

Solid began to explain, "We passed the Corner about a minute ago. A tall earth pony who I assume is the owner was cleaning up what looked to be cupcakes off the floor. There's frosting smeared on your front right hoof, indicating you stepped on a product that would normally require frosting. You also mentioned that you live in a home built into a tree, the only one I can see looks like a short walk from the shop. So unless there's another bakery closer to your house, I'd say you were at the Sugar Cube Corner to purchase something a few minutes before I arrived. And you unknowingly stepped on a cupcake on your way out."

Impressed, Twilight looked around at every detail Lead's pointed out. "That was very good. Judging from that deduction and your cutie mark, I would say your special talent is...perception."

"That is correct," Lead's replied. "I have a sharp eye for details."

"Can you tell me how many strands of hair are in my mane?" Twilight joked.

"One hundred and one thousand, two hundred, and fifty eight."

"Really?!" The surprised Twilight quickly turned her head to see the detective quietly laughing to himself. "So you DO have a sense of humor." She remarked.

"It shows every now and then", Lead's chuckled. "Would that be my office up ahead?" Twilight looked forward, there was a newly constructed building with moving carts parked in front of it. As they arrived, the movers were carrying in the last few boxes. A sign with the detective's cutie mark symbol hung over the door. The interior was constructed as advised by Celestia, a desk for paperwork, a map of Equestria hung on the wall, cabinets to keep case files in, and along with a few cosmetic decorations. There was a small kitchen to the right of the main office and a living room to the left. A staircase led to the second story where his bedroom, bathroom, and study were located. After exploring the structure, the pair headed downstairs where stacks of boxes were scattered around the living room and office. "Well unpacking these will be fun." Lead's sighed sarcastically.

Twilight looked outside the window, the clock tower read 3 o'clock PM. "It's not too late in the afternoon, so I'll help you unpack." She offered.

"You don't have to." The detective replied.

"I insist." Twilight used her kinesis to open a box. A few items floated out and hung over her head, surrounded by a violet aura. "I'm very organized, we can get this done before sundown." Lead's was reluctant at first. But a glance at the the large number of boxes convinced him to take up on the mare's offer. Box after box was unpacked and as the hours passed, the building looked more and more like a detective's office. Dusk approached and the last box was being unpacked. To Twilight's surprise, it was full of books. She formed a ring of them around her head and made it turn to examine each title. There were Novels, biographies, even historical records. "Colorful collection you have here, I didn't know you were interested in collecting books." She complimented.

"I'll pick it up if it strikes my fancy," The detective replied as he walked down the stairs. Suddenly books were hitting the floor, Twilight had dropped all but one. The book she kept floating in front of her face was yellowish gold and in perfect condition. Her jaw hung open as her eyes scanned the title of the book. "The Language Of Spring, I can't believe you have this!" She exclaimed, slowly turning to Leads. She didn't make eye contact with the stallion until the book was out of her peripheral vision.

"Oh, It was a gift from a librarian." Said Leads, levitating the fallen books onto a shelf. But in a fraction of a second, he was being stared down by the bewildered mare. Twilight couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"But this is edition is hoof written with ink and quill by the author herself!" There are only twenty one of these in Equestria! Collectors spend half a lifetime tracking this book down and he just GAVE it to you?!" Twilight forcefully questioned the detective. "What librarian in his right mind would do something like that?!"

"A librarian I proved innocent of murder." Lead's replied

With her eyes wide from the surprising explanation, Twilight went silent. She backed away from the straight faced stallion and gently set the book down on a nearby table. Blushing from embarrassment, the violet unicorn couldn't even look at the detective after making such a fool out of herself. Twilight tried to explain herself to the detective,"I didn't mean it like...well maybe I did...but I didn't mean to...what I'm trying to say is..." But then the very book she put down was floating right in front of her. It was suspended by dark blue aura. Though she was still embarrassed, she looked back at Detective Leads.

"Calm down, Miss Sparkle. You're not the first to tell me how rare this book is and question the good librarian's sanity." This made Twilight feel a little better, it was comforting enough to help her crack a smile. Then to her surprise, the book carefully floated into the mare's saddlebag. "But seeing that you're so passionate about literature, I'm going to let you borrow the book." The red stallion continued. For five seconds, Twilight was at a loss for words. This was a novel, a rare edition of this novel she had been questing for and somepony she hardly knew was letting her borrow it. Her guilt quickly disappears and her forelegs begin to stomp with excitement. Such a rare book available to her, it was a fantasy come true.

"Oh thank you thank you thank you!" She exclaimed with joy, hopping up and down a few times.

"You're welcome" The detective laughed. "Bring it back when you're finished. I don't think I need to tell you to take good care of it." The exuberant unicorn shook her head in response. Solid and Twilight said their goodbyes as the day's final hour ticked away.

The sun had almost vanished over the horizon when she got back home. Spike was pacing impatiently around the library until finally the front door opened. "There you are!" He exclaimed. "And I thought you took long to use the bathroom. Did you get my-" Before spike could finish his question, the bag containing Spike's doughnut floated into reach. To Spike misfortune, the sweet treat was a little rough and stale.

"Before you say another word Spike, you might want to know that we're going to have a talk about money. My money." Spike cringed at the realization that he was found out. "But we'll save this lecture for tomorrow. I have a book to read." Twilight continued. The baby dragon sighed with relief, he had a little more time before the imminent storm of words. But then Spike noticed the book Twilight had hovering over her head.

"Don't you already own that book?" He asked.

"Yes, but this one was hoof written." Twilight answered.

Spike didn't fully understand. "It's still the same book," He added. To him it didn't make much difference.

Twilight just rolled her eyes and continued up the stairs into bed. She left the lamp on, there was no way she could wait another minute to read this book. Even though she has read this story many times before, seeing the inked hoofwriting instead of print made it feel like a whole new experience. "Spike," Twilight called. "Would you steep some tea? I'm going to be up late tonight."

Strong too was in bed, flipping the pages of a photo album with a bottle of whiskey on the nightstand. Each page packed with memories and events. There was a picture of him with his mother and father at his favorite restaurant, celebrating the day Solid got his cutie mark. The next page had a picture of his high school graduation. He was standing between his parents with his diploma opened and floating above his head. Another turn of the page revealed his police precinct's group photo. It was on that day he met Merritt, who stood next to him in the picture. On the next page, there was a photo of his father passing down "the family hat" on the day of his promotion to detective. That's what his father called it, that hat has been on the heads of Solid's father, grandfather and great grandfather. All of them detectives who have seen their share of rough cases. Yet after all it's been through, it amazingly still looks as though it was just tailored. All these good memories brought a smile to Solid's face...but disappeared when the next page stopped halfway turned, he had remembered what was on it. Instead of turning the page completely, the album closed and floated across the room to rest on shelf in his closet. He looked over at the expensive bottle of whiskey, a shot glass sat next to the bottle. It was a gift from the guys at the precinct. Each pitched in a good sum of bits for it, even the Captain. "Just a shot", He said to himself. There was no way he was going to numb his grief with alcohol. Besides, this is some of the finest quality whiskey sold in Manehattan. It would be a waste to down it for a few hours of relief and a morning hangover. Whiskey like this should be saved for certain occasions. When to drink it was not important however, Solid needed to get some sleep. After downing the shot and savoring it's quality taste, he rests his head on the pillow and closes his eyes. Tomorrow is going to be a long day and little does he know, a pink earth pony is going to make sure of that.

Author's Note

Last Edited: 2/7/2013

Thank you for the writing tips!

Also, added a link to Rhapsody In Blue to set a mood at the beginning. Please tell me if it should stay there or not through private messages.

Secrets And Dust: Chapter One

Solid Leads:
Equestrian Detective
Secrets And Dust
Chapter One

Dusk in the southern barrens of Equestria. The sun slowly sank over the horizon, giving the clear desert sky a orange-red glow. One would think a desert would be hot all the time, even at night. But once Celestia's light disappears, the temperature nosedives almost immediately to a chill. But to the ponies of Appleoosa, the cold nights are a relief from a long, hot day's work. It had been a busier week than normal for the growing Equestrian settlement and that went double for the train station. Apples needed to be harvested, apple trees needed to be cut down, and saplings need to be planted. Much of the town's revenue depends on that timber. The desert climate gives the wood a unique color and marbling that artisans pay top bits to work with. It also gives a unique flavor to vegetables when used for smoking, so the demand for wood chips is pretty high. All that timber is carted to the train station where they are loaded and tied onto cars, ready to be shipped all over the kingdom. The stars began to twinkle into view by the time the strain station readied to close. "You guys go ahead, Ah left somethin' inside!" One of the workers called. "Alright, see you at the Salt Block!" One of his coworkers called back. The station was free of life, you could even hear mice scurry around under the floorboards. Light from Luna's full moon shines through the open windows of the lobby, making most of the room visible. The worker trotted to front desk where he left his bag of the week's pay. Being a railway worker payed very well, but only stallions with strength and powerful endurance would ever pursue the job. Working the orchards is one thing but the railway carried the wight of everything going in and out of town. So the job needs the high pay in order for the work to be worth it. The proud earth pony picked up the bag with his mouth and a smile, then trotted toward the door. Just before he laid a hoof on it, a peculiar smacking noise came from one of the open windows. Against his better judgment, the worker walked toward it to inspect the sounds. By the time his head was out the window, the noise went from smacking to a loud rumble. There was only enough time for his bag of bits to hit the ground before...

The door swung open and in walked a tired Solid Leads with confetti and streamers stuck in his mane and littered all over his fedora. He had only been here a week and already he's attended three parties thrown just for him. One party to welcome him to ponyville, one to congratulate him on his promotion, and one more just in case he didn't feel welcomed enough. "How does one mare put all these parties together so quickly"? Solid asked himself as his hat was lifted off his head, surrounded by a blue glow. Solid inspected the hat and carefully removed every shred of paper before letting it rest on the nearby hat rack. His collar and tie soon followed. Despite having three slices of cake, a hot bowl of soup sounded pretty good to him. He had one hoof in the kitchen before the cheerful greeting of Pinkie Pie led him to place that hoof on his forehead with grief.

"Hi Detective!" The perky pink pony said as she hopped into the small office lobby. Seeing that there was no avoiding her, Solid took a couple steps back and turned to his guest. "Hello, Miss Pie", he greeted.

The energetic mare giggled at the detective's formality. "You don't need to call me 'Miss Pie', Silly. Just call me Pinkie Pie. We're friends after all."

"Yeah, you made that official at the first party when you randomly sang me a song" Solid Recalled. "Did you come up with those lyrics on the spot"? Asked Solid.

"Yep!" Pinkie replied with a bounce before breathing in a loud gasping, "your office looks neat!" The easily sidetracked mare began her exploration of the lobby. Her head turns in every direction possible, taking mental pictures of the whole room. Her eyes then land on Solid's desk which is littered with files and photos. "Oooo, is this where you do all your important research and stuff?" Pinkie asked while scanning the open documents. The files then glow blue with Solid's magic and shut themselves.

"Yes, and it's for me to research only" The detective informed the nosy mare. "And I would...wait, what are your doing?" The answer he got was more giggling and the sounds of his desk drawers being rummaged through. He didn't hear anything break so he didn't react immediately as Pinkie openly described every item she found.

"Magnifying glasses, note books, evidence bags-OW...sharp pencils, you have everything in here! Even...oh hohoho" The Mare's change in tone alerted Solid to approach his desk quickly. Pinkie then held up a liquor bottle over her head and sang in a playful whisper, ♪"Someone likes to hit the sau~ce"♫. She gave the bottle a little jiggle.

"Occasionally!" Solid raises his voice to Pinkie as he grabs the bottle from her, she didn't mind. In fact, to her it was amusing to see the detective react that way. Solid received a pat on the head and more giggling from his joyful guest.

"Poor detective, you're wound up so tight. And I know just how you can loosen up!" Pinkie made her way to the door with the intention of leading her new friend to Celestia knows where. But what she found in the doorway was a panting, wall eyed mail mare who had been ordered to rush a letter to this address as soon as possible. Pinkie beamed at the grey pegasus, "Hi, Derpy! Behind scheduled again?"

Derpy simply shook her head to her pink acquaintance and made a B line for the detective. She gave Solid a salute, which was unnecessary because Solid by no means possesses rank over her in the postal service. The detective saluted back to calm her nerves, he could tell by her nervous(yet off center) eyes that she wasn't used to delivering messages to an authority figure. Derpy then rummaged through her bag to locate a light brown envelop with a wax seal which had an apple with an A in the center pressed onto it. With his magic, Solid opened the envelop and began to read the letter it contained. The stallion's eyes narrowed more the further down he read. Solid gave Derpy a nod and a "thank you" before levitating a bag onto the desk, items from the drawers Pinkie had just explored floated inside.

Pinkie Pie waved goodbye to Derpy has she flew out the door. "What was in the letter?" She asked.

"Ive just been called to work a case" The detective replied as his magic tied a new collar and tie around his neck. The detective's hat floated over Pinkie's head before landing gently on his own. His saddlebag now full of the essentials, lifted up and swung over his back.

"Ooo, where?" Pinkie asked again.

Just after he exited his office, Solid looked back at the cheerful pink mare and said, "Appleoosa...close the door for me please". Pinkie happily obliged. Before she was out of earshot, the bubbly mare called for the detective to say "Hi" to Braeburn for her.

The train whistle blew, signaling that it was about ready to depart. The conductor eyed his pocket watch for a few seconds before putting it away. It wasn't quite time to leave according to him. Solid was about to board the passenger car when out of the corner of his eye, he caught glimpse of two figures approaching him. It was Applejack and her older brother he met only once at the first party. Both of their faces where draped in worried expressions. "D'tective!" Applejack called at half gallop. Solid stopped and stepped to the side, letting the other passengers board while he waited for the Apples to reach him.

"D'tective! Pinkie Pie just told us that you're on your way to Appleoosa. We got lots 'o family members there, we're worried somthin' happened to one of em'." Applejack explained before looking up to her brother. "Right Macintosh?"

"Eeeyup" He replied.

"Please tell us what happened. We need to know. It's better we know now than to find out later dreadin' the idea." The concerned mare pleaded. Solid's eyes glanced over at her brother who agreed with another "Eeeyup", normally he's very cool and calm. But when it comes to the well being of family, even he can't keep a straight face. The detective levitated the letter from his saddlebag to give it another look over. The siblings waited uncomfortably for his answer.

"Do you have family that works the railroad" He asked. Applejack reached into the back of her mind for that long list of relatives.

"Yeah, a second cousin. But he lives in Dodge Junction". She replied.

With a smile, the detective folded the paper back up and tucked it away. "Then I don't think you have anything to worry about." He assured. Two sighs of relief followed and Applejack's friendly attitude resurfaced. Seeing that the pair's concerns were put to rest, Solid attempted to board the train again. But there was one more thing these two had to tell him.

"Hold it." The unicorn's attention was drawn to Applejack again. "There's somepony in Appleoosa who might be of help to you. Braeburn, a cousin of ours. Been deputized by the sheriff three times and knows the town better than anypony else."

"Where can I find him?" Asked the detective.

"He'll find you." Big Macintosh replied. Applejack giggled at that remark.

By that time, the conductor called out the all too familiar 'all aboard', forcing Solid to say a quick goodbye to the Apples and dash aboard the train. Twilight Sparkle arrived just before the train started moving. Lead's managed to get a wave goodbye from her before the train departed. Applejack greeted her friend with a question. "Hey Twilight, did Pinkie give you the news too?".

"Yeah, and I was wondering how he planned on getting to Appleoosa." Twilight replied.

Applejack pondered for a second while her brother stood patiently beside. "By train's lookin' to be the only way he can get anywhere."

"I know. But that would take him a day and a half of travel. And it took just as long for the letter to get to him." The unicorn thought out loud.

"whatcha gettin' at Twilight?" The curious workhorse asked. Twilight just silently thought to herself as she watched the train disappear over a far hill. There had to be a way to make Solid's job a lot easier, but exactly how? With that, Twilight told her friend that she had a letter of her own to write.

The trip to Appleoosa was an interesting one. Every hour that went by, Solid saw less trees and grass pass the window for more dust and dry bushes. On the first stop at Dodge Junction, four large stallions were tied to the steam engine along with the coal car being filled to the brim. When the detective asked why, he was told that Appleoosa was so far out that the train can't hold enough coal to get it there and back. In order to make sure no train gets stranded out in the desert, the stallions have to pull the train as it moves at half speed. This way the train can move fast enough to get to Appleoosa while only using up half it's coal reserve and still have enough to get back. It's not unheard of for these select few stallions to get injured during travel, possibly dooming the train to run out of fuel before reaching either side of the stretch. And nowhere does this thought send your heart sinking into your stomach than when you're out in the middle of the desert. There's also word of bandits that raid incoming trains for Appleoosa's export profits. Fortunately, Solid's ride to Appleoosa went smoothly and without incident. The train station was small compared to Ponyville's, it could almost serve as a snack bar with the right modifications. It was also barren of all life with exception of the two sunny mares running the ticket office. They were very kind to the new pony in town, complimenting him on his hat and composure. Solid returned their kindness with compliments of his own. "Such a gentlestallion" They giggled as he walked down off the platform and into the settlement. He thought Ponyville was a step out of his comfort zone. Appleoosa is quite a culture shock to a guy who grew up in the big city. Walk a block or so and a horse drawn carriage passes by with two or more ponies dancing to the music of a fiddle on the side of the road(which is nothing more than the ground scarred by hoof prints and carriage wheels). Every few minutes somepony walks by the detective and gives him a "howdy". To a city pony, that would seem a little too friendly. But hey, it's better than being told to sit down and rotate. Finally, Solid reached the building he was looking for. The office of Sheriff Silver Star. The building was not painted as colorful as the town that surrounded it. Then again, this makes it stand out.

Upon opening the door, the detective found a brown mustached earth pony polishing his badge. Sliver Star looked up and took a deep breath before sighing with relief. "Was worried you wouldn't come". He said, extending a forearm over the desk. "Ahm glad you did."

"Well, you wrote a very convincing letter." The detective replied as he reached out to shake the sheriff's hoof. " If this came from anypony else, I'd dismiss the case. But I know you wouldn't send for somepony like me unless there was a good reason." Which was true. Sheriff Silver Star is one of the most respected stallions in royal law enforcement. He's the pony who cleaned up Dodge Junction in it's settlement years. The first Sheriff was killed by the leader of a nasty gang of bandits, leaving Dodge lawless for months. Young Silver Star rallied a band of settlers to fight off the outlaws, it was a brutal scrap that claimed lives on both sides. Despite the losses, Silver Star's militia managed to kick out every member of that lowlife gang in town, an event still celebrated in Dodge to this day. From that day til the founding of Appleoosa, Silver Star kept the peace and would go on to make a big name for himself. "You explained the victim was killed when a shipment of apple logs crashed through the side of the railway shipping depot. Violent way to go." The detective continued.

The Sheriff nodded in agreement. "Yeah it is, poor feller just got a raise too. His family will be devastated."

"So they don't live in town?" Solid asked, a concerned expression grew on his face. Silver Star shook his head and added more to the bad news.

"Ahm afraid not. And we don't have a coroner in town either. The body was sent to his home town to be buried the next mornin'."

"This...will make the investigation a little more difficult." Solid said hesitantly.

"Ah wouldn't say that." Contradicted Silver Star tapping a hoof on a folder resting on his desk. "Ah took the liberty of photographin' the scene, they ain't the best quality shots considerin' ah used an ol' camera. But they're good enough so you can tell what's on em'."

The folder flips open and the pictures fly out, manipulated by the detective's magic. The stack floated in front of Solid's face as he flipped through the photos. The first picture was a downhill shot of the main office building of the depot and a scarred hillside. A whole car load of logs were imbedded in the building. The next photo was a bag of bits found on the ground, Lead's curiously asked where this was photographed. Silver Star told him that it was found under the logs, outside the walls of the building.

So he saw it coming and dropped his bag before the logs struck office...odd...why was he looking out there in the first place? Nopony in their right mind would run toward the kind of racket a bunch of falling logs would make, he thought to himself. The next picture was that of the victim. Silver Star told Leads that his name was Barrel Hoop, a cooper who worked part time at the train yard. Solid has seen plenty of gruesome scenes in his career so he's used to gore. Still, every scene leaves an impression and this one is no different. The victim was laying on his side, the lower end of his body buried under apple timber. As for the upper body, it was a mess. The majority of his head was soaked in his own blood which was draining from every orifice including a vacant eye socket, it's eye dangled off the jawbone. The visible side of his skull was caved in, indicating that a log hit him square.

"So what makes you think this isn't an accident?" Asked the detective, the pictures float back into the folder which tucks itself into Solid's saddlebag. Silver Star looked around, scanning the doorway and every window. Then his head gestures in the direction of a table placed against the wall, a flower vase being the only thing sitting on it. Solid curiously walked over and used his magic to manipulate the vase, the flowers are removed and with them...a black and white feather.

"Ah found that next to the car carryin' the timber, which was uncoupled from the rest of the train that left an hour before." Silver Star's info was met with a doubtful glance.

"How is this relevant?" Asked Solid.

"That feather's from an eagle not native to these parts. It takes three days to travel to the canyon where they nest...the only folks who know how to get there are the native buffalo." The Sheriff continued. Leads felt the gravity of the situation instantly constrict his mind, he realized how this all could turn south.

"If that's true...then that means a buffalo has killed an Equestrian..." He said.

The Sheriff continued for Solid. He knew the protocols just as well as him. "An' that means ah'll have to call for settlement protection. Soldiers will come and demand the Buffalo relocate. If they resist, force will be used. Them buffalo are too proud and head strong, they'll fight for every speck o' dust."

"The tribe will be slaughtered if they fight back..." Leads concluded.

Silver Star got out of his chair and walk to the detective, getting in his face and looking him dead in the eyes. "That's why ah called you here. Ah need you to look at every shred of evidence you can find and tell me if it was really a buffalo who did this. Appleoosa and the Tribe have gotten along for these past three years, bonds have been made between us. The peace can't end an' especially not like this." That said, the troubled sheriff took a few steps back. "You ain't got much time. The ponies of this town want to know the details an' ah promised ah'd tell em everythin' by the end of this week. That gives you the rest of today, tomorrow, and the mornin' after."

Leads' eyes look side to side between the feather and Silver Star. This case was a lot more serious than expected, many lives depended on the outcome. Despite all that weighed on his mind, Solid kept his composure and bagged the feather. "I'm going to need a partner for this investigation."

A grin cracked behind Silver Star's well groomed mustache. " Ah know just the feller. Ah know em' so well that if ah timed all this right, he should be here about..."

"Sheriff!" Called a voice from outside.

"Like clockwork." Silver Star chuckled.

Then a very excited yellow stallion with orange mane and green eyes burst through the doorway. The first direction he looked was to the desk because that's where he usually sees him. Then he turned to the figures standing by the table. Instantly recognizing one of them, he cheerfully trotted to his whiskered acquaintance. "Sheriff! There's a new face in town, ah came to ask you if you've se..." At this point, the stallion's mind caught up with him and alerted that the second figure wasn't a familiar pony.

"No Braeburn, ah haven't seen em at all" Silver Star joked before turning to the detective. "This here's your future partner, Braeburn Apple."

"Partner?" Asked Braeburn.

"You know that pony who died a few days back?" The sheriff asked in return.

"Sure do, told me it was an accident" Replied Braeburn.

"It ain't." The Sheriff corrected. "Yer'gonna help this here d'tective find out who's behind it."

"Alright then." Agreed Braeburn, instantly turning to Solid and grabbing his hoof. Leads found himself in a familiar position, having his hoof shaken to near numbness. Hoof shakes like this must run in the family, he thought to himself while his foreleg whipped up and down. "Lookin' forward to workin' with ya d'tective! Always a pleasure to meet Equestria's finest! Oh! That reminds me!" Braeburn dropped the detective's abused appendage. The cheery stallion backed up to prepare for his welcome cheer. "Sir, on behalf of the folks of this here settlement. Let me be the first to welcome you to AAA-"

"BRAEBURN! Not in here!" Silver Star ordered with a hoof pointed straight at the stallion standing on his hind legs in mid cheer. His ears fold back and cheeks blush a fade pink as he plants his forelegs on the wooden floorboards.

"Oh, right. Ah forgot." said Braeburn with a nervous grin.

"What was that about?" Asked the detective as he glanced back at his host.

"The Boy's got spirit and that cheer of his sure makes new folks feel welcome. But the last time Braeburn did that indoors, he caused about a hundred bits in property damage." explained Silver Star. The memories of that event made Braeburn blush a little more with embarrassment. "But ah don't wanna waste anymore of yer time with stories. Braeburn! Ya know the drill!"

Braeburn bowed his head down to the pair of lawstallions in front of him. "Braeburn Apple." Silver Star addressed the citizen. "By the powers bestowed upon me by the Princesses of night and day. Ah here by deputize you into temporary service under the Royal Sheriff Department of Appleoosa. Serve with honor and with pride." The newly appointed deputy raised his head and with enthusiastic smile. This sunny attitude had Leads concerned however, it's hard to imagine somepony like this taking an investigation seriously. Even Merritt knew when to drop his smart alecness during a case. But then again, it's hard to doubt Silver Star's judgement. This is a sheriff who spent years staring in the face of Equestria's brutal side. A pony with his stripes wouldn't deputize a pony like Braeburn unless that pony was useful.

"Now get." Were the next words to fly out of the sheriff's mouth, followed by a hoof pointed to the door. And so the pair were off to walk the dusty trails of the settlement. Despite the information given, Leads has little go on. His only clue so far is a feather and it points directly to a buffalo. If Silver Star is serious about avoiding a the Tribe's demise, he's off to a bad start. Solid needs more clues, it's time to consult his new partner for possible leads.

"So Braeburn..." The owner of the name turned his attention to Solid as they walk aimlessly down the road. "If we're going to get to the bottom of this, we'll need to narrow down suspects and find more evidence. First, are the logs from the crime scene still in town?"

"Sure are," The deputy replied with no loss in enthusiasm. "Don't know what to do with em. So they just sit at the lumber mill."

Leads levitated a notebook and pencil out of his saddlebag and wrote down the location of the mill(along with the crime scene). "Then that's where we'll start." He stated. "Second, do you know of any fights or arguments that have happened between a buffalo and a pony?"

"Well ah once overheard a heated debate about farmin' techniques. The buffalo argued that cactus makes best food for crops, but the pony argued chicken droppin's were better. Ah tell you, they went on for an hour with all them nutritional facts 'n such. O' course ah personally prefer..." Braeburn stopped talking the moment he saw the disapproving eyes of Detective Leads. His ears fold back as he tries to remember something more serious than a petty argument. Braeburn stopped in his tracks as something finally struck the bell in his head. Curious, Leads looked back at him.

"What is it?" Solid asked.

"Ah remember hearin' a few cross words in reference to buffalo a week'n a half back. An' when ah mean cross ah mean downright nasty." His partner reminisced. "At the local waterin' hole, The Salt Block. It sounded like he was slurrin' " When asked if he knew who those words came from, Braeburn shook his head and told the detective that it isn't smart to make eye contact with somepony running on liquid anger. Even Leads had to agree with that.

Now he had a starting point and a lead to a possible suspect. But with the thought of an entire buffalo tribe being annihilated still fresh in his mind, the information he had brought little comfort. Two minutes into the walk, the deputy's cheerfulness returned. Two more minutes in, Leads noticed that every pony that passed them always stopped to say hello to Braeburn. That's when he remembered Pinkie Pie, Say hi to Braeburn for me hehehe. Applejack also told him that Braeburn was deputized three times before, and with every "hello" he received, the more Detective Leads understood why.

Author's Note

This took way too damn long to complete. A week's work done in a span of months.
This delay will not be repeated, I'll tell you that much.