Colors of the Heart: Specials

Chapters

Extra: Chapter 7 - Settling In
Interlude: Chapter 16.5 - The Puppet Master
Interlude: Chapter 20.5 - Surefire's Diary: Spring 9th-11th, 3rd Year of the Second Diarchy.
Interlude: Chapter 22.5 - Morning Coffee

Extra: Chapter 7 - Settling In

“Today is really quiet...” I sighed, rolling over on my bed and resting on my belly.

Yesterday had been quite busy; I spent the greater half of the day with Rarity, and met the rest of the girls in the evening. I was extremely nervous that they wouldn’t like me or think I was weird. I didn’t expect things to go nearly as well as they did, but I was extremely thankful for it. That took a lot of courage for me to expose my true colors—or lack of colors I should say.

Shifting positions, I looked out the window to the rainy, dull day outside. While others would find a day like this poor, I found myself smiling; I loved the rain. It was on rainy days like these that I was able to go outside without the fear of the watchful eyes of large crowds bearing down on me. I often visited Center Park on days like this.

Though, in my new home, I was far too uncomfortable to go outside and explore on my own. Having only been in Ponyville for two days, I decided I would just relax here at Rarity’s while everything sank in. There would be plenty of time to explore my surroundings later.

A sudden rumble from my tummy interrupted my thoughts, reminding me I hadn’t eaten yet today. Even though it was now past lunch time, I didn’t like the prospect of having to eat somepony else’s food. Rarity worked hard to pay for it; I shouldn’t be the one eating it. Though, my stomach disagreed with me, rumbling again as if to demand I reconsider.

Well, I suppose a small lettuce and tomato sandwich couldn’t hurt...

With a goal in mind, I crawled to the edge of the bed and hopped off before making my way down to the kitchen below.

Rarity had told me that if I needed anything that I could find her in the inspiration room. Though, I figured I should let her get some work done before I bothered her. This was, after all, what she did to make a living. So, I decided I would just help myself to a little bit of food.

I hummed a little tune to myself as I walked across the kitchen floor towards the fridge before opening it. I was really surprised to see just how well stocked it was. She had vegetables of all kinds and just about every dairy product you could think of.

With this sort of selection, I could make a really mean sandwich.

Though, I was content with using the bare minimum of food that wasn’t mine to eat. So I retrieved a small head of lettuce, then a tomato, and sat them on the kitchen counter before shutting the refrigerator behind me with a hind leg.

Now... where does she keep the—

“Hello!” came a sudden, small voice from behind me.

A cold chill went down my spine. As far as I was aware, it was only Rarity and myself here, so I didn’t bother to wear my cloak. A nervous sweat started to form on my forehead as I turned around to face the unknown pony. There behind me sat a small, white unicorn filly with an expectant look and smile. She had a lovely soft white and pink, curled mane.

“H-hello...” I replied weakly with a nervous smile.

“You must be Prism. Rarity told me about you, that you would be staying here for a while,” she said with moderate enthusiasm as she trotted across the kitchen up to me. “I’m Sweetie Belle, Rarity’s little sister. It’s nice to meet you.” She extended a small forehoof to me.

She’s so well mannered.

I was thoroughly impressed with how calm and polite this little filly was. All the fillies I ever saw were always rowdy and rambunctious, not to mention quite rude.

I slowly extended a forehoof to meet hers. “It’s, um... n-nice to meet you, too,” I replied softly, giving her hoof a small shake.

“Rarity told me a little bit about you, about how your coat and mane are all white and stuff,” she said, looking me over head to hoof curiously.

I bit my lower lip and shifted my vision away from her momentarily. “You, um... don’t think it’s weird, do you?”

“No, I think they’re very beautiful,” she commented, walking around to my right side and taking a lock of my mane in her forehoof. “And I really like your mane, I wish my mane was this pretty...” her expression sank into a small frown as she lifted another lock with her other foreleg.

I shied away from her touch before covering a small laugh. “Your mane is very beautiful too, you know; those curls are very lovely.”

Her expression quickly lit up into a large smile again. “Really? You think so?” she asked, reaching to her mane and bouncing a lock with a hoof.

I nodded. “My mane is boring; it has no real shape or volume to it.” I lifted a section of my mane before letting it fall unceremoniously back into its exact position it was in before. “See? Boring. You should be proud of your curls.”

Sweetie Belle brought a hoof to her chin, looking in thought. “Well, I hadn’t really thought about it like that,” she mused before looking back up to me. “Well, I still think your mane is very pretty.”

I covered another small laugh. I found myself warming up to this filly rather quickly; she was adorable and reminded me of myself when I was little.

“Is it true that your magic is really colorful?” she asked, looking up at me expectantly. “Rarity said that your magic is different, and not to be surprised if I see you using it.”

“Sweetie Belle!” the familiar voice of the fashionista suddenly called out from the hallway across the kitchen. “I told you that so you wouldn’t ask her!”

“Oh? Um... oops?” she replied back to her sister with a sheepish smile.

Rarity facehooved with a groan before trotting across the room to me. “I’m really sorry about that, Prism. I just didn’t want her making you feel uncomfortable. So I told her in hopes that it wouldn’t come to this,” she informed me before looking back to Sweetie Belle disapprovingly. “Though I suppose I should have known better.”

I let out a small laugh and shook my head. “No, it’s fine Rarity. I just didn’t know there was anypony else here other than us; that’s all.”

Rarity gave me a slightly confused look for a moment before her eyes widened in realization and she covered a small gasp. “I’m so sorry, darling! I entirely forgot to mention earlier that Sweetie Belle will be staying here for a few days!”

“Rarity, it’s fine; don’t worry about it,” I again reassured her before looking over to Sweetie Belle.

The little filly’s ears were drooped down and she had a guilty look on her face, as if she had done something wrong. I felt compelled to assure her that wasn’t the case.

I walked over to Sweetie Belle and pat her on her head. “You did nothing wrong, so don’t worry about it, okay?” I said to her, looking down to the filly with a soft smile. “And to answer your question, yes, my magic is really colorful; it’s prismatic.”

Sweetie Belle’s mood quickly perked up as she looked back up to me. “That must be really cool!” she spouted. “Can I see it?”

“Sweetie Belle! Did you not hear a single word I said earlier? You’re being very rude!” Rarity quickly added, casting her sister a stern glare.

I flashed the filly a nervous smile as she sat watching me expectantly. “I-I, um... I’d rather not... not right now.”

Sweetie Belle visibly deflated at my words. “Aww...” she sighed out, giving me a disappointed look.

She’s just so adorable!

If there was one weakness I had besides tea, it was cute things, and this little filly registered a 9.0 on the cute-o-meter. How could I resist a face like that? Also, if she was to be around for a while—and often—it was probably best she see it for herself anyways.

“Well... I, uh... I suppose I could show you...” I reluctantly said, caving in to the filly’s adorableness.

“Yay!” she quickly exclaimed, jumping up to her hooves in excitement.

Rarity cleared her throat, likely to get my attention. “Well, I must admit. I wouldn’t mind seeing it again myself,” she commented, gesturing to the small head of lettuce on the counter. “That should be light enough, yes?”

I nodded. “Yeah. Now, watch closely, Sweetie Belle. I’m only going to do this once,” I said, looking down to her with a wink.

Sweetie Belle quickly darted up to the counter and stood up on her hind legs, resting against the cabinets, and watching the vegetable expectantly. I couldn’t help but let out a small chuckle. She seemed to be as interested in magic as I was at her age, which made me feel a little more comfortable showing her.

Taking in a relaxing, deep breath, I focused my magic on the head of lettuce and levitated it just off the countertop.

Much to my surprise, the young filly didn’t give too much of a surprised reaction. She instead stared intently at the floating vegetable. After a few moments, she turned to me with a warm glow in her eyes.

“That is sooooo pretty, Prism!” she exclaimed quite softly, before looking back to the levitating vegetable. “I wish I could do that.”

Rarity walked up to the counter and poked the lettuce with a forehoof. “Yes, it is absolutely marvelous, darling. I really don’t see why you are so ashamed of such a beautiful thing.”

I gently sat the head of lettuce back down before turning to Rarity with a nervous laugh. “Well, I’ve just had so many bad experiences, I don’t like the attention it draws. Ponies have also called me a freak and a monster because of it.”

Rarity craned cocked her neck, taken aback at my words. “That is just ridiculous!Those ponies are just a bunch of foals! You shouldn’t let experiences like that detract you from using such an amazing gift, darling.”

“Well, it’s hard to forget them...” I slowly trailed off, staring down at the floor solemnly.

There was a long silence in the room before Rarity glanced to the vegetables on the counter.

“Tell you what, Prism. Allow me to make you something to eat,” she offered before turning to Sweetie. “Are you hungry as well, Sweetie Belle?”

“I’m starving!” she quickly replied with a small jump.

I shook my head. “You don’t have to make me anything. I’ll just make myself a sandwich and I’ll be—”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Rarity quickly interjected, waving a hoof dismissively at me. “I know you are hungry, dear. You have been eagerly eyeing those vegetables ever since I came in here. I’m going to make us all some lunch.”

“But—”

“No buts! I will hear nothing more of it!” she declared sternly, turning away with her eyes closed and snout raised, opening the refrigerator with her magic. “You are my guest, and it is my responsibility as your host to feed you.”

I let out a slow sigh in defeat.

That doesn’t make me feel any better about eating your food though...

* * * * * * * * * *

Despite my reluctance, I had to admit that Rarity is a wonderful cook. The pasta salad she made us for lunch was absolutely delicious. Shortly after eating, Rarity went back to work while Sweetie Belle went off to play. I can’t say I approve of a filly playing outside in the rain; she even left without a coat. What if she got sick? While it may be none of my business, perhaps it’s just my instincts as a mare speaking for me? Regardless, with Sweetie Belle and Rarity busy, that left me to retire to my room once more.

While I never really had much of a problem spending time alone, I found myself becoming progressively bored as the hours continued to roll by. Sure, I was used to being alone and spent a majority of my time alone; though back then, I always had Mr. Wiggles to talk to or my arts and crafts to keep me busy. Unfortunately, at the moment, I had absolutely nothing to do and nopony to talk to. I contemplated seeing what Rarity was up to a few hours ago, but I didn’t want to bother her. Although, as the hours crawled past, curiosity and boredom got the better of me and I found myself heading downstairs and into the fashionista's inspiration room.

Rarity was standing in front of a row of brightly dressed ponnequins, eyeing them closely. She looked to be deep in thought. I considered calling out to her, but judging by the fact that the room was littered with every color of cloth imaginable, I decided I didn’t want to distract her thinking, so I silently watched her from the doorway. After a few minutes, she eventually turned around, her expression shifted to surprise as she took notice of me.

“Oh, good evening, Prism. Is there something I can help you with?” she asked as she turned back to the ponnequins

“O-oh, um... no, I’m fine. I was just curious what you were doing,” I answered sheepishly, scratching the back of my neck with a forehoof. “There, uh... wouldn’t happen to be anything I could help you with, would there?” I trotted up to a random piece of salmon colored cloth laying on the floor and picked it up with a forehoof, closely examining it

“I’m actually just finishing up for the night, darling,” she began as she turned to face me. “Although, I do appreciate the...” Rarity trailed of, watching me with a look of interest for several moments.

I looked over to her before suddenly dropping the cloth in fear I may have upset her. “I-I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to—”

“You’re fine, Darling, don’t worry. I was thinking, bright colors look simply fabulous against your pure white palette,” she stated, gesturing to the salmon colored cloth in front of me.

“Mother always said the same thing. She would have me dress up in bright yellows and pinks when she brought me along with her when she attended formal showings of her paintings,” I informed her, gesturing to the fabric with a small frown. “I didn’t really like the attention it brought me, but mother said it made me look adorable, which made me really happy.”

Rarity paused for a moment before briefly glancing to her ponnequins, then back to me with a sly smirk. “Actually... Prism, darling. Maybe I could use your help after all.”

My ears perked up at her words. “Really? What do you need help with?” I asked with much enthusiasm, glad to finally be some help to the fashionista.

Rarity turned and gestured to her dresses on display with a sweep of her forehoof. “You see, I just finished these new designs, and I’m simply dying to see how they look on an actual pony. It really helps me to have a ‘live’ model for any final adjustments.” Rarity said before turning back to me with a mild pouty look. “Won’t you be a dear and try a few on for me? I would really appreciate the help, darling.”

I looked to the dresses apprehensively for a moment.

As much as I dislike dressing up, Rarity is letting me stay here for free, and also made me lunch earlier...

I let out a faint sigh, seeing that I was clearly trapped into doing this. “Okay, I’ll do it.”

“Fantastic!” she exclaimed, using her magic to slide a room divider from seemingly nowhere next to me. “Now, just hold still a moment.”

Never before did I think it was possible to be dressed by another pony so quickly. In what felt like an instant, Rarity somehow managed to move me and place a rather... tight, yellow Victorian ball-gown on me at the same time. I took a moment to examine the dress, taking note of how well fit it was, despite the tightness.

She must do this with other ponies often.

Rarity slid the room divider away suddenly and took a few steps back, inspecting me closely. “Yes... yes! It looks absolutely marvelous on you!” she exclaimed, circling me several times, and getting a closer view from all angles.

“It’s... a bit tight...” I managed to wheeze out, feeling as if I was in a vice rather than a dress.

Rarity stopped circling me and brought a hoof to her chin while examining my midsection. “Hmm, yes... it is a bit snug, isn’t it? Well, it is designed for the standard mare size, so I’d have to custom fit something for you if it were to be more comfortable.”

Did... did she just call me fat!?

Rarity tapped her chin a few times with a forehoof, humming to herself. “Hmm... what this outfit really needs is a hat.”

Before I could comment or remark, Rarity levitated an excessively large and frilly yellow bonnet and promptly stuffed it on my head.

I need a mirror! ...actually, wait... maybe I don’twant to see this.

“Oh, that looks fantastic on you, dear!” Rarity cooed, cupping her forehooves together. “Oh you simply must see this!”

Again, before I could say anything, Rarity slid over a large stand up mirror and rested it in front of me. Looking at my reflection, I had to fight hard against a primal urge to cringe at the... gaudy outfit; this was most definitely not my taste in clothing.

“I know exactly what would complete this Victorian look!” Rarity suddenly exclaimed as she lifted my mane and tail in her soft blue magical aura. “Braids!”

I let out a nervous laugh as she circled around to my side. “Um... I really appreciate the compliment, but I don’t think... that is...”

I trailed off into silence once I noticed the fashionista wasn’t paying any attention to my words. She was clearly ‘in the zone’ and lost to the world at this point. I was left with only one option now: Acceptance.

After a few moments, and several painful twists and tugs, I looked to the mirror once more to find my mane and tail braided with needlessly large yellow ribbons bow-tied on the ends.

My ears fell back as I let out a small sigh in defeat.

Oh Prism... what have you gotten yourself into?

* * * * * * * * * *

A few hours, and several iron vice-like dresses later, I finished modeling the fashionista’s new designs and was very ready for bed. Although, despite my great discomfort and reluctance, Rarity was elated with the results. Though, somehow I couldn't seem to shake the lingering suspicion that I was more ‘entertainment’ than actual ‘help’. Regardless, it made her happy, so I felt somewhat better about being a freeloader in her home.

The two of us said our goodnights and I made my way back up to the guest room for some much desired sleep. Though, after reaching the room and walking towards the bed, I heard somepony call out to me.

“Prism, wait,” came the familiar voice of a small filly.

I turned around to find Sweetie Belle at the top of the staircase, holding a large sheet of paper in her mouth. the young filly trotted up and lifted it into my field of vision. I looked down to her confused for a moment before she spoke up.

“Fore yew!” she exclaimed, muffled through her teeth.

“Oh!” Taking the paper from her, I placed it on the bed next to me.

Looking the paper over, it was actually a drawing; a rather crude drawing, but one nonetheless. It was a picture of what had to be me and her, standing together while I was holding up a green object in my prismatic colored magic. I guessed it was probably the lettuce from before.

Under the picture was a small caption.

“My new friend Prism. The coolest unicorn ever!”

I felt my chest warm up and quickly melt at the sudden gesture of friendship. Nopony other than Mother had ever drawn something like this for me before; this was new, different... and very special. I couldn’t think of the words I wanted to say; I simply had none to give. Though I found my lower lip starting to tremble, as I felt my eyes begin to moisten.

Sweetie belle looked up to me with concern as her ears fell back. “I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to make you sad...” she said, visibly deflating down to the floor with a sad look of her own.

Without a moment’s hesitation, I quickly sat down and snatched up the filly in a tight embrace, and nuzzled her.

“No... I’m not sad, I’m happy... very happy,” I reassured her with a small sniffle. “Thank you so much...”

Sweetie wrapped her small hooves around my neck, returning the hug. “You’re very welcome! Being my new friend, and being so cool, I wanted to do something special for you,” she stated, pulling away and looking into my eyes with a happy smile. “So when Rarity told me that you loved art, I had the perfect idea: draw Prism a picture!”

The wall of tears I had been fighting to hold back quickly gave way to my emotions I was feeling at that moment. This little filly quickly became very special to me; quickly became a good friend.

“Please don’t cry, Prism,” she said softly, wiping away a stream of tears from my cheek with her tiny hoof. “I’ll be your friend anytime you need me, like if you want to go outside and play, or stay inside and draw, because I love to draw.” Her expression sank a little bit suddenly before looking away. “I only wish that I was better...”

I shook my head. “I’ll teach you, as a thank you for being so nice to me.”

Sweetie’s ears perked up as she turned to face me, her expression exploding into excitement. “Really?!You’ll teach me how to draw?”

I slowly nodded. “Or paint, or color. Just feel free to ask,” I replied, wiping my muzzle with a small sniffle. “As my new friend, I will gladly teach you.”

Her happy expression grew into a large smile as she reached up and pulled herself into a hug around my neck. “Thank you so much! You are soooo awesome, Prism!”

I softly stroked her mane, letting out a small laugh. “You are very welcome.”

Sweetie Belle pulled away and hopped off of me. “Well, I’ll let you go to bed. I just wanted to give you that before you fell asleep,” she said, gesturing a hoof to the drawing on the bed. “I’ll see you tomorrow!”

I closed my eyes, covering another small laugh before replying, “See you tomorrow, Sweetie Belle.”

With that, she gave a small wave and quickly made her way downstairs to the floor below. I found myself still glowing from the experience and feelings the little filly brought me. I picked myself up off the floor and crawled into bed.

When I have foals of my own, I hope I have a daughter just like her...

With a warm smile on my face, I rolled over, got myself comfortable, and fell fast asleep.

Interlude: Chapter 16.5 - The Puppet Master

Walking up the stairs to the loft above, the fashionista moved quietly, as not to potentially wake her friend had her intuition been wrong. Reaching the top of the stairwell, she took a look around the empty guest-room.

It would seem she really did not come home last night.

A small smirk played across Rarity’s lips as she turned back and made her way down to the kitchen once again. She worried if her plan had worked or not, but judging by the fact she had received no word from Prism or Fluttershy yet, the fashionista had a pretty good idea as to where her housemate may be.

Fluttershy must have really made her move!

Rarity happily hummed to herself as she prepared her morning coffee. She had a lot of work to catch up on. Having placed much of her work aside for personal time with planning the Spa set-up and crafting Fluttershy’s dress, she had developed a bit of a backlog that demanded her attention.

“First things first: breakfast,” Rarity mused to herself before levitating ingredients for some eggs and toast from the many assorted storage areas in her kitchen.

However, before she could begin preparations to make her meal, a sudden loud pounding from the boutique below sounded throughout the building. Whoever was knocking was doing so hard.

Now who could that be so early?

Intrigued by the unfamiliar forceful knocking, Rarity set aside her plans for breakfast and made her way to the floor below, crossing the room and approaching the door. With her soft blue magic, the fashionista slowly opened the door.

“Yes?” she asked, peeking around outside.

Though, to her surprise, nopony was there.

She took a few steps outside and looked about the empty early morning streets before calling out once again.

“Is anypony there?” Her call was once again met with silence.

Probably another silly little prank by Pinkie or Rainbow Dash, or both of them. Oh well, back to breakfast then.

Dismissing the knocking, she turned back to go inside; though before she could enter, she noticed something on her door.

“What’s this?” she mused, taking a closer look.

A large letter pinned up by a small dagger hung ominously on the upper half of her door.

Oh my... now how did I miss that dreadful thing?

Focusing her magic around the parchment, she pulled it down to her to read.

“We have your friends. if you wish to ever see them alive again, bring untraced bonds for twenty-five thousand bits to Manehattan and deposit them in the recycling bin located on the corner of Mane and Third at sundown on Friday. Then wait in front of the Manehattan Grand Theater for forty-five minutes. Come alone and do not alert the authorities; we will know.

Should fail to meet these conditions, your friends will pay with their lives.”

Underneath the text, a locket of pure white hair and a large yellow plume were taped along with two large droplets of blood.

Gears in fashionista’s mind suddenly began turning as horrible realization struck her, causing her to cover a sharp gasp and drop the message from her magical grasp.

Prism and Fluttershy!

Without a moment’s hesitation, Rarity kicked the letter inside her doorway before quickly shutting her door, then immediately began galloping to her pegasus friend’s cottage.

Please don’t let this be true...

Normally the white unicorn took her time going to and fro. What would have been a short ten minute walk was quickly covered in what only felt like a few brief moments. Approaching the cottage in the distance, Rarity quickly ran up over the bridge and up the short path to Fluttershy’s home. She was met with a rather disturbing sight.

The normally sturdy wooden door had been knocked off its hinges in a rather forceful manner. Fearing the worst, Rarity reluctantly stepped inside and immediately noticed something was horribly wrong. The normally warm and comfy feel of the cottage had been greatly ransacked. Furniture was tipped over and many items that normally lined the walls and shelving now lay scattered and broken on the floor.

“Fluttershy!” Rarity called out in fear and she hastily made her way up stairs to her friend’s room.

The bedroom looked to be in far worse shape than the room below. Signs of an obvious struggle had occurred inside were evident, judging by the damage done to much of the caretaker’s property. The bedding had been tossed about the room and several decorative paintings now lay broken and torn on the floor. Rarity also took notice of a shattered pottery and dirt smeared on the wall by the staircase, as if the plants had been thrown at someone or something; but what disturbed the fashionista most, were several small droplets of what appeared to be dried blood were found in the corner next to the now tipped over bookcase.

At that moment, the gravity of the situation really sank in. Her friends were in grave danger.

I have to get that letter to Twilight immediately! She will know what to do!

A cold chill ran down her back as she quickly galloped back down the stairs and out the door of the cottage.

Please let them still be all right...

Interlude: Chapter 20.5 - Surefire's Diary: Spring 9th-11th, 3rd Year of the Second Diarchy.

3 S.D. Monday, Spring 9, 1:34 p.m. - Five Stallions and Hayfries.

Today’s meeting with Prism had been almost unreal. Not only have my suspicions of Hawkeye

and Nitpick been confirmed, but I may have stumbled across something much bigger than two crooked detectives.

Several case documents state that, Snooty, proprietor of ‘Snooty’s Finer Fashions’, has come to the department with tips that brought to the arrests of a few criminal operations fronted in the fashion industry. Most notable of which was the eventual bring down of Glitter and her gem counterfeiting laboratory.

While on the surface Snooty appears to be a good samaritan and a very generous pony, my views of the stallion have been totally obscured by Prism’s testimony. If what Prism says is confirmed to be true, Snooty could be one of the greatest criminal threats Equestria has seen in centuries.

It would also appear that Snooty may have been directly providing Nitpick and Hawkeye vital information, aiding in some of their cases. Thinking back, documents stated that the case against Glitter was spearheaded by the pair. I find it as no coincidence that Snooty’s tips and Nitpick and Hawkeyes involvement are somehow related.

If I had to guess, I think that Glitter may have been competiton of Snooty’s, or perhaps a former business partner?

Either way, I need to look further into Snooty’s tipped off cases.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Monday, Spring 9, 6:21 p.m. - Department Headquarters, My Desk.

Thankfully, the sarge doesn’t question my being at the department during my time off. As far as he is aware, I am still studying casefiles to see what I can learn for myself. Now, if he only knew just how true that actually was...

Further investigation into the cases that Snooty tipped the department off on has confirmed what I feared. Every case Snooty was involved in, have been investigated by Hawkeye and Nitpick.

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Snooty is feeding these two inside information for more sinister purposes than the good samaritan cover he has provided. Further investigation into these cases will be needed before I can present Internal Affairs with my information.

This will take some time to delve deeper, but if I can find more consistencies between the cases, I might be able to get another investigation into the pair started, perhaps even into Snooty himself.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Monday, Spring 9, 9:44 p.m. Home, My Bedroom.

Phew, today has been a long and eventful day. Putting my investigative work aside, it was also a very good day! That really cute pegasus stallion in forensics actually spoke to me this morning! I think I may have made a complete foal of myself though; I tripped all over my words, egh! He had caught me completely off guard, though! I never would have expected a stallion like him to desire to talk to the likes of me.

I won’t let this happen to me again. I think I’ll write some practice conversation pieces. That way next time I’ll be more prepared, and hopefully we can have a real conversation, not awkward small talk about the weather and what we had for breakfast.

I think I’ll make some flashcards to review before I go to bed.

* * * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Monday, Spring 9, 11:53 p.m. Home, My Bedroom.

It’s no good, I just can’t sleep! Between the cases involving Nitpick and Hawkeye, Prism’s case, Snooty and that hunk of a stallion from forensics, My mind is going crazy! There is no way I can sleep with all these thoughts racing through my mind.

But I have to try again, I have another busy day tomorrow. I need the rest.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Tuesday, Spring 10, 5:40 a.m. Home, The Kitchen

Praise Celestia for the glorious gift that is coffee! I couldn’t sleep a wink last night, so it’s looking to be another coffee-powered Tuesday. I think I’ll touch base with Twilight Sparkle before continuing further investigations. I’m sure she may have some use for what I have found, and I would be very curious as to how her conversation with Snooty went.

But first, just one more cup of coffee. Can never be too safe!

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Tuesday, Spring 10, 11:52 a.m. Twilight Sparkle’s Hotel Room.

It would appear Twilight’s conversation with Snooty had turned up little to no information. Twilight had taken notice that Snooty seemed to become suspicious of her after a few questions, the rest of the conversation ended up yielding nothing beyond small talk.

Although, Twilight was certainly excited to hear of my findings in the department’s case files. She has made copies of all of my current notes for future reference in her own searches.

Twilight and I plan to grab some lunch before going to check on Prism. I am curious how the poor mare is holding up. It is extremely unfair what is happening to her; I’m sure she would also like an update.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Tuesday, Spring 10, 1:08 p.m. Trotski’s Pizzeria.

I found it interesting that Twilight mentioned while she had visited Manehattan before, she never tried Manehattan style pizza. I mean, who comes to Manehattan and doesn’t eat the pizza? It’s like going to a wedding and not having a slice of cake, and everypony loves cake!

So I insisted she try the pizza for lunch, and needless to say, she was quite pleased. My work here is done.

Twilight and I also had a really interesting conversation. I had no idea that I was working alongside a national hero. Her connections as the Element of Magic could prove vital in our investigations. I may just ask Twilight to present my finding instead, as she has more push than some newbie junior detective. This way she makes better use of them than I, and I don’t have to get in trouble! It’s win-win!

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Tuesday, Spring 10, 5:08 p.m. Manehattan General, Lobby.

It was good to see that Prism is doing well. She did seem a little down though. Our news did cheer her up a little, but it seemed to only last a short while. Later, after Twilight had left to return to her hotel, Prism told me how she really misses Fluttershy. This mare was the other pony involved in the foal napping according to Prism and the case file. I need to make note to ask her some questions.

Twilight and I also reviewed the evidence papers left behind by Hawkeye and Nitpick. They matched the papers in the case file, so I saw nothing out of the ordinary there from Prism’s story and the case file. Twilight also didn’t seem to notice anything out of the ordinary. However, when asked to take a second look, Prism refused to have anything to do with them. Can’t say I really blame her, but I do hope she reveiws them sometime soon.

* * * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Tuesday, Spring 10, 5:51 p.m. Manehattan General, Lobby.

Speak of the devil, shortly after my last entry I had the pleasure of meeting Fluttershy. She was on her way to visit Prism, though was kind enough to allow me to ask her a few questions first. It has been a while since I have met such a shy pony; not since school anyways.

Her story matched up with her testimony, so I gained no new information in regards to the case. However, I did get to learn a little more about this mare. She would appear to be Prism’s fillyfriend, or ‘special somepony’ as Fluttershy referred to it as. It’s rare to hear special somepony here in Manehattan anymore, I guess it goes to show how much our Hearts and Hooves day traditions have been changing.

I didn’t want to keep the mare too long though, as I knew Prism was very eager to see her and vice-versa. Hopefully their meeting will cheer Prism up some.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 5:22 a.m. Home, The Kitchen.

Wow, I must have been really exhausted last night. I passed right out when I got home! Thankfully I got a good night’s rest, though. I have a lot of work to do today, but first... I have something just as important to take care of.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 6:38 a.m. Department Headquarters, Outside Forensics.

Operation ‘learn hot stallion’s name’ is a go! I have reviewed my flashcards and I am confident that I’m ready to talk to him!

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 6:45 a.m. Department Headquarters, Outside Forensics.

Failure! I couldn’t bring myself to do it...

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 6:52 a.m. Department Headquarters, Outside Forensics.

I still can’t do it! He’s just a stallion, not some serial killer! ...at least I hope not anyways. Why can’t I bring myself to talk to him?!

You’re such a foal, Surefire. Just grow up already.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 6:58 a.m. Department Headquarters, My Desk.

As I sit here writing this, I sit a defeated mare, unable to talk to an attractive stallion...

Anyways, I best get back to work before the sarge starts to wonder why I’m sitting at work doing absolutely nothing on my time off.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 10:48 a.m. Department Headquarters, My Desk.

Alright, so far further investigation into the Glitter case has proved to be somewhat fruitless, at least from the case documents anyways. Although, further searching into Glitter herself has yielded that she allegedly sold counterfeit gems to many shopkeepers and business owners here in Manehattan and Canterlot.

A testimony from a jeweler who was confirmed to have been sold counterfeits stated that they were so well crafted, that he could not tell the difference between an authentic gem, and one of Glitter’s crafted gems.

This got me thinking, if a jeweler couldn’t tell the difference, how is it that Snooty, a trending fashions dealer, could? While this really isn’t much to go on and is only conjecture, it further stirs my curiosity as to Glitter and Snooty’s relationship.

I need to dig deeper.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 1:08 p.m. Dreamland.

I can’t believe that just happened! The stallions from forensic greeted me while I was searching in the archives. He not only talked to me, but I learned his name too! Beaker! ...Such a nerdy name, but I like that! Nerds are hot!

Anyways, that’s not all that happened! He offered to take me out for coffee, although stupid me chickened out and declined before even thinking! Stupid, stupid, stupid!

Fortunately I managed to make a smooth recovery by asking if tomorrow would be alright. Thankfully he said yes, so crisis averted. I would have hated myself if he had thought I was turning him down.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 3:08 p.m. Department Headquarters, My Desk.

Nothing. I can find absolutely nothing in the confiscated documents from Glitter’s office and lab that links her in anyway to Snooty.

What’s worse is some of the others here are starting to get suspicious as to why I am looking so deep into this particular case while in my off time. I’m running out of excuses, so I’ll have to look into other cases. Hopefully those will be more fruitful.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 4:14 p.m. Department Headquarters, My desk.

Busted. the sarge came by again and asked why I have been here all day. When I replied with just studying, he then asked me to go home. He said he was worried about me, and that “all work and no play” is unhealthy; that I should enjoy my off time like normal mares my age.

Most ‘normal’ mares my age haven’t even decided what they want to do with their lives, let alone be hot on the trail of what could be the biggest case the department has ever seen. Unfortunately, I can’t really say anything yet. Everything I have is just circumstantial. I’ll need something hard if I want to really bring this out into the open, without getting a strong lecture and possibly being fired for interacting with an accused in another detectives case.

Without access to the departments archives, I’ll likely have to hit the streets next for clues.

* * * * * * * * * *

3 S.D. Wednesday, Spring 11, 5:08 p.m. Home, The Living Room.

Well that was unexpected. I came home to find Doctor Ruby Heart of Manehattan General waiting for me at my doorstep. Though she had important news, apparently Prism found something important. when further questioned, Ruby Heart said that Prism had found something we had overlooked in the evidence papers left with her.

Since when has Ruby Heart been so knowledgeable of our investigation? I guess Prism must have spoken with her about it prior.

Anyways, I should probably inform Twilight Sparkle before heading to see Prism, she will likely want to know what Prism has found as well.

Interlude: Chapter 22.5 - Morning Coffee

After a good night’s sleep, Surefire found herself still not ready to tackle the day.

Just five more minutes...

She tried to convince herself snuggling her pillow tight. However, after a few moments she became faintly aware of the puddle of drool her face now laid in. The size and fluffiness of her pillow also started to tug at her mind, furthermore, she realized she needed to go to the bathroom.

Seeing as defeat was inevitable, the gears in the young mares mind started churning, getting ready for the long day ahead of her.

I need coffee...

With a real objective set in place, Surefire opened her eyes and lifted her head, taking in her surroundings.

“This isn’t home...” she mused to herself, before rubbing her eyes with a big yawn.

With a fresh supply of oxygen in her brain, dots started to connect in the detectives mind as she looked down to the ‘pillow’ she had been laying against. The soft white coat of another mare stared back at her. Surefires eyes immediately widened at the realization she wasn’t in her room or bed, but was sleeping with another mare.

Oh Celestia! What did I do last night!? She briefly panicked, retracing her foggy morning memories of the night before.

Let’s see... hospital, Pris—

Surefire let out a sigh of relief as she recalled her staying the night in the hospital with Prism. For a moment there, the young mare feared she might have had a bit too wild of a night. On that note, Surefire brought a hoof to her chin in thought. It had been a very long time since she attended any sort of social gathering or event, so how she could even end up in a situation like that in the first place was beyond her.

Shrugging the thought away, she pushed herself up from the bed. Though a wet sensation on her foreleg caught her attention as she looked back down to her bedmate. Her eyes once again widened in realization as she squeaked

Oh Celestia! I drooled all overher!

A mild panic set in as she glanced about the room, looking for something to wipe her saliva off the albino mare. Finding nothing of conventional use, she decided to use the next best thing.

Surefire took a corner of the blanket that laid over her, and began softly wiping the puddle of drool off her newly found friend’s clean white coat. Taking a moment to examine her work, she decided that it should suffice.

I hope she doesn’t notice...

Slowly slipping out of bed, Surefire spun and made her way silently for her saddle bags. Not feeling like toting the entirety of her personal equipment, the young mare shuffled through the bags until she found her coin purse strap.

That should do it. Now for some coffee...

* * * * * * * * * *

Exiting the hospital lobby, Surefire made her way out into the relatively quite Manehattan streets. It was far too early for anypony to really be out yet, but that would not stop her quest for the sacred substance of liquid motivation.

The young mare knew that one of her favorite coffee shops was a few blocks up the street from the hospital. It was a bit of an extra walk from the closer shops, but it was worth it for the quality coffee.

Only the best will do!

She took her coffee very seriously.

During the walk, Surefire reflected on the events of the previous day; a lot had happened in a very short time. If this were an official case, there would have been mountains of paperwork and reports to file from yesterday alone. However, the young mare knew she still needed to compile her notes and research with the data she were to receive from Doctor Ruby Heart later that day. If she wanted to build a solid case, the junior detective had to do everything right the first time; formalities were very important.

The walk ended up being much faster than Surefire realized. Being lost in thought it felt like only a few moments, rather than several minutes. Approaching the door of the cafe she glanced up to the sign with a smile.

Gallopfrey’s Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.

Without a doubt, Gallopfrey’s was one of the best places to get coffee in Manehattan, maybe even in all of Equestria as far as the young mare was concerned. It was her one stop fill if she was in the area, that’s for certain.

Walking through the door, Surefire was met with a ringing of a bell overhead and the heavenly smell of fresh brew. The cafe’s interior was nothing special, just a tiny hole-in-the-wall establishment with a walk up serving bar surrounded by glass to save space; with the exception of the service area. Hidden behind the protective glass where espresso machines and the like that a pony might expect to find. However, Surefire knew that the magic in this cafe was the owners talent, and his obsession with only using the perfect beans.

Behind the counter was the cafe’s owner, Gallopfrey; a dark-brown pegasus stallion who wore a coffee-stained white apron, with a matching visor in his sandy-blonde mane. His focus was on serving the small hoof-full of customers inside. Though despite his busy focus on his work, he took the time to greet the young mare entering his shop.

“Hey Squirt!” he greeted Surefire with a large smile and a wave of his right wing. “What has you up at this early hour?”

The young mare’s expression fell into utter deadpan. “Please stop calling me that, Dad; it’s embarrassing...” she stated, taking her place in the back of the serving line. “I’m a grown mare now.”

“Sure thing, Squirt!” Her father replied enthusiastically, turning back to the customer he was serving.

Surefire facehooved with a small groan.

Why does all of my family have to be so weird?

* * * * * * * * * *

The line ahead of the young mare moved at a fast pace, as soon she was getting served. For as small as her family's cafe was, it was quite popular with the residents of the local blocks. As Surefire approached the counter she got an idea; coffee for her new friend.

But does Prism even drink coffee?

“The usual, yeah?” Her fathered asked, alrighty preparing the order he was expecting.

Surefire nodded. “Yeah, for me.”

The stallion looked back to her, eyebrow raised. “For you?” he asked quizzically. “You actually getting a drink for somepony else too?” A small smirk played across his face at the possibilities that this sign might entail.

The young earth pony shot her father a heavy glare. “You can just wipe that thought right out of your tiny brain, it’s not that,” she informed him in mild irritation. “It’s for a friend.”

This answer honestly surprised him. “You made a new friend?”

Surefire rolled her eyes at her father's overreaction. “Yes. Is that really so hard to believe?”

“For you it is,” he replied, pointing the drink he just made at his daughter before sitting on the counter. “Whatever happened to ‘I’m too busy for friends’ or ‘I don’t have time for other ponies’?”

The young mare let out a frustrated sigh; clearly not in the mood for playing twenty questions. “This is different, she’s special,” she replied, beginning to anxiously tap her right forehoof in anticipation of her liquid mistress.

Surefire’s reply only caused the stallion to form another smirk as he leaned on the counter. “Special huh? Just how special is this mare?”

Surefire craned her neck back in shock, taken aback at her father’s insinuation. “Wh-what?! No! Just no!” she exclaimed wildly. “I’m not even into mares, besides I already have a stallion that I li—” The young mare reared up on her hindlegs, quickly covering her muzzle with both forehooves at the realization of the verbal trap she just walked right into.

Her father’s smirk spread into wide grin as he stood up straight, puffing out his chest. “Is that so?” he exclaimed smugly. “So, when can I expect the wedding and grandfoals?”

Surefire froze, her face flushed flamin’ hot in absolute shock from the sudden embarrassment; thoughts quickly began to race through her mind of Beaker and herself in the implied situations.

Her father roared with laughter at his daughter's reaction to his banter, before running out of breath and cutting into a coughing fit. Many of the other cafe regulars behind the young mare had joined in on the laughter as well.

Taking several moments, Gallopfrey eventually managed to compose himself. “Whoo! ...Well then, you’ll have to tell me all about him later,” he stated before shifting his posture to a relaxed lean. “So, what’ll your friend have to drink?”

Surefire flopped her face down on the counter at her father’s hopelessness. “Just... give me a moment okay?” she replied, muffled by the counter; trying to forget that she was related to the pony in front of her.

I don’t know if Prism drinks coffee, but I’d really like to get her something...

Surefire scratched the back of her head with a forehoof, deep in thought.

Most ponies who don’t like coffee are generally tea drinkers; but what if she doesn’t like tea and actually does like coffee? ...Ah, screw it, I’ll get both and drink the one she doesn’t pick later.

“A vanilla bean latte and an earl grey lavender tea,” she requested, taking the safe bet and picking her father’s two best drinks.

“Two huh? Coming right up!” he replied, turning and beginning the ordered drinks.

Surefire lifted her head to look to her father. “Yeah, I don’t know if she drinks coffee or tea, or either”

The stallion let out a chuckle. “Everypony drinks either coffee or tea, it’s the law,” he stated, finishing the first drink and sliding it to his daughter.

The young mare scoffed at his cheapness of ‘law’. “Pfft, if anypony knows law around here, it’s me,” she stated matter-of-factly, “and I recall no such law.”

“That’s because you haven’t looked hard enough,” he said, glancing to her with a quick wink. “It’s in there somewhere, I promise!”

Surefire face hoofed, shaking her head. “You are the biggest feather-brain in all of Equestria; I hope you know that, Dad.”

The stallion craned his neck back, shooting her a perplexed look briefly. “Really?” he asked, before closing his eyes and executing an overly-enthusiastic hoof pump “Yes! Number one, baby!”.

The young mare flopped her face onto the counter in absolute defeat. “I hate you...”

“Love you too, Squirt!”